Margherita Cole, Author at My Modern Met https://mymodernmet.com/author/margherita/ The Big City That Celebrates Creative Ideas Sun, 11 Feb 2024 20:02:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://mymodernmet.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-My-Modern-Met-Favicon-1-32x32.png Margherita Cole, Author at My Modern Met https://mymodernmet.com/author/margherita/ 32 32 Artist Spent Three Years Drawing Map of the World with 1,642 Animals https://mymodernmet.com/anton-thomas-wild-world-map/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Sun, 11 Feb 2024 14:50:57 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=651808 Artist Spent Three Years Drawing Map of the World with 1,642 Animals

Do you know which species of animals are indigenous to your area? Artist Anton Thomas has created a pictorial map that is both educational and stunning to look at. Titled Wild World, this large-scale piece is hand-drawn in colored pencil and pen, requiring three years to complete from start to finish. From American bison to […]

READ: Artist Spent Three Years Drawing Map of the World with 1,642 Animals

]]>
Artist Spent Three Years Drawing Map of the World with 1,642 Animals

Wild World Map by Anton Thomas

Do you know which species of animals are indigenous to your area? Artist Anton Thomas has created a pictorial map that is both educational and stunning to look at. Titled Wild World, this large-scale piece is hand-drawn in colored pencil and pen, requiring three years to complete from start to finish.

From American bison to the kangaroos of Australia, this map features 1,642 animals across all seven continents, and the oceans that separate them. “I wanted to display our world through a different lens than we're used to. A perspective that celebrates the majesty of nature, the wild animals we share this planet with, and the ecosystems that support such diversity of life,” Thomas tells My Modern Met. “I hoped that such a map, if done well, would help inspire curiosity and love for our planet and its nature. While also being an excellent educational resource.”

To ensure that the basic structure of the map was accurate, Thomas used a Natural Earth projection as a template. He traced over the basic outlines of the coastlines, rivers, and mountain ranges, before slowing building up his own artistic touch to the drawing. “I settled on three criteria that came to shape the philosophy of the map. All animals on Wild World are 1) wild, 2) native, and 3) extant—not extinct,” Thomas says. “Wild and native animals invoke natural biomes only—pristine habitats without domesticated or introduced species.”

Unlike many other maps, which emphasize national boundaries and city streets, this piece focuses on what makes our planet special: the beautiful diversity of nature. Thomas chose to only illustrate extant animals because he wanted Wild World to depict our world as it is now and that we need to care for. He says: “It may seem an idealistic view of Earth, but it shows nothing that isn’t there. I want this map to inspire hope and curiosity, to show just how wild our world still is, and how much is left to protect.”

You can purchase prints of Wild World via Thomas's online shop.

Artist Anton Thomas spent three years illustrating this massive pictorial map.

Wild World Map by Anton Thomas

Titled Wild World, it features illustrations of 1,642 animals from every continent and ocean.

Wild World Map by Anton Thomas

Every element is hand-drawn in colored pencil and pen.

Wild World Map by Anton Thomas

Anton Thomas: Website | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Anton Thomas.

Related Articles:

Interview: Artist Spends 5 Years Drawing Giant Colored Pencil Map of North America

Colorful “Map of Plants” Visualizes the Complex Diversity and Evolution of Our Planet’s Flora

Insightful Map Reveals Different Etiquette Practices Around the World

READ: Artist Spent Three Years Drawing Map of the World with 1,642 Animals

]]>
Fore-Edge Book Painter Carries On Critically Endangered Craft https://mymodernmet.com/maisie-matilda-fore-edge-book-painting/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:45:09 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=652516 Fore-Edge Book Painter Carries On Critically Endangered Craft

Decorating the edges of book pages is a tradition spanning hundreds of years. Although it is rumored to have gotten its start as a way for British royals to identify their books, it transformed into an intricate art form that includes portraits, landscapes, and scenes from novels. Despite its beauty, this craft is considered critically […]

READ: Fore-Edge Book Painter Carries On Critically Endangered Craft

]]>
Fore-Edge Book Painter Carries On Critically Endangered Craft
Fore-Edge Book Painting by Maisie Matilda

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Decorating the edges of book pages is a tradition spanning hundreds of years. Although it is rumored to have gotten its start as a way for British royals to identify their books, it transformed into an intricate art form that includes portraits, landscapes, and scenes from novels. Despite its beauty, this craft is considered critically endangered, with few people still practicing it around the world. UK-based artist Maisie Matilda carries on the tradition of fore-edge book painting by upcycling used books into treasured possessions.

