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Printler: Bringing art to the People

In a world where genuine art is often tucked away in exclusive galleries, accessible only to those in the know, Printler finds its mission: To bring art to the people. Art isn’t supposed to be spared for a selected few and cost a smaller fortune, art is for all. Printler sprinkles art online, as well as out in the streets – literally, meeting people where they are. This unorthodox way of getting art out there, started back in 2023 with Printler’s successful Art Print Exhibition; an outdoors guerilla marketing campaign spreading precious Art Prints throughout Europe. Now they’re leveling up and revolutionizing the art scene even further, by arranging never seen before, ambitious street exhibitions in its true form. Stockholm is first up, but keep eyes open for the big Printler van swooshing by, loaded with fresh art – your city might be the lucky next.

Printler is a Swedish-based platform connects independent artists with art lovers, in a thriving marketplace with nearly 100,000 unique artworks from over 17,000 global creators. By producing authentic art as gallery quality Art Prints, Printler empowers individuals to fill their spaces with art that speaks to them – real, vibrant, and authentic.

Art for every taste and space

Printler strongly believes that art is meant for everyone, and the online art gallery indeed holds something for every person and style – inspiring people to go public with their taste in art. With an extensive and diverse art collection of photography, paintings, illustrations, and digital art, the platform represents artists and art styles from all over the world. Whether you love bold abstracts, moody landscapes, or quirky illustrations, Printler’s marketplace offers an incredible selection, curated for individuality. This isn’t the average, generic, mass-produced décor we’re used to see – it’s genuine, human-created art to cherish and be proud of.

On-demand Art Prints

Printler’s commitment to quality and sustainability sets it apart. Each piece is professionally produced on-demand in Printler’s Stockholm studio, where it’s printed on premium 230g paper using advanced, water-based ink jet technology, to ensure that the art is represented in the best of ways regarding both color, durability and overall luscious look and feel. Crafting each Art Print only when it’s ordered not only ensures top-tier quality but also minimizes waste, making Printler a responsible choice for both art lovers and the environment. Every single Art Print is carefully handled by professionals with craftmanship, love, and care.

Supporting independent artists

Every purchase on Printler is a step toward supporting independent artists. The platform empowers artists of all backgrounds to reach new audiences and earn an income through their creativity. With over 17,000 contributors, Printler celebrates a global community of creators, offering a range of styles and perspectives that makes it easy to find art that speaks to you. By buying through Printler, you’re not only getting amazing, genuine art, you’re also helping artists worldwide to pursue their passion and creating a sustainable, mutually supportive, artsy ecosystem.

Building a global art movement

The demand for affordable, genuine art is high – and Printler’s influence is naturally growing fast. Already active in 14 European markets, with recent launches in the UK and plans for the U.S., Printler is rapidly expanding to meet the demand for accessible, meaningful art. Sales have grown 73% in the last year, underscoring the platform’s role as a leader in making authentic art available to everyone. With a relentless devotion and commitment to quality, sustainability, and inclusivity, Printler is building a global art movement that connects artists and art lovers in a shared appreciation for creativity.

The Evolution of Mississippi Music: From Delta Blues to Contemporary Sounds

Mississippi has long been a cradle of musical innovation, and its legendary artists cast a cultural shadow that spans the globe.

If you’re unfamiliar with what’s so special about the music scene from this southern state, stick around and we’ll bring you up to speed with its storied history.

Tracing the Roots to Mississippi’s Delta Blues Origins

The Delta blues scene arose from a collection of social and cultural conditions, nurturing a distinctive sound that echoed resilience and sorrow.

The Delta region may have been fertile, yet it was fraught with hardship and thus became the setting for this evocative genre’s rise to prominence.

Key characteristics of the original Delta blues included:

  • Emotional storytelling rooted in African American experiences
  • Use of slide guitar techniques
  • Call-and-response patterns echoing work songs

Pioneers like Robert Johnson embodied these elements. He was one among many who left an indelible mark on music history. His haunting melodies influenced countless artists across generations.

Through the raw emotion embedded in their performances, early blues musicians conveyed personal struggles and communal stories alike.

In fields and juke joints, these soulful sounds took root, setting a foundational tone for what was to come. And today’s Mississippi music ecosystem is still intertwined with what arose way back in the early 20th century.

Influential Mississippi Musicians Who Changed the Game

Mississippi’s tapestry of talent spans generations, and the state has proven itself capable of producing musicians whose work transcended borders and influenced genres across the spectrum.

For instance:

  • B. King brought Delta blues to mainstream audiences with his expressive guitar solos and emotional vocal delivery.
  • Elvis Presley merged rockabilly with country roots, forever altering the landscape of rock ‘n’ roll.
  • Muddy Waters electrified Chicago’s music scene, creating a powerful urban blues sound that laid the groundwork for future genres like rock and soul.

Each artist ultimately pioneered shifts in cultural perception. Their groundbreaking innovations fueled revolutions in how audiences experienced music emotionally and socially as the 20th century rumbled onwards.

The March of Musical Styles in Mississippi Through the Decades

It’s clear that Mississippi’s music scene is a dynamic mosaic, one that’s defined by evolution while still managing to draw on its deep roots. Over time, it has seen an infusion of new sounds and genres.

Through the decades:

  • The 1950s saw rock ‘n’ roll burst forth from blues foundations with artists like the aforementioned Elvis Presley leading the charge.
  • During the 1960s, Mississippi’s gospel music rose in popularity, infusing spiritual themes into broader musical conversations.
  • By the 1970s, soul music echoed through Mississippi’s halls, taking on regional gospel influences of the previous decade and making them even more saleable to a mainstream audience.
  • The late 1980s brought country and Americana styles to wider audiences through musicians like Charley Pride, who was embraced in parts of the world where unrest was rife.
  • In the 1990s, hip-hop emerged as a prominent genre that creatively melds traditional Southern narratives with contemporary beats. We’ve even seen modern rappers hark back to Mississippi’s music legends, with name-checks signifying their significance today.
  • In the 2000s, alternative rock bands from Mississippi gained national attention, blending local sounds with broader trends.

