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Hidden: An Exhibition Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Gender-Based Violence

Running from 21 November to 22 December, Hidden is a powerful exhibition that coincides with White Ribbon Day on 25 November—the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women—and the beginning of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence. This moving showcase features artwork from 60 women who have been personally affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence in its many forms.

The exhibition prioritizes the artists’ voices, with all profiles and accompanying language presented exactly as the artists have chosen. This approach ensures their stories, perspectives, and creative expressions are conveyed authentically—whether shared in detail, sparsely, or in unconventional forms. Hidden is not just an exhibition but a testament to resilience, creativity, and the importance of being heard.

Cristina Starr

Cristina Starr is a London-based artist whose work delves into themes of brutality, love, violence, mortality, and human resilience. Drawing from deeply personal and universal experiences, her art explores the complex interplay between our animalistic instincts and the power dynamics that shape relationships and systems. A native of Washington, D.C., Cristina spent much of her life in New York City before relocating to London, with a formative period in Ballyvaughan, Ireland, during the early pandemic.

Her featured piece, Watching, is an evocative painting that examines dissociation and trauma within relationships. Through ambiguous and layered imagery, Cristina invites viewers to interpret the tension between love, violence, and self-awareness. A graduate of Goldsmiths London (MFA, 2023) and Brown University (BA, 2002), Cristina’s work has been showcased in prominent exhibitions across the UK, Ireland, and the U.S., earning her recognition for her thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.

Cristina Starr, Watching

Hui Yu Wang

Hui Yu Wang is a fine art photographer, curator, art historian, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the art world. As the CEO of Yuxuan Art Ltd, she specializes in showcasing contemporary and ancient Chinese and Taiwanese art, curating exhibitions to support emerging artists. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Hui Yu is a prolific artist herself, capturing the unexpected joys of life through watercolors, photography, and oil painting. With formal studies in art history, Chinese painting, and photography, her work reflects a deep understanding of cultural and artistic traditions blended with modern expression.

Her featured photograph, Stare, portrays a young girl selling paper flowers along the Ganges in India. Taken in February 2018, the image captures the profound maturity and resilience in the girl’s gaze, juxtaposing the innocence of childhood with the harsh realities of life. This work exemplifies Hui Yu’s ability to find extraordinary depth in ordinary moments, drawing viewers into the layered stories behind her subjects. Her extensive career includes exhibitions and curatorial projects across Taiwan, the UK, and the US, as well as published works and invited talks on Chinese art and culture.

Claire White

Claire White’s Behind the Curtains is a haunting exploration of the hidden scars of narcissistic abuse, rendered through a poignant combination of plastic, embroidery, and net curtain. The mixed media approach immediately draws the viewer into the duality of perception versus reality, with the translucent curtain acting as a metaphorical veil—what lies behind is obscured from society’s gaze.

The curled figure at the heart of the piece speaks volumes. Its defensive posture suggests vulnerability and pain, yet it remains an abstract symbol, inviting viewers to project their own interpretations. The embroidered words—sharp, accusatory fragments of the artist’s personal experience—cut through the soft fabric like scars on the psyche. This juxtaposition of delicate materials and harsh truths reinforces the idea that emotional abuse leaves wounds no less real than physical ones.

Artists Featuring in Hidden

Among the three artists mentioned above, here is a list of the superb artists featuring in the exhibition.

In the Dollhouse

Amy Oliver, Anne-Sophie Oury, Annie Taylor, Bryony Francis, Catherine Hill, Jane Claire Wilson, Linda Pearl Izan, Maria Walker, and Marie Hortin.

