Travel
December 14, 2018

Boarding This Beautiful ‘Kyotrain’ Feels Like Stepping Into a Traditional Japanese Inn

Even with its cutting-edge technology and ultra modern art, Japan is proud of its past. In homage to the country's history and customs, contemporary designers constantly look to traditional models for inspiration. This approach has culminated in coffee shop tea houses, Kei truck gardens, and, most recently, a train masquerading as an inn. Called the Kyotrain Garaku, this train boasts an interior reminiscent of a ryokan, or a traditional Japanese inn.

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Art
December 13, 2018

7 Contemporary Mosaic Artists Keeping the Ancient Art Form Alive

From Ancient Greek artifacts to pre-Renaissance biblical murals, Islamic architecture, modernist designs, and even subway stations, mosaics have been a popular art form for centuries. The timeless craft involves arranging colorful fragments of tiles or glass into patterns, pictures, and other decorative motifs that are then held together with grout or adhesive. The earliest examples were found in a Mesopotamian temple from the 3rd millennium BCE, and were made of ivory, seashells, and stones.

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Design
December 12, 2018

This Artist Creates the Most Amazing Paper Cranes with Feathery Details

In 2015, paper artist Cristian Marianciuc set an ambitious goal for himself: to complete 1,000 origami cranes in 1,000 days. Since achieving this objective, Marianciuc has continued crafting the cranes, culminating in a growing collection of equally elaborate and increasingly experimental paper sculptures. Like the pieces he created during his 1,000-day challenge, Marianciuc's more recent cranes showcase his eye for detail, creative use of color, and imaginative approach to traditional origami.

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Music
December 10, 2018

Musicians Perform Incredible Cover of Toto’s ‘Africa’ Using Traditional Japanese Instruments

Toto’s “Africa” is possibly one of the most frequently covered songs since its original release in 1982, but this rendition using traditional Japanese instruments might just be the most unique arrangement yet. Produced by Japan’s public broadcasting corporation NHK for their Blends TV series, the video shows three talented female musicians effortlessly performing an epic Asian version of the ‘80s classic.

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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.