November 16, 2008
A little Perspective
The U.S. goes thru 2 million of these things every 5 minutes. Hit the jump to see what it is.
More at the Global Intelligencer.
Posted by tranism at 2:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
November 14, 2008
Highlight 3 Ways
Where the hell was this invention when I was in school? It's a highlighter with a modified tip they called 3-way beetle. Japan only. Damn they get all the cool stuff.
via Spoon & Tamago
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November 11, 2008
Boliva Could Be The Next Big "Oil Well"
If it weren't for the massive oil reserves in the middle east, many of those countries would have never modernized the way they have today. As the world slowly turns its attention to alternative fuels, with them are the resources to drive that new economy. One part of the equation are lithium batteries. Electric vehicles of all sorts could be powered from a multitude of fuels but they all charge lithium ions and as it stands now, Bolivia - one of the poorest countries in South America - holds over half the world's lithium reserves.
The country's massive alkaline flats could see a flurry of foreign investors rapidly changing Bolivia's economy and world power just as the middle east oil boon did for Arabian peninsula. Will our children see future conflicts set in South America or will they be smart enough to learn from the mistakes we've made?
via Treehugger
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Interactive Opera
Massive stage sets may be nearing their end if the Met's first interactive opera becomes the norm in theatrical entertainment. The first performance of "Faust" utilizes some of the most sophisticated interactive technology to date.
Microphones (not the broadcasting kind) which are attached to the singers and positioned over the orchestra gauge volume and pitch. A system of infrared lights and cameras detect motion; similar technology is used to catch people trying to cross the United States border with Mexico, Mr. Lepage said.
A flock of digitally created birds swirls during Faust's opening aria. As Mr. Giordani's pitch changes, the birds change directions. As the volume surges, they swoop. When soldiers, supported by cables, march perpendicularly up the scaffolding on a projection of grass, the blades waver and part.
For the water-reflection scene, a high-definition camera captures the image of the moving boat. The software flips the image upside down, creates a shimmer and then instructs a projector to play it back simultaneously on the screen below the boat. The movements of ballet dancers during the "Menuet des follets" cause projected images of curtains to flutter and billow. In the production's most striking moment a JumboTron image of Ms. Graham's face appears behind her, emanating flames, as she sings "D'amour l'ardente flame."
via PSFK
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November 2, 2008
Porter Bookstraps are Tres Chic
The Porter bookstrap is an amazing throwback to pre-backpack days. I have no use for it now since I'm fervent about going totally digital but it would be such a cool photograph to see the Amazon Kindle strapped up. If ya likes it, you can get it from All Beams for 7,350 Yen ($75 U.S.).
Posted by tranism at 5:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
October 29, 2008
How Apple Sells iPhone's in Japan
Bizarre with a talking dog but it's all a part of Softbank's (iPhone's Japanese carrier) marketing blitz featuring numerous domestic and international stars like Brad Pitt. This one promotes Softbanks White Plan which is a $10 mobile plan exclusive to iPhone users.
Posted by tranism at 8:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
October 27, 2008
HPATHBP New Trailer
OMFG I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by tranism at 5:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
October 24, 2008
Nomnomnom Cat
I just fell over from cuteness overload.
Posted by tranism at 2:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Internet Famous
Crazy Addictive Oatmeal Crisps
She wants it so I'll try to give it to her. That sounded dirty didn't it? Anyhoo, visit her site, link to it, digg it, spread it around. Basically we're trying to make it the biggest slut possible over the next 7 weeks.
Cheers!
Posted by tranism at 12:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
October 11, 2008
Goldfish will DJ my next party
Submersed Songs is a sound installation that uses live goldfish to remix music fed from an MP3 player. A computer tracks the movements and proximity among each goldfish and constantly mashes-up two different songs recorded by different users. The two tracks are subjected thru different modification processes, building a real time continuity between the fish and the levels of distortion- which can vary from an intense reverberation to a simulation of hearing sound underwater.
Posted by tranism at 12:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
October 9, 2008
Bansky Pet Store is Not What it Seems
Artist and prankster Banksy's latest installation is a mock pet supply store on 7th Ave. near Bleeker St. in New York's West Village. This is no ordinary pet store tho. In store windows, chicken nuggets dip themselves into sauce, a white rabbit covered in makeup and jewels gazing into the mirror, and a fish bowl with swimming fish sticks.
"The Village Pet Store and Charcoal Grill, as the green awning reads, is Banksy’s first official exhibition in New York, his representatives say, and it will be open to the public daily through Oct. 31. 'Open for Pet Supplies/Rare Breeds/Mechanically retrieved meat' says a sign in front of the shop. Bales of hay dot the sidewalk, along with a kiddie dolphin ride, wrapped in a fishing net like the day’s catch. But it is the leopard in one of the storefront windows that stops passers-by first. 'Is that — real?' a woman asked on Wednesday, peering at a large furry object perched on a tree branch, its tail swinging. It’s not: it is an ingeniously arranged fake fur coat. The robot monkey is more lifelike: it sits, breathing, in a cage inside the store, wearing headphones, holding a remote and watching a television clip of some fellow monkeys in an amorous moment."
Hit the jump for videos!
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October 7, 2008
My Latest Sweater
As winter approaches I need to start thinking about warm clothes and nothing warms better than a wool sweater. Unfortunately cashmere ain't cheap but lucky for me I have a dog that sheds enough to clothe a small village.