Matilda shares videos of her process on Instagram and TikTok to not only show how this craft is done, but also to inspire a new generation of artists to learn about fore-edge book painting. She begins each piece by showing viewers which book—or in some cases, multiple books—she will be working on before inserting it into a press. This keeps the pages in line so she can begin sketching and painting a design on the edges. The artwork that she creates usually correlates to the story in some way, such as the sweeping landscapes from the Lord of the Rings series, main characters from Harry Potter, and significant scenes from the Twilight books.

“I have always loved art and fantasy literature, so I decided to turn my passions into a career,” Matilda tells My Modern Met. “A few years ago I began my craft, fore-edge painting, and I have been doing it almost every day since. I mostly work on fantasy novels, but have also tried out some classic literature too.” After she finishes her paintings, Matilda shows off the effect by flipping through the decorated pages, showing how the illustration disappears and comes together again as the sheets fall back into place. While this art form is niche and demanding, it transforms even second-hand books into precious objects. Hopefully more artists as well as book-lovers will find appreciation in these artistic renditions of their favorite stories.

You can purchase available painted books via Matilda's Etsy shop, and keep up to date with her latest projects by following her Instagram.

UK-based artist Maisie Matilda carries on the age-old tradition of fore-edge book painting.

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

Game of Thrones Collection

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

Harry Potter Collection

This craft is considered critically endangered, with few artists still decorating books in this way.

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Complete Sherlock Holmes” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” by J.K. Rowling

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” by J.K. Rowling

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Great Dune Trilogy” by Frank Herbert

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Great Dune Trilogy” by Frank Herbert

Matilda shares videos in hopes of inspiring more artists and book-lovers to appreciate the craft.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by maisie (@maisie_matilda_art)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by maisie (@maisie_matilda_art)

She decorates a range of novels like the Lord of the Rings series and Harry Potter with detailed illustrations.

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” by J.K. Rowling

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” by J.K. Rowling

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

Harry Potter Collection

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” by J.K. Rowling

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

Harry Potter Collection

Matilda also uses second-hand books to transform something old into a beautiful work of art.

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Great Dune Trilogy” by Frank Herbert

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien

Fore-Edge Book Paintings by Maisie Matilda

“Breaking Dawn” (The Twilight Saga) by Stephenie Meyer

Maisie Matilda: Etsy | Instagram | TikTok

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Maisie Matilda.

Related Articles:

Famous Novels Turned into Beautifully Intricate Works of Book Art

Nature-Infused Book Art and Collages by Johannes Helden

Artist Adds Exquisite Bird Paintings To Vintage Book Pages That Describe Them

READ: Fore-Edge Book Painter Carries On Critically Endangered Craft

]]>
Long Colorful Strands of Yarn Are Woven into Stunning Portraits https://mymodernmet.com/katerina-marchenko-thread-portraits-embroidery/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:50:13 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=651305 Long Colorful Strands of Yarn Are Woven into Stunning Portraits

Artist Katerina Marchenko continues to elevate embroidery by weaving long, colorful strands of yarn into massive portraits. Each of her pieces is made on delicate tulle, requiring a deft touch from the crafter. Seeing these human faces come to life on such a large scale is well worth the effort, especially when we are used […]

READ: Long Colorful Strands of Yarn Are Woven into Stunning Portraits

]]>
Long Colorful Strands of Yarn Are Woven into Stunning Portraits
Katerina Marchenko Embroidery Portraits

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Artist Katerina Marchenko continues to elevate embroidery by weaving long, colorful strands of yarn into massive portraits. Each of her pieces is made on delicate tulle, requiring a deft touch from the crafter. Seeing these human faces come to life on such a large scale is well worth the effort, especially when we are used to seeing embroidery on a much smaller canvas.

If you’re wondering how the artist achieves her remarkable results, you’re in luck because Marchenko documents her process in timelapse videos. These clips demonstrate how she ditches the needle in her life-size works, and instead relies on her hands to pass the strands of yarn through the tulle. This unique process lends itself to a very linear style, with many of these portraits resembling the loose sketchy quality of hand-drawn illustrations. In many cases, Marchenko intentionally leaves the threads falling from different points of the portrait, which gives it an expressive quality.