In the Gallery

Amarajyoti, Amelie Kellert, Amy Jasmine Ireland, Anisa Mosaiebiniya, Anne-Sophie Curry, Barbara Ash, Carly Roach, Cat Thorne, Chengyu Yao, Claire White, Clare Chinnery, Clare Parfree-Mitchell, Cristina Starr, Ditte Blohm, Donna Lowson, Frances Ross, Hillary Rosen, Holly Nerreter, Isabel Young, Jane Clarke MBE, Jane Griffiths, Jay Ray, Jokou, Julie Bancroft, Julieanne Long, Karen Mead, Kate Murdoch, Kate Roznys, Kate Walters, Kauser, Lesley Brankin, Linda John, Linda Pearl Izan, Lisa Pitchford, Lydia’s Tattooed Ladies, Marcia Harding, Melanie Relf, Melissa Hill, Michelle Herbert, Montserrat, Rochelle Ikin, Rochelle Malia, Rosemary Williams, Samantha Joseph, Sarah Heenan, Shado Hart, Sheena Stone, The Courageous Women of Safer Places, and Tracy Watt.

CAT THORNE
Helping a friend, empathy, safety, understanding. Love.
Oils
JANE GRIFFITHS
Talking About the Weather
Collage and mixed media painting

Videos

Amy Oliver, Annie Taylor, and Lara Hailey.

Cheekface Drop New Song ‘Hard Mode’

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Los Angeles band Cheekface have put out a new track, ‘Hard Mode’. It follows October’s ‘Flies’ featuring Jeff Rosenstock. Check it out below.

“This song is about growth and how fucking awkward it is, and it’s about growth’s younger sibling self-awareness, which is not the same as growth, and twice as awkward,” vocalist/guitarist Greg Katz said in a statement. “The phrase ‘living life on hard mode’ is something our touring keyboard player AJ likes to say when he does something that makes a routine task needlessly difficult, like reaching for something in a clumsy way when you could just ask someone to hand it to you.”

Katz continued:

I guess being in a band is a pretty hard-mode activity in general. I think the start of this musical idea was us wanting to do a dance song with a skittering hi-hat beat. Mandy came up with the super syncopated bassline and then I added the chunky guitar riff that became the chorus. It started as a really short song idea, maybe just 2 minutes long. But once the three of us started to learn it, we were having fun with the groove and wanted it to just keep going, so we stretched it out with the instrumental section.

This song also has an outro, which I don’t know if we’ve ever had in a song before–usually they just end. But we were touring this year with Yungatita and their song ‘Pick at Your Face’ has a really nifty outro. After hearing it every night for a month we were duly inspired.

Earlier this year, Cheekface surprise-released a new LP, It’s Sorted.

Anna B Savage Releases New Song ‘Lighthouse’

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Anna B Savage has released a new single, ‘Lighthouse’, lifted from her upcoming LP You and i are Earth. It follows lead offering ‘Agnes’. Listen below.

In a press release, Savage described ‘Lighthouse’ as “a gentle love song about how I presumed I would end up alone, but found someone who makes me feel held, safe and still a sort of (if you’ll forgive me) independent ship in the night. I tried to keep the production relatively simple like the song, as that’s how the emotion feels also. It’s just nice.”

You and i are Earth, the follow-up to 2022’s in|FLUX, comes out January 24 via City Slang. Check out our Artist Spotlight interview with Anna B Savage.

jasmine.4.t Shares New Single ‘You Are the Morning’

jasmine.4.t, the moniker of Manchester singer-songwriter Jasmine Cruickshank, has released a new single. ‘You are the Morning’ is the latest single from her debut LP You Are the Morning, which was recorded with all three members of boygenius – Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus – at Los Angeles’ Sound City Studios. Check it out via the accompanying video, directed by Faye Forrester and Spike Bee, below.

“One of my oldest and closest friends, Han, supported me through my transition,” Cruickshank explained in a statement. “She would put me up regularly when I had nowhere to stay. She helped me sort through the pain I had left behind then find the strength to fight for my life and the lives of those around me. This fight is urgent, as on Trans Day of Remembrance (20th November), we named 427 trans people who have died violently this year.”

“This song is about the healing found in queer friendship,” she continued. “It is about queer people’s resilience in the face of violence. It is about our potential to bring about change within ourselves, those around us, and the world at large. I think trans people in particular have an incredible ability to change this world. Of course, we are challenging norms of gender/sex. Beyond that, this year we have seen trans people dismantling violent machines of all forms to help manifest a bright future. This is what ‘you are the morning’ has come to mean – it is an awakening to our power, and a call to action.”

