Researchers at the Unconventional Computing Laboratory are exploring the potential to build computers out of living systems in order to create more complex machines. Current technology operates in binaries despite the fact that much of the world is more multidimensional. In comparison, computers potentially made from fungi—with its intricate, branching structure—could offer a new way of processing information. To create them, researchers have tapped into …
Originally an airbrushed painting, this risograph print from skateboarder, activist and artist Jeffrey Cheung is a touching depiction of three nude figures embracing. Printed by Cheung himself, the limited edition artwork (which measures 10.35 by 12.75 inches) celebrates queer identities playfully and tenderly.
Mexican multidisciplinary design studio MANUFACTURA devised a new way to create building materials from discarded eggshells. The team used locally-sourced food waste (collected from donations and nearby restaurants) that, when combined with bio-binders, became a thick material compatible with 3D printers. The eco-friendly method then merged digital manufacturing and computational design to create an eggshell brick, from which a wall can be formed (composed of …
3D printing startup Icon collaborated with home-builders Lennar Corp and architecture firm Bjarke Ingels Group to create the Genesis Collection, 100 3D-printed homes in the Wolf Ranch suburb of Austin, Texas. These homes not only comprise the world’s largest neighborhood of its kind, but they are also built more efficiently, quickly, cheaply and sustainably than those made by traditional means, while being more resistant to …
Back in 2018, years before De La Soul’s music became available on streaming services and before Dave “Trugoy” Jolicoeur sadly passed away, the hip-hop trio spoke with Ebro (via Apple Music) about their catalogue and legacy. The group fought for control of their masters in order to share them digitally for many years; until now De La Soul had ostensibly been “erased from the digital era.” In …
After Beyoncé’s Grammys speech thanking the queer community for creating house music, NPR’s Throughline gathered quotes and anecdotes from various conversations to create a kind of oral history of the genre which began in Chicago in the late 1970s and early ’80s, thanks to Black and mostly gay DJs. The article includes significant moments for the genre: Frankie Knuckles moving to Chicago, the iconic Warehouse …
Technical and sleek, Smith’s new Pursuit alpine glasses have been designed in collaboration with professional skier Cody Townsend. Crafted for ski mountaineering (climbing up and skiing down), the glasses provide protection from bright light and bounced light from the snow while also featuring a ChromaPop™ Glacier Photochromic lens that adapts to changing light conditions. Equipped with removable, magnetic TPU side shields and a removable nose-cover, …
From home goods store Golden Rule comes Tiles Gift Wrap, wrapping paper featuring artist Isabelle Feliu’s hand-painted repeat pattern. Subtly hued, the paper measures around 19 by 28 inches and is crafted from FSC-certified stock with vegetable-based ink.
French brand Black Crows built their reputation with reliably playful and elegant skis but their outerwear has also been evolving with slick, progressive designs. The Ora Xpore Modul Jacket features an innovative over-jacket vest (providing extra warmth without too much bulk) as well as a removable snow skirt, adjustable cuffs and helmet hood. The vest has four pockets and can be worn separately or zipped …
Featuring an herbaceous eucalyptus aroma, this Serotonin Soak is made with magnesium zechstein flakes, French green clay, apple cider vinegar, seaweed extract and essential oils for a relaxing, almost medicinal feeling bath. Between its large flakes (mixed in with tiny salts), green-ish tinge (from algae extract) and no-frills packaging, its appearance may be misleading, but the result is soothing. The brand suggests four scoops in …
With “coogie,” LA-based artist Dijon (aka Dijon Duenas) returns with his first new music in two years. The gentle track was crafted with Mk.gee (aka Michael Gordon) and Andrew Sarlo, and features Dijon’s trademark tender, vulnerable vocals. With scattered percussion and at-times muffled guitar, the song possesses a meandering, improvisational nature that ebbs and flows effortlessly. Of the track, Dijon tweeted: “made a song in …
“Hold Her,” by London-based singer-songwriter and musician MADELEINE, is a luminous, synth-led track that blends nu-jazz, pop and soul. The track (produced, performed and arranged by MADELEINE, with drums by Jack Robson) is set to appear on the artist’s upcoming Sun Daughter EP. Part love song and part plea, it’s a lush, layered bop.
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Appearing on NME and Bose’s C-Series mixtape (slated to land mid-March), “The Bend” by King Princess is a tender, gentle ballad. The artist (aka Mikaela Strauss) lends soft and at times raspy vocals to the track, which—combined with the song’s guitar-led and spacious production—is immediately affecting. Of the track, Strauss says, “It’s about feeling like every time you get to the mountain, there’s another mountain, …
Renowned artist Nina Chanel Abney has teamed up with Ledger for a limited edition Nano X, the company’s pocket-sized cryptocurrency wallet, that’s been adorned with her cheerful, colorful design. It’s available through a raffle that’s open to Super Cool World NFT holders, and entering takes only a few steps. Rather than waiting for a draw, participants will know immediately if they have won. Find out …