This creative evolution exemplifies Mississippi’s ability to innovate without abandoning its past. As modern musicians push forward artistically today, they draw inspiration from those historical legacies that came before them while pioneering new trends for tomorrow’s audiences.

Contemporary Sounds in Mississippi

Today, Mississippi remains a hotbed for musical innovation, constantly embracing new sounds while maintaining its rich cultural heritage.

For instance:

  • Indie folk artist Dent May blends traditional storytelling with modern acoustic elements.
  • Southern hip-hop continues to evolve through artists like Big K.R.I.T., bringing regional narratives to audiences from other parts of the planet.
  • Fusion jazz bands like Vasti Jackson experiment by mixing blues roots with global influences, crafting fresh soundscapes.

The emergence of digital platforms also allows musicians to reach wider audiences than ever before. As such, Mississippi’s crop of contemporary performers is better positioned than ever to spread their sounds to fans wherever they might be.

Final Thoughts

There’s no doubting Mississippi’s musical significance, so if you’re looking for something to listen to right now, search up an artist from this state on your streaming platform of choice and give your ears a true treat.

Key Strategies For Increasing Winnings In The Mines Game

Mines-game.com takes the classic Minesweeper and adds strategy, risk, and rewards. Players must find gems in a grid without hitting mines in this game. Once you unlock a mine, the game concludes. Our guide explains strategies for winning. Among other things, we will consider how it works and reveal how to bet smartly.

Understanding the Basic Mechanics of the Mines Game

This gambling option adopts the main features of classic Minesweepers and adds a twist. The  Mines game pattern follows this format:

  • You choose how many “mines” will be hidden on the game grid. 
  • Next, place their bets and start gameplay. 

Each game tile holds a gem (winnings) or mine (loss). The Mines game rules are simple: find gems without hitting mines. Having more mines on the grid means higher payouts, but this option comes with increased risks. A lower number of mines offers lesser risk. However, the rewards are small. 

One key strategy for Mines game is knowing when to cash out. You can cash out anytime after initiating gameplay. However, you must cashout before hitting a mine to secure your wins. Success in this game comes from balancing risk and rewards by adjusting and managing your bets.

The Role of Patience and Concentration in Increasing Winnings

Unlike fast-paced games, Mines rewards careful, measured play. Rushing decisions or revealing too many tiles without thought raises the risk of hitting a mine. A good Mines game strategy involves steady, calculated moves where each choice leads to more consistent earnings over time.

Patience also means knowing when to stop. The urge to keep revealing tiles for higher pay can be strong, increasing the danger of hitting a mine. Success comes from cashing out at the right moment.

Focus is also important when deciding. Mines involve chance and strategy, so players must concentrate on how probabilities change as tiles open. Impulsive, risky plays from excitement or anger can cause careless mistakes by ignoring the odds in certain spots. Clear thinking means calculating each move and adjusting bets according to changing risks in the game.

How to Create a Suitable Strategy in the Mines Game

There are several Mines game winning tricks you can try. Some players apply the principles of betting systems like Martingale in Mines. Such players double their bets after losses to recoup all lost wagers and eventually profit. This strategy risks vast losses if a long losing streak occurs.

A safer approach involves adjusting bets and mines based on risk. Start with smaller bets, especially with more mines, since the risk is higher. If there are more gems on the grid, increase your bets. However, have a preset amount you wish to cash out per session. Once you hit that amount, take your winnings by cashing out.

Understanding probability is vital to making good decisions while playing Mines. Each hidden tile has a certain chance of containing a mine. As gameplay progresses, the odds of selecting a mine increase, so stay aware of changing probabilities.

Bet Distribution: When and How to Change Them

Managing bets in the Mines game online real money carefully is vital to maximizing wins and limiting risks. Bet distribution means deciding bet amounts based on mine numbers that appear on the grid. Given this fact, your bets should change dynamically. 

If you have many mines, start with small bets to protect yourself against heavy losses. Increase your bet amount for grids with a low number of mines. If you wish to increase risk by adding more mines to the grid, ensure you adjust your bet accordingly. Do not become so absorbed in gameplay that you fail to lower the size of your bets.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes in the Mines Game

  1. Set a cashout goal before starting, so your emotions don’t make you greedy and cause you to lose everything, chasing bigger wins.
  2. You should control your emotions by sticking to a strategy no matter what happens. That is the best Mines game strategy you can adopt.
  3. Use probability calculators that provide real-time odds updates as you play to make informed cashout decisions grounded in math rather than guesses.

How to Make Your Makeup Last All Day: Tips for Flawless Wear

There’s nothing more frustrating than spending time on your makeup in the morning, only for it to smudge, fade, or melt away by midday. Whether you have a busy work schedule, a day filled with events, or just want your look to last through a long evening, long-lasting makeup is a must. Fortunately, achieving flawless, all-day wear is easier than you might think with the right techniques and products.

Prep Your Skin for Success

The key to long-lasting makeup starts with a properly prepped base. Cleansing and moisturising your skin creates a smooth canvas, while a primer can extend the wear of your makeup significantly. Choose a primer suited to your skin’s needs—hydrating for dry skin, mattifying for oily skin, or colour-correcting for uneven tones. Prepping your lips is also important; exfoliate gently and hydrate with a balm before applying a stunning lip gloss or lipstick to ensure a smooth and vibrant finish.