Aside from large portraits, Marchenko also uses her talents in other projects. When working on typical embroidery hoops, her style becomes more detailed and painterly. She captures faces, flowers, and hands among other subjects. Her interest in the human body and line art is a uniting thread in all of her works.

You can purchase original embroidery creations via Marchenko's Etsy store and keep up to date with her latest creations by following the artist on Instagram.

Artist Katerina Marchenko embroiders large-scale designs on delicate tulle.

Katerina Marchenko Embroidery Portraits

She uses her hands to weave the long strands of yarn through the tool.

Her style has an expressive, sketchy quality that is similar to drawing.

Katerina Marchenko Embroidery Portraits

Katerina Marchenko Embroidery Portraits

Katerina Marchenko Embroidery Portraits

Katerina Marchenko Embroidery Portraits

Katerina Marchenko Embroidery Portraits

Katerina Marchenko: Etsy | Website | Instagram | Behance

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Katerina Marchenko.

Related Articles:

Stunning Embroidered Still Lifes Made With Countless Stitches of Colorful Thread

Embroidery Artists Are Using a Needle and Thread to “Paint” Gorgeous Stitched Art

How an Embroidery Artist Turned Her “Thread Sketching” Into a Vibrant Body of Art [Interview]

READ: Long Colorful Strands of Yarn Are Woven into Stunning Portraits

]]>
Glorious Explosions of Color Capture the Beautiful Symphony of Nature in Oil Paintings https://mymodernmet.com/erin-hanson-open-impressionism-painting/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Wed, 31 Jan 2024 14:50:11 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=650596 Glorious Explosions of Color Capture the Beautiful Symphony of Nature in Oil Paintings

In the late 19th century, Impressionism blossomed under the talents of Claude Monet and Pierre Auguste-Renoir. Since then, it has inspired many variations and successors, including the Open-Impressionist style. Led by artist Erin Hanson, this modern adaptation relies on impasto paint strokes without layering. She demonstrates the beauty of this style by rendering a variety […]

READ: Glorious Explosions of Color Capture the Beautiful Symphony of Nature in Oil Paintings

]]>
Glorious Explosions of Color Capture the Beautiful Symphony of Nature in Oil Paintings

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

In the late 19th century, Impressionism blossomed under the talents of Claude Monet and Pierre Auguste-Renoir. Since then, it has inspired many variations and successors, including the Open-Impressionist style. Led by artist Erin Hanson, this modern adaptation relies on impasto paint strokes without layering. She demonstrates the beauty of this style by rendering a variety of kaleidoscopic landscapes.

From lush wildflowers growing in front of a distant mountain to clouds swirling above the coast, these paintings are full of dynamism. Hanson gives every element a life of its own by applying bold swatches of color to the canvas. These brushstrokes appear to infuse each element with rhythm like they are moving before our eyes.

While Hanson's art travels to a variety of distinct locals, her recognizable style and vibrant color palette unites each piece. Many of her compositions feature bunches of foliage swaying on the ground, while a patchy blue sky and fluffy clouds canopies them from above. These juxtapositions are enhanced by the rich textures imbued in the thick daubs of paint.

You can purchase original paintings via Hanson's website, and keep up to date with the artist's latest work by following her on Instagram.

Oregon-based artist Erin Hanson is a trailblazer of the Open-Impressionist style—a modern version of the 19th-century Impressionist movement.

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionism Paintings by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionism Paintings by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

She renders landscapes and nature scenes with bold impasto paint strokes.

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionism Paintings by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionism Paintings by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Open Impressionist Paintings of Nature by Erin Hanson

Erin Hanson: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Erin Hanson.

Related Articles:

Mutable Skies and Colorful Landscapes Come To Life in Bold Acrylic Paintings

Peaceful Paintings of People and Landscapes Using a Grid of Colorful Squares

Stunning Hyperrealistic Paintings Capture People’s Surreal Connection to Nature

READ: Glorious Explosions of Color Capture the Beautiful Symphony of Nature in Oil Paintings

]]>
Mysterious Telegraphic Message Found in Hidden Pocket of Silk Dress From 1888 Is Finally Solved https://mymodernmet.com/secret-message-dress-sara-rivers-cofield/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Tue, 30 Jan 2024 17:35:38 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=652219 Mysterious Telegraphic Message Found in Hidden Pocket of Silk Dress From 1888 Is Finally Solved

