Photography
July 7, 2021

10 Famous Photographers Whose Self-Portraits Are Much More Than Just a Selfie

Not long after the invention of photography came the first self-portrait, snapped in 1839 by Robert Cornelius. And as much as self-portraiture has been a hallmark of painters throughout art history, photographers have continued this grand tradition. As humans, our face and body have incredible storytelling capabilities, so it makes sense that many artists take advantage of what's closest. Just what is it about turning the lens on themselves that stimulates photographers?

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Nature
July 7, 2021

Incredible Time-Lapse Video Shows the Astonishing Volcanic Activity of Mt. St. Helens

Located in Skamania County, Washington, Mount St. Helens is ranked as one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the United States. Its most famous eruption in 1980 is considered to be the most deadly and destructive volcanic event in the history of the U.S. In the aftermath, hundreds of homes were lost, 57 people lost their lives, 47 bridges were destroyed, and hundreds of miles of highway and railways were damaged.

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Environment
July 6, 2021

Japan’s “Tree Burials” Are Becoming a Popular Alternative to Traditional Gravesites

The world is running out of space to bury the dead, so people are searching for respectful—and environmentally friendly—solutions. In Hong Kong, this means building vertical cemeteries and encouraging cremation, and in the greater Seattle area, this means offering a service to turn humans into compost. Similarly, Japan is promoting Jumokusō, or “tree burials,” as an alternative to traditional gravesites. This relatively new concept was first proposed in 1999 by Shounji Temple in northern Japan.

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Art History
July 5, 2021

9 Pioneering European Women Painters Making History in the 18th and 19th Centuries

The 19th-century Impressionist painter Berthe Morisot once said, “I do not think any man would ever treat a woman as his equal, and it is all I ask because I know my worth.” Morisot, at times, expressed frustration that her painterly skills were described—in a condescending tone–as superficially light and feminine. A fixture of the Parisian art scene, Morisot was positioned for commercial and artistic success.

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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.