Michael Kiwanuka is back with a new single called ‘Floating Parade’. The British songwriter made the track with Danger Mouse and frequent collaborator Inflo. Check it out below.
‘Floating Parade’ marks Kiwanuka’s first new music since the release of ‘Beautiful Life’ in 2021 for the Netflix documentary Convergence: Courage in a Crisis. His Mercury Prize-winning third LP, KIWANUKA, arrived in 2019.
Kylie Minogue has teamed up with Bebe Rexha and Tove Lo for the new single ‘My Oh My’. Steve Mac produced the track, which you can hear below.
Minogue released her latest album, Tension, last year. Early last month, she debuted a new song called ‘Midnight Ride’ with Orville Peck at Outloud Fest.
Hengtian Zhou is a young artist based in London, UK. She started to express her voice in the field of visual art in 2018, which she utilizes to express the relationship between women, social class and nature. Her work has been exhibited in several international exhibitions in Los Angeles, London, Hong Kong and Paris and has been cataloged. The artist currently lives and works in London, UK.
It is worth mentioning that at The otHER Exhibition in London, we are honored to invite the artist to collaborate with us and present her work of high artistic standards: Twin Flame, we hope that the artist’s work can bring a thought and change for the society. The exhibition was open to the public on December 7, 2023 at the Duke of Somerset’s House in London, UK, with artists from all over the world, as well as the audience and the media.
The exhibition is in conjunction with REFORMATION CHARITY, and during the December 6-8 festival, the otHER exhibition aims to engage in productive discussions on themes such as gender, identity and neocolonialism. In addition, a number of events dedicated to supporting aspiring artists from Los Angeles, London, and beyond will come together to showcase their artwork. Through our eclectic program of events and presentations, we hope to create a multi-perspective festival that reflects the diversity of our culture
In this artwork by artist Hengtian Zhou, she has won wide recognition for her unique perspective and deep emotional expression. More than just a presentation of love and desire between women, this work delves into the complex themes of gender identity, social norms and power structures. Through the use of visual art: deep colors and bold compositions, Zhou demonstrates the intimacy, conflicts and struggles of lesbian relationships, conveying a deep and authentic emotional experience.
At the same time, in this work, Zhou breaks with the traditional aesthetic and narrative framework to bring a refreshing visual experience. For example, she employs a mixture of mediums in her characterization, showing the daily lives and inner worlds of lesbians. The work is not only of high aesthetic value, but also challenges the audience’s preconceived notions and provokes deeper reflection on gender and sexual orientation. Through authentic and resonant narratives, it makes more people realize the existence and value of the lesbian community, and promotes social understanding the LGBTQ+ community. The artwork not only enriches the diversity of artistic expression, but also provides a platform for lesbians to express themselves and seek recognition, making it an indispensable part of contemporary art.
In the future, Hengtian Zhou want to study social issues and focus on multicultural racial immigrant issues, which is a direction she have been researching and delving into lately. She form of expression will continue to be theatre and visual arts presentations, and she will conduct in-depth interviews and research on the lives and Identity of 1.5-2.0 generation immigrants through a variety of skin colours, backgrounds, ages, and class choices, so that each of them can have a perfect answer to their own lifelong questions.
We look forward to more collaborations with the artist in the future, and congratulate the successful conclusion of The otHER Exhibition!
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are crucial. The exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see, and it needs to be inviting and well-maintained to capture interest. Curb appeal can significantly impact a buyer’s decision, and a little effort on your part can go a long way. Here are some essential tips to help you enhance your home’s kerb appeal and make a lasting first impression.
One of the often-overlooked aspects of kerb appeal is the state of your gutters and guttering supplies. Clean, functional gutters not only add to the aesthetic appeal of your home but also indicate to potential buyers that the property is well-maintained. Ensure that your gutters are free from debris and properly aligned. If needed, invest in new gutters and guttering supplies to replace any worn or damaged parts. This not only helps in preventing water damage but also adds a polished look to your exterior.
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the appearance of your home. Whether it’s just the front door or the entire exterior, new paint can make your home look more vibrant and well-cared-for. Choose neutral colours that will have broad appeal and avoid bold, personalised choices that might not resonate with everyone. Paying attention to details like windowsills and shutters can also make a significant difference.