When Sara Rivers Cofield picked up a vintage 19th-century dress in 2014, she didn't expect to find a mystery along with it. The curator and archaeologist purchased what looked like an ordinary bronze silk bustle dress from 1888 that was in extremely great condition. However, after she was able to inspect the complex garment, she […]

READ: Mysterious Telegraphic Message Found in Hidden Pocket of Silk Dress From 1888 Is Finally Solved

]]>
Mysterious Telegraphic Message Found in Hidden Pocket of Silk Dress From 1888 Is Finally Solved
Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

When Sara Rivers Cofield picked up a vintage 19th-century dress in 2014, she didn't expect to find a mystery along with it. The curator and archaeologist purchased what looked like an ordinary bronze silk bustle dress from 1888 that was in extremely great condition. However, after she was able to inspect the complex garment, she realized that it came with a mysterious message—the contents of which would not be decoded until nearly 10 years later.

Cofield initially shared her excitement over the purchase on her blog. There, she broke down the different features of the dress that made it unique, such as still having its original buttons and a handwritten name tag sewn into the bodice lining that reads “Bennett.” However, things got more exciting when Cofield realized that there was a secret pocket built into the dress. “Usually built-in pockets don't play hard-to-get, but even with help from my perennial antiquing partner, my mom, it took a while to get to the thing,” she writes. “Instead of being easily accessed through an inconspicuous slit in the over-skirt, this pocket opening is completely concealed by the over-skirt; as in, you have to hike up the draped silk, expose the cotton under-skirt, and generally disrupt the whole look to get to the pocket.” Furthermore, Cofield realized that due to its design and location, the pockets could only be accessed without damaging the dress if no one was wearing it.

Amazingly, when Cofield reached this secret pocket, there was something left inside—two translucent sheets of paper covered in handwritten notes. Unfortunately, the jottings themselves were not enlightening at first, with most of the lines containing strange sentences like “Bismark Omit leafage buck bank/ Paul Ramify loamy event false new event” alongside numbers and color notations. After some research and assistance, Cofield deduced that it was a telegraph code but it would be years later that data analyst Wayne S. Chan would figure out the meaning of the secret message. The odd phrases were part of telegraph messages used by the army and weather bureau to describe weather observations in the U.S. and Canada.

Through his research, Chan was even able to narrow down the day of the secret message to May 27, 1888. The translation for one of the lines was shared in The New York Times, and reads: “‘Bismark Omit leafage buck bank' indicated the reading was taken at Bismarck station, in the Dakota Territory. ‘Omit' was for an air temperature of 56 degrees and pressure of 0.08 inches of mercury, though the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has said the true reading could have been higher. ‘Leafage' for a dew point of 32 degrees, observed at 10 p.m. ‘Buck,' clear weather, with no precipitation and a northerly wind. ‘Bank,' a wind velocity of 12 miles per hour, and a clear sunset.”

While the mystery of the cipher has been solved, there are still plenty of unanswered questions about the message and why the owner kept them hidden in such a secret pocket.

Curator and archaeologist Sara Rivers Cofield purchased an 1888 silk dress at an antique shop in Maine.

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

She found several sheets of translucent sheets of paper in a hidden pocket in the dress.

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

They were scribbled with mysterious messages.

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

She later discovered that they were telegraph messages.

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Recently, data analyst Wayne S. Chan finally solved the meaning of the notes.

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

They were written in code to describe weather observations for the army and weather bureau.

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

However, it is still unknown why the owner of the dress kept these messages in such a secret pocket.

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

Secret Telegraphic Message Found in Mid-1880s Dress

Photo: Sara Rivers Cofield

Sara Rivers Cofield: Website | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Sara Rivers Cofield.

Related Articles:

Designer Perfectly Crafts a 19th-Century Dress From a Renoir Painting

One Embroidered Red Dress Is Made by 343 Artists From the Around the World Over the Course of 13 Years

Man Accidentally Discovers Judy Garland’s Lost ‘Wizard of Oz’ Dress

READ: Mysterious Telegraphic Message Found in Hidden Pocket of Silk Dress From 1888 Is Finally Solved

]]>
Unique Pokémon Exhibit Made With Traditional and Contemporary Japanese Craft Techniques https://mymodernmet.com/pokemon-japan-house-los-angeles/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Tue, 30 Jan 2024 15:45:08 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=652144 Unique Pokémon Exhibit Made With Traditional and Contemporary Japanese Craft Techniques

