I can't wait to go!!!!!!
Happy New Year!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Top Internet Memes of 2011
Among the many wonders that the Internet has provided humanity is the endless supply of useless yet entertaining memes, which is the closest thing to a "fad" in the Digital Age.
I've found some excellent lists of the top Internet memes of 2011.
Scumbag Steve, of course, is likely to show up (uninvited) at the top of any list... because he's a scumbag.
I've found some excellent lists of the top Internet memes of 2011.
Scumbag Steve, of course, is likely to show up (uninvited) at the top of any list... because he's a scumbag.
Know Your Meme:
Know Your Meme:
Buzzfeed:
Thursday, December 29, 2011
My Mixed-Up Family
Due to a storm, the power has been out at my house for a couple days.
Until I can get back on my computer at home, I'm posting my contribution to the 'White Elephant' game my family plays on Xmas Eve.
Basically, everyone brings a wrapped present to add to the game. Then everyone picks a number & takes turn picking a random present from the pile. My family all have a twisted sense of humor, so some of the presents end up being bizarre or crazy.
This year I was having trouble deciding on what to do for a gift.
Then, in a flash of inspiration, I decided to Photoshop the group pics from Thanksgiving to make insane mixed-up family portraits.
The one with all the guys is really funny because of all the baby heads.
I like to set the bar really high when it comes to creative gifts...
(My face is in the middle, & I'm all the way to the left in the original photo.)
Click the image for a bigger version:
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Santa vs. Jesus
It's time to celebrate the winter solstice holiday & specifically the beloved traditions of Christmas.
During this special time, let's not forget to take time to reflect on the deeper meanings of the holiday tradition...
During this special time, let's not forget to take time to reflect on the deeper meanings of the holiday tradition...
Friday, December 23, 2011
Santa, American Christmas Devil
I'm not sure if the background story to this grotesquely insane, but awesome depiction of Santa Claus is true, but it's appropriately crazy:
Paper Pusher:
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Creative Governing
Obviously the title of this post is not describing current American politics, especially when it comes to Congress.
If anything, the reason the government is so dysfunctional is that there are not nearly enough creative thinkers on Capitol Hill.
As a graphic artist, I can appreciate the sentiments in this article reflecting on the need for true "intelligent" design in our politics:
With the utterly incompetent & reactionary GOP caucus in the House of Representatives, it's now near impossible to get anything legislatively productive done. Their hatred for Obama & anything that progressives remotely support overrides their ability to approach problems from a reasonable perspective.
They are currently paying a political price for their inability to do anything than obstruct what even their Republican colleagues in the Senate are trying to accomplish:
It's just a shame that these battles aren't spent on issues that actually impact the fundamental problems facing the economy & government. Congress can't seem to do any more than put band-aids on an amputee.
Anyway... for all it's faults, one thing I can appreciate about the Obama administration is their appreciation of thoughtful design & its general outreach to the design community.
Recently, the White House had a poster contest for the proposed jobs bill, which was predictably opposed by Republicans. I spent a few hours to put together this design in the hopes I could win & get a copy signed by the President. Unfortunately, I wasn't a finalist. Oh well.
Using the iconic logo of the Obama campaign, I tried (in my best 'minimalist propaganda' style) to illustrate what the government should be doing - Working *FOR* America... trying to unite Red & Blue and everyone else for common goals...
L....O....L!
If anything, the reason the government is so dysfunctional is that there are not nearly enough creative thinkers on Capitol Hill.
As a graphic artist, I can appreciate the sentiments in this article reflecting on the need for true "intelligent" design in our politics:
Seed Magazine:
With the utterly incompetent & reactionary GOP caucus in the House of Representatives, it's now near impossible to get anything legislatively productive done. Their hatred for Obama & anything that progressives remotely support overrides their ability to approach problems from a reasonable perspective.
They are currently paying a political price for their inability to do anything than obstruct what even their Republican colleagues in the Senate are trying to accomplish:
CBS News:
It's just a shame that these battles aren't spent on issues that actually impact the fundamental problems facing the economy & government. Congress can't seem to do any more than put band-aids on an amputee.
In honor of this most recent political fiasco cause by the knuckleheads in the House, I dug out the graphic below of Paul Ryan's Republican-backed plan to privatize Medicare & throw America's senior citizens to the mercy of Wall St. & private insurers.
The right-wingers are an endless source of horrible, absurd ideas that benefit nobody except the wealthiest citizens and corporations.
Anyway... for all it's faults, one thing I can appreciate about the Obama administration is their appreciation of thoughtful design & its general outreach to the design community.
Recently, the White House had a poster contest for the proposed jobs bill, which was predictably opposed by Republicans. I spent a few hours to put together this design in the hopes I could win & get a copy signed by the President. Unfortunately, I wasn't a finalist. Oh well.