Well-maintained landscaping is like a welcome mat for your home. Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, and plant seasonal flowers to add a burst of colour. If you have a garden, make sure it is tidy and free from weeds. Simple touches like adding mulch to flower beds and placing potted plants near the entrance can make your home feel more inviting. If you’re not well-versed in gardening, consider hiring a professional landscaper to ensure everything looks its best.
Proper lighting can dramatically improve your home’s kerb appeal, especially for evening viewings. Highlighting pathways, driveways, and key landscape features with tasteful lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that are both easy to install and maintain. Make sure that all outdoor lights are functioning correctly and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
The front door is one of the focal points of your home’s exterior. Replacing an old door or simply giving it a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference. Choose a style and colour that complements the overall look of your home. Additionally, updating the hardware—like door handles, knockers, and house numbers—offers a crisp, polished finish. These small updates can make a substantial impact without breaking the bank.
A clutter-free exterior makes your home look larger and more appealing. Store away any garden tools, bicycles, bins, and other personal items that can make your space look untidy. Make sure that the driveway and pathways are clear and easy to navigate. A neat and organised exterior indicates that the interior is likely to be just as well-kept.
Before you put your home on the market, take a hard look at any repairs that might be needed. Fix cracked paving stones, repair any loose roof tiles, and ensure that fences and gates are in good working order. Small maintenance tasks that may seem insignificant can collectively impact a buyer’s perception of your property. Attention to detail in these areas shows prospective buyers that the home has been well looked after.
While keeping things neutral is generally advisable, adding a few personal touches can make your home stand out. Items like a stylish welcome mat, a wreath on the front door, or a comfy porch swing can give your home personality and charm. These elements can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the space, which is a critical step in making a sale.
Enhancing your home’s kerb appeal doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By focusing on these areas, you can create a welcoming and attractive exterior that draws potential buyers in. Remember, first impressions are lasting, so investing time and effort into your home’s exterior could lead to a quicker sale and potentially a higher asking price. Happy selling!
Mica Levi has released a new single, ‘slob air’, their first for the legendary electronic label Hyperdub. The track comes paired with a video starring a skateboarding Madi Swain, made with Izzy Moriarty Thompson, Joe Auborn, and Jack Parton. Check it out below.
Levi’s most recent work was the soundtrack to Jonathan Glazer’s The Zone of Interest, the artist and director’s reunion after 2014’s Under the Skin. Their last studio albums were 2020’s Ruff Dog and 2021’s Blue Alibi.
Struggling to go Flawless in Trials of Osiris? We’re here to help! Today, we’ve put together a list of some of the most common mistakes and things you need to avoid to make your way to the Lighthouse faster and smoother. Whether you’re a solo queuing player or someone with a regular team, this guide will be useful for every Guardian aiming for that perfect 7-0 streak. And for those looking to improve their Trials performance even further, check out the Trials of Osiris boosting offers from our friends at WowVendor. They’ll help you snag the best Trials weapons and armor, rank up easily, and finally achieve that coveted Flawless run — quickly, reliably, and at a great price!
And now that we’ve got the intro out of the way, let’s dive into the key points!
Imagine this: you and your teammate end up in a 2v1 situation, guarding enemy orbs. It makes sense to stay put and finish off the remaining opponent who will likely go for revives to even the odds. It’s a simple and effective way to win the round, right? Yet, people often make the mistake of leaving their teammate alone to revive the last member of the team. This is a big no-no!
The enemy will quickly grasp what’s going on and set up a barricade, and the lone teammate left will struggle to break through due to sheer lack of firepower. The enemy will get a revive, quickly turning it into a 2v1, with the Lone Ranger against an overshielded opponent. By the time the one who left returns with the revived Guardian, the lone teammate is already down, and you’re now in a 3v2, but the numbers are not in your favor. What looked like a solid win has quickly turned into a potential loss just because someone decided to go for a run. To avoid such mishaps, remember to always play the numbers advantage. Whenever your team has more players than the opponents, use that to your benefit and never risk turning the odds against you.
