Artists Aid the Syrian Humanitarian Crisis

With a resolution to the Syrian humanitarian crisis still far afield, resources for refugees—financial, medical and more—constantly need replenishment. Charity organization Gotham Cares debuted last night with an inaugural gathering, and thanks to contributions from artists like Andre Saraiva, Lucien Smith, and photographer Ben Watts, money was raised for both Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors without Borders) and the International Rescue Committee—and the thousands of people …

Cooper Hewitt’s 2017 National Design Award Winners

Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum has announced their 18th annual design award winners—those who embody excellence and innovation in 11 design categories. “In an era of tumultuous change, design is asking deep questions about its purpose and contributions to a better society,” explains Caroline Baumann, director of Cooper Hewitt. Among this year’s winners, internationally acclaimed industrial designer Hartmut Esslinger has been honored with a lifetime …

Difficult or Dangerous to Play Albums

For eight years now, music label Auris Apothecary has released albums that are difficult—and even dangerous—to play as a commentary on the ease of access digital technology provides. Some are more manageable, like a (sold-out) tape by the band Unholy Triforce which came in kit form that required assembling. Others produced by label founder Dante Augustus Scarlatti are absurdist and impossible—for example an Elmer’s “glue …