Layer Your Products Strategically

Layering your makeup correctly is crucial to enhancing its longevity. Begin with a lightweight foundation that matches your skin tone and blend it well for an even application. Follow with a long-wearing concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles. Instead of applying heavy layers of foundation, build coverage gradually to prevent caking or sliding.

For powder products like blush and bronzer, use light layers and build up the colour as needed. Cream-based products often adhere better to the skin, so consider using a cream blush or bronzer as a base before lightly setting it with a powder version.

Set It and Forget It

Setting your makeup is an essential step for all-day wear. After applying your base products, use a translucent powder to lock them in place. Focus on areas prone to oiliness, such as your T-zone, to keep shine at bay.

For added security, finish your look with a makeup setting spray. A good setting spray not only helps makeup stay put but also blends all the layers seamlessly for a natural, flawless finish. Look for sprays with specific benefits, such as mattifying for oily skin or hydrating for dry skin.

Focus on Long-Wear Eye Makeup

Eyeshadow creasing and smudged eyeliner are common problems, but they’re easily avoided with the right products and techniques. Start by applying an eyeshadow primer to your lids, which helps shadows stay vibrant and prevents creasing throughout the day. Opt for long-wearing or waterproof eyeshadows, and blend them well for a polished look.

When it comes to eyeliner, gel or waterproof formulas are your best friends for all-day wear. To further enhance longevity, set your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow. For mascara, choose a smudge-proof or waterproof formula to avoid raccoon eyes, especially on humid days or during long events.

Choose Long-Lasting Lip Products

Keeping your lip colour intact can be challenging, especially when eating or drinking. To make your lipstick or gloss last longer, start by lining your lips with a lip liner in a shade that matches your chosen colour. Fill in your lips with the liner for an added base layer. Apply your lipstick or gloss over the top, then blot with a tissue and reapply for a second layer. This technique helps the colour adhere better and reduces the need for frequent touch-ups.

If you prefer a glossy finish, opt for a long-wearing formula or a tinted balm that adds hydration and shine while staying in place.

Keep Shine Under Control

For those with oily or combination skin, managing shine is essential for a long-lasting look. Carry blotting papers in your bag to quickly absorb excess oil without disrupting your makeup. Alternatively, a compact powder is a great tool for on-the-go touch-ups. Look for lightweight, translucent formulas that mattify the skin without adding extra texture.

Avoid Touching Your Face

One of the easiest ways to ruin your makeup is by frequently touching your face. This can transfer oils and dirt to your skin, breaking down your makeup faster. Be mindful of habits like resting your face on your hands or rubbing your eyes, as these can cause smudging and fading.

Hydration and Environmental Protection

Keeping your skin hydrated throughout the day can help maintain the integrity of your makeup. Use a hydrating mist or setting spray to refresh your look if your skin starts to feel dry. Additionally, consider incorporating SPF into your routine to protect your skin from sun damage, which can cause makeup to deteriorate more quickly.

Pack Essentials for Quick Touch-Ups

No matter how well you prepare, keeping a few essentials on hand for touch-ups can make all the difference. Include items like a compact mirror, powder, lipstick or gloss, and a small brush or sponge in your bag. These tools will allow you to fix minor issues and keep your look fresh all day.

Conclusion

Making your makeup last all day requires the right preparation, techniques, and products. From prepping your skin with a primer to layering strategically and using long-wear formulas, these steps can help you achieve a flawless look that endures from morning to night. With a little extra effort and attention to detail, you can enjoy vibrant, smudge-proof makeup that keeps you feeling confident and polished, no matter where the day takes you.

Level Up Casino Online Review 2024

Welcome to our deep dive into Level Up Casino, one of the most exciting and innovative online casinos in Australia today.

Level Up Casino has swiftly climbed the ranks to become a go-to gaming destination for players around the globe. Established in 2020, this casino has seamlessly combined modern technology with classic casino appeal, creating an online gaming experience that’s hard to match. In this Level Up Casino review, we’ll walk you through everything from its background and bonuses to gameplay and support.

About Level Up Casino 🎉

Level Up Casino was launched in 2020, right in the heart of the online gaming boom, and it’s managed to capture the attention of players worldwide. Licensed and regulated by the government of Curaçao, this casino is designed to provide a safe and thrilling experience. It was created with a mission to bring a premium casino experience right to the comfort of players’ homes. With a user-centric interface, an extensive game library, and mobile optimization, Level Up Casino offers a top-notch gaming experience, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player.

VIP Program and Loyalty Rewards 🎖️

Level Up Casino takes player loyalty seriously with a rewarding VIP program designed to elevate the gaming experience. As players engage and wager on the platform, they accumulate points that can be redeemed for various perks, from cash bonuses to exclusive promotions. The VIP program is tiered, so as you climb the levels, you unlock more substantial rewards and benefits. This feature not only adds excitement but also ensures that regular players feel valued and rewarded for their commitment.

Responsible Gaming Tools ⚖️

Level Up Casino promotes responsible gaming by offering tools and resources to help players manage their gambling habits. Players can set deposit limits, wager limits, and even session time reminders to ensure they stay in control. For those who might need a break, Level Up Casino provides self-exclusion options, allowing players to temporarily or permanently restrict access to their accounts. Additionally, the casino collaborates with organizations that provide support and assistance to those experiencing gambling-related challenges, underlining its commitment to a safe and healthy gaming environment.

Exclusive Seasonal Games and Tournaments 🎉

Adding to the thrill, Level Up Casino regularly hosts seasonal events and tournaments that bring an extra layer of excitement to the platform. These events often feature exclusive or themed games and offer players a chance to compete for big rewards, including cash prizes and free spins. The competitive aspect of these tournaments gives players a chance to challenge themselves and see how they rank against others on the leaderboard, making for a social and engaging gaming experience.