Since its debut in 1996, Pokémon has become a fixture of pop culture. Even if you don't watch anime, play video games, or collect cards, you have likely come across the recognizable creatures that have made the franchise so beloved. An exhibition at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles reimagines some of the animated characters by merging […]

READ: Unique Pokémon Exhibit Made With Traditional and Contemporary Japanese Craft Techniques

]]>
Unique Pokémon Exhibit Made With Traditional and Contemporary Japanese Craft Techniques
Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Since its debut in 1996, Pokémon has become a fixture of pop culture. Even if you don't watch anime, play video games, or collect cards, you have likely come across the recognizable creatures that have made the franchise so beloved. An exhibition at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles reimagines some of the animated characters by merging them with contemporary and traditional craft techniques. Titled POKÉMON X KOGEI | Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft, this show features over 70 sculptures and installations by 20 renowned Japanese artists.

From models of Eevee and its evolutions to curtains of tiny Pikachus, this exhibition showcases the creativity and masterful abilities of its artists. They were challenged to bring Pokémon to life using age-old mediums like lacquer, ceramics, textiles, and metalwork. Among the artists featured are metal artists Morihito Katsura and Taiichiro Yoshida. “This unique collaboration answer[s] the question, ‘What happens when Pokémon meets kogei?’ for art enthusiasts and gamers alike,” says Yuko Kaifu, president of JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles. “We’re excited to present this unique collaboration with exceptional artists and artworks showcasing the rich world of Japanese craft through the global phenomenon of Pokémon appreciated by all ages around the world.”

The synthesis of Japanese craft and Pokémon holds extra significance as the primary Pokémon types of Grass, Fire, Water, Ground, Steel, and Electric overlap with the materials and techniques of Japanese art making—which uses grass, fire, water, earth, metal, and electricity. An official statement explains: “In Japanese ceramics, for example, clay is mined from the earth, mixed with water, and then formed often with the help of an electric potter’s wheel, decorated with mineral and metal oxide pigments, and baked with fire in a kiln.” They also point out that just as the goal in Pokémon games is to nurture and train their creatures, artists have a similar journey in learning and refining their creative skills.

JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles unveiled a new exhibition titled POKÉMON X KOGEI | Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft.

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

It challenged 20 Japanese artists to reimagine Pokémon through craft.

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

The exhibition featured over 70 sculptures and installations.

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

The artworks were made from a variety of mediums like lacquer, ceramics, textiles, and metalwork.

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

Pokemon and Japanese Craft Exhibition at Japan House Los Angeles

Photo: ©JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles.

Related Articles:

You Can Now Find Pokémon on Manhole Covers All Across Japan

What Is Kawaii? Discover What Led to Japan’s Culture of Cuteness

Artist Reimagines Original 151 Pokémon as Renaissance Paintings

READ: Unique Pokémon Exhibit Made With Traditional and Contemporary Japanese Craft Techniques

]]>
Ballet Dancers Pair up With Shelter Dogs and Cats To Help Them Get Adopted https://mymodernmet.com/dancers-and-dogs-muttcracker-photography/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Mon, 29 Jan 2024 17:35:34 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=651833 Ballet Dancers Pair up With Shelter Dogs and Cats To Help Them Get Adopted

With so many dogs and cats in need of a loving home, photographers Kelly Pratt and Ian Kreidich do their part to make them feel loved. For the sixth year in a row, their studio Dancers & Dogs paired animals from the Stray Rescue of St. Louis with professional dancers from Saint Louis Ballet in […]

READ: Ballet Dancers Pair up With Shelter Dogs and Cats To Help Them Get Adopted

]]>
Ballet Dancers Pair up With Shelter Dogs and Cats To Help Them Get Adopted

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

With so many dogs and cats in need of a loving home, photographers Kelly Pratt and Ian Kreidich do their part to make them feel loved. For the sixth year in a row, their studio Dancers & Dogs paired animals from the Stray Rescue of St. Louis with professional dancers from Saint Louis Ballet in a series affectionally titled Muttcracker. Not only do these dogs and cats get to experience the limelight, but these photos also help find them forever homes.

From young kittens to older dogs, Muttcracker includes all ages of adoptable canines and felines. They are joined on pastel blue and pink sets by dancers in costumes to create a sense of wonder much like a professional ballet. While the animals don't don any fancy costumes, they still dazzle next to their human counterparts. And best of all, it showcases the lovable temperaments of these animals in need.

