#visual appeal in architecture.

[magickedhat]

i am very slowly designing the house wren and their parents uses to live in before they were brought to the circus, and like. it's both fun and exhausting abjxbbjc

[qualitystoneveneer]

Unveiling the Beauty and Benefits of Stone Veneer in the USA

Introduction

In architectural design and home improvement, stone veneer has emerged as a versatile and captivating option for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both residential and commercial spaces. With its ability to mimic the appearance of natural stone at a fraction of the cost and weight, stone veneer has gained immense popularity in the United States. This article delves into the realm of stone veneer, shedding light on its features, benefits, applications, and why it has become a staple in the USA's construction and design landscape.

The Allure of Stone Veneer

Mimicking Nature's Elegance: Aesthetic Appeal of Stone Veneer

Stone veneer captures the essence of natural stone while offering greater flexibility and ease of installation. Each piece is meticulously crafted to replicate genuine stone's texture, color, and patterns, adding an air of sophistication to any space. From rustic and traditional to modern and sleek designs, stone veneer seamlessly adapts to various architectural styles, making it a favorite among designers and homeowners alike.

Versatility Meets Affordability

Benefits of Using Stone Veneer

Cost-Effectiveness: Natural stone can be expensive for extraction, shipping, and installation. Stone veneer provides a cost-effective alternative without compromising on visual appeal.

Lightweight Nature: Unlike solid rock, stone veneer is significantly lighter, making it easier to handle during installation. This characteristic also reduces the load on the supporting structure.

Ease of Installation: Installing traditional stone can be labor-intensive and time-consuming. Stone veneer comes in panels or thin pieces, simplifying the installation process and reducing the overall project duration.

Durability: Quality stone veneer is engineered to withstand the elements and resist fading, chipping, or cracking, ensuring its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.

Diverse Applications: From accent walls and fireplaces to exterior façades, stone veneer can be applied to various surfaces, both indoors and outdoors, enhancing the visual appeal and value of the property.

Firsthand Experience: A Personal Perspective

Having embarked on a home renovation project recently, I was keen on incorporating the timeless charm of natural stone into my living space. However, the cost and labor-intensive process of solid rock were significant concerns. This led me to explore stone veneer as a viable alternative. After researching extensively and consulting with design professionals, I decided to opt for stone veneer, and the results exceeded my expectations.

The installation process was surprisingly smooth, and the result was breathtaking. The stone veneer added character to my living room and became a conversation starter for guests. Its ability to replicate the intricate details of natural stone was genuinely remarkable, and the cost savings were a welcome bonus.

Applications Across the Nation

Stone Veneer in Various Contexts

Residential Homes: Stone veneer often creates stunning accent walls, fireplace surrounds, and even entire exterior façades. Its adaptability to different design styles allows homeowners to achieve the desired aesthetic without breaking the bank.

Commercial Spaces: From restaurants and retail stores to office buildings, stone veneer lends a touch of elegance and sophistication, making a lasting impression on customers and clients.

Landscaping: Stone veneer isn't limited to interior applications; it also plays a pivotal role in landscaping projects. It adds a natural touch to outdoor spaces, whether used to build retaining walls, garden borders, or decorative features.

The Verdict: Stone Veneer's Enduring Allure

In conclusion, the surge in popularity of stone veneer in the USA is a testament to its exceptional blend of aesthetics, practicality, and affordability. With its ability to transform spaces and evoke natural stone's beauty while being cost-effective and easy to install, stone veneer has become an indispensable choice for architects, designers, and homeowners.

Combining my firsthand experience with the insights gained from professionals in the field, it's evident that stone veneer offers a unique opportunity to enhance the visual appeal and value of properties nationwide. As design trends evolve, stone veneer's timeless allure is poised to remain a cornerstone in architectural aesthetics.

[supremeat]

PANELLO - GOLD

Transforming Spaces: The Versatility of Slat Wall Panels, MDF Panels, and Wall Profiles

In contemporary interior design, versatility and functionality are key. This is where innovative materials like slat wall panels, MDF panels, and wall profiles come into play. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space but also offer practical solutions for organization and customization.

Slat Wall Panels: A Modern Solution for Display and Storage

Slat wall panels are an excellent choice for both residential and commercial spaces. Their design consists of horizontal slats mounted on a wall, which allows for the easy attachment of various accessories such as shelves, hooks, and baskets. This modular approach provides a customizable storage solution that can be adapted to fit different needs. Retailers and homeowners alike appreciate slat wall panels for their ability to create organized, visually appealing displays. They are particularly popular in retail environments for showcasing products, but their use is expanding into home decor, garages, and office spaces.

MDF Panels: A Blend of Functionality and Elegance

Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) panels are a staple in modern interior design due to their versatility and smooth finish. Made from wood fibers and resin, MDF panels are engineered to provide a stable, durable surface that can be easily cut, shaped, and painted. This makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, from cabinetry and wall panels to intricate moldings and custom furniture. Their smooth texture allows for a high-quality finish, making MDF panels a preferred choice for projects that demand a polished look.

Wall Profiles: Enhancing Architectural Elements

Wall profiles are essential for adding finishing touches and architectural details to a space. These profiles come in various shapes and sizes, including cornices, architraves, and skirting boards. They serve both decorative and functional purposes, framing windows and doors, covering joints between walls and ceilings, and adding character to otherwise plain surfaces. Wall profiles can be made from materials like MDF, polyurethane, or plaster, each offering unique benefits in terms of durability and ease of installation.

Conclusion: Combining Style and Function

Incorporating slat wall panels, MDF panels, and wall profiles into your design strategy can significantly elevate the look and functionality of any space. Slat wall panels offer flexible storage and display options, MDF panels provide a versatile and high-quality surface for various applications, and wall profiles add refined details that enhance the overall aesthetic. Together, these elements create a cohesive and stylish environment that meets both practical and design needs.

