The Golden Ratio’s African Origins

The golden ratio (aka the divine ratio)—which formed the foundation for modern Swiss design—was long believed to have originated in Ancient Greece, but evidence suggests it was actually invented in Africa, where the golden ratio, rectangle and spiral were commonly used in almost every imaginable artistic medium. Whether on Kente cloth in Ghana or architecture in Cameroon, diverse sources support this claim. (Additionally, empirical measurements …

Sesame Street Welcomes Two Black Muppets

Though Sesame Workshop (the non-profit behind the beloved TV show Sesame Street) continues to cast “a racially and ethnically diverse human cast,” it’s never directly addressed race or racism. This season, that changes with the introduction of two Black muppets, Wesley and Elijah Walker, who will have conversations about what it’s like to be Black in America. According to Time, “a 2019 study by Sesame …

Calico Wallpaper’s Horizon-Inspired Collections

An artistic extension of Calico Wallpaper’s ombré effect Aurora collection, inspired by memories of horizons seen around the world by founders Rachel and Nick Cope, the Brooklyn brand’s new Dawn series features guest contributions by four international design studios. From Swiss designer Ini Archibong’s comforting cotton candy-like creation (inspired by the skies over Lake Neuchâtel) to the moody reds manifested by Milan’s Dimore Studio (conjuring the sensations …