Using the iconic logo of the Obama campaign, I tried (in my best 'minimalist propaganda' style) to illustrate what the government should be doing - Working *FOR* America... trying to unite Red & Blue and everyone else for common goals...
L....O....L!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Natural History
This animated GIF, featuring two closely related ape-creatures, is a funny take on Leonardo da Vinci's canon of the human form.
That classic drawing is also known as the Vitruvian Man:
That classic drawing is also known as the Vitruvian Man:
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Weapons of Mass Creation
If we had more energy & money going into creative pursuits, instead of vicious cycles of destruction, the world would be a much different place.
Although I recognize all of the old-school visual art tools inside the 'creativity bomb', the only design tool I need nowadays is the Apple computer.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Picasso's "Guernica" in 3D
I have a large 6 ft. print of "Guernica" by Pablo Picasso hanging over my TV.
The painting is a general condemnation of the violence & atrocities of war. However, it is a specific reaction to the bombing of the Spanish town of Guernica in 1937, during the Spanish Civil War.
I've spent alot of time studying it & it's possibly the piece of art I've looked at the most.
Below is a really cool animation that splits the painting into the extra dimensions that Picasso envisioned. It highlights the many details of the design that tell the story of death & destruction wrought on innocent civilians.
It brilliantly ends with the focus on the tiny symbol of hope in the chaotic hellscape, the lone flower at the bottom center of the composition, emerging from a broken sword.
The painting is a general condemnation of the violence & atrocities of war. However, it is a specific reaction to the bombing of the Spanish town of Guernica in 1937, during the Spanish Civil War.
I've spent alot of time studying it & it's possibly the piece of art I've looked at the most.
Below is a really cool animation that splits the painting into the extra dimensions that Picasso envisioned. It highlights the many details of the design that tell the story of death & destruction wrought on innocent civilians.
It brilliantly ends with the focus on the tiny symbol of hope in the chaotic hellscape, the lone flower at the bottom center of the composition, emerging from a broken sword.
Wednesday, December 07, 2011
Sunday, December 04, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Political Infographics
Since I posted about the Death & Taxes chart, 2 more political graphics have caught my eye.
The first one was actually put out by The White House, comparing the proposals in Pres. Obama's Jobs Act to the consequences of the GOP's plan.
I'm no mindless Obama drone, but I think he's clearly a helluva lot better than Dubya was. If you watch speeches by the 2 presidents & you still think Obama's the worse one, then you've got problems. Obama's not nearly progressive enough for me, but I would much rather have him stay office than ANY one of the Republican candidates... even that half-genius/half-idiot Ron Paul.
Some critics would argue that this chart's just another piece of Obama Marxist propoganda, but it seems to correlate w/ the news I've been seeing coming out of Congress.
People could use more graphics like this that outline policy differences in a clear way, as long as they are accurate.
I also saw this well-made infographic on iab.com, outlining the percepual and factual differences of the Occupy Wall Street protests & the Tea Party political movement:
The first one was actually put out by The White House, comparing the proposals in Pres. Obama's Jobs Act to the consequences of the GOP's plan.
I'm no mindless Obama drone, but I think he's clearly a helluva lot better than Dubya was. If you watch speeches by the 2 presidents & you still think Obama's the worse one, then you've got problems. Obama's not nearly progressive enough for me, but I would much rather have him stay office than ANY one of the Republican candidates... even that half-genius/half-idiot Ron Paul.
Some critics would argue that this chart's just another piece of Obama Marxist propoganda, but it seems to correlate w/ the news I've been seeing coming out of Congress.
People could use more graphics like this that outline policy differences in a clear way, as long as they are accurate.
click for larger
I also saw this well-made infographic on iab.com, outlining the percepual and factual differences of the Occupy Wall Street protests & the Tea Party political movement:
click for larger
Monday, November 28, 2011
Lincoln: Capital vs. Labor
Since I'm on the topic of populist messages by great Presidents, I came across this quote by Lincoln:
Labor is the superior of capital, and deserves much the higher consideration.
Capital has its rights, which are as worthy of protection as any other rights."
I would take issued with the last line of the quote in the text, though. I don't think that an conceptual tool like 'capital' should be considered to have rights at all, as individuals or groups of people do.
...that's like saying that computer software has rights.
It could also be argued that capital can be created from sources not normally considered "labor".
The creation of intellectual property can be considered a form of labor, if it leads to further production of goods & services.
What is definitely NOT productive labor? Financial schemes that do nothing but extract value from the economy, for the benefit of manipulative firms & their executives.
"Labor is prior to, and independent of, capital.
Capital is only the fruit of labor, and could never have existed if labor had not first existed.
Capital is only the fruit of labor, and could never have existed if labor had not first existed.
Labor is the superior of capital, and deserves much the higher consideration.
Capital has its rights, which are as worthy of protection as any other rights."