You Are the Morning is due for release January 17 on Saddest Factory Records. It features the previously released singles ‘Skin on Skin’ and ‘Elephant’.

Bonnie “Prince” Billy Unveils New Single ‘London May’

Bonnie “Prince” Billy has released the second single from his upcoming album The Purple Bird. Following lead cut ‘Our Home’, the track is named after actor and musician London May, who also appears in the Sai Selvarajan-directed music video. Check it out below.

Will Oldham recorded the follow-up to last year’s Keeping Secrets Will Destroy You with producer David “Ferg” Ferguson. ‘London May’ was originally written for the 2022 horror movie Night of the Bastard, which May was involved in. “I made up a song for him that combined some of the things I felt we shared,” Oldham explained, continuing:

“When David Ferguson and I were putting songs together for The Purple Bird sessions, I remembered the song I’d made for London’s film; I was performing it regularly live, and it didn’t feel quite complete… Ferg was game, and we tracked it. I’d long begun to want to hear other voices in the song. In the end, we roped in the phenomenal Kentucky-born singer Brit Taylor to sing harmonies and other supporting parts. Her voice is stellar to say the least.”

Selvarajan added: “This song is so beautifully constructed in that it starts off moody and dark and gives way to optimism. I really wanted the visuals to depict that. I took a lot of things I love and threw them into the creative cauldron. From breakdancing to skateboarding to mid-century modern architecture to 35mm slide projectors.”

The Purple Bird arrives on January 31 via Domino.

Cultural Narratives in Design: Celebrating Taiwanese Designer Yu-Chun Lin

In the dynamic and culturally rich landscape of Los Angeles, graphic design is undergoing a renaissance. Among the many talents shaping this transformation is Taiwanese designer Yu-Chun Lin also known as Jun Lin, whose thoughtful approach to visual storytelling has made her a standout voice in the global design conversation. Having called LA home for seven years, Jun blends cultural heritage with a keen awareness of the world around her, crafting designs that resonate deeply with authenticity and purpose.

“Los Angeles has an incredible visual rhythm,” Jun shares. “I’m inspired by the unfiltered creativity in everyday life—the posters on utility poles, weathered storefront signs, mismatched fonts. It’s raw, honest, and often intuitive.” This interplay between spontaneity and intention influences her designs, which seamlessly balance cultural narratives with environmental and social themes.

Rooted in Cultural Heritage, Shaping Global Impact

Jun’s work spans editorial, digital, and environmental design, each project reflecting her meticulous approach and empathy-driven philosophy. Her collaboration with Deem, a platform for social practice and critical design discourse, highlights her ability to craft compelling visual narratives. Through print materials, podcast visuals, and digital campaigns for Deem Issue 5: Climate Realities and Responses, Jun has extended the platform’s visual language, making complex issues more accessible.

Another defining moment in her career came through her work with Bloomberg Green, where she illustrated environmental narratives, including water resource issues in Senegal. These projects demonstrate her ability to distill intricate topics into visuals that inform and inspire, bridging gaps between data and human understanding.

Jun’s illustrations for Bloomberg Green

Her personal connection to cultural storytelling is evident in her award-winning book cover for Voices of Photography (VOP) Books, which melded traditional Hanzi typography with modern aesthetics. The design, which reflects her Taiwanese roots, earned her the 2023 Communication Arts Award of Excellence in Typography, underscoring her talent for weaving tradition with innovation.

Jun’s book cover design for VOP Books was a winner of the Communication Arts Award of Excellence in Typography 2023

Design as a Process of Care

At the heart of Jun’s creative philosophy lies a commitment to intentional and thoughtful design. “Design is not just about aesthetics,” she explains. “It’s a process rooted in research, understanding, and empathy.”

This ethos is exemplified in her custom typeface, Plantae, inspired by the organic diversity of plant life. Plantae bridges geometric precision with natural fluidity, embodying a connection between design and the environment. The typeface has been used in real-world applications, such as signage for an art installation on Governors Island and labels for a boutique wine brand. These examples reflect Jun’s ability to create work that feels both functional and deeply rooted in its context.

