#visual appeal in architecture.

[malfnction-54]

weird building

[thewizardstarry]

Dating an architect 💄💕

[drsilasaslan]

Charming Swiss Facade A cozy urban building showcasing rich brown wooden siding and bright red shutters. The inviting design features white-framed windows adorned with decorative curtains, set against a warm, cheerful backdrop. silasAslan.com

[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.

[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

[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.

[pmamtraveller]

SIR LAWRENCE ALMA-TADEMA, THE WOMEN OF AMPHISSA 1887

The Women of Amphissa, one of the last paintings by Sir Lawrance Alma-Tadema, depicts a historical event. Renowned for his focus on everyday perspectives of Rome, he captures moments with meticulous attention to detail and consideration for the visual appeal (this piece is no exception). Alma-Tadema's archaic perspective offers viewers a window into the classical world, enabling them to connect with its people and envision its marvels.

Amphissa was the main city where a yearly celebration was held to pay tribute to the god Bacchus. In the year 350 B.C., the region was invaded by troops from Phocis, causing concern that the bacchantes would be exposed to potential attacks by the enemy soldiers after their festivities. The women of Amphissa intervened to protect the sleeping bacchantes all night, ensuring they were not violated by the enemy. Alma-Tadema depicts the morning after at the Amphissian marketplace with women serving food, standing guard, and tending to the tired Bacchantes.

The surfaces are meticulously adorned with intricate details, showcasing flowers, water, food, animal skins, and vases, illustrating the abundant provisions available for the tired, and the kindness of the women of Amphissa. The architectural elements are also significant. The bacchantes, surrounded by individuals and the architecture of the marketplace, are clearly sheltered within the sturdy stone construction.

The artist's palette is dominated by the color white. The sky, flowers, awnings, pillars, floor tiles, and many of the women's robes are all various shades of white. This color indicates forgiveness for the female revelers and compassion from those supplying it. There appear to be limited instances in the history of art where women are shown aiding other women, but Alma-Tadema, rather than focusing on just one heroine, includes several female benefactors who are intertwined with those requiring assistance. The women of Amphissa exemplify humanity - and femininity - at their highest level.

[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.

[dr-abigail-richelieu]

Vampires were an extinct human subspecies, discovered and then de-extinct through morally questionable genetic engineering research in the year 1981 by The Genomic Innovation Institute (or G.I.I) in an attempt at finding cures for some neurological disorders through gene therapy and tweaked retroviruses. Thanks to these… Morally questionable experiments, It was discovered that some specific dormant genes were extremely widely spread throughout the population and that these genes could be reactivated in some individuals. In certain cases some of these genes express spontaneously. This gave rise to the theory that some neurological disorders could at least partly arise from the expression of these genes albeit in a very “broken” and rudimentary form. Essentially the treatments to cure certain types of neurological disorders turned out to activate some of these dormant genes, essentially turning the test subjects into what we now call a Vampire. The Genomic Innovation Institute decided to pursue research on this subspecies, hoping to turn a profit. Thanks to them, we now have a complex understanding of Vampires…

They were humanity's natural predator, emerging between 300,000 and 200,000 years ago, around the same time as Homo sapiens, or at least shortly after. They hunted our ancestors with brutal efficiency, to the point that even though we eventually forgot about them (before bringing them back from extinction), they remained engraved in our cultural memory. For lack of better words, they were the things we feared were in the dark.

It's difficult to identify ancient vampire remains, as their identifying traits are primarily neurological and soft tissue-related. However, their skeletal structure does have some minor differences, which allow for identification now that we know what to look for. It seems that vampires began going extinct around 2000 BCE, with their population drastically reducing as civilization emerged. Their extinction was due to more than one factor. 

