Tag Archives: art

Clam-shaped kinetic sound sculptures sing of the quality of water

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We’ve thankfully become more aware of the quality of our waters, especially with the increase of pollution or drastic changes in the chemical composition of rivers, lakes, and seas. We now have sophisticated equipment and software to monitor such properties, but it might come as a surprise that Mother Nature has her own way of detecting abnormalities in water. Clams, known as nature’s filter feeders, immediately react to sudden changes in water quality, sometimes even faster than scientific equipment.

Taking inspiration from one of nature’s wonder workers, this art installation turns water quality from an incorporeal idea into a tangible representation. Rather than just clamming up, these kinetic sculptures create an eerie melody, as if giving voice to the pain and woes of the water. It creates a surreal yet beautiful manifestation of water quality in a way that you can see and hear beyond just figures and graphs.

Designer: Marco Barotti

Clams aren’t able to filter out toxins (which they turn into pearls), so they would immediately shut close when they detect pollution in the water. Their reaction is sometimes faster than sensors and computers that still have to analyze the data from water samples, though, of course, they won’t be as accurate or specific. This interesting behavior, however, became the inspiration for this kinetic sculpture that, rather than just detecting water quality, translates the data into something just as interesting.

“Clams” is a collection of, well, translucent clam-like objects that have speakers inside. The clams are connected to a sensor that tests the quality of the water in the only way that humans can. Changes in the water quality are translated into sounds that shift over time, creating the semblance of eerie music. The vibrations from the speaker also cause the clamshell to go up and down, making it look like the clams are singing.

The shells themselves are made from recycled waste plastic, adding to the sustainability message of the sculptures. Although the shape of these man-made clams is quite simple, the otherworldly soundscape it produces is quite unique and memorable. It also creates an interesting bridge between media art, data sonification, and environmental awareness, translating intangible concepts and figures into something humans can better appreciate and understand.

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Dolce & Gabbana adds some flair to limited-edition Stabilo Boss highlighters

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I am a stationery hoarder who has too many pens, notebooks, stickers, and other materials that I just buy and keep and yes, occasionally actually use. So when I see something that looks pretty and functional, my heart skips a beat and even though I have too many of whatever that is (trust me, I have a lot), I still have the urge to buy it. This latest unlikely collaboration between a fashion brand and a highlighter was created specifically for people like me.

Designer: Stabilo Boss and Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana has applied its colorful and fashionable aesthetics to the unlikeliest of items, the highlighters of Stabilo Boss. This limited edition collection will add more style to your school desk or office space and still be able to function as a stationery item to help you, well, highlight your books, notes, etc. If you’re familiar with the usual D&G designs, then the motifs used for the highlighters’ casing will look familiar.

The collection has four designs: the Blu Mediterraneo motif with its cloud blue colors; the Caretto Sicilliano pattern that has a powdery yellow hue; a bold leopard look in beige; and if you want something monochromatic, a black zebra print design. All four are packed in a premium box with a high-quality magnetic closure, which can also be used to spruce up your desk or to use as a case to hold other stuff later on.

For around $32, it’s pretty expensive if you think of it as just ordinary highlighters. But the fact that it’s Dolce & Gabbana branded and they do look very pretty, then serious stationery collectors wouldn’t mind.

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Nikon Z fc HERALBONY limited edition cameras radiate self-expression with artful designs

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Thanks to the popularity of smartphone cameras, photography is no longer something limited to seasoned veterans, a term that’s often applied to older people. The younger generation has been captivated by the joys of preserving fleeting memories and sharing them with friends, whether it’s snapping up Instagram photos or using a dedicated camera for more professional-looking shots. That said, the majority of these DSLRs and mirrorless cameras still seem to be designed for those veterans who might have less colorful tastes when it comes to their equipment. It’s a bit ironic that such a tool for capturing expressions would itself lack the kind of self-expression that younger photographers thirst for, which is why Nikon is launching a limited edition Z fc camera series dressed up in a few of HERALBONY’s vibrant artwork.