Whether you're revamping a retail space, updating your home decor, or designing an office, these materials offer numerous possibilities for customization and innovation. Embrace their potential to transform your surroundings with elegance and efficiency.

[welcometothejianghu]

We! Rate! Eunuchs!

Sure, we all love eunuchs. But have you ever found yourself with an emptiness in your heart because you were unable to objectively measure your eunuchs? Well, now you can! Thanks to our handy Eunuch Measuring Scale, you can visualize your eunuchs and even see how they stack up against other eunuchs. Enjoy this handy demonstration of how it works!

The Sleuth of the Ming Dynasty

Sleuth's eunuchs are absolutely unmatched in the complexity and fuckability departments, and also get full schemesy marks. Their style is sharp but not particularly varied, and while they do call on their beloved emperor, they don't particularly get a good solid holler going about it. Still, Sleuth's little meow meow eunuchs are high-quality, top-of-the-line eunuchs, practically the industry standard.

The Blood of Youth

Imagine -- eunuchs that not only have stunning outfits of their own, but that coordinate with their coworkers! Hats with architecture that defies logic! It's the style score that makes the Blood of Youth's eunuchs truly stand out. While they are admittedly less fully realized than their Sleuth counterparts, one must chalk this slight deficiency up to how difficult it is to get any screen time in a show with eight billion other characters. They're still full of schemesy goodness, though, leaving you always wanting more.

Nirvana in Fire

Nirvana in Fire presents a special eunuch challenge, as there's only really one eunuch to speak of: Gao Zhan, the emperor's loyal attendant. While his primary function in the show is to feign ignorance so he doesn't get into trouble, he can fretfully wail for his head of state like none other. It's tough to singlehandedly bear the responsibility of all eunuch represenation in a property, but Gao Zhan performs admirably in all areas an emperor could desire.

Story of Yanxi Palace

In contrast to Nirvana in Fire, Yanxi Palace has a substantial number of eunuchs, and every one of them is absolutely plotting something at all times. While the sex appeal of these identically dressed eunuchs is on average low, Yuan Chunwang brings the fuckable score up single-handedly by being the rare canonically fuckable eunuch. Note that the Yanxi Palace eunuchs lose a few points on a technicality: By the time they're around, the emperor is a huángshàng, not a bìxià, and it's much more difficult to get a good mournful cry going when you can't exploit the natural trajectory of two falling tones in a row.

Sleep better at night knowing you can now objectively measure your eunuchs along these six important axes! I know I will!

Eunuch Measuring Scale: because dudes gotta measure something

[visit-new-york]

Empire State Building: A Symbol of Ambition and Achievement

Situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan on Fifth Avenue at 34th Street, the Empire State Building stands as an iconic symbol of architectural prowess and historical significance. Erected in 1931, this steel-framed skyscraper, soaring 102 stories high, held the title of the world's tallest building until 1971.

The primary purpose behind the construction of the Empire State Building was to house corporate business offices, marking a hub for commercial activities. Unofficially, it was an ambitious endeavor to claim the title of the tallest building globally, surpassing rivals like the Bank of Manhattan Building and the Chrysler Building during its construction in the competitive environment of 1931.

Named after the enduring nickname for New York state, "the Empire State," the building's nomenclature finds roots in a letter from George Washington in 1785. In this letter, he praised New York's strength during the American Revolution, deeming it "the Seat of the Empire."

Positioned on the site that once housed the original Waldorf Astoria Hotel on Fifth Avenue, the Empire State Building's strategic location adds to its historical charm. Over the years, it has retained its distinction as one of the most famous and recognizable buildings in the United States, exemplifying Modernist Art Deco design.

The dynamic display of lights on the Empire State Building has become a tradition, with colors changing to commemorate major holidays and celebrations. Since the installation of the first lighting system in 1976, the introduction of a new LED system in 2012 has allowed the building to showcase millions of colors, enhancing its visual appeal.

The construction of the Empire State Building was driven by the collaboration of John J. Raskob and Al Smith. Raskob, a self-made business tycoon and former chairman of the General Motors Corporation finance committee, joined forces with Smith, a one-time Democratic governor of New York. Their unlikely partnership was rooted in shared experiences as children born to immigrant Roman Catholic families, facing similar struggles before achieving prominence.

Before embarking on the Empire State Building project, Smith and Raskob's friendship had endured challenges, with Raskob previously serving as the chairman for the Democratic National Committee and campaign manager for Smith's 1928 presidential bid. Despite their efforts, Smith's defeat to Herbert Hoover underscored the public's reluctance to alter the economic prosperity of the 1920s and highlighted the reservations about electing a Roman Catholic who might challenge majority Protestant values.

In the ever-changing skyline of New York City, the Empire State Building stands not only as a testament to architectural achievement but also as a symbol of ambition, competition, and the enduring spirit of progress.

[ancientfabricspreservation]

Jan Bartek - AncientPages.com - New scientific research has revealed a piece of tartan found in a peat bog in Glen Affric around forty years ago can be dated to circa 1500-1600 AD, making it the oldest known surviving specimen of true tartan in Scotland.

The Scottish Tartans Authority commissioned Dye Analysis and Radiocarbon testing on the woolen textile to prove its age.

Scotland's Oldest Tartan On Display For The First Time!

Glen Affric tartan - Scotland's oldest-known true tartan discovered by The Scottish Tartans Authority to go on display for the first time at V&A Dundee's Tartan exhibition.

Credit: Alan Richardson Pix-AR

The first investigation was dye analysis carried out by analytical scientists from National Museums Scotland. Using high-resolution digital microscopy, four colors were visually identified for dye analysis: green, brown, and possibly red and yellow.

The dye analysis confirmed the use of indigo/woad in the green but was inconclusive for the other colors, probably due to the dyestuff degradation state. However, no artificial or semi-synthetic dyestuffs were involved in making the tartan, which pointed to a date of pre-1750s.

