台灣心色

這個我給滿分！人與動物的攝影集！

2012-02-03T23:41:00.000+08:00

Ani-Human Body Painting by Lennette Newell:

A photographer has created a bizarre exhibit featuring naked models being covered with body paint to look just like wild animals. Lennette Newell’s daring pictures show models posing covered in paint as zebras, elephants, baboons and cheetahs next to their real life counterparts. The San Francisco photographer’s display, called ‘Anti-Human’ was devised out of Lennette’s childhood desire to become one of the animals her father used to treat as a vet. Her strikingly colourful set aims to mark the difference between humans and wild animals.

All of Lennette’s ‘Anti-Human’ collection pictures were taken in Los Angeles, California.

Daring: Lennette’s picture of a model with an elephant is one of the collection’s more provocative images.

Black and white: Photographer Lennette captures a model painted with stripes to give her the appearance of a zebra.

Spot the difference: Another model is painted in brown and white to look just like her cheetah counterpart.

Monkeying around: A male model is painted in brown with dramatic eye paint to make him take on the appearance of a baboon.

Newell’s pictures are born out of her childhood dream to actually become one of the animals her vet father used to treat.

Model Jasmina poses with Daisy, a Burmese python, part of renowned photographer Lennette Newell’s remarkable ‘Anti-Human’ series of portrai
Lennette Newell

先生，這裡不是夜店，這是銀行！PKO Bank Polski

2012-02-03T10:00:00.000+08:00

PKO Bank Polski Is Not Your Ordinary Bank:

The PKO Bank Polski, by Robert Majkut Design, is a far cry from your ordinary bank! We normally wouldn’t describe a bank as warm, sexy, and sensual, but the design of the PKO Bank makes saving and investing feel glamorous – ‘tell me more about your IRA options Mr. Bank Teller.’ That is exactly the environment that Polish architect and designer Robert Majkut wanted to create. Majkut took inspiration for the interior design from the already existing company graphics which consisted of black, white, and gold. The colors manifested within the wall materials, furniture, and lighting, to create a dramatic ambiance within the space. One of the most interesting features of the bank comes is the dynamic wall behind the receptionists desk. Majkut explains that “a bi-dimensional pattern was completely transformed by introducing an additional dimension: it was made spatial by being projected on the tri-dimensional model of the interior.” The architect went on, “to achieve this effect special software for parametric design was used, which allowed for the creation of a complex and ordered structure formed as a transformation of the subtle grid of lines converging in one abstract point.” The grid form of the wall came straight from the logo of the bank, then transformed into an exciting design feature within the space. Next came the lounge, a conference room, individual offices, and a small meeting area, all of which are designed to be luxurious, sophisticated, and comfortable!

(Photography: Szymon Polanski)

這可以去參加cosplay，油畫古典女人攝影風格

2012-02-03T09:33:00.000+08:00

Women of History by Peter Lippmann and Christian Louboutin:

Christian Louboutin collaborates with iconic photographer Peter Lippmann to tweek fine art masterpieces by incorporating his signature red soled designs. The painting’s timeless women are mean to “embody the spirit of the Christian Louboutin woman” and “each portrait acts as a setting for key creations from the upcoming collection twinned with the artist who’s individual technique and subject defines their distinct character.”

A brilliant idea, which is sure to have the fashion world raving while simultaneously seething with envy in that they didn’t think of it first!

Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot – “Portrait of a Girl”

Francois Clouet – “Elizabeth of Austria”

James McNeill Whistler – “Mother Whistler”

Jean-Marc Nattier – “Marquise D’Antin”

Francisco de Zurbaran – “St. Dorothy”

Marie-Guilleme Benoit – “Portrait d’une Negresse”

Georges de la Tour – “Mary Magdalene and the flames”

Peter Lippman

安娘喂，功夫高強！這是用簽筆和原子筆畫的！by Heikki Leis

2012-02-03T09:25:00.000+08:00

Everyday Reflections by Heikki Leis:

Heikki Leis was born in 1973 in Tartu, a university town in the south of Estonia, and has lived, studied and worked in this city for most of his life. He started dabbling in art at an early age and liked to draw and so attended the Children’s Art School. Since then he has studied art, photography, sculpture and masonry at Tartu Art School graduating in 1995. Involved in art on and off after the school and wandering around the world he has been exhibiting from 2003.

Heikki Leis prefers to use pencils and ball point pens to create his works.

Heikki Leis

我中樂透後準備在美國海邊買的半透明住宅

2012-02-02T15:17:00.000+08:00

Bright Semi-Transparent Laguna Beach Residence:

This single family villa spreads over 2,470 square feet, featuring a tasteful remodel that transformed the residential building into a dream oceanfront house. The Laguna Beach Residence – as the glass oasis was named – is located on a promontory, overlooking the huge stretches of water from behind transparent glass walls. An open gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and imported stone flooring – as we can see throughout the house – gathers family around the dining table overlooking calming ocean views. The sloping landscape allowed the architects to construct half-floors that give the impression of a larger, brighter space, separated into interesting horizontal planes, as we can see in the dining/cooking /contemplating space. From high up, a bright and elegant master suite opens up to a private terrace. Zig-zag terraces give the ocean facade a fun twist when looked at from the roof. From all the main spaces of the house, exceptional views of the island lights at night or the colorful sunset can be enjoyed by family and guests. Offered at $5,995,000, this magnificent oceanfront home could be more than just inspiration – it can become your own dream beach house if you budget permits it.

You're reading Bright Semi-Transparent Laguna Beach Residence originally posted on Freshome. If you've enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Freshome on Twitter, Facebook and Google+

比利時五萬五千支LED燈做成的大教堂（附影片）

2012-02-02T12:09:00.000+08:00

Cathedral Art Installation Made from 55,000 LED Lights in Belgium [Video]:

The second edition of the spectacular Ghent Light Festival held in Belgium, for four days (from January 26 to January 29, 2012), displayed quite a few interesting projects. This year’s themes were happiness and music, portrayed in over 30 unique exhibitions. But the focal point of the event is said to have been a giant art installation shaped like a cathedral and made from no less than 55.000 LED lights. According to the official website of the festival, “Belfortstraat (Belfort Street) was the domain of the Luminarie Cagna. A giant colonnade made of wood and hundreds of thousands of colored lights, with arches that remind one of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. The entrance area only measured 28 meters high. The audience walked into a fairy tale gallery, surrounded by light and color. Energy Wasted? On the contrary, this immense work of art with 55,000 LED lights consumes only 20Kwatt / h of electricity“. Have a look at the video we found on This is Colossal for more details about the festival and tell us what you think of this art installation.

Lichtfestival Gent 2012 from Lieven Vanoverbeke on Vimeo.

精選再精選的街頭繪畫創作！

2012-02-02T10:48:00.000+08:00

Amazing street art | #417:

In From up North’s inspiration galleries we present the latest of our findings from the wonderful world of design. Amazing high quality artworks in various categories from great designers all over the globe.

Artisme – Murmure – Submitted by INRT

And you cant really do a post about street art without showing something by Mr. Street art himself, Banksy!

And here’s a pretty slick time lapse video of Meak doing his 3D graffiti piece “SpinFX”.

