History
November 30, 2018

These Four Manuscripts Contain Almost All Surviving Old English Poetry

These days, the words “Old English” most likely conjures up images of a font used to evoke a historical feel. However, the Old English language itself—though quite different—is actually the foundation of modern English. Interestingly, for such an important language, written materials are scarce. Only four original literary manuscripts written entirely in Old English have survived, each giving us a small glimpse into a culture that has long since disappeared.

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Architecture
November 29, 2018

Architects Design Stunning Theater Inspired by 19th-Century Chinese Puzzle Balls

In a nod to Chinese craftsmanship, London-based Steven Chilton Architects (SCA) has designed a stunning theater based on traditional ivory puzzle balls. Located in Guangzhou, the proposed Puzzle Ball Theater pays homage to these intricate puzzles by using circular openings and geometric cutouts across the spherical facade. Ivory puzzle balls are formed from concentric balls, often up to 10 or 12, with open carving.

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Street Art
November 28, 2018

Street Artist JR Takes Over the Paris Metro With His Giant Posters

French photographer and street artist JR has taken over the Paris railways with his evocative artwork. Following in the footsteps of legendary photographers like Richard Avedon and Yann Arthus-Bertrand, JR's work flows through 11 metro and RER stations. As part of an ongoing project by the Paris transit operation RATP, the artist's giant poster art will pepper the network until February 2019.

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Travel
November 27, 2018

Incredible Bird-Shaped Fountain Invites Visitors to Kazakhstan’s Presidential Park

In the heart of Kazakhstan's capital lays Presidential Park, a massive public area that stretches out in front of the Ak Orda Presidential Palace. This unique landscape and architecture is part of Astana's rebirth as the capital of the former Soviet country. Spilling over nearly 60 acres, the green oasis sits within the city, filled with eye-catching symbolism.

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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.