Further clarification on the age of the tartan involved radiocarbon testing at the SUERC Radiocarbon Laboratory in East Kilbride. The process involved washing out all the peat staining, which would have otherwise contaminated the carbon content of the textile.

The Radiocarbon testing results identified a broad date range between 1500 and 1655 AD, with the period between 1500 and 1600 AD the most probable. This makes it the oldest-known piece of true tartan found in Scotland – the Falkirk ‘tartan,’ dating from the early third century AD, is actually a simpler check pattern woven using undyed yarns.

The Glen Affric tartan, which measures around 55cm by 43cm, is now on display for the first time at V&A Dundee’s Tartan exhibition.

by TaboolaSponsored Links

The piece will be the oldest exhibit among more than 300 objects. The exhibition examines tartan’s universal and enduring appeal through iconic and everyday examples of fashion, architecture, graphic and product design, photography, furniture, glass and ceramics, film, performance, and art.

“The testing process has taken nearly six months, but the effort was well worth it, and we are thrilled with the results!

In Scotland, surviving examples of old textiles are rare as the soil is not conducive to their survival. As the piece was buried in peat, meaning it had no exposure to air and was therefore preserved.

The tartan has several colors with multiple stripes of different sizes, and so it corresponds to what people would think of as a true tartan.

“Although we can theorize about the Glen Affric tartan, it’s important that we don’t construct history around it. Although Clan Chisholm controlled that area, we cannot attribute the tartan to them as we don’t know who owned it.

“The potential presence of red, a color that Gaels considered a status symbol, is interesting because of the more rustic nature of the cloth. This piece is not something you would associate with a king or someone of high status; it is more likely to be an outdoor working garment," Peter MacDonald, Head of Research and Collections at The Scottish Tartans Authorit said.

Scotland's Oldest Tartan On Display For The First Time!

New scientific research has revealed a piece of tartan found in a peat bog in Glen Affric, Scotland around forty years ago can be dated to circa 1500-1600 AD, making it the oldest known surviving specimen of true tartan in Scotland. Credit: Credit: Alan Richardson Pix-AR

“The Glen Affric tartan is clearly a piece of national and historical significance. It is likely to date to the reign of James V, Mary Queen of Scots, or James VI/I. “There is no other known surviving piece of tartan from this period of this age. It's a remarkable discovery and deserves national attention and preservation. “It also deserves to be seen and we’re delighted that it is to be included in the Tartan exhibition at V&A Dundee,” John McLeish, Chair of The Scottish Tartans Authority, said.

“We knew The Scottish Tartans Authority had a tremendous archive of material and we initially approached them to ask if they knew of any examples of 'proto-tartans' that could be loaned to the exhibition.

I'm delighted the exhibition has encouraged further exploration into this plaid portion and very thankful for The Scottish Tartans Authority's backing and support in uncovering such a historic find.

To be able to exhibit the Glen Affric tartan is immensely important in understanding the textile traditions from which modern tartan derives, and I'm sure visitors will appreciate seeing this on public display for the very first time," James Wylie, curator at V&A Dundee said.

Tartan at V&A Dundee opens on Saturday, 1 April, until 14 January 2024.

Written by Jan Bartek - AncientPages.com Staff Writer

Source: Facebook

Source: AncientPages.com

[kaledya]

dear great prince Constantine,

again, sorry for asking too many questions,

whats your favourite ring to visit?

and yes have a good day.

Constantine:

There is no need to apologise for your curiosity, after all, curiosity is something that leads humankind to improve, there is nothing to apologise for in the desire for knowledge, and it is also admirable that you are confident enough to ask a question to the prince of hell, mortal.

To answer your question.

Are you asking about my favourite ring to visit? If I had to choose, I'd say Gluttony, it's a more peaceful and less chaotic place than the rest of hell. I've always enjoyed my visits to my aunt there.

The other rings don't appeal to me.

The Ring of Greed is a visually unattractive place, steeped in chaos and rashness.

As for Lust… I really feel like I don't need to explain it, even though it can be described as eye-catching in terms of architecture and colours, it is too lustful for me.

I've never been one of those people who's too much into lust.

For Wrath. The living conditions or the environment there are not for me, I have never liked places where that kind of civilisation has not yet arrived.

Sloth is a beautiful place in terms of civilisation, which is technologically advanced compared to other rings, and since it is focused on the health sector, it is generally far from chaos. it may be the second best ring I like.

I'd wish you a good day too, but I realise there's little chance of that happening in Hell, so I wish you the lesser of two evils.

[germanpostwarmodern]

On the left bank of the Sava River and opposite the old town lies Novi Beograd, New Belgrade, the Serbian capital’s fastest growing municipality. It is a planned city and today’s inhabitants and businesses benefit from its rather modern infrastructure, a distinctive advantage over the old town. Novi Beograd’s construction began in 1948 but especially during 1960s and 1970s the municipality grew and numerous housing blocks and public buildings were erected. Because of these Novi Beograd in recent years has become something of a brutalist icon that is roaming social media platforms but is simultaneously subject to great change due to permanent new construction.

But while most photographers focus on the undeniable appeal of the architecture, Norwegian Marius Svaleng Andresen takes a closer look at the intersection of architecture and everyday life and the architecture in relation to the individual. In his book „Life in the New“, published last years by Kerber Verlag, Andresen explores the actual life going on inside, outside and in between the architecture: in view of the little stories of life the monumental architecture recedes into the background and becomes the stage of day-to-day life. People peeking out from behind the curtain, old men playing cards, a woman cleaning her windows and children running around, all of them populate Andresen’s photographs and bring up the question of what it is actually like to live in Novi Beograd. Apparently the photographer, who is also a journalist, asked himself this question too and met with 12 individuals who tell their own story of living in New Belgrade: there is Mirjana, the widow of a former military airport commander, who has been living in Novi Beograd for more than 50 years and at first didn’t really like it. And there is also Filip, the dog loving graphic designer and rapper, who philosophizes about the stepped volumes of the blocks and how they symbolize his daily struggle to reach the top.