宅男女神李毓芬幫我們人工呼吸／令人摒息，激發創意的攝影集

2012-02-02T10:41:00.000+08:00

Photography inspiration | #420:

Out of the Cocoon – Submitted by Humza Mehbub

超有創意廣告，不看可惜！

2012-02-02T10:35:00.000+08:00

Creative advertising | #423:

Anti Hair Loss Scalp Serum

Don’t let toys become germs

Stihl Leaf Blowers

Catchy Stories

Treat yourself better

LOVEFiLM: Star Wars

宅男女神劉伊心幫我們人工呼吸／令人摒息的秋日攝影 by Ildiko Neer

2012-02-02T10:24:00.000+08:00

Autumn Photography by Ildiko Neer:

About Me

“I bought my first dlsr camera in 2009 may. it was canon eos 350D. the first part of my life is gone but the other i dedicate to photography. i really love the post-processing, i’m using these softwares: Lightroom 3.4, PS CS5, NIK Software Viveza, Color Efex Pro, Sharpener, Photomatix 4.0.2 for HDR and i love the texture technique. I call my work: COLOR-THERAPY :)))))

If i try to imagine myself, i saw someone on the road, who walking straight to the light. My pictures express the feelings, moods what i felt under my trip in the last few years”.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ildiko-Neer-Photo-Art/210152085723334

這個太強了，用滾筒捲紙來雕塑人體內部！by Lisa Nilsson

2012-02-02T10:14:00.000+08:00

Tissue Series, Anatomical Cross Sections in Paper by Lisa Nilsson:

These pieces are made of Japanese mulberry paper and the gilded edges of old books. They are constructed by a technique of rolling and shaping narrow strips of paper called quilling or paper filigree. Quilling was first practiced by Renaissance nuns and monks who made artistic use of the gilded edges of worn out bibles, and later by 18th century ladies who made artistic use of lots of free time. I find quilling exquisitely satisfying for rendering the densely squished and lovely internal landscape of the human body in cross section.

A detail of “Abdomen” showing the spinal cord within a gold vertebra.

A detail of “Thorax” showing the humerus within the muscles of the upper arm.

A detail of “Head I” showing the sinuses.

A detail of “Head II” showing a cross section of the brain.

This piece represents a cross section of the head at the level of the eyes. It is life-size.

The beautiful white cross leading from each eye to the brain is the optic nerve.

This piece represents a coronal section of a female torso.

This piece represents a cross section through the chest. It is life-size. The heart is encircled by the lungs which are caged by the ribs. The very bright white spot in the center of the gold vertebra is the spinal cord.

This piece represents a midsagittal section (the one that cuts through the center making a left half and a right half) of the head and chest. I employ a device of making all of the bones in my work from the gilded edges of old books. I do this for aesthetic reasons as well as a means of pulling the pieces away from the world of scientific specimens and a bit more in the direction of religious reliquaries. I like to emphasize the reverential and the precious; to have a look inside is such a privilege.

This piece represents a coronal section of a male torso.

Lisa Nilsson

真是巧奪天工，用樹葉做剪紙藝術！

2012-02-01T09:09:00.000+08:00

Ad Campaign For Plant For The Planet by Legas Delany Hamburg Uses Cut Leaf Art.:

This latest print campaign for the Germany based organization Plant For The Planet was created by Legas Delany of Hamburg (who was also responsible for their large "Stop Talking, Start Planting" campaign) and utilizes the talents of artist Lorenzo Duran. Duran takes the art of leaf-carving and gives it an environmental spin in these three ads by illustrating common causes of CO2 emissions.

Plant For The Planet is an awareness raising global campaign, realized without any budget. You can help them in their fight for climate justice in the following three ways:
1. Become a fan on Facebook
2. Invite your friends to spread the word.
3. Start your own group

For more information visit www.plant-for-the-planet.org

Lorenzo Duran does sell his one of a kind cut leaf silhouettes, some of which are shown below, on his blog. If the leaf is already sold, he'll be happy to recreate it for you.

Plant For The Planet

If you like leaf-related art , you should check out:

Those Crazy Leaf Carvings; What, How & Where To Buy Or Create Custom Ones.

http://ifitshipitshere.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss

我中樂透後一定要去住的全球15家最好的旅館！

2012-02-01T09:02:00.000+08:00

15 Remarkable Resorts Presented on Freshome in 2011:

In 2011 we could not help but notice your appetite for beautiful places of relaxation. This is why for today we gathered 15 incredible resorts across the world that were presented on Freshome last year. As usual, you can click on each photo for more pictures and details about the retreats. If you happened to see any of them for yourself, we would love to know the details!

#1. The luxurious 5- star Pimalai refuge blends with the natural environment creating unforgettable experiences for the tourists who decide to spend their holidays here. This boutique beach resort occupies 100 acres of tropical vegetation with direct access to a 900 meters stretch of pristine sandy beach and offers 121 accommodation units. Click the photo below and tell us if it manages to bring the inner serenity it promises.

#2.Â Southern Ocean Lodge is a luxury resort located along the cliffs of Kangaroo Island, Australia, within a fascinating natural landscape. The interiors of the villas feature lavish King beds, sunken lounge, dramatic glass walled bathroom featuring Southern Spa amenities and outdoor terrace with occasional seating and daybed.

#3.Â Como Uma Ubud Resort is located in Bali, Indonesia, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley, in the cultural town of Ubud. The resort has a total of 29 rooms, some of which are terrace rooms with comfortable four-poster bed draped in white voile, garden rooms with access to the fish pond and seating area and suites. An incredible 25-metre pool offers a chance for guests to be surrounded by green lawns and tropical trees.

#4. Who hasnâ€™t heard of the romantic sunsets in Santorini? Mistique Resort is actually the name for eighteen suites and villas located in this Greek island, overseeing an amazing landscape. We particularly enjoyed the fact that this hotel is not an opulent and extravagant one, but a piece of architecture perfectly integrated in the spirit and sceneries of the island.

#5. The Taj Exotica Resort and Spa Maldives is a five-star exclusive resort, surrounded by lush tropical plants and crystal clear blue waters. Located in one of the largest lagoons in the area, the accommodation units spread idyllically along a mesmerizing beach, providing a lovely relaxation setting for its visitors.

#6. The Residence Zanzibar was designed by design firm HBA / Hirsch Bedner Associates and is a fascinating resort located on a remote corner of the island of Zanzibar. Stretching over 80 acres, the 66 villas designed by HBA boast a colonial theme and draw inspiration from the Swahili, Omani, British and Indian cultures present inÂ Zanzibar.

#7. Located where mythology tells us the God Apollo was born, the luxury resort called Mykonos Grand Hotel offers 32 square meter ground floor garden view rooms in blue or orange with spacious mosaic bathrooms, 33 square meter rooms overlooking the Aegean Sea â€“ adorned with Greek marble and typical Mykonian arch separating the bedroom from the sitting area and 37 square meter superior sea view rooms with Spa bathrooms.

#8. The Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel is a man-made attraction in Bali. The most striking of the hotelâ€™s design features is a large, multi-leveled infinity pool, with curves that are said to copy the shape and beauty of the hills nearby. Guests can swim at the edge and enjoy peaceful vistas of the ancient Pura Penataran Dalem Segara temple, located on the opposite hillside.

#9. The Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia is a place where each room has its own infinity pool. Architect owner Nick Troubetzkoy has expanded upon his philosophy of building in harmony with Caribbean nature. The resort is characterized by the bold architectural design â€“ individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky.

#10. Casa de la Flora Resort is located in a secluded ambiance near Phuket, Thailand. Featuring a series of differentiated beachfront pool villas and suites and a presidential suite, the resort offers luxurious interiors for the perfect holidayÂ Designed by VaSLab Architecture, the resort features exceptional facilities, gathered on a 4,900 square meter property in Pangnga.

#11.Â Astarte Suites is a spectacular 9-room complex designed by Aygoustis Krousis and located on a cliff on the beautiful Santorini Island in Greece. Small, but with impeccable services, infinity pool, and unforgettable views, the hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway.

#12. This fascinating place of retreat is called Ayada Maldives and is located on the island of Maguhdhuvaa, inÂ Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll district. The resort consists of 112 luxurious villas and was recently open. The accommodation units have a beautiful warm and traditional feel and are fully-equipped, providing comfort beyond expectations.

#13. Composed of 8 modern resort units, Villas Finestre is a simple yet imposing beachfront vacation complex made of separate 500 to 1000 square meters villas. Nestled on a cliffâ€™s edge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the villa units are located in a small beach resort named Ixtapa, in Guerrero, Design studio CC Arquitectos constructed this welcoming set of villas as a natural response to the growing desire for privacy and luxury.

#14. Whether you are looking for fabulous vacation destinations or just browsing for interior design inspiration, this next resort can offer you both things. Located in Aghios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece, the fabulously luscious coastal resort Out of the Blue, Capsis Elite Resort awaits guests with intriguing interiors and contemporary facilities.

