In her latest exhibition, Trust, artist Beth Cavener delves into the theme of trust through intricately crafted animal sculptures that resonate with deep human emotions. Displayed at the Carpenters Workshop Gallery in Los Angeles, her pieces reflect the fractures in modern society caused by political divides and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cavener’s clay sculptures are not merely representations of animals; they are symbolic figures that embody complex human feelings such as betrayal, vulnerability, and connection. By merging animal forms with human gestures, she exposes the rawness of trust—how it is built, broken, and rebuilt—through sculptures that feel both primal and profoundly introspective.

Each of Cavener’s works takes months to complete, starting from a small model and expanding into full-scale sculptures highlighting the tension between power and fragility. One standout piece, Trust Me, features a fox-like figure cautiously advancing toward the viewer, its pose a striking mix of submission and cunning. This visual ambiguity challenges the audience to reflect on their relationship with trust. Another sculpture, Shards, depicts a male lion made from over 2,800 pounds of fragmented clay, its fragile body a metaphor for broken trust and the arduous process of healing. Through these meticulously hand-sculpted forms, Cavener invites us to confront the delicate balance of trust in our relationships and the emotional scars that linger when it is shattered.

Patagonia is helping revolutionize California’s farming industry through a $1 million grant, supporting the transition to organic and regenerative farming in Ventura County, an area known for its vast agricultural output. Industrial agriculture in this region has caused significant environmental damage, polluting the soil and groundwater with chemicals and driving away wildlife. In partnership with the Rodale Institute’s California Organic Center and an additional $1.5 million from Continue reading “Patagonia Helping to Revolutionize California’s Farms with $1 Million Grant” »

Danielle and Kreg Jones, a couple with a passion for historic architecture and home renovation, turned a 19th-century schoolhouse into their family home. In 2021, after five years of searching, they found the North Weare Schoolhouse in New Hampshire. The building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, had a rich history, having served as a school until 1952 and later as a town meeting space. The couple, who run their architecture firm, Inscription Architects, offered $210,000 for the property and began the renovation alongside their son, aiming to pass down Kreg’s hands-on skills. The project took eight months and $220,000 to complete, transforming the schoolhouse into a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home while preserving much of its original character, including the floors, stairways, and even historic carvings left by schoolchildren.

Throughout the renovation, the Jones family remained dedicated to honoring the building’s historic charm while adding personal touches. The home’s large windows, which originally provided light before electricity was available, continue to flood the space with natural light, creating a connection to the outdoors. Despite their history of moving after completing projects, the Joneses feel content in their renovated schoolhouse, describing the space as comfortable and well-proportioned. For them, the process wasn’t just about creating a home but also a shared learning experience with their son. They’ve lived in the house for over three years, with no immediate plans for a new project, enjoying the fruits of their labor in a space that uniquely blends history and modern living.

The Kanna cabin, designed by Laure Friès, serves as a serene fishermen’s retreat along the shores of the Marlens’ water body near the Alps. Its triangular design, standing at 4.5 meters tall, allows anglers an optimal vantage point for fishing, all while blending harmoniously with the surrounding natural landscape. Positioned between the Chaise River and the water body, the cabin provides privacy and a seamless connection to the tranquil environment, Continue reading “Triangular Wooden Cabin Unfolds On River’s Shore Near Alps as a Fishermen’s Retreat” »

In August 2024, Brussels again dazzled tourists and locals with its biannual flower carpet tradition, covering the Grand Place with a stunning display of colorful blooms. The 2024 edition, designed by visual artist Océane Cornille, was a breathtaking spectacle spanning 1,680 square meters (18,083.37 square feet), filled with begonias, dahlias, grass, and bark. The intricate design, which took over six hours and a hundred volunteers to assemble, showcased the delicate beauty of nature against the backdrop of the city’s historical architecture. Cornille’s vision transformed the square into a temporary garden, with a vibrant sound and light show illuminating the carpet each evening, adding another layer of magic to the already captivating scene.