It’s no secret that Supers are crucial in Trials. If planned properly, they can secure not just a round but even the entire match for your team. Many guides advise not to hold on to your Super, which is overall a great tip. However, there’s a nuance to consider: sometimes your team can activate multiple Supers simultaneously, wasting them mid-match or even at the very start. This often happens because of a lack of coordination. For instance, an enemy uses a Super, your team panics, and starts counter-ulting all at once. Don’t get us wrong: countering is okay, but the multi-Super part could have been easily avoided if you’d just coordinated your actions. Communicate with your team through game chat, Discord, or any other convenient means, and just let them know you’re planning to use your Super. This simple step will help prevent double or triple Super activations in a single round and significantly boost your chances of winning the game.
You’ve probably been in a situation where it’s a 3v1 in your favor, and the last standing enemy starts running away. You might think chasing them down solo to finish the job is a good idea, but it’s not. Your strength lies in numbers, and the last thing you want is to turn a solid winning scenario into three separate 1v1 situations that can easily lead to unpleasant surprises. Instead of pulling that unnecessary heroic solo chase, stop and think about how to maintain and possibly even increase your advantage. Why risk it when you can force the enemy into a more favorable scenario? If the enemy decides to engage, the three of you can easily take them down. If they choose to extend the round, you can use the extra time to build your Super energy. Simple and safe, right?
You might think flanking is a smart move, but it’s not always the case, especially if it takes you to the other edge of the map, leaving your team outnumbered for a really long time. By the time you get back to try to catch the enemies off guard — which likely won’t work since they can always see you on the radar — your teammates might already be down, turning a promising 3v3 into a 3v1 with you against the full trio.
If you want to flank, it’s better to stick to quick runs no further than mid-map, so you’re not out of the fight for long and can quickly re-engage from another angle. Trials are all about teamwork, so you have to support your teammates and avoid making them take on more than they actually need to.
This mistake is sadly too common in Trials, made by both newbies and seasoned players alike. You’ve probably seen it happen many times: you secure a hard-earned kill, but then your team leaves the enemy orb unguarded, allowing the opponents to resurrect their fallen comrade, which makes all your efforts go to waste. In elimination mode like Trials of Osiris, it’s crucial to always keep the enemy orbs under watch to prevent revives. If you get a kill, make sure this Guardian really stays down. The numbers advantage is a significant factor in winning the games in Trials. Plus, preventing revives also stops the fallen enemy’s Super from charging, which can give you a big edge in later rounds.
Xinyue Song embarked on her educational journey at the School of Visual Arts in New York, where she completed her degrees in Graphic Design and Computer Arts. Upon graduating, she discovered a profound interest in illustration, which significantly shaped her career path. She has collaborated with prestigious clients such as The New York Times, Converse, Adidas, Greenpeace, Cartoon Network, and W Hotel. Her artwork, characterized by vivid colors and inventive compositions, frequently explores themes centered around women and everyday life, offering viewers a visually striking experience.
Can you trace back to the moment when your interest in illustration first began to manifest?
While I was studying graphic design and computer arts, I always enjoyed creating, but it wasn’t until I finished school that I truly fell in love with illustration. I started seeing it as a powerful way to tell stories and connect with people on everyday themes, especially those related to women’s lives. This realization really shaped my path, leading me to work with amazing clients and dive deeper into topics that I’m passionate about.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Most of my inspiration comes from everyday stuff—objects I see, things I experience. Small details often spark ideas. For example, my work “Beads” uses the imagery of beads to discuss societal constraints on women, inspired by the everyday limitations I observed affecting women. This work also reflects my attempt to address serious topics like gender equality through an engaging, approachable art style.
You’ve mentioned that a lot of your work focuses on themes related to women. Could you share some examples?
Sure, my series “Waiting” is a good one to talk about, and it was recently shortlisted in the Communication Arts illustration competition. It’s all about the experience of waiting, particularly from a female perspective, exploring the strength and complex emotions behind waiting. Women are often expected to exhibit more patience in many aspects of life, whether in career progression or personal matters. This series captures those quiet, often overlooked moments, aiming to convey that waiting is more than just passing time—it’s a reflection of deeper emotional states and attitudes towards life.
How does cultural diversity influence your work?
I have a deep appreciation for traditional Chinese art, and I really enjoy blending ancient patterns and techniques with modern styles in my illustrations. My work often focuses on East Asian women, differing from traditional aesthetic stereotypes of delicate and graceful femininity. I strive for them to have a strong, powerful physique, as well as greater mental strength. By integrating influences from different cultures, I aim to showcase this burst of inspiration in my work.
In what ways do you keep your creative approach fresh and evolving?
