Discover the beauty of the Green Mosque in Balkh, Afghanistan through MIT's "Ways of Seeing" project, which uses innovative technology to produce a rich visual record of four historic building sites in Afghanistan. The project includes colorful 3D still images, virtual reality imagery, and exquisite hand-drawn architectural renderings of the buildings, which will be made available for viewing through the MIT Libraries by the end of June with open access for the public. Don't miss this opportunity to explore and appreciate the remarkable heritage sites of Afghanistan.

Are you interested in exploring the ancient Japanese tradition of thatching and experiencing it firsthand? Discover a rare opportunity to stay in a 160-year-old thatched-roof house in the Miyama region, preserved by a community of thatchers who are masters of this 5,000-year-old craft. Read this fascinating article by BBC Travel to learn about the history and significance of thatching in Japan, the connection between thatching and Shinto religion, and the unique lifestyle of rural communities in Miyama.

Are you a fan of the Mona Lisa? Have you ever wondered about the mysterious woman in the painting and the location behind her? A recent discovery by Italian art historian Silvano Vinceti may have uncovered the truth about the bridge in the painting. In an article by Smithsonian Magazine, Vinceti argues that the bridge in the painting is the Ponte Romito, located in the Tuscan village of Laterina. His findings have caused a stir among art historians and may even attract future visitors to the small town. Read on to find out more about this fascinating discovery!

Discover the world's largest palace complex, built by over a million laborers, and how it symbolizes the center of the universe in Chinese imperial tradition. Explore the strict protocols and social hierarchy of the imperial court that emphasized the emperor's power.

In her book, historian and architect Dolores Hayden delves into the urban communities of Los Angeles to explore the intersections of gender, race, and ethnicity in the practice of public history and public art. By reorienting the writing of urban history to spatial struggles, she offers fresh perspectives on urban preservation that challenge traditional notions of what constitutes a historical site. This thought-provoking work is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of urban communities and the ways in which they shape our understanding of the past. Recommended for urban planners, architects, historians, and anyone interested in the intersections of gender, race, and ethnicity in urban communities, Dolores Hayden's book offers a fresh perspective on the practice of public history and public art. By examining the spatial struggles that shape our understanding of historical sites, she challenges readers to rethink traditional notions of urban preservation and the writing of urban history. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complex dynamics of urban communities and the ways in which they shape our understanding of the past.

Discover the marvel of ancient engineering in China's Hengduan Mountains, where the mysterious stone towers of Pengbuxi stand tall, shrouded in questions about their age, purpose, and builders. Trek with a teacher and explore the biodiverse landscape that has been a tribal corridor for ancient migrations dating back to the Stone Age. Unravel the enigma of these dreamlike megaliths that still hold all the power of a kept secret.

What if architects developed deep-time literacy to become true planetary stewards? Cristina Parreño Alonso's Transtectonics explores the cultural and environmental implications of expanded temporal sensibilities in architectural material practice. Her new class, 4.181 (The Deep Time Project), culminated in multimedia projects that bring deep time into contemporary consciousness. From imagining a future where plastic is integral to the geological structure of the Earth to exploring the adaptive relationship between the human body and its prosthetic additions of language and architecture, these material essays offer provocative perspectives on the impact of our actions today.

Discover the evolution of cities through time and learn how our modern civilization is rooted in the decisions made by our ancestors. In 'The City in History: Its Origins, Its Transformations, and Its Prospects', Lewis Mumford takes readers on a journey through the centuries, exploring the core needs of humanity that led to the formation of cities. From nomadic life to village living to the bustling metropolises of today, Mumford's insights and concepts are essential for modern city planning, design, and management. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in urban planning and the history of civilization. Recommended for urban planning professionals, architects, historians, and anyone interested in the evolution of cities and its impact on modern civilization. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of cities, from their origins to their modern-day transformations. The insights and concepts presented in this book are useful for contemporary city planning, design, and management. Additionally, this book is relevant to those interested in the history of civilization and the core needs of humanity. The book covers a full range of civilizations and their cities, making it a valuable resource for students of history, anthropology, and sociology.

Minimalism is a philosophy that has roots and branches in many places. It's a reaction to the increasingly busy and loud world around us, and it can take many forms, from architecture to music. Minimalism means owning few possessions, living in largely empty space, and even eating minimalist food. It's not just about decluttering, but knowing what to keep. Minimalist buildings are simple and full of light and space. Minimalist music features repetition, simple patterns, and phase shifting, and can be profoundly moving and deeply emotional. Learning about minimalism can help students identify what truly matters to them and help them declutter their lives, both physically and mentally. It can also inspire them to create their own minimalist art, music, or architecture.