#15. The Alila Villas Hadahaa island resort in the Maldives promises a relaxing vacation. Designed by SCDA Architects, the retreat welcomes its guests with a surprising collection of inside and outside spaces. Featuring 16 Island Villas, 20 Island Villas with a private pool, and 14 Aqua Villas, the retreat complex is the first luxury resort in the Gaafu Alifu (North Huvadhoo) Atoll in the Maldivesâ€™ new southern frontier.

You're reading 15 Remarkable Resorts Presented on Freshome in 2011 originally posted on Freshome. If you've enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Freshome on Twitter, Facebook and Google+

在大雪中的房子會怎麼蓋？

2012-02-01T08:54:00.000+08:00

AD Round Up: Architecture in the Snow:

Red House / JV © Nils Petter Dale

Here in the Lower 48, winter weather has been hard to come by. However, Alaska’s snowy landscape has inspired us to compile a list of images, previously featured on ArchDaily, that capture architecture amongst a pristine, white blanket of snow.

Continue after the break for the complete list!

1) Red House / JV

2) Rolling Huts / OSKA Architects

3) Natural History Museum of Utah / Ennead Architects

4) Iakov Chernikovs Architecture Prize 2010 / Fantastic Norway

Cabin Verdehaugen

5) Ten Broeck Cottage / Messana O’Rorke

6) Holiday House on the Rigi / AFGH

7) Marché Lier / Lund+Slaatto Architects

8) Chameleon House / Anderson Anderson Architecture

9) 2 Sisters House / NRJA

10) Nearpoint Residence / Workshop Architecture|Design

創意十「足」！你穿什麼鞋，就知道你喜歡什麼社群媒體！

2012-01-31T09:12:00.000+08:00

More Social Media Shoes:

We've already seen a bunch of similar initiatives but it never really gets old. Lumen Bigott from Venezuela customized shoes with the colors of several social networks; Facebook, Twitter, Wikipedia, Flickr, Google.

Love the little icons on the Facebook and YouTube ones!

Cute!

[via]

我那住在瑞典斯德哥爾摩鄉下湖邊的朋友的家！

2012-01-31T08:53:00.000+08:00

Atypical Scandinavian Villa in the Stockholm Archipelago:

With a total living area of 238 square meters, this inspiring modern home located in a municipality in Stockholm County, Sweden, is not what you would normally expect from a typical Scandinavian home. The residence (seen on Residence.se) is said to be designed in a contemporary international style and offers fabulous views of the surrounding landscape. Large sliding patio doors lead to a generous terrace for large dinner parties. The main house is structured on the levels. The upper floor accommodates the living room , kitchen and master bedroom with en-suite walk in closet and bathroom. On the lower level of about 80 square meters, there are three bedrooms, a TV room, a bathroom and laundry room. The villa is located far out in the Stockholm archipelago and around the corner is Fagelbro Golf and Country Club which offers golf activities, restaurants, stables and gym. More summer pubs in the local area are easily accessible by boat. Can you think of any other features that would have better adjusted this home to its surroundings?

You're reading Atypical Scandinavian Villa in the Stockholm Archipelago originally posted on Freshome. If you've enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Freshome on Twitter, Facebook and Google+

這位插畫家，居然把達賴喇嘛一畫成這樣！by Fab Ciraolo

2012-01-30T21:10:00.000+08:00

Fab Ciraolo Illustrations Part 2:

The work of Fab Ciraolo (featured on this site before) makes it immediately clear that the Chilean-born illustrator has a very interesting outlook on this world. His pieces combine re-imagined elements of nostalgic popular culture with fantastical sci-fi standards and beautiful space-like atmospheres. Incorporating classic cartoon characters, fairy tale favorites and edgy popular icons, Ciraolo constructs compelling and enchanting artwork that stirs up whimsical feelings for the past while keeping one foot forward. We recently caught up with Ciraolo and got some insight into his process and where his surreal scenes take root.

fabianciraolo.blogspot.com

這是英國人幫台灣畫的旅遊導覽圖，來評評分吧！

2012-01-30T11:02:00.000+08:00

Taiwan Tourism illustration:

These are lovely tourism illustrations for Taiwan. The illustrations capture the essence of Taiwan’s landscape, culture, architecture, people and food. British illustrator Adrian Johnson created them. If you are interesting in more Taiwanese inspired branding, design and illustrations you should check out these two posts:

Taiwan Branding Campaign

Branding Taiwan illustrations

Taiwan Tourism illustration is a post from: CreativeRoots - Art and design inspiration from around the world

超有創意的照片／在城市裡移動！

2012-01-30T10:51:00.000+08:00

Cities on the move:

Mumbai, India

Cairo, Egypt

Calcutta, India

Istanbul, Turkey

Jakarta, Indonesia

Karachi, Pakistan

Manila, Philippines

I love the energy in these city photos. A lot of times you see photos from cities and you don’t feel the same energy as Dutch photographer Marin Roemers captured in these. For his Metropolis photo series which captures cities on the move he won the World press photo award 2011. Currently he captured Calcutta, Manila, Karachi, Jakarta, Istanbul, Cairo and Mumbai in his lens.

每天和植物一起呼吸／爆酷的越南胡志明市的綠建築！

2012-01-30T10:37:00.000+08:00

Green Home in Ho Chi Minh has Living Walls:

Photograph by Hiroyuki Oki

In the city of Ho Chi Minh (formerly Saigon, and the largest city in Vietnam), you will notice many of the homes adorned with pots and planters. It’s a local custom and one that adds to the city’s visual identity. Architecture firm, Vo Trang Nghia, embraced this aesthetic as per the request of their clients, a couple in their 30s and their mother.
The property footprint is very typical of the tube houses in the city, a 4-meter (13.1 ft) wide by 20-meter (65.6 ft) deep plot. The front and back facades are composed entirely of layers of concrete planters, with a height varying between 25 cm (9.8 in) to 40 cm (15.7 in) depending on the height of the plant for each planter. The designers also installed automatic irrigation pipes inside the planters for easy water maintenance.
The house takes full advantage of the sunlight no matter what time of day. There’s even a rooftop garden and two giant sunlights to allow the light to flood in from above. The side walls consist of stacked 2cm slabs of granite, which display beautiful shadows from the sunlight entering through the various plant leaves.
In a bustling and sometimes chaotic city with a metropolitan area population of 9 million people, this stunning urban oasis offers peace and tranquillity within the its living walls.

Photograph by Hiroyuki Oki

Sources

- Architects: Vo Trong Nghia, Daisuke Sanuki, Shunri Nishizawa of Vo Trong Nghia Co., ltd.

- First spotted on ARCH DAILY

- Photography by Hiroyuki Oki

太炫了，這屋子的正面造型太像樹屋！Design by 24H Architects

2012-01-30T10:27:00.000+08:00

Unique Urban House Facade Design by 24H Architects:
Natural phenomena have always showed us their power and the marvelous things they can create. The erosion of rocks produced by rain and wind is a common phenomenon which can be noticed everywhere. The result of this erosion is represented by the appearance different types of forms and shapes of relief which seem to amaze us all the time. The canyons are among these forms which offer us great views. If you go to America, the Grand Canyon is a place which you cannot miss.

24H Architects were inspired by this type of relief and designed some urban houses in Nieuw Leyden, in the north of the city of Leyden, in Netherlands. Among these houses there are two ecological ones. The building block consists of 18 houses which are designed by different architects.

24H Architects used the so- called “canyon” for their design in order to get the highest level of natural light inside the house.The interior presents some walls of the canyon which help to divide the house in different areas. Thus the “canyon” is present all over the place. There are areas when the canyon becomes transparent so that it can filter the daylight.The exterior façade is an echo of the interior canyon and looks like a real canyon or a beautiful and huge drawing made by someone on the façade of a house.

Corten steel was used for the “canyon” while for the rest of the façade it was used certified wood. The natural wood color creates a warm interior and a lovely exterior too.{found on contemporist}.