Designer: Nikon x HERALBONY

Granted, there are quite a few cameras designed to capture the attention and patronage of younger customers, GenZ or otherwise. Most of these, however, are either of the Polaroid-style instant camera variety or the point-and-click cameras that have been made redundant by smartphones. Professional-level cameras, in contrast, come in the usual shades of black and gray and pretty much nothing else. They look and feel premium, mind you, but they might not have the visual impact some users might want.

That’s what makes the Nikon Z fc mirrorless camera a bit of an outlier because it actually has different color options that don’t sacrifice that premium leatherette material in the process. Admittedly, it’s not a full customization feature, but it’s the closest you’d get in this product category. With this collaboration with HERALBONY, however, there are even more exterior options, ones that convey the liveliness of youth and freedom of expression.

[Yurinoyoakeri] Masaharu Honda

[Cone Flower] Masahiro Fukui

[Joyful Time] Teppei Kasahara

[Samba] Momoko Eguchi

These four pieces come from HERALBONY’s collection of more than 2,000+ artwork, each crafted by artists with neurodiversity and disabilities. The brand’s mission to “Radiate Your Color” seems like a perfect match to Nikon cameras’ ability to capture those colors through photos and videos. With this unique Nikon Z fc edition, cameras are no longer just tools for capturing expressions and moments but become vehicles of expression as well, at least through artful camera exteriors that best capture your own aesthetic inclinations.

The four artful pieces add to the existing eight color options for the Nikon Z fc, creating a wider palette of cameras to choose from. Unfortunately, the HERALBONY cameras will be available for only a limited time and in limited quantities, with details of their availability dependent on the region. And in case you’re wondering, Nikon isn’t selling these Premium Exteriors on their own so you can’t just buy a “skin” to warp around your existing Nikon Z fc either.

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Jaeger-LeCoultre intricately replicates Monet’s Venice pieces on case-back

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One of my most memorable visits to a museum (so far) is the first time I saw a Monet painting in person at the National Gallery Singapore a few years back. Seeing something in real life that you only previously saw in books and online is a always a magical experience for art lovers. Now imagine being able to carry a replica of this painting on your wrist every day. Well, that is, if you can afford it.

Designer: Jaeger-LeCoultre

Jaeger-LeCoultre is releasing a very limited edition collection called the Reverso Tribute Enamel Monet “Venice” series. These luxury watches have three of Oscar-Claude Monet’s most famous paintings, the Venice series, hand-painted on the case-back of each watch. The three models – “San Giorgio Maggiore”, “The Doge’s Palace”, and “The Grand Canal” – are reproduced paintstakingly on the 2 centimeters squared case-backs by these master enamellers. They also had to recreate these using the impasto technique to retain the dream-like and ethereal quality of the original paintings.

To make things even more intricate, the three dials are decorated with hand-guilloché distinctive patterns underneath the translucent coloured enamel. Enameling takes nine hours work for each dial since it has up to five layers of enamel and seven separate firings. Each of the models have separate, distinct colors with “San Giorgio Maggiore” and “The Doge’s Palace” sporting two shades of blue while the “The Grand Canal” has a green finish. All three sport the brand’s distinct appliqued hour markers and dauphine hands.

Since the creation of these watches call for extensive man hours and a certain level of intricacy, only 10 pieces for each model will be produced. And if you want to know how much it costs, you’ll have to inquire directly with them, which probably means us mere mortals will not be able to afford this.

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The Allure of the Golden Chair: A Singular Expression of Art and Design

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In this week’s Furniture Friday feature, we explore a piece that caught my attention for its striking artistry. Over my years of observing and writing about design, it’s rare for a piece like the golden chair to cross my path—a piece that serves as both furniture and a profound statement of art. This chair, which I discovered gracing the lobby of a hotel I recently stayed at, carries the unmistakable mark of bespoke craftsmanship, likely the work of a local artist. Here’s my reflection on its unique design elements, speculated materials, and what makes it unique.