I would take issued with the last line of the quote in the text, though. I don't think that an conceptual tool like 'capital' should be considered to have rights at all, as individuals or groups of people do.
...that's like saying that computer software has rights.
It could also be argued that capital can be created from sources not normally considered "labor".
The creation of intellectual property can be considered a form of labor, if it leads to further production of goods & services.
What is definitely NOT productive labor? Financial schemes that do nothing but extract value from the economy, for the benefit of manipulative firms & their executives.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
FDR Speech at Madison Square Garden 1936
I felt like doing something EXTRA-exciting, so I was watching a history lecture on C-SPAN.
The lecture was by Professor Stephen Ortiz of Binghamton University. The topic was New Deal programs & the Roosevelt administration.
There was an excerpt played of this speech at Madison Sq. Garden by Roosevelt a little more than 75 years ago.
President Obama's political instinct is to continually attempt compromise with the Republican party & corporate America.
FDR, however, openly declared war on these right wing factions, who he asserted were preying on the American worker:
The lecture was by Professor Stephen Ortiz of Binghamton University. The topic was New Deal programs & the Roosevelt administration.
C-SPAN
President Obama's political instinct is to continually attempt compromise with the Republican party & corporate America.
FDR, however, openly declared war on these right wing factions, who he asserted were preying on the American worker:
"We had
to struggle with the old enemies of peace--business and financial monopoly,
speculation, reckless banking, class antagonism, sectionalism, war
profiteering.
They had
begun to consider the Government of the United States as a mere appendage
to their own affairs. We know now that Government by organized money is
just as dangerous as Government by organized mob.
Never
before in all our history have these forces been so united against one
candidate as they stand today. They are unanimous in their hate for me--and
I welcome their hatred.
I should
like to have it said of my first Administration that in it the forces of
selfishness and of lust for power met their match. I should like to have it
said of my second Administration that in it these forces met their master."
Friday, November 25, 2011
Monday, November 21, 2011
Violence vs. Silence
People love to complain about the government, Wall St. & how "The System" as a whole is corrupt.
When people actually get out, organize, & try to do something about it, there are inevitably critics who feel like the status quo is better than actually trying to make major changes.
I think the Occupy protests are, overall, an effective force to initiate social and political change. I'm old enough to fondly remember the massive Iraq War protests during the Bush Dark Ages. The broad, sustained nature of the current Occupy protests are now having a large impact on the nation & the world.
Although the movement is fueled by future debt slaves, aka. "college students", there's also alot of labor unions & public workers involved, too. It's more than just a bunch of kids sleeping out in tents in parks. Like any large movement, there are bound to be wackos along with the people who are trying to do the right thing...
What should be the focus, are the stated goals of the movement-at-large:
The basic ideals that the people want to address are: democracy, justice, & freedom from oppression in it's many forms.
Most people don't expect a free ride in life, but we should all expect to have some protection against being exploited or preyed upon.
So, it's very disturbing to see the bizarro world we live in- where the forces that are supposed to protect the people are violently used against peaceful citizens & students who are trying to assert their rights as citizens and human beings.
Why are the victims (The protesting, debt-saddled American people) being criminalized instead of the perpetrators- (the financial & corporate players who have defrauded the country)?
To have any credibility with people interested in the nation-wide movement, President Obama needs to emphatically condemn violence against peaceful protesters. He's publicly sympathized with the sentiments of the protesters, even if he is a partial Wall St. beneficiary. Regardless, he should take action, or at least speak out, to prevent this kind of extreme assholery. It should not be tolerated from any law enforcement in this country, especially against unarmed students & innocent civilians.
This officer is basically a grown-up version of South Park's Eric Cartman- "Respect Mah Authoritah!!!!!"
Later on, the chancellor of the school finally emerged to a creepy walk of shame by a silent mass of students staring her down.
It was a powerful, silent reaction to a petty, violent action:
Of course, nothing is sacred... so anything that causes outrage is now also a target for all the ridicule that The Internet has to offer:
When people actually get out, organize, & try to do something about it, there are inevitably critics who feel like the status quo is better than actually trying to make major changes.
I think the Occupy protests are, overall, an effective force to initiate social and political change. I'm old enough to fondly remember the massive Iraq War protests during the Bush Dark Ages. The broad, sustained nature of the current Occupy protests are now having a large impact on the nation & the world.
Although the movement is fueled by future debt slaves, aka. "college students", there's also alot of labor unions & public workers involved, too. It's more than just a bunch of kids sleeping out in tents in parks. Like any large movement, there are bound to be wackos along with the people who are trying to do the right thing...
What should be the focus, are the stated goals of the movement-at-large:
The basic ideals that the people want to address are: democracy, justice, & freedom from oppression in it's many forms.
Most people don't expect a free ride in life, but we should all expect to have some protection against being exploited or preyed upon.