Cornille’s design for this year’s flower carpet was inspired by the rhizomatic nature of Brussels, symbolizing the interconnectedness of the city’s neighborhoods through organic forms and vibrant colors. The iris, the city’s emblem, took center stage in the design, representing Brussels’ resilience and historical strength. Cornille described the piece as an invitation to reflect on urban life, diversity, and the fleeting beauty of such a transient work of art. Though the flower carpet only adorned the Grand Place for three days, from August 15, it left a lasting impression, highlighting the harmony between nature and city life in one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. Fans of Cornille’s work can continue to follow her creative journey through her Instagram account.

Award-winning photographer Rahul Singh has captured an extraordinary moment in nature, where a tiny female Crimson Sunbird is seen bathing in the petal of a banana flower. This remarkable scene, set in Jalpaiguri, India, shows how small creatures, like the 10 cm long Sunbird, interact with their environment in unique ways. The banana flower petal acts as a natural basin, collecting just enough water for the bird to take a refreshing bath. On hot, humid autumn Continue reading “Photographer Captures a Tiny Crimson Sunbird Bathing in a Banana Flower Petal Pool” »

Wall-mounted animal lamps by Uncle Lucas Studio bring a touch of the wild indoors, merging nature and art in unique, playful ways. Inspired by a variety of animals, these lamps are more than just functional lighting; they are statement pieces that evoke the outdoors. Crafted with incredible attention to detail using 3D printing technology, these designs include a range of animals, from fierce alligators to friendly Siamese cats. The realism of their design is striking, with lifelike features like fur, scales, and even teeth meticulously rendered. These pieces are a perfect fusion of craftsmanship and nature-inspired decor, providing a delightful way for people to connect with the natural world inside their homes.

What sets these animal lamps apart is the whimsical way they blend lifelike accuracy with a dash of surrealism. Each animal is depicted holding the cord or light bulb in its paws or mouth, creating a sense of interaction with the environment. This playful design adds personality to any space, whether you opt for the classic tones of gold, silver, or white. Available on Etsy, the lamps come with customization options for plug-in or hardwired installation, allowing you to adapt them to your interior needs. These quirky yet elegant pieces add a unique charm, making them perfect for those who want to infuse their home decor with wild creativity.

Francis Apraku, a custodian at James Madison High School in Vienna, Virginia, had a simple dream of owning a Jeep Wrangler. Known for his kindness and positive spirit, he had become a beloved figure among the students. When some freshmen learned that Apraku, who had immigrated to the U.S. from Ghana, wished for the car as a birthday gift, they were determined to make it a reality. Although they couldn’t act immediately, the students spent the next six months planning. They launched a GoFundMe campaign, contacting friends, family, and local organizations to raise funds. By the beginning of September, they had gathered $20,000 to buy a cherry red 2015 Jeep Wrangler from a local dealership.

When Apraku was surprised with his dream car at the school, his reaction was emotional. Overwhelmed by the gesture, he dropped to the ground, expressing disbelief and gratitude. “I don’t believe this would happen in my life,” he said, thanking God for the moment. The students were equally excited, knowing they had made a difference for someone who always uplifted them. “He puts a smile on everyone’s face daily,” said student Hunter McGee. The heartwarming gesture not only showcased the students’ generosity but also highlighted the powerful bond they shared with a man who had become much more than just a custodian.

LEGO has set an ambitious goal to make 50% of its bricks from renewable materials by 2026, as part of its broader mission to create more sustainable products. Currently, 78% of LEGO’s plastic is still sourced from fossil fuels, but the company is actively working to reduce this dependency. Through its mass balance tracing method, LEGO can track how much of its plastic comes from sustainable sources. The company has already tested over 600 alternative materials, Continue reading “LEGO Aims to Make Half Its Plastic Renewable by 2026” »