我喜歡他的插畫風格／Reinier Gamboa訪談及其作品

2012-01-29T09:58:00.000+08:00

Interview: Reinier Gamboa:

Reinier Gamboa’s work is mindblowing. His interview is genuine, honest and intelligent. Gamboa’s work is pretty badass, and so is his interview. Read on fellow psychonauts:

Where are you from? What did you want to be when you were a kid?

I was born in the year 1984 in Camaguey, Cuba. When I was a kid I first wanted to be a fire fighter, then a gymnast and finally a painter.

What did you like more when you were a kid, dinosaurs or superheroes?

I used to copy old Batman and Tarzan comics when I was young so I think I was more inclined towards superheroes since it’s a little harder to identify with T-Rex.

What have you learned from your time at the Art Center of Design in Pasadena and the New World School of the Arts in Miami that you would not have on your own?

Those two institutions have been crucial to my development as an artist. At New World I met some of my best friends and was under the guidance of a power trio, Jim Hunter (R.I.P), Tom Wyroba, and Aramis O’Reilly. The New World years laid the foundation, stressing discipline, practice and an unquenchable taste for experimentation. At Art Center my knowledge and skills grew exponentially and I was able to work alongside such talented individuals as Andrew Hem, David Jien and Vincent Hui as well as have the opportunity to study under amazing teachers like Norman Schureman (R.I.P), Gary Meyer, David Luce, Bob Kato, Kent Williams and Aaron Smith.

What facet of your work do you consider your greatest strength? What area needs the most work?

I think my greatest strengths are my imagination and improvisation. The area which needs the most work is planning and compositing through research. A lot of times I’m running on instinct and riding the serendipity train, sometimes at the expense of the rules of design since I am more drawn to find structure within complexity or chaos. That balance is what’s important.

How do you intend to address that disparity? What advice can you give upcoming artists in terms of self-improvement?

I intend to address that disparity by being self-aware. My advice to anyone interested in self-improvement in regardless of field or aspect of life is to learn the difference between being self-aware and self-critical. We often mistake one for the other. Being self-aware is taking an honest look at yourself, your beliefs, talents, flaws, all of it. From that place of true honesty, you can decide what gets in the way of your growth and what you can do about it. Being self-critical is putting yourself down and I find a lot of times this happens when we compare ourselves to others and think “I’m not good enough”. I’ve met plenty of people with natural talent who won’t nourish it because they put limits on themselves. All in all, catch yourself before you “break yo’ self”.

What’s your favorite part of the face to illustrate/paint? What’s the hardest part?

The eyes have been called ” the windows to the soul”. That is my favorite part to draw and paint and it is also the hardest for me.

What source material do you use when illustrating?

I don’t have much experience illustrating apart from some of the classes I took at Art Center and jobs I did for Tiltworks and Russian Esquire. In those instances I used the library and internet to find the images I needed. A composite of eclectic sources is the way to go.

What’s the difference in your approach to a painting and to an illustration? Tell us about the separate processes from beginning to end.

Completely different. The illustration work I’ve done has been more of a collaboration between myself and an art director. Everything else, which I consider my personal work, has been to fulfill my own urge to create and explore my own psyche. Painting to me is a process of discovery and a personal journey that allows me to see the way my mind works. The illustrations I’ve done follow the usual procedure of fleshing out an idea through comps and sketches while my approach to painting is more spontaneous, intuitive and experimental.

What projects are you currently working on?

I’m working closely with Marissa Alma Nick, a dancer and choreographer whom I met at New World on a project that will blend painting and dance. I am also developing a new body of work for my second solo show.

What’s next for you? What do want to have done in the next two years?

In the next two years I want to develop my gift to its fullest potential. I’ll be producing large paintings, exhibiting in the states and abroad as well as collaborating with different artists in multi-media projects.

Can you talk about your painting “Eye”? What were the sources of inspiration?

There were four main sources of inspiration for this painting: Terence McKenna, Joseph Campbell, Friedrich Nietzsche and my girlfriend at the time Jazmyn. The painting deals with several mythological motifs like the serpent as a symbol of transformation and rebirth, the intertwined relationship between different faiths as all emanating from one source represented by the eye, the modern dilemma of what to do with all the trash we’ve accumulated, and a sense of justice brought upon by the wounded angel holding the Scale on which we will weight what is essential and what isn’t.

What do you want viewers to take away from “Quanah’s Face”? What is Quanah feeling emotionally? What were you feeling when you painted the piece?

I’ve been doing live painting for a while and I get a real kick out of doing powerful visionary paintings in places that are highly unlikely to inspire such work. Not only is this a test in concentration but it poses a challenge to be fully engaged and work faster in the given amount of time. I started this piece in my studio but worked on it at several different live venues, one of them being a rave. I wanted people to witness him appear out of the aether like a ghost. I don’t know what he’s feeling emotionally but I wanted to stress the intensity of his features. It is important for me to make figurative work that feels timeless. I’m fascinated by the history of native americans so working on Quanah was a great opportunity to meditate on the passage of time and the consequence of European influence on the original inhabitants of this country. Basically one way of life was sacrificed for another to exist and the dominant culture which we’re a part of is swallowing up indigenous cultures that have a stronger, deep-rooted bond with the Earth. We can learn from these traditions how to work together harmoniously with nature by giving wild places and its inhabitants the respect they deserve.

Who are three artists that influenced you? What effect has their influence had on your work?

Jean-Michel Basquiat awoke my inner child, Nicolai Fechin taught the child how to draw, and Robert Rauschenberg makes sure he doesn’t forget how to play.

Would you rather be reincarnated as a dolphin or a wolf and why?

I’m already part dolphin so coming back as a wolf would be a nice change of pace. As long as I’m not getting shot at from an aircraft.

http://reiniergamboa.com/

豆花妺幫我們做人工呼吸／令人摒息的紅外線攝影

2012-01-29T09:51:00.000+08:00

Yiu Yu Hoi:

Yiu Yu Hoi is a photographer currently based out of Hong Kong, China. Yiu shoots infrared photography similar to another photographer that we’ve featured, Richard Mosse (August 2010, December 2011), who uses the same technique, but obviously in this case, totally different context and execution. Nonetheless, these are some gorgeous images.

http://flickr.com/people/d3sign

情人節可以買的魔幻枱燈 by Qisdesign

2012-01-28T17:25:00.000+08:00

Lamp Aurelia by Qisdesign:

Perfectly on trend for 2012, the Aurelia lamp by Qisdesign is hot! These neon-colored table lamps are inspired by the jellyfish, both in their alluring shape as well as their transparent double-acrylic body and shades, which are LED-illuminated from within to cast your whole room in a gentle glow. The three-way touch-sensitive dimmer lets you control the lighting level to set the mood in your space. Choose from pink, orange and aqua. Check out the Aurelia lamp by visiting Qisdesign.

由美國太空總署所發佈，目前最高解析度的地球全景！

2012-01-28T16:58:00.000+08:00

NASA發佈，按圖看所有照片

“A ‘Blue Marble’ image of the Earth taken from the VIIRS instrument aboard NASA’s most recently launched Earth-observing satellite – Suomi NPP. This composite image uses a number of swaths of the Earth’s surface taken on January 4, 2012. “

NASA has uploaded the full 64 Megapixel version to Flickr. Here’s a link to the Large size. From there you can click over to see the 8000×8000 image on Flickr.

Photo and quote from NASA Goddard Photo and Video.

一兼二顧，摸蛤兼洗褲的桌和椅設計

2012-01-28T16:48:00.000+08:00

Functional Origami: Double-Duty Living Room Component: [ Filed under Transforming & in the Furniture category ]

There is probably not a single home out there that couldn’t use some extra seating once in a while. Or an extra flat surface for piling things on. This ingenious chair from designer Benoit Lienart is both – but never at the same time.

The transforming Sweetch18 is a slick armchair that doubles as a coffee table. Or it it a coffee table that doubles as a chair? Either way you say it, this simple piece of transforming furniture does double duty.

With just a simple push or pull of the tabletop/chair back, the piece easily slides between one state and the other. There are no complex latches or puzzle-like maneuvering – just an intuitive folding motion that is rather reminiscent of furniture origami.