Plantae, a font Jun designed, in use for signage on Governors Island—plaque design by Neil Donelly Studio.

Plantae, a font Jun designed, in use for signage on Governors Island—plaque design by Neill Donelly Studio.

Blending Cultural Stories with Universal Relevance

Jun’s work resists rigid categorization, moving fluidly between branding, editorial projects, illustration, and environmental design. Her designs are grounded in rigorous research and an intuitive understanding of cultural narratives, resulting in creations that are both personal and universally resonant.

“Design is a dialogue,” she says. “It’s about finding harmony between creator and audience, tradition and innovation, the past and the future.” Whether crafting an intricate magazine layout or designing a digital campaign, Jun aims to tell stories that connect deeply with audiences.

A Thoughtful Approach to the Future

In a field often driven by spectacle, Jun Lin’s work stands out for its quiet intentionality and cultural depth. Her journey reflects a steadfast commitment to meaningful creative practice, prioritizing connection and cultural resonance over fleeting trends.

“As designers, we shape how people experience the world,” she concludes. “For me, that means creating work that bridges divides, fosters understanding, and inspires connection.”

Through her thoughtful, culturally rich approach, Jun Lin has carved a unique space in the design world—where visual storytelling becomes a tool for empathy, connection, and cross-cultural dialogue, one impactful project at a time.

The Unique Things About Finnish culture

Every country is different. As is the case with actual people, every culture has its own personality traits and quirks that are more or less unique to it. For instance, the Japanese are known to be rather humble, quiet, and reserved, whereas those in North America, specifically in the United States, are somewhat known for being loud and rambunctious. Of course, none of these characterizations fit every single person in said countries, but some general outlines may still be drawn.

In this article, we take a look at some of the things that make Finnish culture as well as the Finnish people stand out. To help us, we have listed 4 interesting things that separate this country of 5.6 million people in the Northern Hemisphere from the rest.

1. No small talk, only big talk

Much like what we said about their Japanese counterparts, Finns can be described as rather quiet and reserved. Finnish people rarely crave the spotlight and are mostly happy just living their lives with a small circle of friends.

In North American cultures, people tend to be very open to one another and even greet each other on the street. Finnish people not familiar with each other will normally not do this—even if they end up in the same elevator together. Generally speaking, there is nothing that a Finn is more afraid of than riding the elevator together with someone they don’t know. This is especially true if the ride is long. Instead of breaking the ice, most Finns would rather stay completely silent for the whole duration.

Finns are also not exactly great at making superficial friends. There is a saying that if you make a Finnish friend, you have made yourself a friend for life. However, getting to this point can be difficult as Finns do not really care for small talk. Instead, you would have to land in a situation where it is socially acceptable to get there via big talk about things that are actually meaningful.

2. Affinity for gambling

The Finnish people are known world over for their affinity for gambling. With almost 300 countries in the world, Finland ranks among the 4 most active gambling nations, only behind Australia, Japan, and Singapore.

The reason why Finns like to gamble so much comes from their history. The Finnish state-run monopoly started already in the 1940s and has been actively advertising its services ever since. On top of this, the website Zimplerkasinot lists several foreign online casinos that operate in the Finnish markets. Thanks to Finns’ love for gambling, the country is targeted by several outside companies as well.

In addition to slots and table games, Finns are avid fans of lottery games, keno, sports betting, and scratch cards. There really is no category of gambling that the Finns do not like, which is sadly also reflected on the country’s high prevalence of gambling problems.

3. Love for sauna

Did you know that it was actually the Finns who invented the sauna? When you think about it, this is quite understandable as the temperature tends to drop below zero for about 3 months straight during the winter time. When it gets cold outside, Finns just love to hole up inside and heat up the sauna.

One of the strangest things about Finland comes in the form of its many public saunas. When Finns bathe in the sauna, they always do it naked. In other words, getting together naked with people you don’t know is a perfectly normal occurrence that Finns don’t even think twice about. Funnily enough, the sauna is also the place where people tend to be most open to talking to complete strangers.