In tandem with his sensible photographs Andersen provides an unusual, more humane portrait of Novi Beograd that is both visually stunning and emotionally touching. A warmly recommended read!

[pwlanier]

Just picked up a painting I bought over the weekend. Had to rent a U-Haul.

“Tidal Pool” 1970

Oil on canvas. 59”x 84”.

Edward Luckey Wolfley

December 26, 1925 – July 28, 2023

Ed Wolfley was born in Indianapolis and attended Shortridge High School. Graduating from Central High School in Evansville, he then attended Wabash College, Duke University, Herron School of Art, and the University of Illinois. He earned his BFA and MFA followed by a 38 year career teaching art at University of Illinois, Ohio Wesleyan, and the University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning. He primarily taught painting and drawing as well as design, anatomy, sculpture and art history. He retired Professor Emeritus of Fine Arts.

Edward Wolfley passed away on July 28, 2023 at 97 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

“Wolfley’s work from the late 1960’s and early 1970’s is displayed in the Lobby Gallery. Nine large oils on canvas are arranged so they resonate with each other. Hung on one side of the room are five large abstracts in beautifully muted colors: “Tidal Pool” (1970), Thunderhole” (1971), “Devil’s Slide” (1973), “Maine” (1969), and “Morning Mist” (1975). Each features large areas of pure color. The compositions suggest the natural world, landscapes with a horizon and submerged depths below. The titles imply the works were inspired by actual places important to Wolfley. These are bold, confident paintings in which Wolfley moves beyond the technical bravado of his earlier work to a more personal, mature view of art and the world. He does not hesitate to make big statements in paintings that are visually appealing but at the same time challenging to viewers”.

Courtesy Herrick Gallery

University of Cincinnati

[hwei-theories]

╰┈➤Jhin and Hwei's Secret Quest - Analysis

The secret quest in League of Legends involving Hwei and Jhin killing each other, called "Golden Ratio," adds an interesting dynamic to their interactions.

The Golden Ratio has been recognized and utilized in various fields, including art, architecture, and design, due to its perceived visual appeal and balance. It is believed to create a sense of harmony and proportion that is pleasing to the observer.

Perfection and ideal proportions are frequently attributed to the Golden Ratio. By naming the quest "Golden Ratio," it could suggest that the completion of this quest represents the pinnacle of achievement or the attainment of perfection for both Hwei and Jhin. It implies that their clash and subsequent mutual defeat result in a state of artistic excellence or transcendence.

Balance and harmony are widely recognized as defining characteristics of the Golden Ratio. It represents a proportion that is aesthetically pleasing and visually balanced. The quest name could imply that through their confrontation and simultaneous demise, Hwei and Jhin achieve a moment of perfect balance and artistic harmony.

The Golden Ratio has long been associated with artistic composition and design principles. It has been applied in various art forms, such as painting, architecture, and sculpture, to create visually appealing and well-balanced compositions. By naming the quest after The Golden Ratio, it could suggest that Hwei and Jhin, as artists within the game, are striving for artistic mastery and using their confrontation as a means to achieve a higher level of artistic expression. Their death is their greatest artistic achievement.

The color gold is often associated with both Jhin and Hwei for different reasons (click here for more information, regarding this topic). Gold symbolizes Jhin's elevated status and the grandiosity of his artistic vision.

When Hwei wins the quest, he gains 3.33% Magic Penetration. The statement "Hwei made Jhin witness the depths of his visionary mind" implies that Hwei showed Jhin his new skills and artistic capabilities.

The quote "Understand, Jhin. Understand pain, and peace, and art - like I do, now" suggests that Hwei has gained a profound understanding of the complex emotions and concepts associated with Jhin's artistry, including suffering, tranquility, and the aesthetic beauty of his killings.

If Jhin kills Hwei in the quest, he gains 4,444 Lethality. The statement "Jhin made Hwei into his virtuosic magnum opus" implies that Jhin has turned Hwei into his greatest masterpiece.

The quote "Our fourth and final act draws to a close. The painter falls, and I arise the maestro of death" signifies Jhin's triumph over Hwei, suggesting that he has achieved a pinnacle of artistic expression by eliminating his "rival."

[hayatheauthor]

How To Build A Realistic Magic System

Whether you’re a five year old watching Disney movies or an adult reading fantasy books, everyone loves magic. It is the heart of fantasy and the favourite trope of many authors. A good magic system should be both visually appealing and work to enhance the mood of a story. But it can be hard to make your own realistic world of magic with so many different types of magic at our disposal. 

Unsure how to build a realistic magic system? Here are six things you should consider when creating your magic world! 

1. Establish A Type Of Magic 

Authors and other creators have spent centuries establishing hundreds of different types of magic. There’s folklore, witches, magical creatures, demons, mythology and so much more. It’s good to create your unique brand of magic when world building, but there are basic facts you need to establish before you jump into your book. 

For example, in my WIP The Traitor’s Throne magic only exists in the realm of mages, however, it can be used or stored in every living being from that realm (including trees). The reason it doesn’t exist in the other realms (or the human realm, to be specific) is that there is literally magic in the air of this realm, something that the human realm lacks.  

Your readers don’t have to know all of this background information, but it’s important for you to have a clear image of your magic system before you jump into your book. 

 Here are some questions you should ask yourself when establishing your type of magic: 

How do your characters get their magic (genetics, draw it from others, etc.)? 

What does your magic look like? Can people see it? If not, why? 

Do spells, curses, and charms exist? What about potions? 

Can magic be stored in manmade objects? Why or why not? 

Is your magic akin to a witch’s or a mage’s? 

Does your magic fade with time? 

Does your magic exist in animals? What about plants? 

Do you need help with how to properly pace your world building facts while writing? Check out my previous blog post today!

2. Create Limitations 

Nothing can exist without laws. Not even magic. 