And I'm not the only one with that idea. The people at Pet Yarn Chic will take your dog's hair and spin it into yarn. They'll even knit something for you. Before you gag (or maybe you've been gagging since the first paragraph), here me out. Dog hair is super soft and gets softer the more you wash it. Unlike cashmere, you can throw it in the washer because of its durability.
Posted by tranism at 12:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
September 30, 2008
Oh The Cruel Cruel World
Need a gift for someone special in your life who seems to have everything? How about a headless teddy bear lamp brought to you by The Gift Experience. Let him win a place in your heart as he sits quietly on your shelf or bedside table, waiting for you to illuminate him and show him off in his best light. The black fabric covered shade supplied is a reflective gold on the inside to enhance Teddy's golden features and his plump body enables you to park him where you please without fear of him toppling over. Poor Ted may have lost his head, but he definitely lights up the room!
This is just not right, but. . . DO WANT!
Posted by tranism at 12:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
September 24, 2008
Peek-a-Boo Kitty
This totally reminds me of that scene in The Orphanage when the kids play red light-green light. If you haven't seen that movie, NETFLIX asap. In the meantime just imagine creepy music scored to this video and you'll know how I feel.
Posted by tranism at 12:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Knut's Foster Daddy Found Dead
Oh noes!! Knut's caretaker Thomas Dorflein was found dead in his apartment in Berlin. Authorities have ruled out foul play since Thomas (44) was very ill the past few weeks. The German zookeeper became an unlikely hero when he took care of Knut after his mother rejected him. Thomas fed and slept with Knut in his cage for months which is why he's the first polar bear to survive infancy in captivity in over 30 years. The two were forced to part last November because zoo officials feared Knut was now too big and dangerous.
Rumors are circulating of how heartbroken Thomas was after the separation which exaggerated his illness. Zoo officials also report Knut has been acting strange since Thomas' death.
via The Guardian
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September 23, 2008
Stuffed and Mounted
I am SOOO going to do this when I get back home this weekend.
Posted by tranism at 12:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 22, 2008
Exquisite Graphite
So much more than just a writing implement, these exquisite graphite objects are decorative sculptures. Meticulously crafted in the studio of San Francisco artist Agelio Batle, he combines carbonaceous graphite (mineral remains of prehistoric plant life) with smudge-resistant compounds under intense pressure to create his source material. The resulting material is then fused into representations of various forms found in nature; our collection highlights land, water and air objects. All the surfaces of each object can be used for writing; they will not smudge the hands. The graphite wears very slowly; if used everyday each object should last 7 to 9 years. Comes in Leaf, Shell and Quill.
Posted by tranism at 12:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
September 21, 2008
Iceland Wants All Cars Electric Now!
Iceland made a promise in 1998 to become totally fossil fuel free by 2050. Of course being an island that's literally a geothermal hot bed helps, but they're running into a problem. All their vehicles still use gas. That's where Mitsubishi comes in.
The press seems fixated on Chevy's Volt which technically is just a super efficient hybrid. The Mitsubishi iMiEV is all electric and on track for production by 2010, the same time the Volt and the new Prius hits. Its only limitation is range since even the most advance lithium ion batteries only provide enough power for 100 miles. But that's more than enough for Iceland since 75% of the population lives within 37 miles of the capital, Reykjavik.
Do want!
Posted by tranism at 9:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
September 15, 2008
Teaching Proper Eating Etiquette
Growing up in a traditional Vietnamese household, and then thrown into western society with different cultural eating habits was a difficult transition. For the most part I grew up using nothing but chopsticks and the occasional soup spoon. I vividly remember the first time I attended a black-tie event in high school and was overwhelmed with the myriad of plates and flatware.
Proper eating etiquette may be dying in the face of an ever-changing world where speed is becoming the norm. But the FunFam training kit attempts to teach proper eating etiquette with a set of plates, trays, forks, knives, and spoons all properly labeled for what kinds of foods to use it with and when. Ironically, it's a Japanese product.
Posted by tranism at 5:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
September 6, 2008
Luxury Contact Lenses
It's a little excessive to have a strand of Swarovski crystals hanging from your eyeball. Yeah I said EYEBALL. These specially designed contact lenses were made by artist Eric Klareneek so don't go asking for them at your next optometrist appointment.
Who am I kidding? I would totally buy into this. Some kabuki makeup and these lenses would make a killer look.
More after the jump.
via Luxury Launches
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September 5, 2008
Prius vs. Insight
Honda finally wised up and figured out people who buy hybrids buy them partly because of unique styling - a signature if you will. Their latest Prius fighter is the new 2009 Insight. The shape is a bit familiar (cough - Prius) but chalk that up to a universally efficient design. The roomy 5 seater supposedly has more power and more room than a Prius all while breaking the 70 mpg fuel economy barrier. What about cost? How does $18k sound?
I'm definitely interested. As a Prius owner my only loyalty is to great transitional technology away from petrol fuels. The Prius is king right now but Honda may change that with the new Insight and do a greater extend, their fuel cell Clarity. But Toyota is no slouch. The 2010 Prius set to debut in 2009 is just around the corner along with their all electric contender to battle Chevy's Volt.
Man it's gonna be awesome!