Pros and Cons of Level Up Casino 🕹️✨

Pros 👍

  • Wide Game Selection: Thousands of games from top providers.
  • Generous Bonuses: Attractive welcome packages and regular promotions.
  • User-Friendly Site: Clean, intuitive design for easy navigation.
  • 24/7 Customer Support: Available through live chat and email.
  • Secure Transactions: Uses SSL encryption to protect player data.
  • Mobile-Friendly: Optimized for gaming on mobile browsers.

Cons 👎

  • No Dedicated Mobile App: Players have to access the casino through a browser.
  • Restricted Countries: Some bonuses and games are unavailable in certain regions.
  • Limited Search Functionality: Finding specific games can be challenging.

Official Website Experience 💻

The official website of Level Up Casino is a blend of style and functionality. Upon landing on the homepage, players are greeted with a clean design featuring the latest promotions, popular games, and an easy-to-navigate layout. The casino employs sleek visuals with vibrant colors, creating an inviting environment that enhances the gaming experience. Key sections are clearly labeled, allowing users to navigate from the games lobby to the promotions and banking sections with ease. This design is complemented by a fast-loading interface, minimizing wait times and ensuring that games run smoothly on both desktop and mobile browsers.

How to Sign Up at Level Up Casino 📝

Registering at Level Up Casino is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Visit the Level Up Casino Website: Open the official site on your browser.
  2. Click on “Sign Up”: This button is typically located in the top right corner of the homepage.
  3. Fill in the Registration Form: Enter your email, choose a password, and fill in other necessary details.
  4. Confirm Your Account: Check your email for a confirmation link and click it to activate your account.
  5. Complete Profile Details: Fill in additional personal information to fully activate your account.
  6. Make Your First Deposit: Head over to the cashier section, choose a deposit method, and get started!

Bonuses and Promotions at Level Up Casino 🎁💸

Level Up Casino’s bonuses are designed to enhance your gaming experience from the get-go. Here’s a closer look:

Welcome Bonus 🌟

The welcome bonus package is spread across the first four deposits and offers a total of up to $900 along with 200 free spins. Here’s how it breaks down:

  • 1st Deposit: 100% up to $400 + 100 free spins (Bonus Code: LVL1)
  • 2nd Deposit: 50% up to $600 + 50 free spins on selected slots (Bonus Code: LVL2)
  • 3rd Deposit: 50% up to $600 + 50 free spins on Elvis Frog in Vegas (Bonus Code: LVL3)
  • 4th Deposit: 100% up to $400 (Bonus Code: LVL4)

Regular Promotions 🎉

Apart from the welcome package, Level Up Casino keeps players engaged with various promotions:

  • Midweek Boost: 50% up to $100 plus 20 free spins every Monday to Thursday.
  • Weekend Surge: 50% up to $200 with 40 spins for weekend play.
  • VIP Program: Loyal players can earn points and redeem rewards, including cash bonuses and exclusive perks.

These bonuses cater to both newcomers and regulars, ensuring there’s always a reward around the corner.

Software Providers 🎲

Level Up Casino partners with industry-leading software providers to ensure a top-notch gaming experience. Players can enjoy titles from renowned names like:

  • Microgaming
  • NetEnt
  • Play’n GO
  • Evolution Gaming
  • Yggdrasil

With providers like these, you can count on high-quality graphics, seamless gameplay, and fair play. New titles are frequently added, keeping the gaming library fresh and exciting.

Games at Level Up Casino 🎮

Level Up Casino boasts an extensive collection of games, covering all categories from slots to live dealer games.

  • Slots: Titles include popular games like Aztec Magic Bonanza, Elvis Frog in Vegas, and Big Wild Buffalo. Slot fans can choose from classic three-reel slots to advanced video slots.
  • Table Games: If you’re a fan of table games, you’ll find plenty of options here, including Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat.
  • Live Casino: The live casino section offers an immersive experience with real dealers. Games like Live Blackjack and Live Roulette provide a real-world casino atmosphere.

Safety and Fair Play 🔒

Level Up Casino is committed to providing a safe gaming environment. The casino is licensed by the government of Curaçao, ensuring compliance with industry standards. Moreover, the site uses SSL encryption technology to secure player data and transactions. Regular audits by independent agencies guarantee fair gameplay, and players can access audit results to verify game fairness.

Banking Options 💵

When it comes to transactions, Level Up Casino offers a range of secure options:

  • Deposit Methods: Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrencies.
  • Withdrawal Methods: Visa, Mastercard, Bank Transfer, and e-wallets.

Most deposits are processed instantly, while withdrawal times can vary depending on the method chosen. Crypto transactions are usually processed faster, making it a convenient choice for players looking for quicker withdrawals.

Mobile Gaming 📱

While there’s no dedicated app, Level Up Casino’s website is fully optimized for mobile play. The mobile version retains all the features and games found on the desktop version, offering a seamless experience on smartphones and tablets.

Customer Support 💬

Level Up Casino provides 24/7 customer support through:

  • Live Chat: Immediate assistance with queries and issues.
  • Email Support: Responses within 24 hours.
  • FAQ Section: Comprehensive answers to common questions.

The support team is friendly, knowledgeable, and dedicated to helping players resolve any issues.

FAQ 🤔

  1. How do I sign up for Level Up Casino?
    Visit the site, click on “Sign Up,” fill in your details, and confirm your email.
  2. What payment methods are available?
    You can deposit and withdraw via Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrencies.
  3. Does Level Up Casino offer a mobile app?
    No, but the mobile-optimized site provides a smooth gaming experience on mobile browsers.
  4. Is Level Up Casino safe?
    Yes, the casino is licensed and uses SSL encryption for secure transactions.
  5. What games are available?
    Level Up Casino offers slots, table games, and live casino games from top providers.