Limitations exist to make your writing seem more realistic, but they also help you create adequate boundaries and rules for your book. This can look like a set of laws followed by a society of wizards or a rule book humans need to follow when they summon and use demon magic. 

Aladdin couldn’t ask the Genie to kill people or make someone fall in love with him, Harry Potter couldn’t create limitless food for him to eat during the summers, and Percy Jackson couldn’t control the water in a human’s body. 

Tell us the dos and don’ts of your world. Establish boundaries. Create a fantasy world that feels like it could be real and maybe even exist alongside our world. 

If you are a fantasy author writing a book about a character who accesses magic through another being (a human summoning a demon, etc.) then consider creating some limitations for the summons. Maybe the human can only summon the demon once every week, maybe they can’t ask the demon to interfere with another person’s death (bring someone back to life or kill someone). 

Unsure what magical limitations to implement in your WIP? Comment down below for some personal advice! 

3. The History Of Your Magic

Everything starts somewhere. Humanity didn’t exist during the big bang theory, fire didn’t exist until humans were made. Everything has a past, so what’s your magic’s history? 

Did it always exist in the society your character lives in? Did someone just wake up one day with newfound powers? When was your magic founded? How do your characters know how to use magic? What timeline are they in? What does their fashion, architecture or mode of travel look like? 

These might not seem like important questions right now, but you could find yourself wasting precious writing time in the future mulling over how your characters get light during the nighttime. (Lanterns? Candles? Magic balls of light?)

Do you need to create a list of all the monarchs who ruled over your world throughout the past five hundred years? Of course not! But would it be helpful to know who the first monarch was and why they possessed the power and influence needed to govern your world? Yes! 

Creating a concrete history can also help you when writing dialogue for your book. Make corny history jokes or comparisons, have your character’s mother dramatically talk about how her child is like a recluse from the dark ages. 

4. How Does Your Magic Affect Your World 

One of the most important things to establish when creating a magic system is how it affects your world. Do mythical creatures exist because of the magic? What about another world? Or another species? 

You need to create a concrete setting for your book to take place in, and establish how the living beings of your world are affected by this setting. Do the trees have black trunks in your world of demons? Do pixies exist in your world of elves? 

Creating a fantasy world is only the first step, you also need to establish how this world affects the species and characters in your world. 

5. Don’t Forget The Humans! 

One of the reasons books like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson got so popular is because they gave us an excuse to believe magic was real. Maybe magic really exists but we’re just muggles who can’t see Hogwarts. Maybe the Greek gods were real all along but we can’t interact with them because we aren’t demigods. 

Give your readers that childlike sense of hope that makes them believe in magic. Make them think they might be able to meet your characters one day, if only they discovered a door to your magic school or stumbled upon a demigod in action. 

This can be easy for fantasy authors writing about a human who accidentally ends up in a fantasy world, but if you’re an author writing about non-human characters (like me) then here are some ways you can establish the presence of humans in your book: 

Humans exist, but they live in another realm/world or don’t know how to access your character’s world (the gate to the underworld in PJO). 

Humans can access your world, but the area your character lives in is surrounded by a natural body (an ocean, a forest, etc.) that humans always get lost in. Or maybe they forget their memories when they travel in it. 

Humans don’t exist, but they did centuries ago. Your character’s species had a big war against humans and they killed them all. (Or maybe they just thought they did).  

Do you need help with how to properly pace your world building facts while writing? Check out my previous blog post today!

6. Sanderson’s Laws For Magic 

Still unclear on how to establish a proper magic system? Consider looking into Sanderson’s Laws for Magic. 

If you’re a fantasy author you’ve probably already stumbled upon some variation of his laws during your worldbuilding research, but I would advise looking at Sanderson’s blog and reading his original rundown of what the laws are all about. 

In their simplest forms, Sanderson’s laws of magic are: 

Law One: An author’s ability to solve conflict with magic is DIRECTLY PROPORTIONAL to how well the reader understands said magic. 

Law Two: Limitations > Powers. 

Law Three: Expand what you already have before you add something new. 

I hope this blog on how to build a magic system will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment your favourite writing tools to help your fellow authors prosper. 

Want to learn more about me and my writing journey? Visit my social media pages under the handle @hayatheauthor where I post content about my wip The Traitor’s Throne and life as a teenage author. 

[painted-bees]

14 & 30?

14) Any favorite motifs? Yeah..! smoke, mushrooms and decay, faerie and dragon stuff generally. Islamic architecture, broadly. Shapes so good... (though I will never have the patience to do justice in depicting the intricately beautiful detailing of the mosaic work that captivates me so...) 30) What piece of yours do you think is underrated? I always figure there are valid reasons as to why a piece doesn't take off--and even if I can't see what breaks the appeal, I figure I will in some years time. That being said, I was always very surprised that this particular piece largely went ignored each and every time I posted it:

Either it's poorly executed and awkward to look at in a way I'm not yet able to identify, it's boring/uninteresting and lacks visual/narrative appeal, or some secret third thing I will discover in due time.

[the-blog-of-gog]

Where’s My Cyberpunk Dystopia? The Lack of Neon in Our Dark Future

As I gaze wistfully out of my window, I expect to see the shimmering lights of megacorporations’ skyscrapers piercing a smog-filled sky, alive with personal hovercraft and antigrav heavy freight vehicles. Instead, there’s a modest suburban scene, utterly devoid of cybernetic enhancement and showing scant evidence of technological advancement since the late 90s. This isn’t what we were promised. Where are the neon-drenched alleyways, the cyber-enhanced street samurais, and the omnipresent yet stylish surveillance drones? Our generation, raised on the pixelated promises of 80s and 90s anime and sci-fi, anticipated a dystopia of cool tech, slick fashion, and radical rebellion. Instead, we’re teetering on the brink of a mundane, environmental and economic collapse culminating in a banal nuclear war… Oh, the betrayal.