Discover the buried masterpiece of American writing! Malcolm Cowley's edited version of the first edition of Leaves of Grass returns the boldest and freshest version of Walt Whitman's poetic vision to the common readership. Cowley adds Whitman's original introduction, which never appeared in any other edition during Whitman's life. Explore the transformed Whitman in his best form, as he speaks to the readers with his new experience. Don't miss the chance to read one of the greatest works of American literature in its original glory! Recommended for literature enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in American culture and identity, Leaves of Grass is a must-read. This edition, edited by Malcolm Cowley, offers a unique perspective on Walt Whitman's masterpiece, as it presents the original first edition with Whitman's original introduction. With its bold language and fresh vision, Leaves of Grass is a testament to Whitman's poetic genius and his contribution to American literature. This book is an excellent reference for students of literature, American history, and cultural studies, as well as anyone who is interested in exploring the evolution of American identity and culture.

Museums are magical places that offer a glimpse into the past, present, and future. They are a treasure trove of knowledge, art, culture, and history that we can all learn from. But have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes in a museum? That's where Museologists come in! Museology is a fascinating field that involves the study and management of museums and their collections. It's a unique combination of art, history, anthropology, archaeology, and education. Museologists are responsible for preserving and interpreting the objects in a museum's collection, as well as designing and curating exhibitions that engage and educate visitors. As a Museologist, you could be responsible for anything from cataloging and researching artifacts, to designing interactive exhibits, to creating educational programs for schools and the general public. You might specialize in a particular area, such as art, natural history, or science, or work in a variety of fields. To become a Museologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as art history, anthropology, or museum studies. Many universities offer undergraduate programs that are specifically tailored to aspiring Museologists, such as the Museum Studies major at New York University or the Art History and Museum Studies major at the University of Denver. In addition to formal education, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in this field. A love of learning, a passion for history and culture, and strong communication skills are all important qualities for a Museologist to possess. Job prospects for Museologists are strong, with opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Many major cities have museums that are operated by the government, such as the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. or the British Museum in London. Private museums, such as the Guggenheim Museum in New York or the Louvre in Paris, also offer exciting career opportunities. So, if you're interested in art, history, and culture, and have a desire to educate and inspire others, a career in Museology might be the perfect fit for you. With so many exciting opportunities available, the world of museums is waiting for you to explore and share its wonders with the world!

MIT alumni-founded startup Hosta a.i. has developed a platform that uses artificial intelligence to create precise property assessments by analyzing images. The platform produces detailed floor plans, 3D models, and bills of materials, as well as evaluates the conditions of materials to assess damage and identify risks. Hosta a.i. is currently working with insurers, contractors, and mortgage lenders to give everyone fast and accurate information about their built surroundings. The founders say there are possibilities to help speed the transition to more energy-efficient buildings and create an understanding of how heat moves through a room.

Discover the all-female regiment of warriors who existed from the late 1600s to the early 1900s in West Africa's Kingdom of Dahomey. Historian Pamela Toler sheds light on the legacy of these fierce women soldiers and the society they arose from, providing a more multidimensional image of these women warriors. Learn about their origins, their role in society, and their impressive feat of amassing a squadron of women willing to die protecting their kingdom. Explore the rich history of powerful ancient civilizations that flourished throughout the continent of Africa, including the West African empires of the Ashanti, Mali, and the Songhai.

Are you someone who loves to design and create beautiful spaces? Do you have an eye for detail and a passion for making spaces functional as well as aesthetically pleasing? If so, a career in Interior Architecture might be the perfect fit for you! Interior Architecture is the art and science of designing and renovating interior spaces for both residential and commercial purposes. It involves creating functional and appealing spaces that meet the needs of the people who will use them. Interior Architects work with clients to understand their needs, preferences, and budget, and then create designs that meet those requirements. One of the most appealing aspects of this career is the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, from designing homes and apartments to hotels, restaurants, and public spaces. Interior Architects get to use their creativity and problem-solving skills to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional. For example, they might design a hotel lobby that is welcoming and comfortable, while also accommodating the needs of guests who are checking in or waiting for transportation. Typical duties of an Interior Architect include developing design concepts, creating detailed plans and drawings, selecting materials and finishes, coordinating with contractors and other professionals, and overseeing the construction process to ensure that the design is implemented correctly. There are also many areas of specialization within the field, such as sustainable design, healthcare design, and hospitality design. To become an Interior Architect, you typically need a Bachelor's degree in Interior Architecture or a related field, such as Architecture or Industrial Design. Some popular undergraduate programs include the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture at the Rhode Island School of Design, the Bachelor of Interior Architecture at the University of Oregon, and the Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Helpful personal attributes for this career include creativity, attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. Interior Architects must be able to manage multiple projects at once, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively with clients and other professionals. The job prospects for Interior Architects are excellent, with strong demand expected to continue in the coming years. Some notable employers in the field include Gensler, HOK, Perkins+Will, and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. There are also many opportunities to work as a freelance designer or start your own design firm. In conclusion, a career in Interior Architecture offers a unique blend of creativity, problem-solving, and practicality. If you have a passion for design and a desire to create beautiful and functional spaces, this might be the perfect career for you!