-Vampires were extremely antisocial, which makes sense for a predatory species whose prey resembled it that much. This however did complicate mating between vampires because vampires didn't just tend to ignore each other but would see other vampires as threats and would often attempt to dispatch each other upon contact. Since sexual dimorphism is quite lacking in Vampires, which not only resulted in both of the sexes looking very androgynous, it also meant that both Male and Female had essentially the same musculature and strength and general ferocity, sexual coercion would have most likely resulted in one or both of the party's demise or heavy maiming, rendering it extremely inefficient. Plus, vampires seemed to generally be very uninterested in copulation, though it did happen from time to time. Strangely enough all of this seemed to have made the idea of mating with humans more appealing for some Vampires which is why like with Homo Neanderthal, Vampiric DNA can be found in modern day humans. (The mating behaviours of Vampires will be discussed more thoroughly in another chapter)

-The Emergency of euclidean architecture seemed to have greatly affected vampires. We discovered that in their eyes, the receptor cells that respond to horizontal lines are cross wired with those that respond to vertical ones. When both are fired simultaneously in a specific way it'll result in quite a violent seizure. We call the effect “The Crucifix Glitch”. While the glitch will only trigger when intersecting right angles occupy more than 30° of visual arc, we discovered, thanks to our currents subjects, that the simple suggestion of the Crucifix Glitch being triggered is enough in 75% of cases to completely dissuade an attack, if they had been exposed to it previously (depending on the vampire's current emotional state). These seizure are quite violent, reminiscent of Tonic-Clonic seizures, but because of the vampire's particular muscular structure and their higher distribution of fast twitch muscle fibers, these seizures tend to result in dislocated limbs much more often than regular seizure. Plus, with the Vampire's unique neurochemistry, we suspect that the seizures are much more distressing for them. In conclusion, the seizures caused by the Crucifix Glitch are extremely traumatizing and painful for vampires to the point that any right angles, even if not in a context that could induce the glitch, will usually make a vampire extremely uncomfortable and anxious (work best if they've been exposed to the glitch at some point in their life). Because of this a lot of the vampires did not even dare to approach human settlements with euclidean architecture, which greatly complicated things for the overall survival of the species.

-Vampires make for terrible parents. Given their natural antisocial behaviour, it’s unsurprising that they aren’t the best caregivers. Despite their longer lifespans, one might expect them to invest more time and effort in their offspring, but this is not the case. In fact, it’s quite the opposite; their longer lifespans and fertility lead them to essentially not value their offspring, as they can always have another later on in life. The father is most likely going to be completely absent, as he typically feels no compulsion to ensure the survival of his offspring. The mother, on the other hand, while interested in her child's survival, is not as invested as one might expect from a primate species. She won't hesitate to abandon her offspring if she considers it a liability. She'll usually take care of it up until it's pre teenage years where she'll abandon it. However, some exceptions to this were found, as we've recently found proof of a Vampire Pack, more on this in a later entry.

-Mating with humans: As previously mentioned, vampires tend to be awful parents, to the extent that some began mating with humans. Why? Because it was easier. Human mating rituals were simple for vampires to emulate, and once mating was complete, the male vampire could leave, confident that its offspring would be cared for. Meanwhile, the female vampire could stay with the human and be looked after during her pregnancy, a wolf in sheep's clothing, she could discreetly sustain her need for blood by feeding on humans in the tribe or even her mate. Once she gave birth, she could either leave or continue caring for her children with a continuous blood supply. Another tactic vampire would use to get out of raising their young is “Brood Parasitism”. They would kidnap human children and replace them with their own. We believe that this is what gave birth to the legends of “Changelings”.

Overall the extinction of Vampires wasn't due to one reason but a combination of many things. A reminder of how evolution might screw you over. You may have been a perfectly adapted predator but something seemingly insignificant can truly come back to bite you.

Speaking of biting, the infamous bite of Vampires while not exactly as described in myths, is nothing to joke about...

This is from a setting of mine, where alot of cryptids, myths, etc are real or were directly influence by real events/creatures all explainable by science, kinda like the amazing YouTube Channel ThoughPotato This entry focuses on Vampires which biology and history is inspired and influenced by the Amazing Peter Watts and his just as amazing books Blindsight and Echopraxia (in fact this setting started out as a AU of his awesome universe)

[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...

[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!

[xyymath]

How Math Shapes the World: From Architecture to Art

Mathematics isn’t just about abstract theories or dry calculations; it’s the language of the universe, subtly embedded in the physical world around us. From the elegant designs of architecture to the rhythm of music and the delicate brushstrokes of an artist, math shapes our experiences in ways we often take for granted.

1. The Golden Ratio in Architecture and Art

The Golden Ratio (ϕ), approximately equal to 1.618, is a mathematical constant that appears repeatedly in nature, art, and architecture. Its appeal lies in its aesthetic balance, and Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man is one of the most iconic examples of its application in art. The ratio can be used to guide proportions in a painting, sculpture, or architectural structure, creating a visual harmony that our brains naturally find pleasing.