So, it's very disturbing to see the bizarro world we live in- where the forces that are supposed to protect the people are violently used against peaceful citizens & students who are trying to assert their rights as citizens and human beings.
Why are the victims (The protesting, debt-saddled American people) being criminalized instead of the perpetrators- (the financial & corporate players who have defrauded the country)?
To have any credibility with people interested in the nation-wide movement, President Obama needs to emphatically condemn violence against peaceful protesters. He's publicly sympathized with the sentiments of the protesters, even if he is a partial Wall St. beneficiary. Regardless, he should take action, or at least speak out, to prevent this kind of extreme assholery. It should not be tolerated from any law enforcement in this country, especially against unarmed students & innocent civilians.
This officer is basically a grown-up version of South Park's Eric Cartman- "Respect Mah Authoritah!!!!!"
Later on, the chancellor of the school finally emerged to a creepy walk of shame by a silent mass of students staring her down.
It was a powerful, silent reaction to a petty, violent action:
Of course, nothing is sacred... so anything that causes outrage is now also a target for all the ridicule that The Internet has to offer:
Photos of Animal Eyes
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
The Vicious Circle of Life
This cartoon I saw on Neatorama is a funny look at the nagging sense of "sooo much to do!" that most people experience on a daily basis, but especially professionals or creative people.
click to enlarge
My last post was about the inevitability of Death, too... but I'm not trying to be macabre. Being constantly aware of one's own mortality is simply the most effective way to appreciate Life.
I truly enjoy life & have been fortunate to have a very productive career as a graphic artist. However, there are always projects or visual art that I'm thinking of continually but just don't have time to even start. Although I sometimes sketch or write down ideas, most of them are archived in my head until I get to it.
Despite the constant urge to create, I try to remember there's no way to do everything I'd like. Therefore we sometimes have to stop, try to calm the whirlwind inside our head, put things in perspective, & take time to breath while we can.
Friday, November 11, 2011
The Last Day Dream
Whether or not it's all just a last spasm of brain activity, I always try to remember to make it count.
We only have one shot at this life, and we waste so much of it... all we can do is live it up the best we can.
seen on Ffffound!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
The Need for Public Works Projects
I've posted before about the Civilian Conservation Corps, a government program in the 1930's-40's that created work for Americans in meaningful public projects.
PBS American Experience:
Sen. Lautenberg from my home state of NJ has proposed a modern Works Progress Administration or WPA, which was another New Deal initiative by Franklin Roosevelt.
Raw Story:
Politico:
I also think there needs to be more of this kind of attempt by Rep. DeFazio to put a reign on some of the shenanigans going on in the financial "industry":
ThinkProgress:
Monday, November 07, 2011
How Many Photos Have Been Taken?
I enjoy taking photos, for personal events & also for art's sake.
Much of our memories, especially of the distant past, are facilitated by old photographs. I've got alot of photos from the days of film, but since the era of digital cameras the ability to take pics is relatively unlimited.
Here is a calculation of the total number of photos that have been taken. The total estimated number, 3.5 trillion photos, is probably going to be dwarfed in no time.
Of course, there is also the digital wonder of Youtube, which is also increasing its archive of videos at an exponential rate. The total library is constantly growing which makes it tough to precisely calculate at any one time.
We are creating an ethereal repository of human experience. As long as the digital network (or its futuristic offshoot) is functioning, mankind's memories will remain intact.
Ultimately, all this information is nothing but light. However, as long as all our data needs to be stored in physical drives or servers, it's always susceptible to cataclysms in the physical world.
Eventually, when we are each inevitably implanted with an Apple iThink, our lives will be continually recorded from one or multiple perspectives, perhaps in true 3-D using holographic data.
Much of our memories, especially of the distant past, are facilitated by old photographs. I've got alot of photos from the days of film, but since the era of digital cameras the ability to take pics is relatively unlimited.
Here is a calculation of the total number of photos that have been taken. The total estimated number, 3.5 trillion photos, is probably going to be dwarfed in no time.
Of course, there is also the digital wonder of Youtube, which is also increasing its archive of videos at an exponential rate. The total library is constantly growing which makes it tough to precisely calculate at any one time.
We are creating an ethereal repository of human experience. As long as the digital network (or its futuristic offshoot) is functioning, mankind's memories will remain intact.
Ultimately, all this information is nothing but light. However, as long as all our data needs to be stored in physical drives or servers, it's always susceptible to cataclysms in the physical world.
Eventually, when we are each inevitably implanted with an Apple iThink, our lives will be continually recorded from one or multiple perspectives, perhaps in true 3-D using holographic data.
Friday, November 04, 2011
Death & Taxes 2012
This is a great interactive graphic that is updated each year by designer Jess Bachman.
It's a clear visual representation of how the US federal budget is allocated & makes it easier to visualize where our tax money is spent.
There's a full screen button for easier viewing.
