Sand Collectors

So Much to Learn About the Oceans From Sand
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/06/science/06prof.html?8dpc

Useful links:
www.coas.oregonstate.edu
www.argussoftware.com
www.sandcollectors.org
www.usgs.gov

Dr Holman's sand sample collections were interesting. I had no idea one could collect so many samples from different parts of the world. Thanks Cornelia.

Random Thoughts

We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.

- Kurt Vonnegut
www.vonnegut.com

Art For Art's Sake

Art for art's sake; money for God's sake
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/visual_arts/article5452031.ece

For art is a powerful and intoxicating addiction to creativity. No artist ever really takes a day off. To create something that wasn't there before, to make a slice of the imaginary real and to get lost in the focused intensity of it may well be the ultimate joy.
- Ken Russell

Today it takes a lot of courage to be an artist. Ken, you were spot on.

Diet For A Small Planet

Diet for a Small Planet by Frances Moore Lappe is an insightful book with helpful ideas. Being a vegetarian it gave me a whole new way of looking at food and the impact + it contains something for everyone, really. A must read.

Useful link:

www.smallplanet.org

Indian Jewelry Update

India's jewellery industry not affected by meltdown
http://www.commodityonline.com/news/Indias-jewellery-industry-not-affected-by-meltdown-13853-3-1.html

Useful link:
www.gjf.in

I think the Indian jewelers will find their business in rural/small towns than in urban areas. That's where the numbers are because of marriage + investment concepts. If the price of gold is sweet, Indian jewelers will witness real growth + make tons of money.

The Army Experience

I was intrigued by the US Army's strategy of enlisting new recruits via home video games, direct marketing promotions and recruitment-themed music videos. Even though video games may not accurately convey the combat experience, but still it's a great learning lab, a unique way to interact with kids and find out what they're interested in. I liked the concept, and it wouldn't be a bad idea to replicate the so-called 'lab experience' in education and business.

Useful link:
www.thearmyexperience.com

Design + Depression

Design loves a Depression
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/01/05/news/04cannell.php

Useful links:
www.establishedandsons.com
www.marcelwanders.com
www.naninelinning.nl
www.campanas.com.br
www.jongeriuslab.com
www.russelwrightcenter.org
www.eamesgallery.com
www.mcdonough.com
www.braungart.com
www.loharchitects.com
www.ikea.com
www.thedesignvote.com

Insightful. Thanks Michael. My view is designs should be affordable + intelligent + beautiful.

Jewelry Camp

Jewelry Camp = Antique + Period Jewelry + Gemstones = Learn + Make friends + Simply enjoy.

Useful link:
www.jewelrycamp.org