Final Verdict: Level Up Casino – Worth the Hype? 🌐✨

In the competitive online casino world, Level Up Casino stands out for its robust game selection, generous bonuses, and player-centric approach. With an intuitive design, secure banking, and dedicated customer support, it’s an excellent choice for both new and seasoned players in Australia. While the absence of a mobile app and some regional restrictions could be downsides, the overall gaming experience is top-notch.

For players ready to “level up” their gaming experience, this casino is a must-try!

Synthetic Wilderness: Exploring the Intersection of Nature and Technology

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The exhibition proudly featured young artists Yilin He (Piry), Yihe Huang, Taojun Yang, Keyi Liu, and Ruiyan Sun, showcasing their works in Upper East Manhattan from October 18 to October 25. Drawing inspiration from nature, these artists explored the tension and harmony between the artificial and the natural, aiming to create a delicate balance through their artistic narratives. Employing synthetic materials, light and shadow media, and digital technology, their creations overlay imaginative constructs onto the real world. The resulting pieces exude an uncanny yet familiar quality, awakening hidden memories and emotions. This shared characteristic—emotive and vibrant—defines the essence of the exhibition.

Synthetic Wilderness, Photography by Judo

Today, artificially manufactured environments are constantly encroaching on the few remaining natural wildernesses, and this impact is irreversible and indelible. The advancement of digital technology, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, bionics, genetic engineering, and other new technologies has repeatedly surpassed human cognitive boundaries, blurring the distinction between nature and the non-natural. This exhibition intends to lead visitors to a synthetic wilderness where nature and the non-natural intermingle, urging them to confront the materialized world with a critical and questioning attitude in order to attain harmony with nature and sustainable development.

Untitled Natural Stills by Yilin He(Piry), Photography by Judo

Untitled Natural Stills by Yilin He(Piry)

In the imaginative world of artist Yilin He(Piry), there is a fusion of virtual landscapes and real nature. She seals imaginative elements from ancient myths and real natural symbols together in digital media, creating digital life forms that seem to have always existed. Her works are pseudo-documentary image symbols, yet they are able to evoke genuine emotional resonance.

Nature Archive by Yihe Huang, Photography by Judo

Nature Archive by Yihe Huang

The works of artist Yihe Huang showcase post-humanist doubts in a palpable and concrete manner. Human bodies will ultimately perish, yet consciousness will be sustained in artificial entities to attain immortality. Currently, words, images, sounds, and videos are all means of documenting human consciousness, but they are also information that is readily manipulable and modifiable. Human civilization, similar to nature, confronts the threat of being hijacked by technology.

Light and Cold Conversations: Atlantic, Algorithms and Visibility by Juntao Yang

Drexciyans, an underwater race possessing the ability to inhabit the vast oceanic depths, as they are the descendants of thousands of pregnant African slaves who were tossed into the sea from a ship bound for America on account of illness.

Artist Juntao Yang’s film transports the nautical Afrofuturist myth originating from the Detroit music production collective Drexciya to a future world where artificial intelligence is widely used. It utilizes absurd metaphors to convey contemporary truths. AI algorithms are creating another wilderness, a truly unfamiliar and desolate no-man’s-land. And at the root of it all, it still stems from human selfishness, bias, and greed.

The Last Dream by Keyi Liu, Photography by Judo

The Last Dream by Keyi Liu

In the series of illustrations crafted by artist Keyi Liu, the entire order of the mundane world is shattered and supplanted by a capricious and unrestrained new realm. The dragons transmuted from colored glass, a lonesome mermaid yearning for a rain of blossoms, and a blue-haired damsel ensnared in a peculiar ritual – all elements shatter the shackles of the rules and flaunt the freedom inherent in their nature.

Whispers of the Departed: A Memorial Reflection Experience by Ruiyan Sun and Light and Cold Conversations: Atlantic, Algorithms and Visibility by Juntao Yang, Photography by Judo

Whispers of the Departed: A Memorial Reflection Experience by Ruiyan Sun

The installation artwork by artist Ruiyan Sun is about the unique memories of an anonymous man throughout his life. It reflects on the relationship between the living and the dead, especially intimate relationships. The memories shared in the installation are short-lived, but they can enrich the stories of the dead. Leveraging the fleeting nature of memory, the artist aims to remind the audience t

Author Spotlight: Sergio de la Pava, ‘Every Arc Bends Its Radian’

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When Riv del Rio flies back to Cali, Colombia, fleeing an ugly breakup, he has no idea about the journey he’s about to take. His cousin sets him up with work — finding a local woman’s daughter, an intelligent woman who has been missing for a while. Seems easy enough, but as Riv finds himself more enmeshed with the story of the town and the underlying criminal activities within it, he seems to realize he’s out of his league, but not before he comes face to face with the Earth’s darkest secrets and unlikely realities. Funny, philosophical, and genuinely mind-bending, Sergio de la Pava’s Every Arc Bends Its Radian constantly surprises and shocks. 

Our Culture chatted with Sergio de la Pava over email about conversations, arguing, and genre.

Congrats on your new novel! How has the reception been so far?

Well, that’s really none of my business, is it? If someone says I messed with their head,
or words to that effect, then I guess success. Either way the globe will keep spinning
undeterred and largely undetected.

Riv is such an interesting narrator; he’s pulled to his homeland of Colombia, half fleeing a breakup, half to look for other work. When did he start to form in your mind?

Riv seems the reactionary type. Events form him at least as much as he initiates them. So I’ll say he started forming on that flight to Cali.

I like that the book is mostly dialogue — he trades off jabs with his friends and later foes with really clever ideas. What goes into one of your conversations?

I respond best to conversations where you feel the parties have arduously reasoned the matter through for themselves well beforehand and are just now filling us in.