In "Rembrandt: The Painter Thinking," art expert Ernst van de Wetering delves deep into the mind of the legendary artist, uncovering the secrets behind his unparalleled talent. Through meticulous research, van de Wetering uncovers how Rembrandt defied traditional artistic conventions and pushed the boundaries of painting to create masterpieces that still captivate us today. This beautifully illustrated book offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a true artistic genius, and is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the creative process behind great works of art. Recommended for art enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in the creative process, "Rembrandt: The Painter Thinking" offers a unique and insightful look at one of the greatest artists of all time. By exploring Rembrandt's unconventional techniques and theories, van de Wetering sheds new light on the practice of painting in the Dutch Golden Age, making this book a valuable resource for students of art history and anyone seeking to expand their knowledge of this fascinating period. Additionally, the book's focus on the creative process and the importance of experimentation make it relevant to anyone seeking to unlock their own creative potential.

Josephine Baker's life is a rags-to-riches story of a musical icon, stage sensation, and heroine of the French Resistance. She took 20th Century Europe by storm with her unique dancing style, sartorial sense, and provocative banana skirt. Baker's life teaches us about the importance of perseverance, hard work, and courage. Her story inspires us to pursue our dreams despite the challenges that we may face. Learning about Josephine Baker's life can help us develop our creativity, talent, and self-confidence. Additionally, her contributions to the French Resistance show us the power of standing up for what we believe in and fighting against injustice. Baker's life is a reminder that we can achieve great things if we believe in ourselves and work hard towards our goals.

The Canterbury Tales, one of the most esteemed works of English literature, seamlessly blends the lofty and the lowly in a collection of 24 stories told by a talkative cast of characters. Written in Middle English, the Tales are a vivid record of the different ways Medieval audiences entertained themselves. The varied dialects, genres, and literary tropes make the work a compelling read for everyone, with something for every reader. Chaucer uses the quirks of the characters' language to satirize their worldviews, and no level of society is above mockery. The Canterbury Tales is a great way to learn about the different social classes and the professional class of merchants and intellectuals that emerged in Medieval society. By reading and understanding this work, students can develop their critical thinking skills and gain a deeper understanding of the English language and its evolution.

Revolutionize the way architects create visualizations and VR experiences with state-of-the-art 3D rendering technology developed for gaming engines, now freely available! David Weir-McCall of Epic Games highlights the scope and power of real-time 3D, where high-fidelity data can be easily imported and transformed into immersive cityscapes in real-time.

The French Revolution was fueled by more than just political unrest. Learn how bread and salt played a crucial role in the uprising and the birth of the modern restaurant. Discover the fascinating history of food and revolution in this thought-provoking article.

Interior design is a field that involves creating attractive and functional living and working spaces. Interior designers work with clients to develop plans for the use of space, as well as color schemes, furnishings, and decor. It is a field that combines artistry and practicality, as well as a deep understanding of how people interact with their environments. One of the most appealing aspects of interior design is the opportunity to create spaces that are not only beautiful, but that also improve people's lives. This can mean designing a kitchen that makes it easier for a family to cook and eat together, or creating a calming bedroom that helps someone get a better night's sleep. It's a field that requires both creativity and empathy, as designers need to be able to understand the needs and desires of their clients. Interior designers have a wide range of duties, which can include everything from drawing up plans and selecting materials to overseeing construction and installation. They may specialize in particular areas, such as commercial spaces, residential properties, or healthcare facilities. There are also related fields, such as set design for theater and film, or exhibition design for museums and galleries. To become an interior designer, most people will need to earn a degree in interior design or a related field, such as architecture or fine arts. Popular undergraduate programs include the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, or the Bachelor of Arts in Architecture. In addition to formal education, many interior designers also gain experience through internships or apprenticeships. Helpful personal attributes for interior designers include creativity, an eye for detail, and strong communication skills. It's also important to be able to work well with clients, contractors, and other professionals in the construction and design industry. Job prospects for interior designers are strong, with a projected growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. Notable potential employers in the field include design firms such as Gensler, HOK, and Perkins+Will, as well as retailers such as Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware. There are also opportunities to work in-house for corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.