Designer: Unknown

Design That Commands Attention

The chair goes beyond traditional function; it is a bold statement of art. Its striking golden color makes it the focal point of any room. Its textured surface, reminiscent of the roughness of geological formations or the fluidity of molten metal, introduces a raw elemental quality.

The chair’s rough texture and shiny gold finish create a unique look that catches the eye, blending rustic charm with a sleek, modern feel. Its shape breaks away from traditional designs, featuring edges that look like an artist’s chiseled. This daring design encourages us to think differently about what furniture can be, pushing the limits of typical forms and introducing a touch of bold creativity.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Speculating on the materials, the chair’s metallic sheen suggests it could be crafted from a metal like aluminum or a light alloy, capable of being worked into such detailed textures and shapes. The golden finish might be achieved through gold leafing, high-grade metallic paints, or sophisticated plating. Each method serves the aesthetic demands while ensuring the piece’s durability and structural integrity.

The pronounced texture suggests a meticulous, labor-intensive creation process involving hand-hammering or sophisticated casting techniques. These processes highlight the chair as much a product of skilled artistry as of functional design, emphasizing that behind every exceptional piece lies a deep, personal creation story.

Symbolism and Personal Reflection

As a fan of “Game of Thrones,” I found the chair’s chaotic yet regal aesthetic resonates with me. It echos the series’ portrayal of chaos intertwined with power. This chair isn’t just furniture; it embodies the essence of a throne, with its grand design and intricate textures evoking a sense of majesty.

When I first saw the chair in the hotel lobby, it felt like stepping into a storybook. Sitting on its golden surface, I couldn’t help but feel a touch of royalty, as if I were a king in my own right. Its robust form stood out against the hotel’s understated elegance, asserting itself as a central art piece. My simple attire contrasted sharply with the chair’s ornate design, highlighting its features even more.

This experience was more than an interaction; it was a reminder of how design can elevate our sense of self and place. The chair enveloped me in an aura of majesty reminiscent of the drama and grandeur of a throne room. For a moment, I felt part of that world, seated on a throne that was as much a piece of art as a symbol of power.

DIY: Echoing the Golden Touch

While recreating this exact chair might be daunting due to its unique nature, those inspired by its aesthetic can still bring elements of its style into their own spaces. Starting with a basic chair, one might consider applying gold leaf to textured areas or using metallic paint to achieve a similar effect.

Integrating golden accents through home decor can also help bring a part of this chair’s majestic and raw aesthetic into any interior design, allowing enthusiasts to capture a hint of its grandeur and artistic flair in their environments.

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Faye Toogood and Italian Craftsmanship Unite in the Squash Collection

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Imagine softness. Imagine boldness. Imagine playfulness. These words resonate deeply within the new Squash Collection, a daring collaboration with British designer Faye Toogood. This collection goes beyond traditional furniture; it explores form, comfort, and joy in design. The pieces invite you to sink into their plush cushions and relieve the day’s stresses. Each item, from armchairs to side tables, radiates a timeless, cutting-edge sense of whimsy and luxury. Beyond simply providing a place to sit, it’s about experiencing a piece of art that is also incredibly comfortable. These creations challenge you to rethink what furniture can be.

Designer: Faye Toogood + Poltrona Frau

An Unlikely Collaboration

When Poltrona Frau, a brand synonymous with Italian leather craftsmanship, met Faye Toogood, known for her unconventional design approach, the outcome was bound to be extraordinary. For over a century, this maker of luxurious leather goods has been crafting everything from high-end furniture to car interiors for Ferrari. Toogood, with her background in art history and editorial design, brought a fresh, sculptural perspective to the collaboration. Their partnership, while unexpected, highlights the incredible synergy of creative minds coming together.

Faye Toogood

Describing the collection as “English Folk with Italian Horsepower,” Toogood captures the essence of this partnership. Part of the 2024 Imagine Collection, the project encourages us to visualize our desires and shape our reality through creativity and design. This venture blends Toogood’s bold approach with Poltrona Frau’s tradition of exquisite craftsmanship, resulting in both functional and artistic pieces, merging the best of both worlds.

