Animals
September 8, 2021

Female Shark Has Rare “Virgin Birth” Without Any Mate for First Time Ever Recorded for This Species

There's a new baby shark to celebrate at an aquarium in Sardinia, an island which is part of the nation of Italy. The new arrival at the Cala Gonone Aquarium is named Ispera, meaning “hope.” A member of the smoothhound shark (Mustelus mustelus) species, this baby is the first known example of a “virgin birth” among the species—a phenomenon scientifically known as parthenogenesis.

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Inspiring
September 7, 2021

Malnourished Child Adopted by a Single Gay Man Is Now an Olympic Champion Inspiring Others

Becoming a parent is a significant milestone in many people’s lives. And more than anything, Jerry Windle had always wanted to be a father. However, as a single, gay man in the late 90s, the odds were stacked against him. Struggling to adopt a child in the U.S. due to stigmas surrounding gay fatherhood, Windle had almost begun to lose hope that he could ever start a family.

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Oil Painting
September 6, 2021

Elegant Oil Paintings Capture the Ethereal Beauty of Massive Pastel Flowers

Everyone loves to receive a bouquet of fresh flowers, but how often do we pay attention to their finer details? Ukrainian artist Ira Volkova makes it easier to study the delicate structures of petals in her massive floral oil paintings. She captures a variety of pastel-colored blossoms with masterful precision. Based in Kyiv, Volkova received formal training in painting at the Kyiv National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture.

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Architecture
September 5, 2021

Serene Home in Kyoto Conceals an Inner Courtyard With a Sacred Rock in the Center

Known as the House of the Sacred Rock, this contemporary Japanese dwelling is centered around a serene courtyard with a beautiful story. Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP designed the northern Kyoto home to feel visually connected to the natural views of Mount Hiei and other elements of the surrounding landscape. At the same time, they also wanted to retain privacy from next-door neighbors.

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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.