One could say that the sauna pretty much shatters all the typical Finnish social norms. Perhaps this is even one of the reasons why Finns love it so much.

4. Honesty to the max

We already mentioned how Finns aren’t really fond of small talk. This is also shown in the way that Finns usually both mean what they say and say what they mean.

In finance as well, Finns are known as some of the most trustworthy partners. Unlike in the English world, Finns don’t tend to exaggerate things. There is basically no hyperbole, and if there was, Finnish people would be quick to call it out for what it is.

For a Finn, their word is quite literally their bond.

Conclusion

As weird as Finland may be, something that they’re doing is definitely working. This is evidenced by the fact that the country has been chosen the Happiest Country in the World for 7 times in a row. While every country has its negatives, this is not a moniker that you tend to throw around lightly.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring the Best Truck Accident?

How would you ensure a strong claim after experiencing a truck accident? Have you considered how the best legal advocate can secure the compensation you deserve? Professional guidance is essential for navigating the complexities of accidents effectively. The right solutions protect your rights and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

The best truck accident attorneys provide expert representation and handle your claim carefully. Filing a claim requires detailed evidence, timely action, and a clear understanding of the processes. Here, we focus on the benefits of hiring skilled attorneys for vehicle collision claims. With professional support, you can achieve justice and focus on your recovery confidently.

Major Legal Issues in Accident Claims

Accident applications often involve complex regulatory challenges that can impact the outcome of your case. These issues require thorough understanding and expert navigation to ensure a fair settlement. Identifying and addressing these judicial hurdles early on helps protect your rights. Some of the major legal issues that can arise in accident claims include:

  • Determining liability when multiple parties, such as drivers and trucking companies, are involved.
  • Navigating complex federal and state regulations that govern the trucking industry.
  • Dealing with the large corporate interests of insurance companies that may try to minimize payouts.
  • Managing disputes over the evidence, especially when vital documents like driver logs are unavailable.
  • Understanding and addressing the role of insurance coverage limits in securing adequate compensation.

Expertise in Trucking Regulations

Professional accident advocates bring specialized knowledge of federal and state trucking regulations to your matter. This expertise helps them identify violations like improper maintenance, driver fatigue, or exceeding hours-of-service limits. Understanding these intricate laws is vital for establishing liability against trucking companies or drivers. Advocates leverage their knowledge to ensure negligent parties are held accountable for contributing to the mishap. This regulatory proficiency strengthens your case and enhances the likelihood of fair settlements.

Experienced advocates remain updated on changes in trucking regulations and regulatory precedents that affect liability. Their ability to navigate these complex rules allows them to challenge defenses effectively. This vigilance is instrumental when trucking companies attempt to avoid responsibility through technicalities. Clients benefit from attorneys understanding how to use these laws strategically to strengthen their matters. Their knowledge ensures that every possible regulatory avenue is pursued in your favor.

Thorough Investigation and Evidence Collection

Efficient attorneys conduct detailed investigations to uncover crucial evidence supporting your application. They collaborate with experts to analyze driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records. This comprehensive approach ensures no detail is missed when determining liability. Visual evidence, such as photographs of the scene and vehicle damage, bolsters your matter significantly. A well-documented claim positions you for favorable negotiations or litigation outcomes.

Advocates also gather statements from witnesses and consult specialists to reconstruct the events accurately. They ensure records are preserved and organized to present a credible case. Surveillance footage, if available, can be invaluable in demonstrating negligence or wrongdoing. This meticulous attention to detail provides a solid foundation for your claim. Clients can trust that their lawyers are leaving no stone unturned in uncovering the facts.

Accurate Assessment of Damages

Evaluating damages accurately is critical for ensuring clients receive reimbursements that reflect their losses. Experienced truck accident advocates calculate both financial and non-financial impacts of the collision. When assessing your claim, they consider medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and future medical needs. They also account for non-economic damages like pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. This evaluation ensures that all aspects of your situation are addressed effectively.