The Birth of Squash

During her visit to the factory in Tolentino, Italy, Toogood found inspiration in archival pieces from the 1970s and the iconic Vanity Fair chair from the 1930s. This exploration sparked the creation of the Squash armchair, a piece that honors the boldness of historic designs while venturing into new territories. Captivated by the surprising shapes and distinct designs, Toogood crafted a contemporary piece that respects historical roots while embracing contemporariness. The result is a voluptuous, inviting chair that beckons you to sink into its soft folds, seamlessly blending different eras and design philosophies.

The design captures a spontaneous, relaxed gesture, much like a pile of cushions casually arranged. This sense of spontaneity is a hallmark of Toogood’s design philosophy. The chair’s form is bold and gentle, creating an inviting and comforting presence in any space. The wrinkled leather adds a sense of movement and flexibility, enhancing comfort and softness.

Creating this piece meant digging deep into what comfort is and turning that idea into something you can feel. Toogood’s meticulous approach involved lots of experimentation with materials and forms. The result is a chair that is as much a piece of art as it is a functional object. This duality makes the armchair stand out, offering a unique blend of beauty and utility. The vibrant red leather, a nod to the brand’s archival colors, adds a striking visual element that draws the eye and makes a bold statement.

Exploring the Collection

The collection includes a matching ottoman, a side table, mirrors, and rugs alongside the armchair. Each piece reflects Toogood’s sculptural approach and the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The collection, as a whole, embodies a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic, challenging traditional notions of luxury furniture.

The ottoman, designed to complement the armchair, shares the same inviting curves and plush upholstery. It is a standalone piece that enhances the armchair’s comfort and functionality. The ottoman’s design allows versatility, serving as both a footrest and an additional seat. Its soft, enveloping form encourages relaxation, making it an essential component of the collection.

Then there’s the side table, another intriguing piece. It plays with the idea of a soft cushion squashed between two harder blocks, creating a whimsical yet functional design. This playful approach challenges conventional notions of what a side table should look like. The table’s organic shape and cushioned appearance make it a unique addition to any living space, blending functionality with artistic expression.

Mirrors in the collection also reflect this blend of art and utility. The trio of leather-upholstered mirrors echoes the organic lines of the armchair, with smooth glass cushioned in tactile, curving frames. The largest mirror is full-length and can be free-standing or wall-mounted, while the medium mirror is designed for wall mounting, and the smallest mirror is a pocket-sized compact. The frames are upholstered in leather, in colors chosen by Toogood from the brand’s collection. This thoughtful choice of materials and colors adds depth and continuity to the collection, making each piece cohesive.

A Blend of Cultures and Traditions

The Squash Collection beautifully blends English Folk Art with Italian craftsmanship. Toogood’s inspiration from her English heritage is evident in the playful, sculptural forms and the use of hand-painted motifs. The checkerboard rugs, inspired by old English patchwork chairs, capture the rhythm and imperfections of a hand-drawn line. Each square is hand-painted and translated into textiles using the traditional Berber knotting technique making these rugs pieces of art that bring warmth and personality to a room.

The influence of the Italian leather tradition is equally strong, seen in the meticulous leatherwork and commitment to quality. The brand’s heritage of craftsmanship ensures that each piece in the Squash Collection is beautiful but also durable and functional. This collaboration highlights the best of both designers, merging Toogood’s eccentric vision with the brand’s timeless elegance. The result is a collection transcending cultural and artistic boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary luxury.

This blend of cultures is particularly evident in the mirrors, where Toogood incorporates early English leather folk work elements. The conversation between something hard (the glass) and something soft (the leather frames) creates a dynamic interplay of materials. This approach adds a tactile quality to the mirrors, making the reflective surfaces an interactive pieces of art.

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Nest light installation at Tunisian port is inspired by a child’s sketch

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I live in a city where our idea of shared spaces are mostly malls. The fact that we don’t have any outdoor public places is a combination of bad city planning, the often too hot or too rainy weather, and maybe not seeing the need for places like these. So I envy cities where there are all kinds of parks, public squares, seafront quarters, and other spaces where people can just hang out without having to buy anything. And when there are even more interesting art installations there, I get even more envious.