Each chapter begins with an ‘argument’, a kind of motto that determines how he acts in the world. Some interesting ones assert ‘How any misgiving, if properly investigated, is empirically sound,’ or ‘The world as a kind of sleight of hand.’ How did this structure influence the novel’s themes?

These arguments seem to be able to exist out of time, as it were, to comment helpfully on what then unfolds. The words entry and argument helpfully have multiple meanings and connotations and it’s mostly left to the reader to disseminate this ambiguity as they see fit.

The book takes a bizarre turn that I didn’t see coming where Riv comes face-to-face with the criminal syndicate Mondragon, a villainous non-entity he’s been tracking down. Were there any real-life influences for this character?

Sadly, our world is full of Mondragons. The only question remaining is whether we will allow them to win; not looking good so far.

Even though it starts out as a detective novel, you really subvert it by adding body horror and bold ideas, along with becoming a thriller towards the end. Did you set out to write something kind of difficult to classify?

The kind of classification you’re talking about is, above all, unnatural. Genre works are very careful about their rules. How depressing, it ain’t me.

One of the book’s main ideas is that reality as we know it is not as it seems — you certainly make a parallel as the book peels back more and more layers. Why did you want to explore this idea?

I suspect it’s more like there are varying levels of reality, all true in their special way, but most of them untrue in the ultimate ways that signify.

You also touch on artificial intelligence and superhuman cognition, the origins of humanity. Was this inspired by the recent upticks in AI research?

Novels mostly have to opt out of current events. This one’s no different as its inventions predate the rise in notoriety you’re referencing.

So many ideas come together towards the end, I kind of picture you as someone who works out philosophical ideas through fiction — they’re definitely picked apart and examined from every angle. Is this a correct read?

It’s correct in that I know a lot more about what I believe at the end of a novel than I do at the outset. But it can be difficult, even for me, to tease out what’s motivation and what’s byproduct.

Finally, what’s next? Are you thinking of any themes for the next work?

How much of what we call romantic love is bound up in notions like loyalty and erasure of self?


Every Arc Bends Its Radian is out now. 

Casino Gaming Industry This 2024: Online Casino Trends of 2024 and Popular Casino Games Around the World

Casino gaming is a global phenomenon that continues to grow in popularity, evolving with technological advancements and changes in consumer preferences. From traditional table games to innovative online slots, the world of casino gaming offers a wide range of entertainment options for players of all types. In this article, join Glory Casino Online as we explore the latest trends in casino gaming and take a look at some of the most popular casino games played around the world.

The Evolution of Casino Gaming

From Land-Based Casinos to Online Platforms

Casino gaming has come a long way from the classic land-based casinos that were popular in cities like Las Vegas and Monte Carlo. With the rise of the internet, the industry has shifted towards online platforms, allowing players to enjoy their favorite games from the comfort of their homes. Online casinos offer a wide variety of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer experiences, making it more convenient for players to access their favorite forms of entertainment.

Mobile Gaming: The Future of Casinos

Mobile gaming is one of the biggest trends in the casino industry today. With the widespread use of smartphones and tablets, players can now access casino games on the go. Mobile apps and responsive websites have made it possible for players to enjoy a seamless gaming experience, whether they are waiting in line or relaxing at home. Mobile gaming has brought casino entertainment to a broader audience, making it more accessible than ever before.

Popular Casino Games Around the World

Slot Machines: The Most Popular Casino Game

Slot machines are the most popular casino game worldwide, and they come in a wide variety of themes and formats. From classic three-reel slots to modern video slots with multiple paylines and bonus features, slot machines are loved for their simplicity and excitement. In regions like North America and Europe, slot machines dominate casino floors, while online casinos offer thousands of different slot games to suit every player’s preference.

Blackjack: A Classic Card Game

Blackjack is one of the most popular card games in both land-based and online casinos. Known for its simple rules and low house edge, blackjack is a favorite among players who enjoy using strategy to increase their chances of winning. The goal of the game is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over, making it a game of skill and chance. Blackjack tables are a staple in casinos around the world, from Atlantic City to Macau.

Roulette: The Game of Chance

Roulette is a classic casino game that has captivated players for generations. With its spinning wheel and the thrill of predicting where the ball will land, roulette is a game of pure chance that offers an exciting experience. Players can choose from different types of bets, such as betting on a specific number, a color, or a range of numbers. European roulette and American roulette are the two most popular variations, with slight differences in the wheel layout and odds.

Baccarat: A Favorite Among High Rollers

Baccarat is a card game that has gained popularity, especially among high rollers and players in Asia. The game is known for its elegance and simplicity, with players betting on whether the player or banker hand will win, or if the result will be a tie. Baccarat is particularly popular in Macau, where it accounts for a large portion of casino revenue. The game’s straightforward rules and high stakes make it an appealing choice for many players.

Emerging Trends in Casino Gaming

Live Dealer Games: Bridging the Gap Between Online and Land-Based Casinos

Live dealer games are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a more immersive experience for online players. By streaming real dealers from a studio or a land-based casino, live dealer games bring the atmosphere of a physical casino to the player’s screen. Games like live blackjack, live roulette, and live baccarat allow players to interact with the dealer and other players, creating a social experience that bridges the gap between online and traditional casinos.

Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology

Cryptocurrency is making its mark on the casino industry, with many online casinos now accepting Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies as a form of payment. Blockchain technology is also being used to increase transparency and fairness in gaming, providing players with greater confidence in the integrity of the games. The use of cryptocurrency offers faster transactions, increased privacy, and lower fees, making it an appealing option for many players.

Virtual Reality (VR) Casinos

Virtual Reality (VR) is an emerging trend that is set to revolutionize the casino gaming experience. VR casinos allow players to immerse themselves in a virtual casino environment, complete with realistic graphics, sounds, and interactions. Players can walk around the casino floor, play at different tables, and interact with other players—all from the comfort of their home. VR technology is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to create a fully immersive and engaging gaming experience.

