Science
June 5, 2017

First New Blue Pigment in Over 200 Years is Being Made into a Crayon

In 2009, chemist and Oregon State University professor Mas Subramanian was leading an electronics-related project when he and a student inadvertently made an exciting discovery: a new blue pigment. Called YlnMn blue, the brilliant color is the first new blue in over 200 years and, subsequently, the inspiration behind the newest Crayola crayon. There are several reasons why Crayola wants to give this bright blue pigment the waxy treatment.

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Photography
June 3, 2017

Surreal Mashups Perfectly Combine Two Opposing Photos into One Perfect Scene

Fusing a forklift with a hearty helping of spaghetti and meatball might seem like an odd pairing—and it is. But in Stephen McMennamy’s world, the two make perfect sense. For years, the creative director has made these types of playful mashups that combine two photos into one surreal scene. Appropriately called #ComboPhotos, McMennamy will search high and low for pictures that, despite their differences, are aligned into a seamless form.

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Photography
June 2, 2017

Loving Elderly Couple Took Photo Together in Same Spot Every Month Until Wife’s Tragic Passing

In 1964, noted New Zealand-born, British-based photographer Ken Griffiths inadvertently captured the realities of loss and love through his series, In An English Country Garden. Featuring monthly photos of an elderly married couple posed in their front yard, the touching series concluded with the beloved wife's heartbreaking passing. Like many other works by Griffiths, who worked for newspapers, in advertising, and as a portraitist, In An English Country Garden offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the lives of ordinary people.

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Art
June 1, 2017

Japanese Artist Creates the Most Amazing Balloon Animals

Artist Masayoshi Matsumoto continues to twist and transform balloons into amazing sculptural creatures. Crafted in meticulous detail and realistically rendered, his collection of balloon animals showcases the endless artistic possibilities of the traditional craft. Each impressively lifelike, large-scale sculpture showcases Matsumoto's unique approach to balloon art. His portfolio exhibits an interest in a wide range of animals, with mammals, reptiles, insects, and arachnids often making appearances.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.