宅男女神劉伊心幫我們人工呼吸！令人摒息的地景攝影！

2012-01-28T16:38:00.000+08:00

Silent Morning by Andre Arment

Cherry Trees by Matjaz Cater

Fresh Start by Dough Roane

Rising Shadow by Karsten Wrobel

Season Change by John Parminter

Two Autumns by Mikhail Trakhtenberg

Loch Linnhe by John Parminter

The beauty of Spring by Lazy Vlad

Path to Wonder by Dan Ballard Photography

Sunrise by Matjaz Cater

Los Cuernos del Paine by Ian Plant

Mid Summer by Raymó

Curtains In The Fog by Miles Morgan

On The Field’s Appeal by Pawel Kucharski

Namib by Daniel Montero

Norway by Malcolm X

Crystal Cave by Örvar Atli Þorgeirsson

Stillness by Örvar Atli Þorgeirsson

Crater Lake by Marc Adamus

Painting Of Nature by Hardibudi

With Ash From The Volcano by Raymó

Autumn Sunrise by Gary McParland

Atomic Cloud by Hendrik Tio

Evil Forces by Skarphedinn Thrainsson

Warm Morning by Marius Grozea

6AM by Artur Magdziarz

Hot Air Balloons by Martin Sojka

Shocking Bondi by Timothy Poulton

Forever Dreaming by Marc Adamus

Follow The Flow by PhotoNook

Mountains Of The Moon By Jose C. Lobto

Stranger Highways by Rechitansorin

Mountains By CubaGallery

The Begining by Marc Adamus

Kirkjufell by Raymó

The View by Photonook

Forever by Dorin Bofan

Brandlehow Burst by Sut68

Beinn Dearg Mor by John Parminter

Road To Heaven by Andreas Reinhold

At Dawn by Dennis Fischer

Smoke by Michal Ostrowski

Blocks Of Ice by Mac Danzig

Reflection by Liloni Luca

Spring On Fields by Krzysztof Browko

Sorrow by by Christolakis

Sidari Cliffs by Krzysztof Browko

Mount Doom by Skarphedinn Thrainsson

Beautiful Skies by Svein Oftedal

Kelimutu Volcan by Matthieu GRYMONPREZ

Volcano Down by Karsten Wrobel

A Day on The Top of Mount Titlis by Evan Pratama Ludirdja

Morning Road by Indra Supriadi

Born In Krakatau by Nico Fredia

救人哦！連手扶梯都能拍得這麼有特色

2012-01-28T16:32:00.000+08:00

zonepress

Sven Seiler

ian hughes

Stephen Meszaros

Berend Broerse

Aaron Eakin

Jörg Dickmann

WildWideBen

Aaron Landry

underactive

Sven Seiler

nosinoda

Christopher Allen

Simon

ohrfeus

Aaron leprou

給香港人馬英九看的故鄉照片／全球人口最擁擠的香港攝影

2012-01-28T16:11:00.000+08:00

Photographs of Hong Kong, the Most Densely Populated Urban Center in the World:

Greer Muldowney is a fine art photographer and adjunct professor based in Boston, Massachusetts. She works in several formats, exploring ideas based upon- or working around-anything American; whether it looks that way or not. Her work has been exhibited in several galleries in the United States, Hong Kong and France. She writes:

‘At 6,426 people per km2, Hong Kong boasts the most densely populated urban center in the world. The reality of sustainable practices, depletion of resources and a shifting global power paradigm pervade media involving China, and its Western syndicate territory, Hong Kong. By making imagery here, I ask viewers to contemplate these issues, but to also see these places as homes; not statistics.

‘As the living cities and infrastructure that address cultural standards and progressive technologies. These photographs do not propose a reality so different from the spin of contemporary media, but asks an audience on the other side of the world, the Western world, to reflect on whether these images provide a surrogate for wonderment or trepidation for a changing global climate and future.’

不必參加超偶，要變名人用這招比較快！

2012-01-28T09:38:00.000+08:00

Sleeveface Phenomenon:

Sleeveface is an internet phenomenon wherein one or more persons obscure or augment body parts with record sleeve(s), causing an illusion. Sleeveface has become popular on social networking sites.

The precise origin of the concept is unknown. A collection of photographs was posted online at Waxidermy.com in early 2006, though earlier examples of ‘Sleevefacing’ include a Mad Magazine cover and a sketch on The Adam and Joe Show with Gary Numan holding a record sleeve to his face. One case of a “sleeveface” before the internet phenomenon and website was an album cover by DJ J Rocc, whose own sleeve (front and back) was done in the group sleeveface style. Another case and possibly the earliest “sleeveface” photo is on the back of the album “Picture This” by Huey Lewis and the News in 1982, where Huey is holding the front side of the album (showing his face) in front of his face. Earlier still, is John Hiatt’s 1979 “Slug Face” album where he too is holding a sleeve (showing his face) in front of his face.

www.sleeveface.com

安室奈美惠幫我們人工呼吸／令人屏息的HDR攝影 by Robin-lee Vieira

2012-01-28T09:31:00.000+08:00

Robin-lee Vieira Beautiful Pictures:

Robin-Lee has worked as a soft sculpture artist for many years. In having to photograph her prototypes for various publications,one passion led to another. ‘Today, my work in photography is not limited to any particular subject. Though my love is for fine art and antiquity, I’m always open to the offerings of a brand new day.’

Robin-lee Vieira

這當然也是只有給挺小英和有品味的人看的／3D動物褶紙藝術精品

2012-01-26T21:55:00.000+08:00

3D Origami Illustrations of Wild Animals:

Origami is the art of folding paper, so what's it called when one creates a digital representation of the meticulous paper art? Whatever it is, artist Jeremy Kool has mastered it in his series entitled The Paper Fox. Kool brilliantly displays paper sculptures of all types of wildlife. The Australia-based graphic designer's digital illustrations range from an imposing stag to a modest firefly, each made with remarkable believability with realistic creases and textures.

Kool's extraordinary visuals can be purchased as prints at The Paper Fox Shop. Ultimately, his goal has always been to create an interactive storybook for the iPad and other tablets. He has recently met his funding needs through the sales of prints, though he continues to raise funds. Currently, Kool is working on reaching his end-goal and continues to build on the project. You can follow the artist's progress through his blog.

Jeremy Kool on Behance

與羅浮、大英、台灣故宮齊名的日本足立美術館！

2012-01-26T21:51:00.000+08:00

不給仇日的馬英九看／全球20處美得令人心醉的日本庭園

2012-01-26T21:22:00.000+08:00

20 Stunning Japanese Gardens Around the World:

Honbo Garden – Osaka, Japan | Photograph by 63highland

Japanese Gardens can be found at private homes, in neighborhood or city parks, and at historical landmarks such as Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and old castles around the world. In Japanese culture, garden-making is a high art, intimately related to the linked arts of calligraphy and ink painting. Japanese gardens were first developed under the influences of the distinctive and stylized Chinese gardens.

The tradition of Japanese gardening was historically passed down from sensei to apprentice. In recent decades this has been supplemented by various trade schools [Source: Wikipedia]. Below you will find a stunning collection of 20 beautiful Japanese Gardens around the world. Enjoy!