Working on commercial projects has been crucial for honing my skills and expressive abilities. In these collaborations, maintaining my unique artistic style is essential. At the same time, I also strive to ensure that my work effectively communicates the commercial content’s needs, finding a balance that fits both my style and the message I want to convey. I’ve been fortunate to work with some well-known brands, where juggling these aspects is always a key challenge.
Additionally, over the past few years, I’ve continually enriched my experience by participating in competitions and exhibitions. Winning some awards and receiving nominations from contests like AI-AP, ADC, and Communication Arts has been a great way to elevate my profile and prove my capabilities.
Looking forward, what are your aspirations for the future?
I am eager to further my illustration career by creating artworks that are both emotionally resonant and commercially viable. I also plan to host my own illustration exhibition to showcase pieces that deeply resonate with audiences. This endeavor is a personal exploration for me, and I look forward to sharing my journey and expertise with a broader community of art enthusiasts through my work.
Los Angeles group julie have announced their debut LP, my anti-aircraft friend, which arrives September 13 via Atlantic Records. To accompany the announcement, the band has shared the single ‘clairbourne practice’, alongside a video directed by Lizzie Klien and julie. Check it out below.
“It’s two voices conflicting and crashing with each other, unable to understand each other,” julie said of the single in a press release. “The way the vocals are layered on top of each other in this song is maybe the most androgynous on the album. But it’s two people saying the same thing and still not hearing each other. We definitely wanted the loud and quiet parts to be polar opposites. Sweet, then destructive, and coming back and repeating the cycle.”
Fibromyalgia is a chronic ailment characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Traditional treatments often focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing the root cause.
However, emerging research on neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections—offers hope. Understanding how to harness this capability can potentially ease fibromyalgia symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s remarkable ability to change and adapt throughout life. This flexibility allows the brain to recover from injuries, adapt to new experiences, and learn new skills. In chronic pain, neuroplasticity means that the brain can rewire itself to reduce pain perception and improve function. Chronic pain can alter the brain’s wiring, increasing sensitivity and persistent pain signals.
Recent studies have shown that the prefrontal and insular cortex are involved in the perception and regulation of pain. These areas can become overactive in individuals with chronic pain, creating a cycle of heightened pain sensitivity.
Techniques that promote neuroplasticity, such as mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy, have been found to normalize the activity in these brain regions, thereby reducing pain. Neuroplasticity is not limited to reducing pain; it can also enhance overall brain function, leading to better emotional regulation and cognitive clarity.
Brain retraining involves specific techniques designed to alter neural pathways associated with pain. Primal Trust – https://www.primaltrust.org/– offers a brain retraining program that teaches individuals how to modify their brain’s response to pain. This method involves identifying and changing negative thought patterns, using visualization, and engaging in positive activities that promote healing.
Brain retraining programs often incorporate elements of positive psychology, encouraging individuals to focus on what brings them joy and fulfillment. This positive focus helps to shift the brain away from pain-centered patterns.
Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) can also be part of brain retraining, where specific language and behavior changes influence brain function.
In mindful meditation, you focus on the here and now without passing judgment. It has been demonstrated to enhance emotional regulation and lessen the sense of pain. You can learn how to recognize and control pain triggers by practicing meditation and relaxation on a regular basis. The nervous system can be calmed using body scans and focused breathing, as stress is known to aggravate fibromyalgia symptoms.
Graded motor imagery (GMI) is a therapeutic technique that uses visualization to improve movement and reduce pain. It involves three stages: left/right discrimination, imagined movements, and mirror therapy. Over time, this practice can lead to actual improvements in movement and pain reduction.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a well-known psychological treatment that enables people to identify and change problematic thought patterns and behaviors. In the setting of fibromyalgia, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you reframe your pain perception and create coping techniques. Cognitive restructuring and relaxation techniques can help to lessen the emotional burden of pain while also improving general well-being.
Several other techniques show promise in rewiring the brain to alleviate fibromyalgia symptoms. Physical therapy improves strength and flexibility, reducing pain. Biofeedback teaches you to control physiological processes, such as heart rate and muscle tension, which can influence pain perception. Yoga and tai chi combine physical movement with mindfulness, offering holistic pain and stress management benefits.