It's a clear visual representation of how the US federal budget is allocated & makes it easier to visualize where our tax money is spent.
There's a full screen button for easier viewing.
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
Stephen Colbert tries to occupy the Occupy Movement
I've talked before about the Occupy Wall St. protests. Personally, as long as it remains generally non-violent I think the overall goals are eminently reasonable & are helping to guide the national discussion toward relevant issues.
Of course, nothing is sacred when it comes to the satirical genius of Stephen Colbert. This segment was really unfair to the motivations of the movement, but it's hysterical.
He demonstrated the power of absurdity & cynicism to these young idealists- by expertly playing the part of the self-absorbed, plutocratic a-hole.
Of course, nothing is sacred when it comes to the satirical genius of Stephen Colbert. This segment was really unfair to the motivations of the movement, but it's hysterical.
He demonstrated the power of absurdity & cynicism to these young idealists- by expertly playing the part of the self-absorbed, plutocratic a-hole.
| The Colbert Report | Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c | |||
| Colbert Super PAC - Stephen Colbert Occupies Occupy Wall Street Pt. 1 | ||||
| ||||
Monday, October 31, 2011
Halloween 2011
This weekend I had a couple Halloween activities planned, so my costume was Zombie Steve Jobs:
Steve Jobs has been one of my personal idols, so it's not really meant to be mean-spirited.
I just thought it was a little crazy & very easy to put together.
Friday night I was out with friends & entered the costume contest for the hell of it. The guys who were judging thought it was funny, so I ended up getting 2nd place... much to my bewilderment. I was up against girls wearing things like sexy police & FBI costumes, so I thought they clearly should've won instead.
Although the $100 prize for 1st place would've been cool, I happily took the runner-up prize- a large Eagles mirror. Although it's a cool prize, I have nowhere to hang it, so my brother's getting it for Xmas, since he said he wanted it.
Steve Jobs has been one of my personal idols, so it's not really meant to be mean-spirited.
I just thought it was a little crazy & very easy to put together.
Friday night I was out with friends & entered the costume contest for the hell of it. The guys who were judging thought it was funny, so I ended up getting 2nd place... much to my bewilderment. I was up against girls wearing things like sexy police & FBI costumes, so I thought they clearly should've won instead.
Although the $100 prize for 1st place would've been cool, I happily took the runner-up prize- a large Eagles mirror. Although it's a cool prize, I have nowhere to hang it, so my brother's getting it for Xmas, since he said he wanted it.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Words to Live By
I'm starting off the weekend with George Carlin aka Rufus from Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure
Advice for the Ages:
This reminds me I've been meaning to compile a post w/ my unofficial history of the word "Dude."
The entire world owes my Dad, Big Paul, credit with resurgence of this totally excellent word.
Advice for the Ages:
"Be Excellent to each other.
Party on, Dude."
This reminds me I've been meaning to compile a post w/ my unofficial history of the word "Dude."
The entire world owes my Dad, Big Paul, credit with resurgence of this totally excellent word.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Mind Control
seen on The Chive
I was looking for this one about the crackling ears, but the rest are all good examples of our perpetually selective awareness:
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Timeline of the Universe
On Reality Carnival I saw this mind-bending timeline that projects future cosmic events from the year 10,000 until the theoretical end of the Universe as we know it.
Of course, I don't really care what happens to the universe after I die since I won't experience it.
It's interesting to think about, though, how long into the future mankind will be able to extend our brief cosmic existence. To do so, we have to extend our presence outside the solar system so we're not at the mercy of what happens to this particular planet. At the rate we're going, it may take a looong time to begin traveling between the stars.
However, there's also the possibility that both the ancient gnostics & South Park were right- that Earth is a cosmic prison that human beings are trapped in... FOREVER.
There's also a section of the website that outlines the history of the known universe.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
A State of Occupation
This weekend, the growing Occupy Wall Street protests spread to cities around the world. It seems that a large number of people have finally had enough with the crooks & buffoons that have been acting as overlords.
In my opinion, this movement is our country's progressive answer to the misplaced priorities of the Tea Party- which was fueled by fear & anger toward the government, but with a blind eye to Free Market abuses & no realistic approach to generate solutions.
Speaking of the Tea Party, this is an insane video of possibly the most empty-headed teabagger out there, actress Victoria Jackson. She's mingling with people in the Occupy Wall St. crowd & boldly displays her insufferable ignorance. I don't know how anyone can talk to her seriously. Could it possibly be performance art on her part?!? I'd recommend forwarding to about 2 min in. Her voice is hard to take, despite the excellent answers by the people she interviews.
The Tea Party has attracted (rightfully) angry Americans looking for alternatives to the 2 party system. However, that movement has mostly been a pawn of big industry, namely Koch Industries, & big media, namely Fox News. That's why the Tea Party's main stated goals are cutting government programs, lowering taxes & reducing regulations. Their desired policies mostly benefit multinational corporations, not the average person.