One of the most striking examples in architecture is the Parthenon in Athens, where the ratio of the height to the width of the façade is approximately 1.618. Modern architects like Le Corbusier even integrated the golden ratio into their designs, believing it offered a universal sense of beauty. Today, this ratio isn’t just found in art or ancient monuments; web design uses ϕ to create aesthetically balanced page layouts.

2. Symmetry and Fractals in Nature and Design

Symmetry, in both mathematics and nature, reflects a fundamental principle of balance and harmony. From the perfectly mirrored wings of a butterfly to the geometric patterns in snowflakes, symmetry offers a mathematical blueprint for the shapes we see around us. Mathematically speaking, symmetry can be classified into various types, such as reflective symmetry (as seen in the human body) and rotational symmetry (as seen in many flowers).

Fractals, too, are ubiquitous in both nature and design. A fractal is a complex geometric shape that can be split into parts, each of which is a reduced-scale copy of the whole. This self-similarity at different scales is seen in the branching of trees, the formation of coastlines, and clouds. Fractal geometry was formalized by Benoît B. Mandelbrot and has revolutionized how we understand complex, irregular shapes. In architecture, fractals can be used to create dynamic, organic designs that mimic the natural world, resulting in structures that appear both innovative and harmonious.

3. The Influence of Mathematical Patterns in Music

Mathematics and music share a deep connection, with rhythm, harmony, and scale all tied to mathematical principles. Musical scales are based on frequencies that correspond to ratios—the distance between notes, which we perceive as intervals, are defined by ratios of frequencies. For example, the ratio of frequencies between notes in an octave is 2:1, while a perfect fifth is defined by a 3:2 ratio.

Fibonacci sequences are present in music composition as well. Béla Bartók, one of the 20th century's most important composers, consciously employed the Fibonacci sequence in his music. The length of musical phrases and timing can follow this sequence, creating rhythms and structures that feel both surprising and satisfying. The time signatures themselves are often governed by mathematical patterns—4/4, 3/4, and 7/8 are all examples of rhythmic structures that emerge naturally from mathematical ratios.

4. The Role of Geometry in Visual Arts

The application of geometry in visual art is far from new. In fact, geometry is foundational to many art movements, including Cubism and Abstract Expressionism. Artists like Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque were influenced by the principles of non-Euclidean geometry, breaking traditional representations of space and form. In Cubism, geometric shapes like cubes, rectangles, and triangles were used to represent objects from multiple viewpoints simultaneously.

M.C. Escher, known for his mathematically inspired works, created mind-bending images of impossible objects, tessellations, and transformations. His iconic "Relativity" uses geometry and symmetry to create a world where gravity is subjective, bending space and time to his will.

5. The Intersection of Math and Structural Engineering

Behind every skyscraper, bridge, and tower, there’s a solid foundation in mathematics, particularly in structural engineering. Architects and engineers use complex geometry and calculus to ensure buildings can withstand external forces like wind, gravity, and seismic activity.

The design of the Eiffel Tower, for instance, is based on optimization theory—the structure’s weight and dimensions were mathematically calculated to provide the maximum strength while minimizing material use. The use of parabolic arches in Roman architecture was no accident; these arches are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also mathematically efficient, distributing weight evenly across the structure and making it stable under heavy loads.

[the-far-bright-center]

"Over a decade after its release, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005) still stands out as George Lucas’s summative and most masterful artistic statement. I use the word “summative” deliberately, because Sith incorporates a broad cinematic heritage, and also draws from Lucas’s own interests in narrative/illustrative art, architecture, world religion and mythology, anthropology, philosophy, pedagogy, and even race-car driving. In finding a tonally and visually radical common ground for these fixations, the film also addresses and subverts the director’s own oeuvre; and, as has always been the case with Star Wars, Sith contends with the poles of past and future, searching for (and sometimes grappling with) the space between. Of course, the Star Wars saga has always been anachronistic, employing science fiction iconography while also pulling famously from Joseph Campbell’s theory of monomythic commonalities in world narratives; the original film, released in 1977, also acted as a gateway to a commercial future, opening the floodgates (along with Steven Spielberg’s Jaws [1975]) for a new kind of American blockbuster cinema. However, while Lucas and Spielberg offered auteurist statements on genre that were also fortunate enough to generate mass appeal, the majority of big-budget fare has since become studio-incubated and sanctioned by market control groups, resulting in films that are often devoid of passion for cinematic language. Ironically and sadly enough, this can certainly be said of J. J. Abrams’s insipid The Force Awakens (2015), a reactionary attempt to conserve a falsely utopic view of the saga’s origins."