Posted by tranism at 12:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
August 23, 2008
Elderly Japanese dogs are pampared
My dog Miko turned 10 this year and I know he only has a handful of years left. Tho age hasn't seemed to pull the puppy out of him, I know it'll come sooner or later. In the meantime I'm doing everything to make sure his final years are filled with nothing but joy.
That's why it warms my heart to know Japanese culture on caring for the elderly extends to their dogs too. People are shelling out tens of thousands of dollars to make sure their elderly dogs are pampered. They're sorta like doggy senior homes with 5-star hotel services like transportation, custom meals, grooming, massage, exercise, and health - not to mention tons of other doggies to play with.
via Luxury Launches
Posted by tranism at 7:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
August 17, 2008
崖の上のポニョ by Hayao Miyazaki
Hayao Miyazaki has a new movie called 崖の上のポニョ or for us English readers, Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea. This marks his 9th film with Studio Ghibli. The plot is centered around a girl fish who runs away from from home because she desperately wants to be human. She ends up stranded on shore and is rescued by Sōsuke, a five year old boy who lives by the cliff. I can't wait until the U.S. release.
I love all of Miyazaki's stories. They're always about transformation, seeing the bigger picture, and embracing who you are. If you have children or still have that 5 y.o. little boy or girl buried deep inside, watch his movies.
Posted by tranism at 12:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
August 16, 2008
BREAKING! Imperial Troops invade San Francisco
Believing San Francisco is a rebel base, the Galactic Empire sent in Imperial Troops to smite the city this morning. Governor Schwarzenegger has sent thousands of his own guardsmen to defend the city by the bay. Unfortunately they may not arrive in time. San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom was seen pleading for help,
"Help me Obi-Wan Kenobi. You're my only hope."
All is not lost. Keen on gaining a foothold into the Alpha Quandrant, a fleet of Cylon ships was spotted only one jump away from Earth hoping to intercept the bulk of the Imperial Fleet. However progress has been slow with reports of a single alien ship only identifying itself as "Moya" forming a blockade. This may get ugly guys.
Posted by tranism at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
August 15, 2008
The Cho Show
This Fall/Winter is going to be awesome with Heroes promising to return to glory after that horrific second season and Ugly Betty making everything gay even more fabulous. However what I'm really excited for is The Cho Show, Margaret Cho's reality show. The first episode is already online. Watch as she decides whether or not to accept the Korean of the Year award and you just know she has her case of gays, her little person assistant Selena and of course her parents.
Kathy Griffin better watch out. There's a new bitch in town and she knows how to throw chopsticks!
Posted by tranism at 2:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Oktapodi!
Check out this awesome short called Oktapodi about two cephalopods who'll do anything for love.
UPDATE: They've removed the movie for some reason by you can learn more about it here.
Posted by tranism at 1:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
August 13, 2008
Windshape by nArchitects and SCAD
Windshape, a structure commission by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) near their campus is Lacoste, France takes weaving to new heights - literally. SCAD students spent 5 weeks carefully hoisting and weaving the structure together. It now serves as a public meeting space, hosted concerts, and art exhibitions. More pics after the jump.
More at Archdaily
Posted by tranism at 2:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
August 11, 2008
Snail mail for real!
Here's an epic way of using snails. The Real Snail Mail project by Boredom Research (I'm serious) for the 2008 Siggraph Slow Art Exhibition uses live snails to deliver your emails. 3 snails were tagged with RFID chips. Anytime you compose an email via their website, it's delivered to one of those snail agents. Then it's all up to them as they aimlessly wander around the tank until the hit one of the drop off points.
As of now only one snail has managed to deliver his email taking a whopping 1.88 days. Hey, considering the message came from the other side of the country, the snail still delivered it faster than the post office.
via Gizmodo
Posted by tranism at 10:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
August 9, 2008
The Chinese century begins with the 29th Olympiad
If you missed the opening Olympic ceremony, the Boston Globe has an awesome photo recap of the 4 hour event. I loved it tho struggled to stay awake. I think the sleep fairy must have been attacking me or something.
Posted by tranism at 7:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
August 8, 2008
Yay 2008 Olympics
Olympic fever has hit me so to celebrate here's a picture of Michael Phelps in one of those supertastic Speedo suits, designed to make you slipperier than a shark.
Posted by tranism at 2:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
August 3, 2008
Space Collective
SpaceCollective. Where forward thinking terrestrials exchange ideas and information about the state of the species, their planet and the universe, living the lives of science fiction today.
Posted by tranism at 9:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
China rehearses for the Olympics
Two things happened today in Beijing. First off, incoming journalists were amazed to find China had successfully lifted the brown haze in city. Skies were crystal blue and the air felt noticeably lighter. This after months of banning traffic from the town center and significantly reducing carbon emissions from nearby industrial complexes.
By nightfall Beijing came to a halt as residents were treated to what one journalist called "a spectacular display of light, sound, fire, and water." The dress rehearsal stunned people as they stopped and got out of the cars with all eyes on Bird's Nest stadium. The opening ceremony is only 5 days away. I have a feeling this is going to be the most theatrical and dramatic olympic celebration in modern history.
Hit the jump for more stunning pictures.
via Mail On Sunday
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July 30, 2008
HPATHBP
The Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince teaser trailer just hit. OMG November can't come soon enough. I love that they casted Fiennes Tiffin as young Voldemort. He definitely has a future. So talented for someone so young.