Regional Differences in Casino Gaming Preferences

North America: Slots and Poker

In North America, particularly in the United States, slots and poker are among the most popular casino games. Las Vegas is known as the gambling capital of the world, with its iconic casinos offering a wide range of games and experiences. Texas Hold’em poker has a strong following, with numerous tournaments and events held across the country. The popularity of poker has also been boosted by televised events and online platforms, making it a favorite for many players.

Europe: Roulette and Blackjack

In Europe, roulette and blackjack are the most popular casino games. European roulette, with its single zero wheel, offers better odds compared to American roulette, making it a favorite among players. Blackjack is also widely played, with many European casinos offering different variations of the game. The rich history of casino gaming in countries like Monaco and the United Kingdom has contributed to the popularity of these classic games.

Asia: Baccarat and Sic Bo

In Asia, baccarat is by far the most popular casino game, especially in regions like Macau and Singapore. High rollers are drawn to baccarat due to its simplicity and the potential for large wins. Sic Bo, a dice game that originated in China, is also popular in Asian casinos. The game involves betting on the outcome of three dice, and its fast-paced nature makes it an exciting choice for many players.

Conclusion

Casino gaming is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry that offers a wide range of entertainment options for players around the world. From classic games like blackjack and roulette to emerging trends like VR casinos and cryptocurrency gaming, there is something for every type of player. As technology continues to advance, the future of casino gaming looks bright, with new innovations and experiences that will continue to captivate and entertain players for years to come.

Laraaji, Hand Habits, Brad Oberhofer, and More on Their Relationship With the Piano

The artists featured on piano1, the label section1’s new compilation dedicated entirely to solo piano compositions, were given two guidelines: piano has to be the main instrument, and the piece must not feature any vocals. Artists like Kelly Moran, the acclaimed pianist and composer whose contribution opens the vinyl version of the album, are used to experimenting with the natural sound of the instrument, weaving a dance between emotion and technique. But for others, like Japanese singer-songwriter Ichiko Aoba and Hand Habits’ Meg Duffy, whose primary instrument is the guitar, the project posed an interesting, even mysterious, challenge. Listening to piano1 is an opportunity to hear musicians with varying relationships to the instrument explore a simple prompt that incites a curious mix of comfortability and complexity: Danish artist ML Buch translates her hypnagogic dream-pop on ‘Getting to Know Each Other’, fiddling with a grand piano’s clean precision; Brad Oberhofer captures a dusty, wistful intimacy; and ambient veteran Laraaji’s piece is intricate and playful, less inclined to slip into dreamy territory. But while it conjures a range of moods that speaks to its diversity of talent, piano1 is wonderful to sink into as a whole, an invitation – as it was for every contributor – to slow down, drift off a little, and perhaps start remembering.

We asked some the artists featured on piano1, which is out today, to talk about their earliest memories of the piano and how contributing to the project reignited or deepened their relationship with it. Check out their responses and listen to the album below.


Laraaji

My earliest experience of the piano was through the church at the age of ten, when no church service was in progress, and I was alone with the piano. I would explore it with enthusiasm. My mother lovingly acknowledged this and invested in an upright piano for the house as well as piano lessons. This support started me on my quest of mastering improvisational music through the piano. Today, my expression ability through the keyboard is greatly developed, and one of my favorite musical expressions through the piano is spontaneous improvisational waltzes.

Hand Habits

My earliest memories of piano: a dusty piece of furniture, out of tune, intimidating, music locked away and inaccessible behind technique and knowledge. The piano was the place where the embarrassing family photos live. An altar for wooden santas, candelabras, last week’s junk mail. The piano was a mystery to me… a place where melody doesn’t quite sound right.

In college, I dreaded piano class. I got lost in all of the lines and spaces that seemed to exist beyond all margins. In February of 2023 I was asked to perform two of my songs on the piano at Carnegie Hall. During this time, I took lessons and started very very slowly developing a comfortable yet still mysterious relationship with the piano. I was shown the deep and unfurling realm of resonance, the fixed voicings only found in one place per octave, the sympathetic colors that seem to endlessly blossom and chance beneath my touch.

I’ve always primarily written and composed on the guitar and have spent most of my life monogamously with guitar as my channel. I still feel intimidated by the piano, but this composition has inspired me to explore the complex simplicity that this instrument has to offer. Being a part of section1’s compilation motivated me to compose from a place of curiosity and follow my ear.

Brad Oberhofer

I have surprisingly few early memories of piano, given there was always one in my living room growing up. I briefly took lessons around age 8 in Tacoma, WA. My teacher smoked a ton of cigarettes and collected dollhouses. There were several dollhouses and miniatures around the living room where I took lessons. She had this bizarre and magical aura about her, on top of being an incredible pianist and teacher. She was a deeply kind and empathetic person, with a toughness about her. She occasionally taught lessons out of her parents’ house, who were both concert pianists. Her parents were collectors, too: covering the walls of their home – which struck me as grand and castle-like when I was young – with dozens of pendulum clocks. To exist there was to witness a fragment of my teacher’s strange and mystical childhood. When my lessons ended, I could experience that spectrum of strange clocks, chiming differently in unison.

Contributing to this compilation has resulted in my first ever solo piano piece pressed to vinyl, and I can only imagine that if my childhood teacher were to hear me playing solo piano on a record, she’d be proud.

The Kimba Unit

My earliest memories of the piano would be in the beginning of high school (I was a late bloomer) trying to copy and learn songs from D’angelo, Prince, Stevie… that family tree. This project made me more comfortable with simplicity. There’s infinite things you can discover about yourself and your craft when you bring restraint into your practice.