However, the knee-jerk reactionaries raising hell in the Tea Party were actually ahead of the curve in openly expressing general frustration with a system gone mad. These Occupy Wall Street protests are the result of everyone else in America finally reacting en masse to the many dysfunctional elements of society that have metastasized into systemic failure.
The driving vision of this recent upwelling is not to just initiate reform, but to fundamentally change in the way society operates. Everything is so screwed up, maybe this kind of organized, widespread nonviolent protest this is the only way to start the wheels turning toward real progress.
After reading through the '99% Declaration' policy points, I think these are definitely the right issues to be focusing on. These groups of people are trying to effectively address the problems at their root cause. This is actually a rational & pragmatic platform... not the stoned ramblings of bongo-playing hippies:
Traditional apologists for the elitist tendencies of the status quo are having a hard time adopting the reality of this popular movement into their worldview. America's biggest knucklehead, Fox News' Sean Hannity, is the standard bearer for being wrong on every single issue.
These two U.S. Marines have the right advice for anyone like him, who is foolish enough to dismiss the growing unrest in this country:
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Meditating Monkeys
Although I generally don't approve of scientific testing on animals- I can't resist a story about monkeys being trained to meditate.
io9:
Soon, there will be an army of Monkey Buddhas...
Neuro Report:
Remember You Will Die
Some people may see art highlighting the reality of death as macabre.
However, it is a supreme method of achieving awareness & appreciation of Life as a temporary gift, which we have to make the best of.
This idea i saw on this isn't happiness might be a little too much reminding for me, though...
However, it is a supreme method of achieving awareness & appreciation of Life as a temporary gift, which we have to make the best of.
This idea i saw on this isn't happiness might be a little too much reminding for me, though...
We Are All Part of the Same Thing
It's a statement of the philosophical idea that the universe is a singular, unified phenomenon. The apparent separation of reality into different aspects is a mental illusion.
by Dominique Falla
Monday, October 10, 2011
The Future of Apple?
I'll end my personal tribute to the legendary co-founder of Apple, Steve Jobs, by looking forward.
As a college student, one of my senior design projects was to design a computer of the future. This was around 2000, & our labs had the original iMacs & G4 Powermacs. Cell phones weren't common at all & the Internet was just becoming the eminent communication & information tool it is today.
My design for a futuristic computer used a portable handheld device w/ peripherals like a touchscreen monitor w/ embedded speakers & an immersive eyepiece that that was another interface option.
I'll post the renders I made of the concept when I get around to it. Anyway, that project inspired me a few years ago to imagine an Apple-branded computer of the future, called the Apple iThink. It's been featured on websites & magazines around the world.
My "iThink" concept pics & the imaginary specs are at the bottom of the post. I'm determined to update the graphics one of these days.
I've been talking to people this weekend about the impact of Steve Jobs and Apple & no one can really say for certain how the computer interface will be improved after the touchscreen. Perhaps 3D or holographic technology is the next step. However, interfaces that connect directly to the brain seem to be inevitable. Then, our thoughts may be augmented by digital systems. Maybe our memory & perceptions could even be enhanced.
Here's a list of links to stories that I think herald the coming of future devices with iThink Tech:
• Size:
1.5 x 1.5 x .5 inches
• Symbiosis™ Neural Interface:
Direct brain-computer link means your mind and computer are one!
• Intel Fusion™ Quantum Processing:
Uses the power of the atom to instantly compute at the speed of thought.
• Holographic Data Storage:
The iThink’s tiny internal holochip has a staggering individual capacity of over 666 Yottabytes (1000^8), for seemingly infinite augmented memory
• Intra-neural Communication:
Mentally allow or block any kind of signal you want to send or recieve instantly over the wireless iThink global network
• Perceptual Immersion:
Images, sound, & other data are projected virtually into your sensory fields by directly connecting into your brain’s activity
• Integrated GPS and Google Earth:
Receive directions and location information anywhere on the planet, and the ability to be located in case of an emergency
As a college student, one of my senior design projects was to design a computer of the future. This was around 2000, & our labs had the original iMacs & G4 Powermacs. Cell phones weren't common at all & the Internet was just becoming the eminent communication & information tool it is today.
My design for a futuristic computer used a portable handheld device w/ peripherals like a touchscreen monitor w/ embedded speakers & an immersive eyepiece that that was another interface option.
I'll post the renders I made of the concept when I get around to it. Anyway, that project inspired me a few years ago to imagine an Apple-branded computer of the future, called the Apple iThink. It's been featured on websites & magazines around the world.
My "iThink" concept pics & the imaginary specs are at the bottom of the post. I'm determined to update the graphics one of these days.