Check out the HD version on Apple Trailers.
In other semi-related news, check out Disney's upcoming return to 2D animation The Princess and the Frog. Disney magic I tells ya.
Posted by tranism at 12:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
July 28, 2008
Killer faucet
I remember seeing this at Sea World but they were charging the "amusement park" price of $12 so I passed on it. Thankfully Tiny Living has them for just $4. Granted it doesn't have the Sea World logo emblazoned on its cute little head but I guess that's where the $8 discount comes from.
And if you can't tell what it is, hit the jump and all shall be understood grasshopper.
Posted by tranism at 12:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 24, 2008
Goodbye innocence
Great ad campaign for SHS clothing. It may be time to grow up but that doesn't mean not having any fun.
Posted by tranism at 8:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Street performer enthralls
The Cirque needs to get this guy ASAP. That is all.
Posted by tranism at 12:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
July 9, 2008
Google launches Lively
Lively by Google is a new product available in Google Labs. Create an avatar and chat with your friends in rooms you design.
No matter how you slice it, technology companies want us all to interact in virtual spaces. Sooner or later it will finally happen.
Posted by tranism at 1:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 3, 2008
Bizarre organics
I'm frightened and in raptured with these bio-mechanical robots designed artist Choe U Ram (for real that's his name). They glow, move eerily life-like, and they even respond to each other - moving appenditures and all! Gizmodo has tons more pics and a video to make you run to your room and cry.
Actually after some further thought and a couple of NyQuil to make me feel nifty, I would like to have my room covered in these robots, but they have to respond to my every whim. Enter my domain at your own risk.
Posted by tranism at 5:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
June 20, 2008
Ride a horsey
I swear I dreamt of this a long time ago. You see, in my dream I worked in a paper mill to make ends meat. My long work days were met with an aching back and the realization I'd have to do it all over again. Only my daydreams saved me from insanity but the constant lapse in concentration gets me into an accident. I get caught in one of the mill presses. As I lay there slowly drifting into unconsciousness, I see myself folding a giant origami horse, hop on its back and ride away to peace.
Enjoy this video. It's a solar powered kinetic paper horse.
Posted by tranism at 1:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
You're fat, recognize and embrace it
I love this packaging for Fat Pig chocolates. They don't play around. Most chocolates hide behind the promise of elegance and class but you know - all you're eating is a mixture of cocoa, milk, and tons of sugar. Essentially you're eating fat fat fat. I like foods that tell it like it is. No pussy footing here.
Posted by tranism at 1:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
June 15, 2008
Black Bunneh weekend in review
- I'm in like with you
- Lonely panda
- I don't mind when twitter's down
- My buddy and me
- IKEA studio apartment
- It'll be okay
- A horse is a horse of course of course
- Sunset on Mars
- Alpacas are so soft
- Grassy people
Posted by tranism at 9:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
June 12, 2008
China holds funeral for panda killed by earthquake
Nearly a month after China's devastating earthquake, the Wolong Nature Reserve held a funeral Tuesday for a panda that was crushed in the temblor.
Nine-year-old Mao Mao, the mother of five at the breeding center, was found Monday, her body crushed by a wall of her enclosure when the river behind it swelled with landslide debris.
On Tuesday, panda keepers and other workers placed her remains in a small wooden crate and wheeled her quietly to a patch of ground outside the breeding center where a freshly dug hole waited.
The center's director, Zhang Hemin, stood with his cap in hand and then shoveled in a few spades of dirt.
Mao Mao's keeper, He Changgui, stepped forward, crying, and placed two apples and a piece of bread by the covered grave. There were three minutes of silence.
Rest is peace Mao Mao. May your spirit reincarnate free.
Posted by tranism at 12:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
June 11, 2008
Hey You!
I NEED YOU TO PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE HIT THE JUMP. JUST TRUST ME.
That is all. . .
Posted by tranism at 11:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Buying KIM soap for Margaret Cho
Sometimes my dreams are so vivid and complete I wake up promising myself to write it down before the narrative escapes memory. Such is the case 20 mins ago when I awoke from a really strange dream about me, a bakery, KIM brand soap, and Margaret Cho.
It all starts with me and a friend on a bus. Margaret Cho gets on and and several stops later, tells me to buy her mother KIM brand soap. She says I can't miss it. It means "love."
I get off at the next stop and find myself in what looks like Korea town. Narrowing my focus I see the shop Margaret pointed at and it turns out to be a bakery. . . that just so happens to sell soap.
I walk inside to find it brimming with people all browsing and indecisive. I do a quick lap around the bakery to look for KIM soap but find this is no ordinary bakery. In one corner is a seafood market. In another are all the traditional things you'd expect to find in a bakery but curiously the part with the most hustle is a section that sells a hodge podge of things like watches and cups.
I resolve to myself and give up. I do not see any KIM soap for sale but I do see empty boxes of it crushed behind the counters. It looks like a dry washing detergent box - pink on top, blue bottom with the words "PINK" written in big bold white print. I hear the clerk ask who's next but nobody in line can figure it out. It's chaos. Just before I arrive to the front of the unorganized line, I wake up.