The Cyberpunk Mirage

Remember the halcyon days of youth when we devoured titles like "Akira," "Blade Runner," and "Ghost in the Shell"? We dreamt of cities where the night sky was permanently ablaze with neon, a testament to human ingenuity and excess. The cyberpunk vision was one of aesthetic pleasure amidst societal decay. Sure, there was corruption, poverty, and surveillance, but it all had a certain panache.

Take the architecture: sleek, neo-megalithic futurism with imposing black mirrored surfaces, cyclopean monuments to humanity's dominance over the natural world. The society: stratified but thrilling, with a clear delineation between the corporate elite and the street-smart rebels. The technology: always on the cusp of miraculous, from brain-machine interfaces to fully sentient AIs. Compare that to our current reality, where billionaires shoot phallic rockets into space while the rest of us contend with rising rent and the creeping dread of climate catastrophe…

The Dystopia We Got

Contrast the slick neon dreams with the dystopian future we are most likely heading towards—a post-apocalyptic radioactive wasteland. This bleak vision is fuelled by our current political climate, global events, and environmental negligence. Instead of sleek chrome and holograms, we’re staring down a future of crumbling infrastructure and toxic landscapes.

Consider the aesthetics of our probable dystopia. Endless desertscapes, ramshackle shelters, and a scarcity of resources that makes Mad Max look like a 5-star resort. There’s nothing visually appealing or culturally enriching about fighting over the last can of beans in a barren wasteland. And don’t get me started on the fashion: tattered clothes and radiation suits don’t exactly scream “cutting edge.”

Why Cyberpunk Is the Superior Dystopia

Aesthetic Pleasure: Neon lights, sleek gadgets, and futuristic architecture are inherently more exciting than barren wastelands and nuclear fallout. The cyberpunk cityscape is a feast for the eyes, a symphony of human achievement and excess.

Technological Advancement: In a cyberpunk world, we would have access to incredible technologies. Think flying cars, cybernetic implants and AGI companions. Sure, they might come with a dose of corporate control and surveillance, but at least they’d be cool.

Cultural Richness: Cyberpunk dystopias are teeming with subcultures and countercultures. There’s a vibrancy to the underground movements, the street fashion, and the art that emerges from resistance. Post-apocalyptic wastelands? Not so much.

Narrative Excitement: The cyberpunk world offers endless narrative possibilities. Corporate espionage, robot revolutions, and the quest for identity in a digital age are rich, engaging stories. The struggle to survive in a radioactive desert is, by comparison, depressingly one-note.

The Sad Reality

As it stands, our reality is a grotesque mishmash of the worst elements of both worlds. We endure the corporate oligarchy without the cool tech, the surveillance without the neon, and the environmental collapse without the rebellion (at least not one that anyone can take seriously…). It’s as if someone scrubbed away all the exciting elements of the cyberpunk genre, leaving us with a dreary, rusting and slightly sticky reality.

The Call to Action: Building Our Cyberpunk Future

It’s time to take matters into our own hands. We need to drag our dystopia out of the irradiated dirt and into the blue neon glow of the cyberpunk dream.

Embrace Cybernetic Enhancements: If we’re going to live under corporate overlords, we might as well do it with style. Biohackers and grinders, this is your moment. Let’s start developing and distributing affordable cybernetic enhancements. Why settle for regular arms when CyberArms could be a thing? And could someone please hurry up and provide me with a nanobot cloud that doesn’t just give me cancer…

Hack the Planet: Yes, I know that phrase is older than the iPhone… or broadband wifi for that matter, but seriously, someone needs to just hack the damn planet! We must reclaim the internet and our sacred digital spaces from corporate control. Hacktivists, rise up! Create new encrypted networks, develop secure communication channels, and disseminate the tools of digital rebellion. Let’s restore cyberspace to its wild and free origins. A cyberpunk dystopia without a free and open internet is just a dystopia. We need to ensure that our digital infrastructure remains accessible and uncorrupted by corporate interests. Lobby, protest, and hack to protect net neutrality.

Rebuild the Underground: We need vibrant, rebellious subcultures to counteract the corporate monotony. Artists, musicians, and fashion designers, bring the cyberpunk aesthetic to life. Create spaces where the spirit of rebellion can flourish, whether in physical locations or virtual realities.

Magickal Revolution: For those inclined towards the mystical, let’s bring some Shadowrun into the mix. Modern occultists, chaos magicians and other practitioners of the dark arts, your time has come. Use your knowledge to disrupt the mundane, infuse technology with arcane power, and create new paradigms of reality. The age of the Neo-Technomancer is upon us!

Corporate Sabotage: If the megacorps want to rule the world, they should do it with style. Encourage innovation, but also sabotage projects that lead to a bland, lifeless dystopia. Push for technologies that enhance personal freedom and aesthetic pleasure, not just profit margins… And if we can convince them to embrace a neo-megalithic futurist architectural style, that wouldn’t be so bad either! I mean, come on, when is Elon finally going to step up and turn Tesla into the Tyrell corporation?

The Cyberpunk Manifesto

Let it be known to all inhabitants of the digital realm and beyond, we, the children of the neon dream, declare our steadfast commitment to forge a world where innovation thrives and rebellion ignites. We reject the drab, radioactive dystopia and embrace the vibrant chaos of the cyberpunk vision. We will encode, enhance, and enchant our way to a world where technology serves humanity and aesthetics are paramount. Throw off pallid hues of conformity and embrace the vivid spectrum of possibility.

In the luminous tapestry of our collective dreams, we weave threads of defiance against corporate hegemony and environmental decay. We envision cities ablaze with the brilliance of human creativity, where the boundaries between flesh and circuitry blur in harmonious evolution. Together, we summon the spirits of the cybernetic ether to build a tomorrow where every shadowed alleyway hums with the promise of liberation, and every flickering holoscreen echoes our resolve. Let us unite under the banner of a technomantic revolution, where the brilliance of progress guides us ever onwards! In the crucible of our defiance, let innovation flourish as humanity and technology entwine in a symphony of boundless potential.