“Our work is all about spreading joy,” Dancers & Dogs tells My Modern Met. “Dance is so often depicted as being very serious and full of drama. We want people to see the lighter side of dance. What better way than pairing dancers with silly, fun-loving partners that bring our genuine smiles and laughter. Dancers & Dogs is meant to be a beautiful and uplifting ray of sunshine.” Seeing such sweet dogs and cats have a chance on stage is sure to bring a smile to your face. Plus, knowing that these pets found families makes these portraits even better.

You can keep up to date with Dancers & Dogs' latest projects by following their Instagram.

Dancers & Dogs paired ballet dancers from Saint Louis Ballet and animals from Stray Rescue of St. Louis for a heartwarming photo series.

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Called Muttcracker, these artfully made photos are helping find homes for dogs and cats from the shelter.

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Animals of various ages join professional dancers for the sixth year of the project.

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

Photos of Ballet Dancers and Animals

See more cute interactions between the dancers and the animals in these videos:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dancers & Dogs (@dancersanddogs)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dancers & Dogs (@dancersanddogs)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dancers & Dogs (@dancersanddogs)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dancers & Dogs (@dancersanddogs)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dancers & Dogs (@dancersanddogs)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dancers & Dogs (@dancersanddogs)

Dancers & Dogs: Website | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Dancers & Dogs.

Related Articles:

Offbeat Photographs of Ballet Dancers Honor the Artistry of Analog Photography

Photographer Omar Z. Robles on His Sensational Images of Ballet Dancers Around the World [Podcast]

Watch Ballet Dancers Move Through the Streets of Harlem in Breathtaking Performance

READ: Ballet Dancers Pair up With Shelter Dogs and Cats To Help Them Get Adopted

]]>
Fans React to Barbie Movie’s Controversial Oscar Nominations and Snubs https://mymodernmet.com/barbie-movie-oscars-nominations/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Fri, 26 Jan 2024 18:30:18 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=652331 Fans React to Barbie Movie’s Controversial Oscar Nominations and Snubs

For many people around the world, Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie was a defining film of 2023, inspiring Barbie-core among other trends. Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling brought a pair of plastic dolls to life, and, with the help of their director, created a heartfelt story. This past Tuesday, the film received eight Oscar nominations, including […]

READ: Fans React to Barbie Movie’s Controversial Oscar Nominations and Snubs

]]>
Fans React to Barbie Movie’s Controversial Oscar Nominations and Snubs
People React to Barbie Movie Oscar Nominations

Photo: Jean_Nelson/Depositphotos

For many people around the world, Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie was a defining film of 2023, inspiring Barbie-core among other trends. Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling brought a pair of plastic dolls to life, and, with the help of their director, created a heartfelt story. This past Tuesday, the film received eight Oscar nominations, including Best Actor for Ryan Gosling, and Best Supporting Actress for America Ferrera. But after seeing no Best Actress nomination for Robbie, nor a Best Director nomination for Gerwig, fans—including Gosling himself—felt like this was a major snub, and it just further proves the point of the film.

The Barbie movie was a global sensation and the first movie directed by a woman to hit $1 billion at the box office. Many thought that this popularity would be reflected in the 2024 Oscars choices. Actress Michelle Yeoh, who won Best Actress in 2023 for Everything Everywhere All at Once, was asked about her opinion on the Today show. “The only take is like, it’s so competitive out there and there is no guarantee because you’re not the only voter, you know? It’s widespread,” she says. “Thank God the movie got nominated for Best Picture. But you do think, ‘How do you get nominated for Best Picture but not Best Director and not Best Actress?’”

Gosling's portrayal of Ken was definitely one of the standout parts of the film, and while he was happy to be recognized he also shared his disappointment in the choices. “I am extremely honored to be nominated by my colleagues alongside such remarkable artists in a year of so many great films. And I never thought I'd be saying this, but I'm also incredibly honored and proud that it's for portraying a plastic doll named Ken,” writes Gosling. “But there is no Ken without Barbie, and there is no Barbie movie without Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie, the two people most responsible for this history-making, globally-celebrated film. No recognition would be possible for anyone on the film without their talent, grit, and genius.

“To say that I'm disappointed that they are not nominated in their respective categories would be an understatement. Against all odds with nothing but a couple of soulless, scantily clad, and thankfully crotchless dolls, they made us laugh, they broke our hearts, they pushed the culture and they made history. Their work should be recognized along with other very deserving nominees.” He concludes his statement by congratulating Ferrera and other nominees from the movie in their recognitions.