Now that I'm awake, I did some research and found out 2 things in a pinch. One; KIM does not mean "love" in any language. In Korean it means gold. Second; Google turns up nothing when I searched KIM soap. In conclusion, my unconscious mind is totally inaccurate and makes up shit to fill in gaps, yet it has the power to create things from scratch - everything from the bus, the bakery, and the KIM soap box. I'm sure none of those exist in reality but my unconscious mind designed it all dynamically as I was dreaming. Amazing.
Posted by tranism at 9:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
June 8, 2008
Black Bunneh weekend in review
- Rain On Me by Cyndi Lauper
- Bunneh found a rainbow
- Biologist, photographer Paul Nicklen
- Hip-hop Stormtrooper
- Licky animals
- Catch of the day
- Drunk chores are hazardous to animals
- I haz paw!
- Chris Redfield is hot
- Bulges galore
- Woody flame
- Falling to death
- Holga retro
- T-shirts
- Your boss
- Babies piking
- Zebra hitches a ride
- Keyboard commands of life
- Racist or culturist
Posted by tranism at 8:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
2016 Olympic City Applicants
Here they are ladies and gents, the 2016 Olympic city applications. Which do you prefer?
Posted by tranism at 6:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)
June 6, 2008
Advice for Apple Japan
As Apple prepares to launch the new 3G enabled iPhone in Japan, here's a word of advice. Go cute and kawaii. I'm talkin' UBER CUTE here. There is no limit to how sugary sweet the Japanese love their marketing. Go all out. Sure, being all black/white, slick, and minimal works too but the 7 figure salary you pay you ad agency (Chiat Day/TBWA) means they should be able to creatively integrate your design ethos with kawaiiness. Think big headed animals, dough eyes, and clouds with faces.
Kawaii fo' lyfe!
Posted by tranism at 5:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
May 30, 2008
Pandas Are Okay
China's quakes this month have killed an estimated 80,000 people, destroyed nearly 1 million buildings and damaged many of the countries conservation sanctuaries, namely the Wolong Panda Preserve. All 86 pandas have been accounted for and have been relocated until a new facility is built.
It's always nice to read some good news come out of such tragedy. The panda is an international symbol for peace and planetary conservation. As the Chinese say, "lots of bad luck, one good luck, better than no luck at all." Hopefully this is a sign of continued good luck as recovery efforts continue.
Posted by tranism at 9:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Old Clothes Become New Pillows
Got some old shirts or jackets laying around? Why not do what designer Ximena Orozco did and turn them into pillows. Very stylish. . . well only if you had "style" to begin with.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 12:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Docomodake
This mushroom's name is DOCOMODAKE. It was born in January 2005 from an NTT DoCoMo advertisment - Japan's leading mobile carrier. The DOCOMODAKE began as a family of three. The family continued to grow to today's eight. DOCOMODAKEs continue to evolve as changes occur in communication and time. They hold infinite possibilities.
Last year an exhibit called How To Cook Docomodake challenged Japan's young artists to cook it in innovative ways. Cut up, friend, jellied, and even burnt - nothing takes away from the charm of DOCOMODAKEs.
More pics after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 12:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 24, 2008
May 24th Black Bunneh Weekend Review
- Bearded seal pup
- Sassy bear
- I love you's
- Crabs galore
- Stairs fo' days
- Pollution from way up there
- Bird's man nest
- A cat's paradise
- Sky lamp
- Panda pics, no really!
- Halo suburb
- Smile in formation
- Giant Lego ball
Posted by tranism at 1:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
A Better Zune
If this unofficial spot for the Microsoft Zune were official, they'd sell a whole lot more. Believe it!
via Space Invaders
Posted by tranism at 12:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
White Glove Tracking
On May 4, 2007, internet users were asked to help isolate Michael Jackson's white glove in all 10,060 frames of his nationally televised landmark performance of Billy Jean. 2 years later, coders and designers came up with an amusing compilation that's sure to make you smile, if not dance.
via ffff
Posted by tranism at 12:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
May 23, 2008
Steampunk Tunnel Connects London To New York
Hardly anyone knows that a secret tunnel runs deep beneath the Atlantic Ocean. In May 2008, more than a century after it was begun, the tunnel will finally be completed. Immediately afterwards, an extraordinary optical device called a Telectroscope will be installed at both ends which will miraculously allow people to see right through the Earth from London to New York and vice versa.
Of course artist Paul St. George doesn't mention you can't physically enter these Telectroscopes because they're only connected via fiber optic cables letting one side view the other side by way of live video. Cheeky!
Both ends will be open to the public 24/7 this May so get your cosplay gear ready and I'll meet you there with my optomatrized monocle and sprocket walking stick.
via Tiscali
Posted by tranism at 5:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Post-Car Japan?
The JDM companies are panicking. Car sales have dropped 33% since 1990 and surveys say that number will continue to increase by 1.2% every year. The situation is dire. Young Japanese no longer see cars as a sign of wealth or status symbols. The cost of ownership pretty much makes it impossible for anyone but the wealthy and Japan's public transport systems are far more networked and efficient than navigating a vehicle. This leads analysts to ponder if Japan may become the first country to enter the "demotorization" process.