Designers: Velvet, UN-LIKE, Stina Onemar

The Noblessner port in Talliinn, Estonia has existed even before World War I but now that it’s not a submarine shipyard anymore, it has become a public seafront quarter. A major attraction in this space is an illuminated bird’s nest made from metal, disused industrial objects and light art . What’s even more interesting here is that it was inspired by the sketch of 5-year-old Stina Onemar who thought about seeing something like this on top of the former lighting mast.

The eggs in the nest are made from polyethene and are actually weather resistant because of the rotational molding technology. The branches are made from materials from construction sites, including leftover roof edge trim to make the steel frame. These metallic materials also serve as reflectors for the lighting installation. The paint will also sport the eventual wear and tear until it blends with the light pole where it’s on top of, matching the natural ageing process since it’s located outside.

This is an interesting piece of art that combines reused materials with a natural design. The team from Velvet said that their design also shows how actual stork nests actually become “intertwined with human-made objects”. It’s also nice how they still involved the 5-year-old kid who inspired all of this in the production process. The nest light installation is visible from the road and also from the ships at sea.

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The Art of Speed: Julie Mehretu’s BMW M Hybrid V8 Art Car

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Julie Mehretu’s BMW M Hybrid V8 Art Car

In the heart of Paris, at the iconic Centre Pompidou, the air buzzed with anticipation. Art lovers, racing enthusiasts, and curious onlookers gathered, all drawn by the promise of a unique revelation. This was no ordinary exhibit; it was the world premiere of Julie Mehretu’s BMW Art Car, the 20th in a storied lineage that melds the worlds of high art and high performance.

Designer: BMW + Julie Mehretu

Julie Mehretu’s BMW M Hybrid V8 Art Car Art Car

Julie Mehretu, renowned for her expansive, intricate canvases, stood before the crowd, her excitement palpable. She had transformed the BMW M Hybrid V8, a machine of sheer power and precision, into a dynamic piece of art. This wasn’t just a car but a performative painting set to race in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans.

As the cover was pulled off the car, I can only imagine the gasps rippling through the audience. The vehicle’s surface was a riot of colors and forms, inspired by Mehretu’s monumental painting “Everywhen.” She had digitally altered photographs, layering dot grids, neon veils, and her signature black markings to create a three-dimensional masterpiece. This artwork was not confined to a gallery but was destined for the grueling, high-speed arena of Le Mans.

Mehretu’s painting “Everywhen”

In her studio, surrounded by sketches and digital models, Mehretu had envisioned the car as it would appear at breakneck speeds, the colors and shapes blurring into an exhilarating visual experience. “I imagined the car as if it had raced through my painting,” she explained. “I wanted it to seem like the car had absorbed the painting, transforming into something new and dynamic.”

This vision of speed and art was more than a personal achievement; it was a continuation of a legacy. The BMW Art Car series began in 1975 when French racing driver Hervé Poulain commissioned artist Alexander Calder to paint his car. Over the years, this intersection of art and motorsport has attracted legends like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Jeff Koons, each artist bringing their unique perspective to BMW’s high-performance vehicles.

Julie Mehretu’s BMW M Hybrid V8 Art Car Art Car

Mehretu’s creation stood proudly among these iconic predecessors. Her Art Car showcased her artistic ingenuity and the technical brilliance of the BMW M Hybrid V8. Underneath the vibrant exterior lay a hybrid electric drivetrain capable of producing 640 horsepower and reaching speeds of 345 km/h. This blend of art and engineering made the BMW Art Car series so compelling.

In the weeks leading up to Le Mans, the car stopped at the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este, where it was displayed alongside other historic BMW Art Cars. As Mehretu presented her creation, she spoke of the collaboration between artist and engineer, of turning a race car into a canvas that captured the essence of movement and energy.