2. Japanese Garden – Buenos Aires, Argentina

Photograph by LUIS ARGERICH

3. Ryoan-Ji Zen Garden – Kyoto, Japan

Photograph by JAIME PEREZ

4. Japanese Garden – Cowra, Australia

Photograph by JOHN O’NEILL

5. Ritsurin Garden – Takamatsu, Japan

Photograph by 63highland

JAPANESE GARDENS – TYPICAL FEATURES

A catalogue of features “typical” of the Japanese garden may be drawn up without inquiring deeply into the aesthetic underlying Japanese practice. Typical Japanese gardens have at their center, a home from which the garden is viewed. In addition to residential architecture, depending on the archetype, Japanese gardens often contain several of these elements:

- Water, real or symbolic

- A bridge over the water, or stepping stones

- Rocks or stone arrangements (or settings)

- A lantern, typically of stone

- A teahouse or pavilion

- An enclosure device such as a hedge, fence, or wall of traditional character

Source: Wikipedia

6. Monte Palace Tropical Garden (Stone Lanterns) – Madeira, Portugal

Photograph by JONATHAN GROBE & HANNES GROBE

7. Daizen-Ji Zen Rock Garden – Kyoto, Japan

Photograph by CHRIS & SUYEN SELKE

8. Japanese Tea Garden – San Francisco, United States

Photograph by J. ASH BOWIE

9. Ginkau-Ji Zen Garden – Kyoto, Japan

Photograph by KAISER TIA

10. Korakuen Garden – Okayama, Japan

Photograph by 63highland

JAPANESE GARDENS – STONES, WATER, PLANTINGS

Though often thought of as tranquil sanctuaries that allow individuals to escape from the stresses of daily life, Japanese gardens are designed for a variety of purposes. Some gardens invite quiet contemplation, but may have also been intended for recreation, the display of rare plant specimens, or the exhibition of unusual rocks.

Kaiyu-shiki or Strolling Gardens require the observer to walk through the garden to fully appreciate it. A premeditated path takes observers through each unique area of a Japanese garden. Uneven surfaces are placed in specific spaces to prompt people to look down at particular points. When the observer looks up, they will see an eye-catching ornamentation which is intended to enlighten and revive the spirit of the observer. This type of design is known as the Japanese landscape principle of “hide and reveal”.

Stones are used to construct the garden’s paths, bridges, and walkways. Stones can also represent a geological presence where actual mountains are not viewable or present. They are sometimes placed in odd numbers and a majority of the groupings reflect triangular shapes, which often are the mountains of China.

A water source in a Japanese garden should appear to be part of the natural surroundings; this is why one will not find fountains in traditional gardens. Man-made streams are built with curves and irregularities to create a serene and natural appearance. Lanterns are often placed beside some of the most prominent water basins (either a pond or a stream) in a garden. In some gardens one will find a dry pond or stream. Dry ponds and streams have as much impact as do the ones filled with water.

Green plants are another element of Japanese gardens. Japanese traditions prefer subtle green tones, but flowering trees and shrubs are also used. Many plants in imitated Japanese gardens of the West are indigenous to Japan, though some sacrifices must be made to account for the differentiating climates. Some plants, such as sugar maple and firebush, give the garden a broader palette of seasonal color.

Source: Wikipedia

11. Hamilton Gardens – Waikato, New Zealand

Photograph by Bit2span

12. Zen Rock Garden – Japan

Photograph by BRIGGITTE JEANNETTE

13. Japanese Garden – Netherlands

Photograph by FRANS SCHMIT

14. Zen Garden – Portland, United States

Photograph by LAURA SCUDDER

15. Adachi Museum of Art – Yasugi, Japan

Photograph by 63highland

JAPANESE ROCK [ZEN] GARDENS

The Japanese rock gardens (karesansui) or “dry landscape” gardens, often called “Zen gardens”, were influenced mainly by Zen Buddhism and can be found at Zen temples of meditation. Karesansui gardens can be extremely abstract and represent (miniature) landscapes also called “mind-scapes”. This Buddhist preferred way to express cosmic beauty in worldly environments is inextricable from Zen Buddhism.

Unlike other traditional gardens, there is no water present in Karesansui gardens (or the karesansui compartment of a garden). There is gravel or sand, raked or not raked, that symbolizes sea, ocean, rivers or lakes. The act of raking the gravel into a pattern recalling waves or rippling water has an aesthetic function. Zen priests practice this raking also to help their concentration. Achieving perfection of lines is not easy. Rakes are according to the patterns of ridges as desired and limited to some of the stone objects situated within the gravel area. Nonetheless often the patterns are not static. Developing variations in patterns is a creative and inspiring challenge.

Stone arrangements and other miniature elements are used to represent mountains and natural water elements and scenes, islands, rivers and waterfalls. Stone and shaped shrubs are used interchangeably. In most gardens moss is used as a ground cover to create “land” covered by forest. Other, mostly stone, objects are sometimes used symbolically to represent mountains, islands, boats, or even people. Karesansui gardens are often, but not always, meant to be viewed from a single vantage point from a seated position.

Source: Wikipedia

16. Suizenji-jojuen Garden – Kumamoto, Japan

Photograph by 63highland

17. Keiunkan Garden – Nagahama, Japan

Photograph by 63 highland

18. Japanese Rock Garden – Koyasan, Japan

Photograph by ANTHONY FINNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

19. Japanese Gardens – Portland, United States

Photograph by STEPHEN GRAY

20. Como Park Conservatory – Minnesota, United States

Photograph by KRISTI SAUER

If you enjoyed this post, the Sifter highly recommends:

20 Impressive Moats Around the World

安海瑟薇幫我們人工呼吸／令人摒息的野外攝影 by Aleksandr Matveev

2012-01-26T08:43:00.000+08:00

For more nature & landscape photography by Aleksandr Matveev, please visit his flickr photostream right here.

這種詭譎攝影手法，不給挺馬和沒品味的看！

2012-01-25T11:05:00.000+08:00

Rebeca Saray — photography:

Rebeca Saray a Madrid, Spain based photographer and graphic artist. Her worx are absolutely wonderful.

click on images to zoom them.

挺小英和有品味的才可以看／Fabiela 精彩攝影賞析

2012-01-24T10:47:00.000+08:00

Creative photography by Fabiela:

“ My name is Jann and I am a self-taught amateur photographer. I am also a professional designer and have been working in the publishing industry for over ten years. Photography is my creative addiction in life where I can express myself in a world of images that are not constricted to the obvious sceneries, but also encompass unexpected and abstract subjects. I do believe life is full of beauty: it transmutes as the ambient light flickers and ricochets off the surfaces. This is where photography becomes mesmerizing. Those special, rare fleeting moments captured on camera and subsequently processed are the digital expression of my visions.

The name Fabiela is a contraction of my surname, Fabia-Lechelle. Since I am the last member in the Fabia family tree I wish to keep this element going. Hence my nom d’auteur. “ ~ Fabiela

For more creative photography by Fabiela, please visit her website here or check out her flickr photostream right here.

挺馬和沒品味的不准看／ Ingard Jensen 精彩攝影作品賞析

2012-01-24T10:45:00.000+08:00

Creative photography by Ingard Jensen:

Ingard Jensen is an engineering student and photography hobbyist, and he loves doing both. He mostly enjoys taking photos of still life, flowers and landscapes though he also likes portraits as well.

For more creative photography by Ingard Jensen, please visit his website here or check out his flickr photostream right here.

這些精彩攝影，告訴你當知盤中飧，粒粒皆辛苦的故事

2012-01-24T09:01:00.000+08:00

Feeding the World:

Weligama, Sri Lanka

It is estimated that 20% of the world’s population depend upon fish for their survival.

Half of the world depends on rice.

Myanmar/Burma

Sri Lanka

Yemen

The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible,

but they have never found these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore.

- Vincent Van Gogh

India

The sea’s our field of harvest,

Its scaly tribes our grain;

We’ll reap the teeming waters

As at home they reap the plain.

- John Greenleaf Whittier

Cambodia

Japan

Mali

Philippines

The sea is everything. It covers seven tenths of the

terrestrial globe. Its breath is pure and healthy.

It is an immense desert, where man is never lonely,

for he feels life stirring on all sides.

- Jules Verne

Sri Lanka

Dal Lake, Srinigar, Kashmir

Burma/Myanmar

In 40 years, the global population is expected to swell by

2 billion, so rice, today the fastest growing staple which

feeds more than half the world’s population, will become

increasingly important to global food security.

- Pamela Whitby, BBC, The Race for Rice, 2011

Rice paddy fields, Banaue, Philippines

Phokhara, Nepal

The first farmer was the first person.

All historic nobility rests on the possession and

use of land.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Rice paddies, Thailand

Rice has fed more people over a longer period of time

than has any other crop in human history.