I've been talking to people this weekend about the impact of Steve Jobs and Apple & no one can really say for certain how the computer interface will be improved after the touchscreen. Perhaps 3D or holographic technology is the next step. However, interfaces that connect directly to the brain seem to be inevitable. Then, our thoughts may be augmented by digital systems. Maybe our memory & perceptions could even be enhanced.
Here's a list of links to stories that I think herald the coming of future devices with iThink Tech:
CNN:
BBC:
PopSci:
Wired:
Design Mind:
Discover:
PopSci:
BoingBoing:
MSNBC:
Huffington Post:
Apple "iThink" Technical Specifications
• Size:
1.5 x 1.5 x .5 inches
• Symbiosis™ Neural Interface:
Direct brain-computer link means your mind and computer are one!
• Intel Fusion™ Quantum Processing:
Uses the power of the atom to instantly compute at the speed of thought.
• Holographic Data Storage:
The iThink’s tiny internal holochip has a staggering individual capacity of over 666 Yottabytes (1000^8), for seemingly infinite augmented memory
• Intra-neural Communication:
Mentally allow or block any kind of signal you want to send or recieve instantly over the wireless iThink global network
• Perceptual Immersion:
Images, sound, & other data are projected virtually into your sensory fields by directly connecting into your brain’s activity
• Integrated GPS and Google Earth:
Receive directions and location information anywhere on the planet, and the ability to be located in case of an emergency
Saturday, October 08, 2011
The Design Zen of Steve Jobs
Since Steve Jobs has been one of my greatest heroes & inspirations in my adult life, I'm keeping the memorial vigil going here for the weekend.
I've seen good articles & videos about him, but I want to concentrate on what truly made him & Apple what they have become. In essence, it was his understanding of beautifully simple design- both cosmetic & functional.
Due to his interest in Eastern philosophy & sensibilities, his approach to product design has been called Zen-like, for good reason.
CNN:
Zen is essentially a study of one's own self & the mind in a pure experiential context, unfiltered by our inherent preconceptions & cultural baggage.
I think this kind of deep understanding helped Jobs' focus on the practical relationship the user had to any of his Apple products. He had a unique vision that allowed him to know how people would think about features & use them, in a sense being empathetic to their needs.
Yahoo News:
Apple has been great at minimizing user frustration, while simultaneously maximizing productivity. Despite the inevitable imperfections in any given device, the technologies that he popularized seem almost miraculous when seen with fresh eyes. The fact that their capabilities are almost taken for granted is an even greater testament to the way the amazing tech was designed to be interwoven into one's everyday life.
It's truly a shame that we didn't have a few more decades of Steve Jobs' vision to enrich our culture, but hopefully his legacy will continue to guide Apple & the tech industry for year to come.
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Steve Jobs, Legend of the Digital Age
On the news tonight, I saw that Steve Jobs passed away.
Although it will be said millions of times, he was a true genius and a visionary who literally changed the world.
My own career and entire creative life has been influenced by the great functionality of Apple computers. I've 'converted' all my siblings to Mac & it's superiority to Windows is clear to me.
Although I don't have an iPhone or iPad yet, I've long recognized the revolutionary potential of portable digital devices. Apple has had a major part in making tech, and therefore the human network, more mobile.
What set Apple apart was the minimalist design approach & ease of use. Steve Jobs revolutionized the tech industry several times over and led Apple to becoming one of the most important companies in the world.
I hope that Apple continues to fulfill the vision implemented by its founder, in order to improve the lives of people around the world. I'm forever grateful to Steve Jobs for sparing me from Windows hell.
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
Lab Chimps Freed
Empathy is the ability to mentally & emotionally connect to another being.
The inability to experience empathy is a trait of a psychopath. I think that avoiding cruelty towards other living things is a primary moral rule. However, I'm also a realist. I know we live in an insane world, where unimaginable suffering exists all over the globe, at all times.
I think that keeping sentient wildlife encaged & tortured in experimentation is immoral, regardless of the scientific value. The whole issue of factory farming is another animal issue I'm not going to get into now, but generally we should be finding ways to reduce suffering, not increasing it.
Anyway, this story about lab chimps being outside for the first time is proof that these animals are consciously experiencing life basically the same as we are. They are feeling, seeing, hearing, and reacting to their situation. To inflict prolonged pain on such creatures is not justifiable & can't be good for the soul.
Daily Mail:
Monday, October 03, 2011
Designing the Cereal Box
I saw this humorous infographic about the product design process. Most creative professionals can probably relate to this.
for full size image:
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Crazy Greed
I think this trader is being honest to the extent that he's giving a clear glimpse into the mind of a sociopathic financial parasite.
He's also right that without checks on their power & influence, Goldman Sachs and the other 'too-big-to-fail' banks & investment firms are an unstoppable cancer draining the wealth from society.