Mehretu’s process of envisioning the Art Car involved imagining the physical and emotional experience of racing at high speeds. In her studio, she surrounded herself with sketches and digital models, immersing herself in motorsport and engineering. Her goal was to create a car that would not only perform on the track but also convey a sense of kinetic energy and fluidity through its design.

“I wanted the car to feel as if it had raced through my painting,” she said, highlighting her desire to merge art and performance. Mehretu’s artistic vision was to make the car appear as though it had absorbed the painting, transforming it into something new and dynamic. This transformation was visual and conceptual, as the car embodied the fusion of speed, art, and technology.

The car’s design elements—digitally altered photographs, layered dot grids, neon veils, and black markings—were meticulously chosen to create a sense of movement and energy. These elements, characteristic of Mehretu’s work, were applied to the three-dimensional surface of the car using 3D mapping technology. The result was a vehicle that seemed in perpetual motion, even stationary.

But the story didn’t end there. Mehretu’s involvement with BMW extended beyond the racetrack. She and the automaker had launched the PanAfrican Translocal Media Workshops, a series of events to nurture young artists across Africa. These workshops, set to tour cities like Dakar, Marrakech, and Cape Town, would culminate in a grand exhibition at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa. The fusion of art, technology, and social responsibility would inspire a new generation of creators.

Leading up to Le Mans, Mehretu’s BMW Art Car made an appearance at the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este. This prestigious event, held on the picturesque shores of Lake Como, brought together a collection of historic and contemporary BMW Art Cars. Here, the 20th Art Car stood alongside works by Alexander Calder, Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Jenny Holzer, and Jeff Koons. Each of these artists had left their mark on BMW’s vehicles, creating a lineage of art that celebrated innovation and creativity.

In a special presentation, Julie Mehretu discussed her creation with Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design. Their conversation delved into the process of transforming a race car into a performative piece of art, highlighting the collaborative effort between artist and engineer. Mehretu reflected on her experience at Daytona, where she witnessed the BMW M Hybrid V8 in action, feeling the power and precision that would soon bring her art to life on the racetrack.

Julie Mehretu’s BMW Art Car symbolizes artistic and technological synergy. As it sped down the track at Le Mans, the vibrant colors and dynamic forms would blur into a visual spectacle, capturing the essence of art and speed. This Art Car exemplified the power of creative collaboration and the enduring legacy of the BMW Art Car series, a tradition that continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the worlds of art and motorsport.

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8 Fascinating LEGO Builds Based On Iconic Paintings That Art Aficionados Cannot Miss

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It’s really quite extraordinary how there is a wonderful LEGO build for almost everything out there. Whether it’s a bowl of ramen, a scene from the show Friends, or even the Batmobile – honestly you can find LEGO’s adorable tendrils creeping almost everywhere, and we absolutely love it! So, it is a given that LEGO will eventually find itself in the prestigious and beautiful world of art. In this collection of LEGO builds, we’ve curated LEGO creations based on iconic paintings! From da Vinci’s Mona Lisa to the iconic Greate Wave of Kanagawa – we’ve curated a collection of beautiful LEGO builds inspired by tremendous works of art.

1. The Great Wave Of Kanagawa

One of the most iconic and beloved paintings in the art world is The Great Wave of Kanagawa. It is a significant and precious hallmark of Japan’s Ukioy-e art movement, and LEGO Art has recreated a LEGO version utilizing plastic blocks and a brick count of 1810 pieces. The piece includes a special brick with the artist Hokusai’s signature. The build includes multiple dot-shaped bricks which impart the painting with a pointillism effect.

2. Girl With A Pearl Earring

Made from 1619 LEGO bricks, the ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ LEGO build perfectly replicates the painting, and has some actual depth to it. Since LEGO bricks were used to build the piece, it does lack some of the finer details, but this is what makes it even more charming and unique. The girl in the build has the same blue and yellow headscarf, and a contemplative expression paired up with the pretty pearl earring which is the star feature of the painting.

