Two pieces from my favorite periodicals that contain the words “New York”: 1. The New York Times Magazine on architecture in the (post-)postmodern city. Features Dubai and some other new cities, with a lengthy digression on Shenzhen, China’s shining beacon of capitalism (and cultural wasteland, here euphemistically termed “product of unregulated development”). Take home messages: (More…)
Posts tagged 'art'
Feb 4, 2009
On Plagiarism
Whatever charge of tastelessness or trademark violation may be attached to the artistic appropriation of the media environment in which we swim, the alternative—to flinch, or tiptoe away into some ivory tower of irrelevance—is far worse. We’re surrounded by signs; our imperative is to ignore none of them. [The ecstasy of influence: A plagiarism by (More…)
Jan 28, 2009
Movies. Art. Don’t think!
Ever have a friend ask you to see a movie you’ve never heard of? They hear it’s good. You hesitate, wondering if you should read a review or watch the trailer. Next time, don’t think twice. Just say yes and watch it. I saw three recent films on a suggestion and a whim: Synecdoche, New (More…)
Dec 26, 2008
Yes. No. Anime Be.
Anime’s not just a geeky niche genre of animation. Some of the movies (especially from director Hayao Miyazaki) are as good, if not better, than mainstream live-action films. All you need to like anime is an open mind and a non-stagnant imagination. Here’s a list of movies / shows that got me hooked.
Oct 28, 2008
National Geographic on Light Pollution
National Geographic has a feature article on light pollution, and the social, environmental, and biological effects that the loss of darkness has exacted on humans and non-humans alike. Among the many unforeseen consequences of light pollution: increased incidence of certain types of cancer, birds dying from disorientation in the urban light-jungle, frogs’ and toads’ circadian (More…)