While Gerwig did not receive a nomination for Best Director, she did receive a nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, which she co-wrote with her husband Noah Baumbach. Additionally, Robbie, who was an executive producer on the film, is part of Barbie‘s nomination for Best Picture. The film also received nominations for Costume Design and Production Design. NPR’s Linda Holmes, who hosts Pop Culture Happy Hour, gives her perspective on the situation: “I would have loved to see Gerwig and Robbie nominated for directing and performance, but I'm glad they got other nominations. People tend to talk about the screenplay nomination Gerwig earned with Noah Baumbach as though it's inferior to a directing nomination, but is it, really? And Robbie was nominated as a producer when the film got a nod for Best Picture, and given what I've heard about the fact that her producing contributions were really active, that's a real nomination, too.”

Unfortunately, there are only a limited amount of Oscars nominations to go around with many contenders, so that was probably also a deciding factor in Robbie and Gerwig not receiving Best Actress and Best Director nominations, respectively. “There are no snubs,” Whoopi Goldberg said on The View. “That’s what you have to keep in mind: Not everybody gets a prize, and it is subjective. Movies are subjective. The movies you love may not be loved by the people who are voting.”

Regardless of the 2024 Oscars nominations, the Barbie movie has certainly cemented its place in movie history.

The Barbie movie received eight Oscars nominations, but fans felt like its leading actress and director were snubbed.

People React to Barbie Movie Oscar Nominations

Photo: EyepixGroup/Depositphotos

While Ryan Gosling received a nomination for Best Actor and America Ferrera received a nomination for Best Supporting Actress, Margot Robbie was not nominated for Best Actress.

People React to Barbie Movie Oscar Nominations

Photo: Jean_Nelson/Depositphotos

Greta Gerwig was also not nominated for Best Director.

People React to Barbie Movie Oscar Nominations

Photo: Jean_Nelson/Depositphotos

Later, Ryan Gosling made a statement about his reaction to the news.

h/t: [Bored Panda, NPR]

Related Articles:

Mattel Releases “Weird Barbie” Doll Based on ‘Barbie’ Movie Character

Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’ Sets Record for Biggest Opening Weekend Ever for a Female Director

Michael Cera Emailed Greta Gerwig to Get Role in ‘Barbie’ After His Manager Turned It Down

READ: Fans React to Barbie Movie’s Controversial Oscar Nominations and Snubs

]]>
Pair of Small 17th-Century Portrait Paintings by Rembrandt Are Rediscovered After 200 Years https://mymodernmet.com/rembrandt-small-portraits-rijksmuseum/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:45:43 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=651881 Pair of Small 17th-Century Portrait Paintings by Rembrandt Are Rediscovered After 200 Years

As one of the preeminent artists of the Dutch Golden Age, Rembrandt created some of the world's most famous paintings. His best known works were large-scale group portraits like The Night Watch and The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Tulp. However, a recent discovery puts a pair of much smaller paintings in the limelight. The Rijksmuseum […]

READ: Pair of Small 17th-Century Portrait Paintings by Rembrandt Are Rediscovered After 200 Years

]]>
Pair of Small 17th-Century Portrait Paintings by Rembrandt Are Rediscovered After 200 Years
Small Portraits by Rembrandt

Installation Rembrandt portraits Jan and Jaapgen. On loan from the Henry M. Holterman Family. (Photo: Rijksmuseum/Olivier Middendorp)

As one of the preeminent artists of the Dutch Golden Age, Rembrandt created some of the world's most famous paintings. His best known works were large-scale group portraits like The Night Watch and The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Tulp. However, a recent discovery puts a pair of much smaller paintings in the limelight. The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam—home to the largest collection of Rembrandt artwork in the world—has unveiled two miniature portraits that have been unseen for 200 years.

The set depicts a wealthy plumber and slater named Jan Willemsz van der Pluym and his wife Jaapgen Caerlsdr, who were married in 1591. Rembrandt painted the portraits in 1635, which would make the sitters 69 (Van Der Pluym) and 70 (Caerlsdr) at the time of the sitting. While not the most elaborate or complicated works of Rembrandt's extensive oeuvre, they are “significant not only because they are the smallest formal portraits Rembrandt ever made, but also because Jan and Jaapgen were members of the artist's family circle.”