Lawyers often consult with medical and financial experts to project long-term costs accurately. In severe accidents, they may also work with a heavy-duty tow truck company to document the extent of vehicle damage and recovery costs. This forward-thinking approach is crucial for securing compensation for ongoing rehabilitation or diminished earning potential. Proper valuation prevents you from settling for less than what you are entitled to receive. Comprehensive damage assessments strengthen negotiations and judicial arguments. Clients benefit from an attorney’s ability to translate their hardships into a fair monetary recovery.

Skilled Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies frequently attempt to reduce payouts, making skilled negotiation essential for fair settlements. Reputable accident attorneys advocate assertively for their clients, ensuring insurers address all damages appropriately. They counter lowball offers and push back against tactics designed to minimize compensation. These professionals use evidence and regulatory knowledge to challenge claims that undervalue the accident’s impact. Their expertise helps level the playing field, ensuring you are treated fairly during negotiations.

Experienced teams anticipate insurer strategies, such as delaying responses or disputing liability. By navigating these obstacles, they maintain momentum and protect your interests. Negotiations focus on achieving resolutions that encompass both current and future financial needs. They aim to secure settlements that reflect the true scope of your injuries and losses. Clients benefit from the peace of mind that comes with strong advocacy.

Representation in Court Proceedings

Skilled attorneys are prepared to litigate when negotiations fail to result in a fair settlement. They develop compelling matters backed by data, expert testimony, and thorough legal arguments. Representing you in court allows them to effectively present your damages to the fullest extent. They manage the entire trial process, from filing motions to delivering closing arguments. Their courtroom expertise enhances your chances of achieving a favorable verdict.

During pre-trial negotiations, trial readiness also strengthens your position, as insurers often seek to avoid court. Advocates demonstrate commitment and preparedness, which can lead to more substantial settlement offers. Their ability to argue persuasively ensures the case is presented in the best possible light. Clients benefit from knowing their lawyers are ready to pursue every available legal avenue. Courtroom representation is often the key to achieving the justice you deserve.

Providing Peace of Mind

Recovering from a truck accident can be physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelming. Hiring the best attorneys allows you to focus on healing while they manage the judicial complexities. Experts take on the burden of filing documents, communicating with insurers, and building a strong case. This support minimizes stress and ensures you remain informed at every stage. Clients benefit from knowing their rights are protected by dedicated professionals.

Advocates offer clarity about the regulatory process, setting realistic expectations and addressing concerns. Their guidance helps you confidently navigate challenges and ensures your case progresses smoothly. By entrusting your matter to an experienced attorney, you can focus on your recovery and well-being. Clients appreciate the sense of security that comes with having skilled legal representation.

Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident requires skill and experience to secure fair compensation. The best truck accident attorneys possess the expertise to handle complex cases and negotiations. With their assistance, you can ensure that all aspects of your case are thoroughly addressed. Hiring a top-tier advocate significantly increases your chances of a favorable settlement. Trusting a skilled professional will give you peace of mind throughout the entire legal process.

Nail Art as a Fashion Statement: Creative Designs to Elevate Your Style

Nail art has transformed from a simple beauty trend into a significant fashion statement, capturing the attention of enthusiasts and professionals alike. As a form of self-expression, nail art allows individuals to showcase their creativity, personality, and style. This article explores the significance of nail art in the fashion world, the latest trends, techniques, and creative designs, as well as how to maintain and care for nail art, and the future of this vibrant art form.

The Significance of Nail Art in Fashion

Nail art serves as an accessory that complements a person’s overall look. Just as jewelry can elevate an outfit, nail art adds a unique touch that can reflect one’s mood or personality. Over the years, nail art has evolved from basic polish applications to intricate designs that often incorporate elements of fashion and art. The various colors and finishes of nail paint available today allow for endless creativity and personalization, making it an essential part of contemporary fashion.

Cultural influences play a significant role in how nail art is perceived and practiced around the world. In many cultures, nail art carries deep symbolic meanings. For example, in some Asian cultures, elaborate nail designs are seen as a status symbol and a form of artistic expression. As nail art gained popularity globally, it has been embraced by various cultures, leading to a rich diversity of styles and techniques.