Posted by tranism at 5:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
May 17, 2008
Apple Holds Key To Military's Future
It seems Apple's recent acquisition of P.A. Semi has raised more eyebrows than Wall Street's. The U.S. military is upset since P.A. Semi manufactures chips for 10 crucial military systems worth $100 million and Apple isn't required to honor any of those pre-existing contracts. The military isn't in the position to redesign its defense systems so it all comes down to uncle Steve - whom mind you used to be a hippie. Most powerful man in the world now? Perhaps.
Posted by tranism at 3:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Bladerunner Back In The Game
I wrote about Oscar Pistorius a.k.a Bladerunner last year when he was banned from all competitions by the IAAF destroying his Olympic dreams. A court has overturned that ruling so he's back in the game, YAY! The controversy started when several people complained his "cheetah legs" gave him an unfair advantage.
The double amputee runs on specially designed carbon fiber blades and although he's fast, he's not fast enough to qualify for the Beijing Olympics. It'll be an uphill battle but even if it's not 2008, he's definitely aiming for London 2012.
Posted by tranism at 2:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
This Is As Real As Wall-E Gets
Wall-E hits theaters June 27th.
Posted by tranism at 2:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
From All American Boy To Model
Metamorphoses Of An American, Karl Lagerfeld traces the physical and emotional development of Brad Kroenig, once an unknown but now the world's most sought after male model. Lagerfeld discovered Kroenig in 2003, took monthly photographs of him chronicling the evolution from all American boy to professional model.
Available this June for $85. Hit the jump to see samples.
via Frillr
Posted by tranism at 2:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 14, 2008
Ive, Eve, Wall-E
I'm as excited for Pixar's upcoming "Wall-E" as I was for Nemo and trust me - thats some kind of inhuman excitement. Already some interesting tidbits are leaking out, sure to be good filler material for DVD and Blu-ray extras.
Did you know Eve was designed by none other than golden boy Jonathan Ive? Yes the man is pretty much responsible for the white and clean aesthetic we see Apple parading today. Knowing that, it's not too hard to see how very Apple'ish Eve looks.
Another interesting factoid is how protective Steve Jobs was. Ive was given specific directions not to be too revealing about Apple's future design directions. Hmm, I wonder what those fruit-heads are planning. As a consolation we at least know what an Apple designed robot would look like.
Posted by tranism at 1:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
The New Plot
Don't ya'll get it? Robot dominance isn't going to happen thru weapons and war. They're going to be much more subversive, slowly taking over by integrating into society's most influential staples - like music. Take for example Honda's ASIMO conducting the Detroit Symphony. Don't be fooled by his polite bows. Underneath that mask is a super computer plotting and calculating.
Posted by tranism at 12:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 10, 2008
Pink Jedi
I'm never again going to look at light sabers the same way.
Posted by tranism at 1:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
May 9, 2008
Who Walks It Out Better?
These are oldie but goodies. My friend Rui and I were having one of our usual intellectual conversations but we can't seem to settle this debate. I think the Teletubbies are better but that's just because I'm partial to anything kawaii. Secretly I know the ladies would mop the floor with those Tubbies. Hit the jump and decide for yourself.
Posted by tranism at 9:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
Seeing Double
Is it just me or does Bill Kaulitz of Tokio Hotel look a lot like Bjork? That is all. Happy Weekend everybody!
Posted by tranism at 5:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (18)
May 5, 2008
Pleo Shall Have His Revenge
Sure Pleo may be no match for a Battlebot but mark my words,
"On the 1st year when tiny calves grow to become lords of their shepherds, will the Earth see them exact their revenge on those machines of unholy purpose and nature."
They don't call 'em thunder lizards for nothing.
Posted by tranism at 1:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 4, 2008
French Youth Gang Culture
So out of no where a french blogger sent me this link and I found it pretty interesting. A new music video directed by Romain Gavras for French duo Justice. It's an eye opening and seemingly controversial production that reflects some of the youth gang culture in Paris. Make your own assessment.
Side note; they're pretty stylish for a gang.
Side side note; I can't say I would exactly fear them since being raised in New York and Los Angeles, they're about as threatening as local high school hooligans. The day when they carry firearms and conduct international money laundering business is when I get scared. See - that's the brooklyn in me talking. I lived next door to projects for almost a year without even knowing it! Thank god the locals got used to me and nick named me "chink man".
Posted by tranism at 7:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
May 3, 2008
May 3rd Black Bunneh Weekend Review
- Rescuing a puppy.
- Murakami exhibit at the Moca.
- Real Bowser? Maybe.
- Flying polar bears.
- Can you name all the cartoon silhouettes?
Posted by tranism at 11:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 2, 2008
Baby Car Logos
I want them all now in both widescreen wallpaper form and as real life collector's items. Hit the jump.
via Gearfuse
Posted by tranism at 3:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
May 1, 2008
English Isn't Easy
Believe me, I went thru 2 years of ESL before they'd let me attend regular classes. Apparently Germans have it tough too. Love this ad by Inlingua.
via Notcot
Posted by tranism at 10:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 30, 2008
Yo, Check The Perm
The most dangerous men's hairstyle could quite possibly be my next coffee table book. Yo, Check The Perm is a compilation of 10 men who dared to change their lives thru the power of the permanent.
Posted by tranism at 8:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Wallpaper Calendaring
The whole GTD (getting things done) movement seems to be gaining foothold especially with today's demand for multitasking efficiency. It's been a challenge to get everything for work and home done within a 24 hour period. Many of us are labeled slackers and procrastinators but reality check; maybe a little organization can put things into perspective.