—Mike Thorn, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith: George Lucas' Greatest Artistic Statement?

[a-rose-tinted-life]

A Rose-Tinted Life

Episode Five: Finding your aesthetic

Everyone has an aesthetic. An aesthetic is defined as simply the look and feel of a setting, including colors, atmosphere, and style. It helps create a setting's mood and can give clues about the world we want to live in.

The aesthetic sets the overall tone and establishes a visual identity.

Now you may ask yourself “Why do I need an aesthetic?” or “Why is it important?”

Having an aesthetic or a cohesive visual identity is important because it helps to create a memorable and unique look for who you are. In our last episode, I talked about dressing for yourself. Believe it or not, how we dress is a big part of our aesthetic.

It’s a key component on a physical level. Your wardrobe is a physical representation of who you are. Personal style and preferences. It can deeply reflect your personality, lifestyle, career, or cultural background. Sometimes even a current mood or mindset. I know when I am in a good mood, I dress in my favorite colors or my best clothes.

It’s a beautiful thing to have, knowing your aesthetic and showing it to the world.

But how is it shown?

There are many ways an aesthetic can be shown to others. The most common methods include the choice of clothing, home decor, artwork, music, movies, or other forms of entertainment.

Additionally, your aesthetic can be expressed through lifestyle choices and other activities. For example, someone who has that clean girl aesthetic oftentimes is someone who eats very healthily and works out regularly. That is how they express themselves in their creative way.

And like I mentioned in the last episode, finding your aesthetic can take time and experimentation. But there are different resources available to help you find your aesthetic. Websites like Pinterest and Tumblr are great resources for finding your aesthetic. Literally just going onto Pinterest and searching up “aesthetic” and going through the images to see what appeals to you is how we find our specific aesthetics.

Our aesthetics come from deep within. It is something that we find appealing, positive, inspiring, and beautiful. It is something we see ourselves in or a lifestyle we see ourselves living. With the right aesthetic, it can help us see how we want to live our lives and it can motivate us to take action in our lives. To learn, thrive, and explore.

Finding an aesthetic can deeply assist in making life choices. In selecting careers, home architectures, and even ways of expressing love. I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve gone onto Pinterest and found an image of a cute couple dancing in the rain and wanting that for myself. Trust me, Pinterest is essentially the infinite vision board. And the aesthetic is the reigning queen of the land.

From wanting to feel like the wife of the Italian Don or the cozy cottage-core princess Pinterest and Tumbler are the way to go. In my personal experience, creating a vision board filled with an aesthetic that you love and can see yourself living in accentuates the feeling and can motivate you to keep working, saving, and moving forward til you are walking around in the aesthetic of your ideal life.

Finding the right aesthetic for yourself and your space can take time and patience. It’s important to remember that finding your aesthetic is a part of your self-discovery journey. It’s not a destination that can be reached overnight or accomplished in one day. Be kind to yourself and allow yourself time to explore the world of the many aesthetics life has to offer. And be open, you may find one that looks surprisingly appealing to you.

I, myself, have been on the journey of self-discovery for almost 3 years. It is a process that requires some deep thought, and a little imagination, and sometimes can even be a little uncomfortable. Sometimes we have to be comfortable with being a little uncomfortable.

When I was doing some soul-searching through Pinterest, I was almost trembling in my boots when I saw the life aesthetic I wanted for myself. I chose the old-money aesthetic. High-waisted pants with Ralph Lauren shirts, palettes of blues, browns, and beige, going to jazz clubs and equestrian events and feeling like high society.

That is the aesthetic I wanted for not just my wardrobe but for myself. I wanted to feel like a beautiful, sophisticated, and classy woman. Charlotte York from Sex and The City is one of the best muses I have on my Pinterest board.

It’s the aesthetic I chose for myself and I am still in the process of accomplishing it to this day.