3. The Scream

Edvard Munch’s The Scream painting was converted into an intriguing LEGO build! It perfectly captures the anxiety and fear Munch wanted to create in his painting, around 130 years ago. Created by LEGO builder Spacemanship, the build is made using 2999 pieces. He wanted to give people suffering from anxiety an outlet or channel for their emotions, and he really did a great job with this LEGO kit. The LEGO Ideas submission garnered a 10,000 votes milestone, and will soon be converted into a buyable LEGO kit.

4. The Portrait of a Woman in a Hat

Made by LEGO user Mecesoo, this intriguing brick-based portrait captures and recreates the essence of Picasso’s stroke by using colorful plastic bricks instead. The portrait is built using 1070 bricks without any loose bricks or collisions. The build is almost true in size to the original, hence serving as a brilliant replica. The painting is teamed up with a Minifigure of Picasso, an easel with his canvas on it, as well as two Picasso quotes with the artist’s signature.

5. LEGO Van Gogh’s Sunflowers

Van Gogh’s sunflowers become quite popular on Instagram, garnering a whole lot of attention. And LEGO master builder Chi Hsin Wei converted it into a stunning LEGO rendition. The pretty MOC includes a frame, and a fantastic three-dimensional rendition of the painting, with the flowers popping out of the canvas, and welcoming you with their simple beauty and charm.

6. The Starry Night

Vincent van Gogh The Starry Night LEGO Set

Vincent van Gogh The Starry Night LEGO Set

The Starry Night LEGO Set is based on Vincent van Gogh’s namesake painting. It is a 3D representation of the iconic oil-on-canvas painting by the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter. The build is another product of a LEGO designer’s imagination being put into production, and being converted to reality from an idea. This final production set is up for purchase, and LEGO lovers can create their own Starry Night recreation.

7. Mona Lisa

Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is brought to LEGO life with the LEGO® Art Mona Lisa (31213) painting building kit. You can recreate your own interpretation of da Vinci’s iconic painting. It features a bluer hue to reflect the colors that were used by da Vinci around 500 years ago, before paint evolved and changed with time. It serves as a beautiful wall art, or even as a lovely home decor gift for art lovers.

8. Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe Portrait

The LEGO Art 31197 Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe is for all the Andy Warhol and Marilyn Monroe fans out there! This fascinating set lets you recreate Andy Warhol’s famous pop art portrait of Marilyn Monroe. Once completed, the build features an exclusive signature tile and can be displayed as art on a wall or shelf. You are able to reproduce and recreate the iconic, mass-reproduced piece of pop art from the 1960s.

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AI artist will “train” robot dogs to do a live painting session

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Spot has been a pretty busy dog, previously appearing with super group BTS a few years and just last week, getting its own costume and dancing its heart out to celebrate International Dance Day. Lest you think that it’s an actual dog though, it’s actually a robotic dog that can do more than just jump and roll over. Now it’s branching out to the art world with a new exhibit featuring the power of AI.

Designer: Agnieszka Pilat

There has been a lot of heated discussions about AI and art but not all of them are always negative. While a lot have been critical, there are those that want to explore how autonomous technology and AI-generated art can aid in the democratization of art. One of those people is Polish artist Agnieszka Pilat. She has partnered with Boston Dynamics, or rather, Spot the robot dogs, for the Heterobota exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.

Two of the robot dogs, nicknamed Basia and Omuzana, will do a live painting demonstration in the museum on a 156 x 160 inch canvas on May 10. Pilat will be “training” the dogs to doodle and paint from 8PM to 12AM, with a little resting in between just like an actual artist would. Visitors in the museum can actually watch them live and the final work will not be displayed afterwards so your only chance to see the robot dogs in action would be during the live painting session.

Pilat says that the expected outcome is more like that of a “little kids finger-painting” since the technology is young and new, even though she has collaborated with Spot before. But it’s an interesting experiment in how humans can use AI and robots to generate art. Of course, there’s still a lot of discussion that rightly needs to be had but things like this can open up various viewpoints and opinions that can hopefully enhance the conversation.

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