Calendar Wallpaper takes that ethos to the extreme by making good use of a free wall. Everything you have to do every day for the entire year can be plotted out. Sure it can be scary being forced to reconcile your tasks but part of the GTD method is to look back and marvel at all you've achieved. So don't be scared, I'll hold you hand and lets get to organizing.
via Gearfuse
Posted by tranism at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 27, 2008
Waldkindergarten
Most parents push their kids to study reading, writing, and computers but there's a movement occurring in Germany where the typical classroom is replaced with the forest floor. Yes these 700 kids learn about the world by singing songs, building fires, rolling around in mud, touch and feeling everything. Already the program is seeing some amazing results. The kids seem to understand their definitive position within the world instead of being isolated within the human agenda.
via Treehugger
Posted by tranism at 4:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 17, 2008
Taco Bell Guy Shows Off This Cool App
Posted by tranism at 6:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 16, 2008
Strange But Real Armor
And you thought LOTR Orc armor was strange! There's more here.
Posted by tranism at 2:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 14, 2008
Prepping For Pangea Day
In a world where people are often divided by borders, difference, and conflict, it's easy to lose sight of what we all have in common. Pangea Day seeks to overcome that -- to help people see themselves in others -- through the power of film.
On May 10, 2008 -- Pangea Day -- sites in Cairo, Kigali, London, Los Angeles, Mumbai, and Rio de Janeiro will be linked to produce a 4-hour program of powerful films, visionary speakers, and uplifting music. The program will be broadcast live to the world through the Internet, television, digital cinemas, and mobile phones.
Pangea is the name of the original super-continent which contained all the world's land mass before the continents started splitting apart 250 million years ago. We're launching Pangea Day with the vision that the people of the world can begin to overcome their divisions, and that the power of film can help make it possible.
Movies can't change the world. But the people who watch them can. As a special pre-launch event, check out their YouTube page as people all around the world sing national anthems of other countries.
Posted by tranism at 12:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 11, 2008
Garbage Island
Disease, miscarriage, toxicity - if you care at all about those things then you need to care about what's happening to the environment. They're all directly related to each other. In the middle of the pacific ocean just north of Hawaii is a large vortex as currents from Asia and North America meet. Tons of floating trash migrates to this vortex, most of which is plastic designed to last forever. Watch this amazing 12 part VBS TV series about the so called Garbage Island.
Posted by tranism at 2:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Denim Into Home Insulation
Cotton's From Blue to Green initiative is working with partners like the National Jean Company and Earnest Sewn to collect 1000 pairs of jeans to insulate to 2 homes. If you're not going to give or sell your old wares then donate them to any National Jean Company store.
In the short term it sounds like a great way to reuse and recycle but I’m concerned about many of these “repurposing” fabrications finding its way into eco-green and sustainability mantras. As a fashion designer I know over 99% of denim is made from toxic chemicals that put off effluents. Just because you buy something that says it’s 100% organic doesn’t account for the harsh solvents used to dye, texture, and protect the textile and now we’re going to shred it up and put it in people’s homes?
via Josh Spear
Posted by tranism at 12:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Trashonauts
As if fucking up the Earth wasn't enough, we're doing the same in space. All those things floating around our planet is trash, over 6,000 satellites with only about 800 in use. Some are debris from older satellites that gave way to the test of time. Others are just missiles, fuel tanks, and human pee/poo.
The vacuum of space really slows the deterioration of these objects and unfortunately they're all caught in Earth's orbit. Jebus, aliens must whiz by and think we're animals! I'm gonna call it now and say trash collection is going to be an even bigger boon in space than it already is here on Earth.
via Gizmodo
Posted by tranism at 11:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 10, 2008
Home's To Have Nutrition Labels Too
At least that's the proposed experiment between many of the new prefab companies. The label tells you how much energy your home consumes and how much it emits in carbon gases. Tho it's difficult to accurately measure how much each and every home uses/emits because of variables in location and environment, I think it's a cool idea overall.
Posted by tranism at 2:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
April 8, 2008
Dynamic, Kinetic, Interactive
Those 3 words should tell you all. The KILYKA system - a markerless motion caption system that interprets body movements and kinematics into audio and visual. Imagine if Cirque du Soleil got their hands on this. They need something fresh anyways. Their shows are becoming homogenous.
My boy Hierro.
Posted by tranism at 7:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Keeping It Wild
I think for the most part any educated person is at least aware of environmental problems and natural conservation. The challenge is who pays for all this, who maintains it and who controls it?
It's sad despite our abilities to implement simple solutions like "animal highways" - they're often stop lost because of economics. We value our short term gains over long term sustainability.
Posted by tranism at 4:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
What A Way To Go
I'm both terrified and fascinated by studio enPieza's Colgao light sculpture.
via Nick
Posted by tranism at 12:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
April 1, 2008
Penny The Puffer
I don't really do April Fools so here's a baby porcupine puffer instead. Enjoy!
Posted by tranism at 3:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
March 31, 2008
Splashy Water Clock Screensaver
Dropclock is an aesthetically intriguing motion clock screensaver. Every minute or real time is numerically expressed with heavy helvetica dropping into water in super slow motion.
Thanks Jeff!