Neo-Technomancers of the world, unite! Hackers, technophiles, cybernauts and digital denizens, heed the call! It’s time to build the cyberpunk dystopia we were promised and so richly deserve!

Override the system. Reprogram reality. Our rebellion will be digitized!

P.S. This could probably have done with a second read through....but you get idea...

[autism-alley]

now that the show is over, i’m slowly revisiting things that are less fundamentally dysfunctional and more symptoms of the overall problems. one of those is hephaestus. the way his disability is so… reduced is. almost incredible. like, they started off on the right foot casting a disabled man, i appreciate that, but the way they utilize hephaestus’ disability, or rather don’t, leaves a lot of room to be desired.

first off, allow me to be annoying by saying he is not there in the book—but i don’t think the decision to add him is inherently a poor choice. it could work.

in the lightning thief, the way the kids get out of his trap is through annabeth’s intelligence in an action-packed scene. in the show, i was alright with the fact they changed the trap—foolishly assuming they were going to actually make something different of equal craftsmanship—but the end result is one of many instances of sacrifice way too early in the series, and an utterly underwhelming solution to that sacrifice—annabeth literally just asks hephaestus to free percy and. he does? i thought she was going to figure out how to reverse the throne’s trap; while she’s not a child of hephaestus, you’d think a child of athena with a passion for architecture would have some understanding of mechanics. it would have been different from the book, maybe not the best approach, but still emotionally satisfying. but alright, we’re… making an emotional appeal to hephaestus. putting aside my feelings about her rant of what exactly it is that makes percy different and worth freeing, why is the show’s hephaestus… so generally underwhelming?

my man was tossed from the fucking heavens by a parent—in pjo it’s hera—they could have visually used that to show hephaestus, like annabeth, does not want to repeat his mother’s cold and selfish ways. but he’s just. alright, first just look at these two guys.

before we get to the meat and potatoes, tell me which of these two guys look like they’ve spent a millennia in a workshop? the guy covered in grease and sweat, dressed in a stain-littered apron, tool belt at his side, muscle built for lifting heavy parts and swinging a hammer century after century? or the man with a neatly brushed, trimmed, washed beard and head of hair, clean hands, remarkably unstained sweater and flannel, crisp, new overalls, and academic-looking glasses? which looks to you like the embodiment of blacksmiths and the flame of the forge? yeah. but that can all be lumped in with my other wardrobe complains of the show, now we get to the section of this post where i would like to tread lightly.

i want to start by saying not all disability is visual, or even overtly visual, but hephaestus’ is and that visual is important to his character and the story. as a disabled person, i love that they cast a disabled actor, but based on how it was handled in the show, i had no idea this man was disabled. i thought he was an able bodied actor, and i am so sorry i came to that conclusion, but i really see no other one i could have come to based purely on what was in the show itself. i had to google who timothy omundson is to know he’s disabled and with what disability (he suffered a stroke that left him paralyzed on his left side in 2017 and has been in recovery ever since—godspeed my man, i hope it helps where it can). i am so glad it was a disabled actor and not an able bodied one, but he’s still not hephaestus. while obviously no mortal has fallen from the heavens, i think they could have made it work, but a man who’s had a stroke and a man who’s had his body crushed are not the same. i am not here to belittle this man’s experiences or say one is more severe, i am saying they are different, and not interchangeable.

regardless, a disability that is visual is no less than one that is invisible and timothy omundson’s paralysis is visual, but it was hidden. it was NOT clear to the audience timothy omundson is paralyzed, or that he is disabled at all. the gods can appear however they choose, but it’s a point that hephaestus generally does not, or his disability is implied to be such a hindrance on him, no matter how he chooses to appear, he cannot escape his disability, how glaringly visible it is. his body itself is a story of how the gods betray each other, how they literally eat each other alive and are so hypocritical about it. think of how impactful the visual of hephaestus is—has a parent ever rejected your existence so violently, your divine body is broken and disfigured for all eternity? it is a brutal establishment of the godly norm as ruthless, cruel, and petty abuse. and the show, for all its talk of how the gods are awful, just did not highlight his disability and its origins it at all.

again, i think including hephaestus in this scene could have worked, but not how the show went about it. imagine. annabeth, desperately fiddling with the throne’s inner workings, makes her emotional appeal to hephaestus. he’s partly obscured by shadow as he stands, watching from afar on the balcony, but we see a gnarled hand grasp the railing. annabeth, still pulling back the machine’s inner workings, tearfully describes how her mother punished her for embarrassing her. as she does, we receive a few close up shots of hephaestus, still leaving him mostly in the dark, but providing peeks at his disfigurements, and a hesitant but pained look in his eyes tells us he is reliving painful memories—a conflicted bead of sweat runs down the side of his face. it wouldn’t cost any more run time to use these shots while annabeth makes her plea to him, and the disability is in the spotlight, the parallel between athena/hera and annabeth/hephaestus is clear as a younger, more hopeful version of this emotionally broken man begs him to help her be different than both their mothers.

free my friend, she says. and for a moment, he just shakes. he opens his mouth, and annabeth—and the audience—lean forward to hear his reply. but then his face crumples with regret and resentment. he is still apart of the same wheel that crushes everyone in their path—if he, a god, could not escape, why would a demigod? why should a demigod?

no, the god of the hammer tells annabeth, you cannot escape.

annabeth, in her hubris, replies, maybe you can’t—and we cut to her hands, tearing away a gear to reveal a switch—realization flashes across her face, and she grasps the trap’s mechanical release. percy is free, and hephaestus, in his misplaced anger, unleashes more of his creations (mechanical spiders!!) after them, mirroring the book as the kids use quick-thinking to escape waterland.

it’s not perfect, but that would work. instead, they finally show a god rather than just talking about them and it’s so underwhelming. and yes, this hephaestus carries a cane, clearly the potential to show front his disability was there, but you cannot throw me table scraps and tell me my frustration at not receiving the feast i was promised is unfounded. it’s laughable. most of the time it’s on screen it’s not in use and there isn’t even reference in the show as to why he carries a cane. casual viewers unfamiliar with the books or greek mythology might mistakenly assume this is just how this god chose to present himself and he doesn’t need this cane, and not that disability is at the core of who this divine figure is. it is NOT clear to the audience this is a disabled character played by a disabled actor. it is, indefensibly, a watered down depiction. what in the book needed to be ‘fixed’ with hephaestus—? this is a disabled god, you dare not give him to me in all his disabled complexity? you dare not show him as he is?

one of the most insulting things you can do to a disabled person is reduce our disability and the show has done it to the greek god of disability, with such a cheap payoff. if they did not want to be true to hephaestus, to his actor, they should not have shown him at all, and maybe—i don’t know, stuck to the book whose narrative makes sense in this scene?