The Rijksmuseum also believes that these paintings were made as a gift. “Rembrandt was the most sought-after portraitist in Amsterdam at the time he painted the oval portraits. Considering their small size and dynamic, sketchy style, he probably painted them as a favor to the couple,” the museum explains in an official statement. To ensure that the works were definitely Rembrandt's, the museum used X-radiography, infrared photography, infrared reflectography, macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF), stereomicroscopy, and paint sample analysis. They also concluded that the loose brushwork and quickly rendered style of the portraits closely resembles other works by Rembrandt around the same time.

You can find these portraits on view at the Rijksmuseum with other paintings by Rembrandt in gallery 2.8.

The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam unveiled a pair of small portraits by Rembrandt that have been unseen for 200 years.

Small Portraits by Rembrandt

Installation Rembrandt portraits Jan and Jaapgen. On loan from the Henry M. Holterman Family. (Photo: Rijksmuseum/Olivier Middendorp)

These tiny works depict Jan Willemsz van der Pluym and his wife Jaapgen Caerlsdr, who were part of Rembrandt's family circle.

Small Portraits by Rembrandt

Installation Rembrandt portraits Jan and Jaapgen. On loan from the Henry M. Holterman Family. (Photo: Rijksmuseum/Olivier Middendorp)

Rijksmuseum: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Rijksmuseum.

Related Articles:

Painting Valued at $15K Turns Out to Be a Rembrandt, Sells for $13.8M at Auction

Restored Rembrandt Is on Sale for $30 Million

Two Rare Rembrandt Portraits Discovered in Private Collection

READ: Pair of Small 17th-Century Portrait Paintings by Rembrandt Are Rediscovered After 200 Years

]]>
Piece This Puzzle Together and Grow Your Own Visual Garden https://mymodernmet.com/houseplant-jigsaw-puzzle-my-modern-met-store/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Fri, 26 Jan 2024 10:55:32 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=650461 Piece This Puzzle Together and Grow Your Own Visual Garden

Houseplants are a great way to add a bit of color and life into your interior space. But cultivating the lush garden of your dreams can require a lot of work. Fortunately, by piecing together one of Galison's puzzles, you can grow beautiful plants without water and soil. All you need is a coffee table […]

READ: Piece This Puzzle Together and Grow Your Own Visual Garden

]]>
Piece This Puzzle Together and Grow Your Own Visual Garden
Houseplant Jungle Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Houseplants are a great way to add a bit of color and life into your interior space. But cultivating the lush garden of your dreams can require a lot of work. Fortunately, by piecing together one of Galison's puzzles, you can grow beautiful plants without water and soil. All you need is a coffee table and some downtime, and you can replicate dozens of green flora.

The Houseplant Jungle jigsaw puzzle features a colorful design by photographer and designer Troy Litten. The box includes 1,000 pieces which, when assembled together, create 51 varieties of plant leaves. Complete this puzzle with friends and see how many species you can name. Then, check your answers with the insert that comes inside of the decorative box.

My Modern Met Store carries other jigsaw puzzles that are inspired by nature too. Putting together the watercolor portraits of the Avian Friends puzzle can make you feel like you're birdwatching outside. Similarly, Nervous System's sprawling Earth Puzzle captures a stunning view of our planet, which is made all the more whimsical by select animal-shaped pieces.

Scroll down to see more puzzles, and head over to My Modern Met Store when you're ready to checkout.

These beautiful jigsaw puzzles are inspired by flora and fauna.

 

Houseplant Jungle 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

Houseplant Jungle Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Houseplant Jungle Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Houseplant Jungle Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

 

Naranjas 1,000-Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Naranjas Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Naranjas Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Naranjas Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

 

Avian Friends 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

Avian Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Avian Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Avian Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Avian Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

 

Love Lives Here by Anne Bentley 1,000 Piece Puzzle

Love Lives Here Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

Love Lives Here Jigsaw Puzzle

Galison | $16.99

 

Earth Jigsaw Puzzle

 

Herding Cats Puzzle

 

Rainbow Puzzle

 

Shop more puzzles in My Modern Met Store!

 

Related Articles:

This LEGO 3D Puzzle Set Lets You Recreate a Colorful Flower Garden

10 Jigsaw Puzzles Designed by Independent Artists

Bask in the Beauty of Nature With These Colorful Animal-Inspired Puzzles

Follow My Modern Met Store: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter
Subscribe to My Modern Met Store newsletter for updates!

READ: Piece This Puzzle Together and Grow Your Own Visual Garden

]]>