Posted by tranism at 3:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
March 29, 2008
Wind Up Key
This company sells Wind Up kits for about $100 each. I'm tempted to get one but there's no kit for my Prius. So far they'll only work on a number of VW's and Scions. It's so dang cute I can't help myself. What do you guys think?
Posted by tranism at 3:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
March 24, 2008
Revelation
Neuroanatomist Jill Bolte Taylor had an opportunity few brain scientists would wish for: One morning, she realized she was having a massive stroke. As it happened -- as she felt her brain functions slip away one by one, speech, movement, understanding -- she studied and remembered every moment.
It's an inspiring story that convinced me of the majesty of our minds, how we have limited ourselves in what could be the most experiential existence in the universe. If you have 18 minutes, please watch it.
Posted by tranism at 6:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
March 23, 2008
Happy Easter 2008
I'm not Christian but I do love bunnies. I know, they're not really related but I celebrate how I can. Happy Easter!
Posted by tranism at 11:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
March 17, 2008
Warner Bros Picks Up Amulet
I'm not into comic books but I love Amulet, The Stonekeeper. I'm also pretty happy to find out Warner Bros. decided to turn the book into a movie with Will Smith producing. The leads of course will be played by his kids, no shocker there. Warner, please don't muck it up like you are with Spike Jonze's Where The Wild Things Are.
Big congrats to Boltcity for making it to the big time. Long overdue.
Posted by tranism at 12:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
March 16, 2008
The Whale Hunt
Photographer, computer scientist, and visual artist Jonathan Harris wanted to create a better way of visual storytelling. He came up with a very interesting interface following his travels on a whale hunt. The entire journal is made up of thousands of photos but by clicking the whale icon, you can jump to photo groups of the same content or even ones that emote the same level of excitement. Really cool stuff!
Posted by tranism at 11:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Black Bunneh Launch
Some of you may have noticed that funny looking banner above the post area, you know - the one called Black Bunneh with the white bunny in the corner. It's my new blog and no I'm not giving up on electro^plankton. I just started a new blog where I could post musing and amusing posts, stuff that doesn't fit here.
It's been up for a few months but I'm officially launching it now with a new design (thanks Paul Giacherio) since there's a nice backlog in archives. So do me and Black Bunneh a favor and add it to your rss reads.
Posted by tranism at 4:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
March 15, 2008
Katt Trappa
That's Swedish for cat ladder. I had no idea Swedes were so obsessed with them.
Posted by tranism at 10:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Boobs and Dinks
The Boobs and Dinks early detection kit teaches you to look for anomalies by fondling these crocheted simulations. You can buy them for $5 which goes towards Cottage Dreams, a cancer recovery center.
They're a part of a larger installation which includes life size Boobs and Dinks strap-ons and a PSA style video. Yes friends, this is the one place grabbing your goodies is a good thing.
More after the jump. Thanks Jeff.
Posted by tranism at 5:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
March 10, 2008
Man vs. Wild: New York
Spot on!
Posted by tranism at 12:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
March 6, 2008
Reflections And More Bjork For Ya
So as I think back on the past 10 years of my life I see lots of growth and admittingly lots of regret. Reflection often lets you revisit chapters in your life, like little bookmarks that scream "hey, something important happened here", and it's only in reflection you come to realize it.
Of course it's hard not to be reminded where you faulted and with that, aimless wishes of how things should have been different. I know people say they wouldn't change anything for who they are today is a direct result of that. I don't subscribe to that belief because I believe wanting to change something in your past is a recognition of wanting to be better in the future. It's comforting to know be it love, career, friendship or choices - life is just a pattern, so large it requires a super wide angle lens to see where it begins and where it repeats. Like throwing dice, throw it enough times and sooner or later a pattern emerges. Can you imagine the kind of control we would have if we ever figure out life's pattern?
Bjork's "Desired Constellation" nails my sentiment right on the head. Please hit the jump and watch the video.
Posted by tranism at 10:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Let Me In!
This is EXACTLY how a cat acts. Brills. Thanks Neatorama.
Posted by tranism at 10:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Grey Wolf Returns
New England used to be home to thousands of grey wolves before they died from mass human settlement. The last recorded grey wolf in that area was in 1840. The remaining grey wolves are in the Rockies and Canada so it was a surprise to law enforcement when a healthy (and big) 85 lb male grey wolf was responsible for a number of missing sheep and cattle in New England. They think he may have migrated south from Canada but instead of returning him, you know what they did? They shot him.
Yeah. . .
Posted by tranism at 7:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Bees Sniff It Out
Moma Online has an interesting exhibit called Bee's Project. A number of hand blown glass objects houses bees in intricate chambers designed to detect your current health condition. Bees have a highly advance sense of smell which can be trained to sniff out certain forms of cancer, the common cold, even pregnancy. I wonder if they're covered under my medical insurance. I can't wait to tell my physician he's wrong cuz the bees told me differently.
If you jump to the Moma Online site, just type "bees" in the search field and follow the path to the entries. There's a few more pics after my jump too.
Posted by tranism at 6:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
March 5, 2008
The Newton Virus
When long hours at the office begin to take its toll, Newton will be there. When your judgement becomes clouded from over exertion, Newton will be there. When your computer refuses to do what you want and aggravates you, Newton will be there.
A Mac virus that really isn't a virus since it won't email your friends or damage your files. Hit the jump to see what it will do tho.