Alan Wyffels

I have been playing the piano for as long as I can remember and it has always been my main outlet for creativity, curiosity and self-regulation. When I sit down to play the piano it’s never with the intention to “write a song” – I just play. The seeds of the piece I contributed to the piano1 have been floating around in my improvisations for many years. But given the assignment I was motivated to flesh out the ideas into some sort of beginning, middle and end.

Matthew Tavares

My earliest memory of the piano is when I went to a group piano lesson with my mom. I was 4 years old and I absolutely hated it. I didn’t go to another lesson until I was 9 when I suddenly wanted to try again and I fell in love with the instrument. Even though I owe my whole musical career to the piano, I haven’t really thought about it much the past 5 years. I play here and there but it hasn’t been the focus of my musical life. Sometimes I forget I can even play the piano lol. When I do play it’s normally improvising pieces and recording it on iPhone, which felt like the most natural thing to contribute. Getting asked to be a part of this project made me remember that one of the deepest relationships I have is with the piano, I had simply forgotten.


piano1 is out now via section1.

Albums Out Today: Father John Misty, Kim Deal, Michael Kiwanuka, Red Hot Org, and More

In this segment, we showcase the most notable albums out each week. Here are the albums out on November 22, 2024:


Father John Misty, Mahashmashana

Father John Misty has released his sixth LP, Mahashmashana, via Bella Union (the UK and Europe) and Sub Pop (everywhere else). The 2022’s Chloë and the Next 20th Century. includes the previously unveiled singles ‘Screamland’ (featuring Alan Sparhawk of Low on guitar) and ‘She Cleans Up’, as well as ‘I Guess Time Just Makes Fools of Us All’, which also appeared on a greatest-hits compilation the singer-songwriter released earlier this year. Father John Misty, aka Josh Tillman, produced the record in Los Angeles with Drew Erickson, while frequent collaborator Jonathan Wilson served as executive producer.


Kim Deal, Nobody Loves You More

Kim Deal of the Breeders (and formerly of Pixies) has issued her debut solo album, Nobody Loves You More, via 4AD. The 10-track effort was previewed by the songs ‘Coast’‘Crystal Breath’, ‘A Good Time Pushed’, and the title track. Some of the songs on the record date all the way back to 2011. Collaborators on Nobody Loves You More include past and present members of the Breeders (Mando Lopez, twin sister Kelley Deal, Jim Macpherson, Britt Walford), as well as Raymond McGinley (Teenage Fanclub), Jack Lawrence (Raconteurs), and Savages’ Fay Milton and Ayse Hassan. The LP was mixed by Marta Salogni and mastered by Heba Kadry.


Michael Kiwanuka, Small Changes

Michael Kiwanuka has dropped a new album titled Small Changes. He reunited with producers Danger Mouse and Inflo on the record, which marks his first full-length since 2019’s KIWANUKA. It also features contributions from bassist Pino Palladino (D’Angelo, Beyoncé) and Jimmy Jam of Jam & Lewis. The singles ‘Floating Parade’‘Lowdown (part i)’ and ‘Lowdown (part ii)’, and ‘The Rest of Me’ arrived ahead of today’s release.


Red Hot Org, TRA​И​Ƨ​A

The Red Hot Organization’s latest compilation, the 46-track TRA​И​Ƨ​A, has arrived. Billed as a “spiritual journey celebrating trans people,” the album brings together artists including André 3000, Sade’s Sade Adu, Moses Sumney, Fleet Foxes, Yaeji, Perfume Genius, L’Rain, Adrianne Lenker, Sam Smith, Beverly Glenn-Copeland, Clairo, and Cassandra Jenkins, among many others. “We hoped to create a narrative that positions trans and non-binary people as leaders in our society insofar as the deep inner work they do to affirm who they are in our current climate,” producer Dust Reid explained. “We felt this is something everybody should do. Whether you identify as trans or non-binary or otherwise, if you took the time to explore your gender, get in touch with the feeling side of yourself, maybe we would have a future oriented around values of community, collaboration, care, and healing.”


LEYA, I Forget Everything

New York-based duo LEYA are back with a new mini-album, I Forget Everything, via NNA Tapes. Following the guest-heavy 2022 mixtape Eyeline, the collection marks harpist Marilu Donovan and vocalist/violinist Adam Markiewicz’s first release without collaborators since 2020’s Flood Dream. “I Forget Everything was written amidst confusion and exhaustion,” they explained in a press release. “It speaks through the distortion of memory, an abandonment of the cruelty of utopia, and the imminent loss of the past despite an unimaginable future.”


Various Artists, piano1

section1 has released a new compilation of solo piano music. piano1 features new original compositions from Hand Habits, Youth Lagoon, Mark William Lewis, Kelly Moran, Ichiko Aoba, ML Buch, Laraaji, Alice Boman, and more.
piano1 is as much about showcasing the artists involved as it is showcasing the piano as an instrument, how different artists approach their creative relationship with the instrument, and how, depending on an artist’s approach, the same 88 keys used by each can produce such drastically different sounds, moods, etc.,” the label said in a statement. “The hope, all the while, was to create an album that accommodates many levels of listening attention (be it active listening, passive listening, or somewhere in between), while inducing calm and creating a space to think. As much as possible, we wanted to make this record as an invitation to the listener(s) into that space.”


Other albums out today:

Dean & Britta & Sonic Boom, A Peace of Us; Lifted, Trellis; Boldy James & Harry Fraud, The Bricktionary; Bibio, Phantom Brickworks (LP II); PAPA M, Ballads of Harry Houdini; Squanderers, If a Body Meet a Body; Opeth, The Last Will and Testament; Soap&Skin, Torso; Daryl Johns, Daryl Johns; Alice Ivy, Do What Makes You Happy; Quiet Husband, Religious Equipment; Fan Club Orchestra, VL_Stay.