The influence of popular culture cannot be overstated. Celebrities and social media have propelled nail art into the limelight, showcasing bold designs that inspire countless individuals. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become hubs for nail art enthusiasts, where tutorials and creative designs are shared widely, encouraging others to experiment with their nails.

Trends in Nail Art Designs

Current nail art trends encompass a range of styles that cater to different tastes and preferences. Classic designs, such as French tips and solid colors, have made a resurgence, often reimagined with modern twists. For instance, the traditional French manicure is now available in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing for personalization while maintaining its timeless elegance.

Seasonal trends are also significant in the world of nail art. As the seasons change, so do the colors and themes associated with them. Spring often brings pastel hues and floral designs, while summer may showcase vibrant colors and playful patterns. Fall introduces deeper, richer tones, and winter typically features glittering designs that mimic the sparkle of snow.

Techniques for Nail Art

The techniques employed in nail art vary widely, catering to both beginners and advanced practitioners. Basic techniques such as freehand painting, stamping, and the use of decals can yield impressive results without requiring extensive experience. For those new to nail art, starting with simple designs can help build confidence and skills.

Advanced techniques, like water marbling and 3D designs, offer exciting possibilities for more experienced nail artists. Water marbling involves swirling different nail polishes on water to create stunning patterns that can be transferred onto the nails. Meanwhile, 3D designs can include gems, beads, or sculpted elements that add depth and texture to the nails.

Creative Nail Art Ideas

The world of nail art is bursting with creativity, offering endless inspiration for designs that can elevate any look. Geometric patterns have become increasingly popular, characterized by sharp lines and bold shapes that convey a modern aesthetic. These designs can range from simple stripes to complex overlapping shapes, appealing to those who prefer a minimalist yet striking approach.

Floral designs, on the other hand, are timeless and often embody femininity. From delicate daisies to bold roses, floral nail art can be tailored to suit various styles and occasions. These designs allow for an infusion of color and creativity, making them perfect for any season.

Textured nail art is another trend gaining traction. By incorporating different finishes, such as matte, glossy, or glitter, nail art enthusiasts can create a dynamic look that captures attention. Velvet and suede-like textures have also emerged, adding an intriguing tactile element to nail designs.

Nail Art and Personal Style

Aligning nail art with fashion choices is crucial for creating cohesive looks. Choosing designs that complement outfits not only enhances overall style but also showcases attention to detail. For instance, a bold, graphic nail design may pair beautifully with a monochromatic outfit, adding a pop of visual interest without overwhelming the ensemble.

Nail art also serves as a powerful means of expressing personality. Each design can reflect one’s tastes, moods, and identities, offering a glimpse into the individual behind the art. Whether opting for playful designs, sophisticated patterns, or edgy looks, nail art allows for personal storytelling through color and creativity.

Conclusion

Nail art has undeniably established itself as a powerful form of fashion statement, offering individuals the opportunity to express their creativity and enhance their style. With a plethora of designs, techniques, and maintenance practices available, nail art continues to evolve, reflecting the changing landscape of fashion and personal expression. As trends come and go, the essence of nail art as a canvas for individuality remains constant, inviting everyone to embrace their artistic side and elevate their style through creative designs.

Unpacking Lucien Li’s New Single “Abyss (feat. Lzery)”

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In recent years, progressive instrumental rock and metal have captured the imagination of young musicians and fans worldwide. Among these musicians, Lucien Li has distinguished himself with his unique style and voice. His latest single, Abyss, showcases his technical proficiency and compositional vision while raising discussions about the balance between technique, emotion and commercialisation in progressive music.

The title Abyss and the single artwork call to mind imagery of dark, unfathomable depths, drawing from ancient cosmogonies where the abyss is seen as the chaotic origin of all things. Much like these primordial realms, the song projects a sense of both devastation and creation. In this way, Abyss becomes a metaphorical exploration of creation and chaos, a space where disparate influences converge and evolve into something entirely new.