Be patient with yourself. It’s ok to take some time to put this beautiful plan for your life into action. And it can be hard. I’m not going to lie, it can be a hard road to walk. Don’t let anybody or anything stand in your way of the aesthetic you envision for yourself.

Don’t be afraid to take that first step because I can promise you, that once you look in the mirror wearing the clothes you saw on your vision board, living the life you once thought was just fantasy. You’ll soon realize how empowered you’ll feel once you’re able to look in the mirror and tell yourself “I did it”.

I can promise you, that a beautiful feeling of satisfaction and confidence, will be better than anything else in the world.

I believe you, my beautiful readers. I believe in you because I know deep inside you lies the power to look at an image, see yourself in that image, and bring it to life. Because we only get one life, why not live it in the right aesthetic?

I am so excited to hear about your journeys into this new chapter of your lives.

Thank you so much for reading! Make sure to show your support and get updates by following my Instagram and X

Instagram: @arosetintedlife2024

X: @Arosetintedlife

The Original Blog is posted on Medium, be sure to show your support

[imdigitalvinod]

Tumblr Content Mastery: What Resonates with Users and Why It Works

Creating content that resonates on Tumblr involves tapping into the platform's unique culture and understanding what its users gravitate toward. Here’s a breakdown of content types that tend to perform well:

1. Visual Content

GIFs: Tumblr is known for its love of GIFs. Animated GIFs, particularly those that are humorous, relatable, or fandom-related, are highly shareable.

Art and Illustrations: Original art, fan art, and creative illustrations gain traction. Artists often find Tumblr a supportive place for sharing their work.

Photography: Aesthetic photos, especially those with a distinct style or theme (e.g., nature, fashion, architecture), are popular. High-quality images are more likely to be reblogged.

2. Fandom-Related Content

Fan Fiction: Writing stories related to popular movies, TV shows, books, or video games. This content is often reblogged by members of the fandom.

Memes and Fandom Jokes: Content that captures the inside jokes of a particular fandom can spread rapidly within those communities.

Fan Theories and Discussions: Posts analyzing plot points, characters, or future events in popular media.

3. Text-Based Posts

Quotes and Poetry: Short, impactful quotes, poetry, and micro-stories are widely shared. Posts with a strong emotional appeal tend to resonate well.

Personal Stories and Anecdotes: Posts that share personal experiences or thoughts, often with a touch of humor or vulnerability, can attract attention.

Tips and Advice: How-tos, tutorials, and life hacks are useful content that gets shared, especially if they’re presented in an easy-to-read format.

4. Niche and Subcultural Content

Subcultures: Tumblr users often rally around niche subcultures (e.g., goth, cottagecore, vaporwave). Content that caters to these subcultures can gain a dedicated following.

Aesthetic Blogs: Blogs that focus on specific aesthetics (e.g., dark academia, minimalism) are popular. They often curate content that fits a specific visual theme.

5. Social Justice and Activism

Awareness Posts: Tumblr has a strong activist community. Content related to social justice, environmentalism, and awareness campaigns tends to perform well.

Educational Content: Posts that inform or educate about various issues, especially when combined with impactful visuals.

6. Rebloggable Content

Relatable Humor: Funny and relatable posts, often involving text posts with tags, can go viral. Tumblr users appreciate humor that taps into shared experiences.

Interactive Content: Polls, questions, and posts that encourage participation (e.g., “Reblog with your favorite…”).

7. Music and Audio Content

Playlists and Music Recommendations: Curated playlists, music recommendations, and audio posts featuring new or obscure artists can attract music enthusiasts.

Audio Clips and Podcasts: Short audio clips, especially those tied to popular culture or fandoms, can resonate with the community.

8. Tumblr-Specific Trends

Tumblr Challenges: Participation in Tumblr-specific challenges or trends (e.g., reblog challenges) can boost visibility.

Seasonal and Event-Based Content: Posts tailored to specific events or seasons (e.g., Halloween, Pride Month) often see a spike in engagement.

Tips for Success:

Engage with the Community: Reblogging, commenting, and participating in Tumblr conversations can help increase your reach.

Tagging: Use relevant tags to ensure your content is discoverable. Tags should be specific to your post's theme or subject matter.

Consistency: Regularly posting and maintaining a consistent theme or aesthetic can help build a dedicated following.

Tumblr's user base is diverse, so experimenting with different content types and paying attention to what resonates with your audience is key.