Rice: Then and Now”

by R.E. Huke and E.H. Huke

Java, Indonesia

Woman working in a field devastated by volcanic debris and flood waters

Farmer, Baluchistan, Pakistan

Nepal

Give fools their gold, and knaves their power;

let fortune’s bubbles rise and fall;

who sows a field, or trains a flower,

or plants a tree, is more than all.

- John Greenleaf Whittier

Niger

Bamiyan, Afghanistan

Cultivators of the earth are the most valuable citizens.

They are the most vigorous, the most independant, the

most virtuous, and they are tied to their country

and wedded to its liberty and interests by the most lasting bands.

- Thomas Jefferson

Pakistan

Luzon, Philippines

Shibam, Wadi Hadhramaut, Yemen

Afghanistan

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

The Amish farm as they have for hundreds

of years. They believe that working with the soil,

raising livestock, and growing their own food is

cooperating with God’s purposes.

The bounty of harvests in Kashmir

Agra, India

Niger

All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance

and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.

- Martin Luther King, Jr.

We invite you to take a look at our redesigned website at:

http://www.stevemccurry.com

我去拉斯維加斯賭錢大贏，順便買下的第二棟豪宅！

2012-01-23T09:08:00.000+08:00

Tenaya Residence:

Located in Las Vegas with 5 bedroom, 5 bath on 16.000 m2, cost 2,5 million dollars.

新年快樂！來看美麗的地景攝影心情好！

2012-01-23T09:04:00.000+08:00

Amazing urban & landscape photography by Dennis Fischer:

“ My name is Dennis Fischer and I’m a 27 year old self-taught hobby photographer located in southern Germany. I started with photography in 2009, not expecting that I will become that addicted and that this hobby would change my view on many things in a positive way.

I love to capture beautiful and interesting landscapes but also try to improve my skills in architecture photography. “

For more amazing urban & landscape photography by Dennis Fischer, please visit his website here or check out his flickr photostream right here.

台灣被終極統一後，移民南非要住的房子

2012-01-22T09:07:00.000+08:00

Private Residence in South Africa Surrounded by a Magnificent Landscape:

The Swellendam House is a contemporary home in the valleys of Langeberg Mountains, South Africa, designed by GASS Architecture. Due to the pristine surrounding natural landscape, the architectural intervention had to be non intrusive and also to blend in. According to the architects, “the residence was built “using largely local textures and materials reminiscent of its distinctly Southern African origins. In addition to the architecture itself, efforts were made to make the house and the land itself more sustainable. All the water used in the house is harvested from the site itself, and as a result there is no connection to the municipal water supply line, making the house self-sustaining from a water perspective“. The structure of the project is simple and practical. The residence is composed of three volumes: the largest accommodates the public areas, while the smaller boxes include the bedrooms, bathrooms and a movie room.

You're reading Private Residence in South Africa Surrounded by a Magnificent Landscape originally posted on Freshome. If you've enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Freshome on Twitter, Facebook and Google+

這真是人間巧思啊！日本神戶海演的公共設計

2012-01-22T09:03:00.000+08:00

‘Crater Lake’ Installation / 24° Studio:

Courtesy of 24° Studio

Crater Lake, an installation project by 24° Studio, was exhibited at the Kobe Biennale from October – November 2011. The project was also one of the winners for Shitsurai Art International Competition organized by the city of Kobe. This multi-use environmental installation serves as a meeting place where every area can be used as seating for visitors to contemplate the surroundings, thus invoking a social interaction within and around. More images and architects’ description after the break.

Courtesy of 24° Studio

The design motive was influenced by the history of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake of 1995 that led to inevitable changes within built environment sparring only the nature that surrounds Kobe. This devastating experience is remembered by Kobe residents making them a persistent and tight community, but remaining open and friendly to the visitors of the city. Strong social ties between people helped them to overcome the disaster and rebuilt the city making it a better living environment. However in the everyday life without problems and crisis, the face to face social interaction between people is decimating and it is one of the biggest problems in our technology driven time.

Courtesy of 24° Studio

The design is meant to be an environment where people have a place to meet to observe the beauty of their surroundings and more importantly to call forth an emphasis on sustaining social interaction, which was the important catalyst that brought Kobe residents to revitalize their city after the disaster. The installation is situated in the man-made Port Island, Shiosai Park that provides a vast view of the Kobe urban center, its surrounding mountainscape and seascape.

Courtesy of 24° Studio

The design intent of Crater Lake installation is to take this unique location into advantage; by creating an undulating wooden landscape that provides a variation of open and unconstrained settings with 360° viewing vista. Every surface may be utilized as seating and lying down surface. Additional seating stools are set in the middle of the space that can be reorganized accordingly to the user’s preferences. The gentle hill surfaces invites people of multiple generations by providing spatial conditions that allow to interact with the landscape space like a playground device, relax in the shade of the mount, and socialize by seating in preferred order.

Courtesy of 24° Studio

Multiple ideas and materials were tested to realize the complexity of smooth and undulating form. Wood was chosen for its strong structural capacity, ease of work with, and natural qualities. One of the main issues was to express continuous and smooth surface without using costly techniques of wood steaming, bending or digital fabrication. The solution was to divide the circular surface into a number of radial parts, with optimal number of 20 parts. Factors that determined this optimal number were, overall surface expression, production schedule, and transportation method (vehicle bedsize).

Courtesy of 24° Studio

These 20 radial parts were preassembled off the site and transported by a vehicle to the main site of Shiosai Park. Standard wood and off-the-shelf hardware were used in construction to avoid any costly customized fabrication process. 2×4 studs were used for all structural members and 30×60 mm treated cedar wood was used for the surface. The structure of radial parts consists of series of free-form ribs composed in segmentations with horizontal support and cross bracing for rigidity.

Courtesy of 24° Studio

Each radial segment has 64 surface planks that are attached to three structural ribs that are rigidly connected between each other with horizontal supports. The surfaces with the most anticipated traffic flow have narrow spacing between each plank. And as the mount becomes higher, the spacing distance of surface planks increases, allowing users to climb the mount. The rising mount resulted from understanding the site and seasonal conditions, functioning as a sun shading and wind protection from the bay winds when sitting at inner area.

Architects: 24° Studio

Location: Kobe, Japan

Type: Installation

Client: Kobe Bienalle Org. Committee

Dimensions: 10m DIAM x 1.7m HI

Date: September 2011

安潔莉娜裘莉幫我們人工呼吸，50張令人摒息的圖案攝影

2012-01-22T08:45:00.000+08:00

50 Dazzling Images of Patterns:

Patterns can be found in obvious and not so obvious places. Sometimes they are one consecutive and unending patterns and sometimes they are broken by another pattern. Natural and man-made patterns alike draw our eye and keep us inside a picture, exploring where the pattern starts and ends. Enjoy this collection of pattern images and see what patterns you can find in the world around you to photograph.

When framed well, patterns can even be of the most mundane objects (see the rows of seats at a sports stadium below, for instance) and yet still hold our attention. Our eyes and minds naturally seek out patterns to make sense of the world. Utilizing pattern and repetition of form within your image will make them that much stronger.

Patterns in old stone Copyright Steve-h

Hammer Coral Copyright JennyHuang

Stadium seating Copyright Andrew Morrell Photography

Dome – Lotfallah Mosque technology Copyright seier+seir

Handbag Copyright Johan J Ingles-Le Nobel

Green walls of BART station (rapid transit) Copyright Darwin Bell

Double living patterns Copyright aussiegal

Untitled Copyright Josef.stuefer

Spots Copyright Keven Law

Aloe Plant Copyright Kai Schreiber

Sunshine bokeh Copyright Steve-h

Washington DC Metro Station Copyright O Palsson

Butterfly Copyright Ajith U

Standing still Copyright Vinoth Chandar

Pews Copyright Vinoth Chandar

Leaf Copyright Anssi Koskinen

wintery pattern Copyright Daniel Zedda

Pipes Copyright brewbooks

Fence, Bricks and windows make their own respective patterns Copyright zeze57

under the sea Copyright nosha

Scarf Copyright Kim Piper Werker

Steps Copyright Vinoth Chandar

Artistic wormhole Copyright Steve Jurvetson

Tattoo Copyright Micael Tattoo Faccio

Door Copyright zeze57

Riverwalk Copyright Patrick Hoesly

Iron railroad bridge Copyright Valerie Everett

Architecture Copyright Bas Lammers

Wallpaper Copyright Sherrie Thai

Balconies Copyright O Palsson

Fractional Motion of clouds Copyright NASA Goddard Photo and Video

Lights Copyright Patrick Emerson

Grocery store Copyright Lyza

Trees Copyright Les Haines

Zen Garden Copyright Thomas Quine

Crayons Copyright laffy4k

Domino Copyright dorena-wm

Khaju Bridge Copyright Hamed Saber

Broken Pattern Copyright Lucas Jans

Mini patterns Copyright Cynthia Lou

Can you sniff out the pattern? Copyright Andrew Morrell

Eyelashes Copyright Joey M.