As a progressive rock musician, comparisons to Polyphia are almost inevitable, given the genre’s focus on technical guitar work and electronic music. However, unlike bands like Polyphia, Lucien Li works as an independent solo artist. This difference naturally impacts certain aspects of his music, such as the dynamics of drum and bass performances, which in Abyss stand out in notable ways because most parts of the song are programmed rather than recorded live. While this can make the music feel less “human” compared to live-band recordings, Abyss focuses more on creating a cleaner, electronically influenced sound. By employing synthesizers and electronic music production, Lucien Li creates a sound distinct from conventional rock bands.

For instance, instead of using traditional drum and bass, Abyss utilises 808 bass tones, which are more commonly found in electronic and trap music. Lucien Li pushes this idea further by spanning three octaves in his 808 basslines, rather than limiting it to a single octave. The bassline starts in the lowest octave during the introduction, evolves to harmonise with the guitar in mid-range frequencies, and occasionally incorporates slides into higher octaves. These details add dynamics to the low-end, compensating for the absence of live instrumentation. This choice contributes to a cleaner, synthetic aesthetic that differs from the “organic” feel of live band recordings.

The structure of Abyss also deviates from conventional verse-chorus arrangements. Instead, it includes a quieter transition in the middle, characterised by an interlude (featuring Lzery) that contrasts clean tones with the overdriven guitar motifs that follow. The interlude’s evolving complexity and the return of Lucien Li’s guitar parts add an element of surprise and excitement to the track. While this approach might lack the emotional highs or climactic build-ups found in conventional music, the transition from soft clean tones to heavier, overdriven guitar creates a dynamic contrast.

One critique of Abyss lies in its perceived uncertainty, as it blends rock music with elements of hip-hop and electronic music. To some extent, this might make listeners feel that the track sits uneasily between mainstream accessibility and technical exploration. The heavy use of pop music elements and the lack of traditional guitar techniques, such as string bending, may lead some guitarists or traditional rock music audiences to conclude that the piece lacks emotion. As a guitarist, his choice to borrow elements from pop music culture sparks debate: does it reflect a compromise for the sake of marketing and promotion, or does it represent his genuine aesthetic vision? Regardless, this blend demonstrates a careful balance between complexity and accessibility. It proves that progressive music can be both intricate and inclusive.

Lucien Li’s current work reflects deliberate choices about when to simplify and when to emphasise complexity. As a skilled guitarist and composer, he has the ability to take the experimentation in his music further. However, if Lucien were to push his music to the absolute limit of complexity, it might not align with the kind of music he wishes to deliver. In Abyss, he has successfully found the ideal balance between mainstream appeal and experimentation, creating a form of progressive rock that engages and resonates with a wider audience, rather than catering solely to professional musicians.

We caught up with Lucien Li to discuss his approach as a progressive music artist, his creative process, and how he sees himself in the future.

What does your creative process look like when composing music?

Lucien Li: It usually starts with an idea of what kind of music I want to create for the piece. For Abyss, the elements of trap music guided the entire process. I started by creating a track with a synth sound, writing the arpeggios and the chord progression. I then moved into expanding the backing track and the full production. I also spend a lot of time programming the rhythm section before pulling out my guitar to play along with the track. Finally, I edit the production details to cater to the guitar composition.

You’ve been compared to Polyphia, especially because of the genre’s technical nature. How do you view those comparisons?

Lucien Li: I take it as a compliment, because I’ve always looked up to them. But I also aim to carve out my own style. Unlike a full band, I work independently, which gives me freedom but also presents challenges, particularly with the dynamics. Abyss is actually part of an indispensable attempt at developing my own genre.

When you were writing Abyss, did you consider that it should be heard by more people, so you sacrificed the real idea and aesthetic in your mind?

Lucien Li: No, not at all. It’s just the sound in my head. I simply wrote out what was already there. When I write songs, I don’t necessarily consider what people might like or not, whatever music I’m writing, it’s always my music and the message I want to convey.

How do you see your music evolving in the future?

Lucien Li: I think my music will continue to combine influences from various genres like jazz and math rock, and I’m also interested in exploring more live elements, like piano and bass. While I enjoy the precision of programming and electronic production, there’s something special about the possibility of live performances that I’d like to capture in my future projects.