Paper Art
October 5, 2021

Japanese Paper-Cutting Artist Fills In Drawings With Changing Colors of Nature

Have you heard of kirie paper art? The word “kirie” comes from the two Japanese kanji “kiri,” meaning cut, and “e,” meaning picture. It’s a Japanese art form originating in the 7th century, when Shinto shrines were decorated with intricately cut paper designs. Despite its ancient roots, kirie is still practiced today by some Japanese contemporary artists. An artist known as Erica on Twitter is one person who’s keeping the craft alive.

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Animals
October 5, 2021

Photos Capture Pure Joy of Rescued Baby Elephant Enjoying Her First-Ever Bath

There are an estimated 20,000 to 40,000 Asian elephants left in the wild, and around 3,800 held captive in Thailand. Sadly, many of these elephants are born into the tourism industry, and have never experienced freedom. Born on May 17, 2021, at an elephant show and riding camp in Chiang Mai, Thailand, baby Chaba was one of these unfortunate elephants. That was until Save Elephant Foundation (SEF)

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Crafts
October 4, 2021

These Kooky Clay Creatures Playfully Pay Homage to Animals Big and Small

Sussex, England-based ceramicist Helen Burgess asserts, “Animals rule ok,” and we can’t argue with that. In a bid to celebrate all of the weird and wonderful creatures of our world, she recreates animals in clay. Burgess’ company, nosey mungo, is named after what her mom would call her as a kid if she was being “a bit too inquisitive,” and the artist never lost her childlike curiosity.

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Architecture
October 2, 2021

Historic 1930s Sea Pool Is Getting a Dramatic Redesign Resembling a Topographic Map

The historic Knubben harbor bath in Arendal, Norway, will soon undergo a dramatic redesign that's a bit different than a traditional restoration. Design firm Snøhetta has released images of a contemporary and elegant stepped landscape that will breathe new life into the original 1937 design by Ketil Ugland. The original harbor bath has long remained closed but once included public amenities such as a children’s pool, changing facilities, and a 33’ foot diving platform.

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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.