Chameleon eye Copyright Umberto Salvagnin

Gold plated Copyright William Cho

Necktie Copyright Gato Azul

Rubiks Cube Collection Technology Copyright Gerwin Sturm

Cutting boards Copyright Jens karlsson

Rubber Copyright Joost J. Bakker

Textiles Copyright Chany Crystal

Soles Copyright Nic McPhee

我去拉斯維加斯賭贏，順便買下的豪宅！

2012-01-21T11:08:00.000+08:00

Imposing Contemporary Home in Las Vegas: Tenaya Residence:

Las Vegas-based studio DesignCellcompleted a generously-sized contemporary home structured on two levels and accommodating five bedrooms and five bathrooms. The 6,709 square foot building entitled Tenaya Residence is located in Las Vegas and is in fact a design transformation of a former architecture project nestled in the area. Here is more from the architects: “The residence is a remodel and an expansion to an existing house within a well established neighborhood. Little remained of the old tract house appearance. The addition of a new wing and a free standing casita utilized the site in an all new way by forming a private interior courtyard which functions as an extension of the entertainment and public areas of the house. Long overhangs and curved roofs form the dynamic street elevation: a welcome addition to a settled community.” The interior design of the house is highly modern and stands out due to futuristic elements and striking lighting schemes. Have a look!

You're reading Imposing Contemporary Home in Las Vegas: Tenaya Residence originally posted on Freshome. If you've enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Freshome on Twitter, Facebook and Google+

我獨得樂透彩後，要買的海邊房子

2012-01-21T11:01:00.000+08:00

Rooms by the Sea:

In 1951, Edward Hopper painted what was to become the hallmark of his personal foray into Surrealism. Though it could arguably be described as a painting of a white wall, Rooms by the Sea takes the viewer inside a typical mid-century American home, where an open door to the right of the composition suggests the house is perched directly over a waterfront with no visible means of egress. The initial sense of familiarity suddenly slips through the cracks, and the viewer is taken somewhere else entirely.

Japanese firm Yasutaka Yoshimura Architects must have sought an experience to the same effect when designing a time-share vacation residence an hour from Tokyo. Though located significantly closer to the city than most vacation homes, ‘Nowhere But Sajima’ uses an arrangement of angled, tubular spaces facing the ocean to sweep its sojourners to another world. More after the jump.

Built on a plot of reclaimed land, ‘Nowhere But Sajima’ occupies a triangular block, one corner of which is taken up by a spiral staircase that traverses all three floors. The rest of the building is broken up into parallel strips of rooms with varying widths, many of which can be combined at will to accommodate different extended-stay functions.

Each of the rooms possesses its own aesthetic, relying on unique features like ocular skylights, arched windows, angled ceilings, and painted walls to construct a distinctive spatial experience. With just a few strides, occupants can move from a secluded study nook to an expansive living area, pass through a sliding door that doubles as a bookshelf, and walk over wood, tile and rusticated stone floors. But the most striking feature of the building is its fantastic relationship with the exterior; the triangular floor plan crosscuts all of the rooms on a diagonal, providing each space with an isolated floor-to-ceiling view of the ocean, much like in Hopper’s canvas. ‘Nowhere But Sajima’ removes its inhabitants from the urban milieu and moves them to escape into their minds.

[All images courtesy the architects, via Designboom]

2016年，小英選上總統後，我要去渡假的飯店

2012-01-21T09:17:00.000+08:00

Berghotel Muottas Muragl, Switzerland:

In Switzerland, the 104 year old Berghotel Muottas Muragl has been completely renovated! The transformation called for the hotel to double in size, but with that, it was a massive goal of the architects and the hotel owners, Romantik Hotels, to reduce the energy consumption and create the first “plus-energy” hotel in the Alps. “This was achieved by insulating the building to be in sync with the latest insulation standards (Swiss “Minergie” ecological label) and by generating renewable energy from five different sources,” the architects explained. The post renovation energy strategy led to an impressive 64% decrease in energy consumption!

At 8,000 feet above sea level, hotel guests can only arrive two ways, by helicopter, or by one tram that goes from the village below to the hotel; making this an exclusive and private escape for ski bums around the world. An incredible feature of the hotel is the outdoor terrace, where you can sip you mimosas while adoring the snow capped peaks.

When faced with the design, the architects chose quality over quantity as they created 16 modern yet comfortable suites. The rooms are covered in local Swiss stone pine and walnut, and are complemented with plaid curtains, stand alone bath tubs, and stone sinks. Each of the 16 suites has a breathtaking view of the Alps, so don’t worry, you wont travel all the way to Switzerland and get stuck with the view over looking the parking garage!

(Photography: Berghotel Muottas Muragl)

先點眼藥水再看，魔幻GIF檔

2012-01-21T09:08:00.000+08:00

GIF Psychedelica:

It’s been a while since I’ve posted some animated GIF’s, but these ones by Yoshi Sodeoka are … psychedelic. I was actually surprised that I didn’t post anything else from his portfolio before. It’s packed with visual stimuli.

Here’re my 3 favorites from his GIF Psychedelica series.

found at It’s Nice That

想買嗎？愛迪達2012年酷鞋出廠！Adidas Jeremy Scott 2012 Footwear

2012-01-21T00:24:00.000+08:00

Adidas Jeremy Scott 2012 Footwear:

Retour sur la collaboration avec le créatif Jeremy Scott qui collabore une nouvelle fois avec la marque Adidas avec cette série complète de chaussures pour la collection 2012. Des choix surprenants en termes de look. Les modèles sont à découvrir dans la suite de l’article.

Previously on Fubiz

Feiyue - The Flying Project

Adidas Originals - Teddy Bears

Adidas x Star Wars Video

比誠品更舒適的書店／Plural Bookshop

2012-01-21T00:10:00.000+08:00

Plural Bookshop:

Installée à Bratislava en Slovaquie, voici cette construction imaginée par Plural et TotalStudio pour un établissement doté à la fois d’un café et d’une librairie. Une structure en escalier et une large bibliothèque occupant l’ensemble de espace. Plus d’image dans la suite de l’article.

Previously on Fubiz

Numa Bookface

Carved Book

Paper Elegies

這個吃了太可惜吧！星際大戰的帝國士兵人形蛋榚

2012-01-21T00:05:00.000+08:00

A Life-Size Stormtrooper Cake:

Amanda Oakleaf Cakes were commissioned by the Arisia Sci-Fi Convention (Boston) to make 6 foot 4 inches tall replica of a Stormtrooper. The Star Wars action-figure-cake ended up weighing 300lb, and it was served to 600 attendees at the event.

Notes about the making of the cake: ^[1]

The building of the Stormtrooper cake was an epic event in and of itself. It took our entire wonderful crew of ten people two full weeks of to put this guy together (although the cake wasn’t added until 2 days before it was to be served). Along the way we even had to invent completely new cake making methods so it could be put together modularly onsite, hold its fondant over long vertical stretches, and stand on two beautifully sculpted Rice Kripsy legs that supported his 300 lb body—all while keeping every bit of cake tasting light, fluffy, and delicious!

1. "We built a life-size Stormtrooper and he was delicious." blog.oakleafcakes.com. January 15th, 2012.
Photos © Amanda Oakleaf Cake
Link via Likecool