Rewiring the brain to alleviate fibromyalgia symptoms is a promising approach grounded in the science of neuroplasticity. Remember, consistency and patience are crucial as you embark on this journey. With dedication and the right support, you can harness the power of your brain to find relief from fibromyalgia.
Bitcoin transaction costs significantly impact the efficiency of the blockchain. Higher fees can speed up transactions, while lower fees may cause delays. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for users, miners, and developers to optimize performance and ensure the network remains robust and efficient. Investors need to learn about BTC transaction costs! Go https://quantum-predex.com/ and you are on the right path to investment education. Register for free and start learning.
Transaction costs play a crucial role in determining how quickly Bitcoin transactions are processed. Higher fees incentivize miners to prioritize these transactions, ensuring they are included in the next block.
This mechanism works like a fast lane at a toll booth; the higher the fee, the quicker the passage. For example, during peak times, users might increase their fees to avoid delays, much like paying extra for expedited shipping.
On the other hand, lower fees can result in longer wait times. When users choose minimal fees, their transactions are placed in a queue, potentially waiting for hours or even days to be confirmed.
This scenario is particularly problematic during periods of high network activity when many transactions are competing for limited space in each block.
The correlation between fees and confirmation times is straightforward: higher fees generally lead to faster confirmations. Miners, who validate and record transactions, prioritize those with higher fees because they receive these fees as part of their reward.
During busy periods, such as during a price surge or significant news event, the number of transactions increases, leading to longer queues and higher fees.
For instance, during the 2017 Bitcoin boom, average transaction fees skyrocketed, and users who paid standard fees experienced significant delays. This situation highlighted the importance of monitoring fee trends and adjusting accordingly. For users needing quick confirmations, paying a higher fee is often necessary. Have you considered how you might plan your transaction fees to avoid delays?
Network congestion happens when the number of transactions exceeds the Bitcoin network’s processing capacity. This bottleneck increases transaction costs as users compete for limited block space.
Imagine rush hour traffic; the more cars on the road, the slower everyone moves and the more fuel is consumed. Similarly, during congestion, users pay higher fees to get their transactions through faster.
Congestion is influenced by several factors, including sudden spikes in demand, market volatility, and significant news events. When many users try to transact simultaneously, the network struggles to process them all, leading to higher costs and delays.
One notable example of network congestion occurred in December 2017, when Bitcoin’s popularity surged. Transaction fees reached unprecedented levels, and delays stretched to several hours or even days. Users were frustrated as the network struggled to keep up with demand.
Another instance was during the 2021 bull run, where similar patterns emerged. High fees and long delays were common as more people jumped onto the Bitcoin bandwagon. These events underscore the need for efficient congestion management strategies to maintain the network’s reliability.
To reduce congestion, developers have introduced solutions like Segregated Witness (SegWit) and the Lightning Network. SegWit increases block capacity by reducing transaction size, while the Lightning Network allows off-chain transactions, easing the main blockchain’s load. Have you ever experienced delays due to network congestion? Planning transactions during less busy times can help avoid high fees.
Transaction fees are essential for incentivizing miners, who validate transactions and add them to the blockchain. Miners receive these fees as part of their reward, motivating them to maintain the network’s security and efficiency. Think of it as a tip to prioritize your service. Higher fees attract miners to process those transactions first.
As block rewards decrease approximately every four years, transaction fees become increasingly critical. Without adequate fees, miners might lack motivation, potentially leading to slower transaction processing and a less secure network.
Balancing transaction fees is vital to keeping both users and miners satisfied. If fees are too high, users may avoid using Bitcoin for everyday transactions. Conversely, if fees are too low, miners might not be sufficiently incentivized, risking network security and efficiency.
For example, during periods of low network activity, miners may lower the minimum fee requirements to encourage more transactions. This strategy helps maintain their income and ensures the network remains active. Understanding this balance helps users plan their transactions better, ensuring they don’t pay more than necessary while still getting timely confirmations.
How do you think transaction fees could be optimized to benefit both users and miners? Continuous evaluation and adjustment of fee structures are key to maintaining a healthy Bitcoin ecosystem.
Managing Bitcoin transaction costs is vital for maintaining blockchain efficiency. By balancing fees and adopting innovative solutions, the network can handle high demand while ensuring quick, cost-effective transactions. Staying informed and proactive in adjusting strategies will help sustain Bitcoin’s reliability and appeal.
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