I don't enjoy working with numbers, so I would never work in the financial industry. Trading stocks & managing investments would be like my nightmare job, it just seems so crazy. Maybe, to some extent, it is:
Obviously, not everyone who works for a bank is a greedy lunatic out to pillage mankind.
However, the fact that the looting of our country by these corporate vampires has gone completely unpunished has given rise to the 'Occupy Wall Street' protest in NYC that has been going on for almost 2 weeks.
The only thing I've ever been a part of that could be a considered a protest was the awesome huuuuuge rally in DC organized by Jon Stewart & Stephen Colbert.
He's also right that without checks on their power & influence, Goldman Sachs and the other 'too-big-to-fail' banks & investment firms are an unstoppable cancer draining the wealth from society.
I don't enjoy working with numbers, so I would never work in the financial industry. Trading stocks & managing investments would be like my nightmare job, it just seems so crazy. Maybe, to some extent, it is:
Daily Mail:
Obviously, not everyone who works for a bank is a greedy lunatic out to pillage mankind.
However, the fact that the looting of our country by these corporate vampires has gone completely unpunished has given rise to the 'Occupy Wall Street' protest in NYC that has been going on for almost 2 weeks.
The great populist of our time, Michael Moore, was on MSNBC live from Wall St. earlier & stood up for all the working people who are preyed upon by the nation's banking institutions. He's right on the money, so to speak.
of the interview
The only thing I've ever been a part of that could be a considered a protest was the awesome huuuuuge rally in DC organized by Jon Stewart & Stephen Colbert.
I've got a good job & need to pay my bills, so I've got nothing to get really pissed off about. However, I'm glad there's all those activists who are there. They are helping to bring awareness to the massive injustices happening on in our county, so people feel empowered to speak out and take action against them.
Afghanistan's Strategic Importance
This has been known for awhile, but I'm sure this has nothing to do with anything...
We all know the real reason we have dumped trillions of dollars into the foreign occupation of a mountainous wasteland is to protect us from these dangerous terrorist training camps:
Right?
NY Times
Scientific American
We all know the real reason we have dumped trillions of dollars into the foreign occupation of a mountainous wasteland is to protect us from these dangerous terrorist training camps:
Right?
Monday, September 26, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
The Question of Life
I saw this cartoon on The Chive, asking the eternal question:
Besides the weird mutant humanoid that's supposed to be a baby, this is a great illustration.
It perfectly captures the perpetual inability of human beings to fully appreciate the only time that really exists - NOW.
I wake up every day with the realization that I might not make it to the next one. Truly accepting your own mortality in an immediate way helps increase awareness and acceptance of your own experiences.
I know I'm here to simply.... live.
Besides the weird mutant humanoid that's supposed to be a baby, this is a great illustration.
It perfectly captures the perpetual inability of human beings to fully appreciate the only time that really exists - NOW.
I wake up every day with the realization that I might not make it to the next one. Truly accepting your own mortality in an immediate way helps increase awareness and acceptance of your own experiences.
I know I'm here to simply.... live.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
The Vitality of Rest
On FFFFOUND! I see lots of crazy styles of typography, some with interesting messages.
I definitely appreciate the message on this poster:
I definitely appreciate the message on this poster:
"Sometimes
The Most
Urgent & Vital
Thing You Can Possibly Do Is
Take a Complete
Rest."
Saturday, September 17, 2011
The Golden Bough
"The Golden Bough" by J. M. W. Turner
Back in June, I posted about my summer reading list.
I just finished the 700+ page The Golden Bough by James George Frazer. I've been reading that book at work during my lunch breaks. Fingerprints of the Gods was my vacation book, & I'm almost done that too.
The Golden Bough was excruciating at times to read, but I pushed through it. Mostly, the book is a scattered list of every superstition & folk ritual imaginable. It is a repository for details of various cultural traditions & taboos, but there are so many examples it's hard to absorb it all.
The ultimate purpose of the book was to investigate the ancient rites that took place in the sacred Arician groves at Nemi in Italy. Supposedly, there was a priest-king who guarded the grove. His successor had to break a limb from a sacred tree & kill him to take his place.
However, getting to the possible history & reasons behind those sacred rites is a long, tortuous road. As I said, most of the book just becomes a rambling list of superstitious beliefs among various peoples. It's tedious to read through, even for someone interested in cultural anthropology.
One part of the book that was interesting is a chapter on the god-man Osiris of ancient Egypt. The Fingerprints of the Gods questions the astronomical connections & possible historical foundations of the Osiris legend. The Golden Bough instead looks at the link between Osiris and agriculture, especially the growing of corn.
These varied aspects of the same deity show how symbolically multi-faceted the ancient people were. Our ancestors were able to encode vast amounts of knowledge into characters & stories that could be passed down through the ages.
I judge a book by the chance I'd read it again. There were some interesting sections, but it's safe to say I don't think I'll be taking this lengthy book on again anytime soon.
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