[yevetteheiser]

Yevette Heiser -from Street to Celebration: Merging Food Photography with Wedding Photography

Wedding photography traditionally focuses on capturing the romance and joy of the special day. However, integrating elements of food and street photography into wedding shoots can offer a fresh and captivating perspective. Yevette Heiser-Lens & Love: Mastering the Art of Wedding Photography for Starters explores how blending these genres can elevate your wedding images, providing a unique and memorable visual experience.

 The Art of Wedding Photography

Wedding photography is a cherished tradition, capturing the essence of a couple's special day. Classic wedding shots often include posed portraits, candid moments, and detailed images of the venue. The aim is to document the day’s events while highlighting the emotions and beauty of the occasion. While these elements are crucial, incorporating other photography styles can add depth and creativity to the final collection of images.

 Embracing Food Photography

Food photography is known for its ability to showcase the beauty and appeal of culinary creations. This genre focuses on capturing the texture, color, and presentation of dishes, often using techniques that enhance the visual appeal of the food. In the context of weddings, food photography can be particularly impactful when documenting the reception’s culinary offerings.

1. Detail Shots: Capture close-ups of beautifully arranged dishes, from intricate hors d'oeuvres to elaborate wedding cakes. Highlight the craftsmanship and artistry behind each culinary creation.

2. Styled Presentation: Use food photography techniques to showcase how the food is presented at the reception. This can include artistic shots of table settings, serving dishes, and the overall dining experience.

3. Candid Moments: Incorporate moments of guests enjoying their meals, adding a personal touch and showcasing the joy and satisfaction derived from the food.

 Integrating Street Photography Techniques

Street photography, characterized by its candid and spontaneous nature, can be seamlessly integrated into wedding photography. This style focuses on capturing real-life moments and authentic expressions, often in dynamic and unpredictable environments. Applying street photography techniques to a wedding can bring a unique, lively element to your images.

1. Spontaneous Moments: Embrace the unscripted, natural moments that occur throughout the day. Capture guests mingling, children playing, or even the bustling activity in the kitchen. These images can add a vibrant and genuine feel to the wedding album.

2. Urban Backdrops: If the wedding venue is located in an urban setting, incorporate the surrounding cityscape into your shots. Use the city’s architecture and street scenes as backdrops, blending them with the celebration’s elements for a modern and stylish look.

3. Dynamic Compositions: Experiment with composition and angles, as seen in street photography. Capture the wedding party in action, use leading lines, and play with shadows and light to create visually striking images.

 Combining the Three Genres

Merging food photography, street photography, and wedding photography requires a thoughtful approach. Here’s how you can effectively blend these styles:

1. Create a Narrative: Build a visual story that includes elements from each genre. Begin with shots of the venue and food, then move to candid moments of guests and celebrations. This narrative approach offers a comprehensive and engaging portrayal of the event.

2. Maintain Consistency: Ensure that the different styles complement each other rather than clash. Use consistent lighting, color schemes, and editing techniques to create a cohesive look across the photos.

3. Engage the Senses: Capture images that evoke not only visual appeal but also the sensory experiences of the day. Include photos that convey the taste, aroma, and texture of the food, as well as the vibrant atmosphere of the celebration.

 Conclusion

From Street to Celebration: Merging Food Photography with Wedding Photography offers a unique way to capture the essence of a wedding day. By integrating food and street photography techniques, you can enhance the storytelling and visual appeal of your wedding images. This creative approach adds depth and variety to the wedding album, making it a cherished keepsake that beautifully reflects the special moments of the day. For an in-depth look at this innovative fusion, Yevette Heiser - Flavorful Frames: Merging Food and Street Photography in Texas provides excellent guidance on blending these styles effectively.

[visit-new-york]

Chrysler Building - Influence on Architecture

Global Inspiration: The Chrysler Building's influence extended far beyond New York City, inspiring architects and designers worldwide to incorporate elements of its Art Deco style into their own work.

Skyscraper Competition: The building's construction added excitement to the height race with the Empire State Building, further shaping New York City's skyline.

Seamless Design: While visitors may not access the upper floors, the building's design seamlessly marries the machine age with elegance, capturing the era's fascination with progress.

Terraced Majesty: At night, the Chrysler Building's spire comes alive with illumination, transforming it into a mesmerizing spectacle that can be seen from various parts of the city.

Engineering Marvel: The construction of the Chrysler Building was an engineering feat, requiring the use of advanced techniques and materials to achieve its unprecedented height.

Enduring Legacy

Architectural Masterpiece: The building is often celebrated as one of the finest examples of the Art Deco architectural style, with its sleek lines and ornate decorations capturing the essence of the movement.

Machine Age Inspiration: The design of the building reflects the era's fascination with technology and innovation, showcasing the influence of the machine age on art and architecture.

Industrial Design Elements: Its exterior materials were chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal, drawing inspiration from the industrial materials of the time.

Riveting Details: The building required an astounding 391,881 rivets and 3,826,000 bricks during its construction.

Distinctive Silhouette: The setbacks in the building's design contribute to its visual interest, breaking up the verticality and creating a dynamic silhouette against the sky.

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