The City of St. Thomas has unveiled its newest public artwork, a sculpture titled **Imagination Station**, which brings a pop of colour to the developing Yarmouth Yards industrial park.

 The sculpture, created by **Briony Douglas**, stands over seven metres tall and depicts a wooden toy train arranged in a circular form. **Douglas** aimed to create a piece that would evoke feelings of nostalgia and happiness, while also acknowledging the city's train-centric history. 

 Located at the entrance to Yarmouth Yards, the sculpture is seen as a symbol of the city's industrial growth and a gateway to the community. According to **St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston**, the city wanted to create an entrance that would not only showcase the industrial park but also welcome people to the community.

[View original article](https://lfpress.com/news/local-news/new-st-thomas-sculpture-puts-colourful-spin-on-railway-roots)

New St. Thomas sculpture puts colourful spin on railway roots

The latest art exhibition, **Illuminated Women**, is a vibrant display of mixed media paintings that showcase texture, color, and light. 

 The works, created by **Jane Mick**, feature gemstones, gold leaf, and iridescent finishes, blending fashion, femininity, and fine art to portray women embracing confidence, creativity, and self-expression. 

 **Mick**'s paintings are inspired by the elegance of fashion and the strength found in feminine identity, reflecting her belief that every woman has the power to shine in her own unique way. Her richly textured paintings invite viewers to look beyond the surface, uncovering hidden details and layered stories woven throughout each composition.

[View original article](https://signalscv.com/2026/08/illuminated-women-on-exhibit-at-the-main/)

‘Illuminated Women’ on exhibit at The Main

The evolution of Aotearoa's art scene has been significantly influenced by various movements, including Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, Minimalism, and Conceptual Art. 

 Artists such as Gretchen Albrecht and Judy Millar have developed their own unique abstract expressionist styles, drawing inspiration from the New Zealand landscape and their personal experiences. In contrast, the Pop Art movement, led by figures like Billy Apple, has been characterized by its bold and graphic appeal, often incorporating elements of consumer culture and mass production. 

 Minimalist artists, including Megan Brady and Ralph Hotere, have focused on stripping away representation, inviting viewers to respond to the simplicity and purity of their work. The Conceptual Art movement, exemplified by Billy Apple and Martin Creed, has emphasized the importance of the idea behind a piece, rather than its physical form. 

 These movements have paved the way for the diverse and dynamic contemporary art scene in Aotearoa, which showcases a wide range of themes, approaches, and mediums. From the thriving Māori and Pacific art movements to the work of individual artists like Lisa Reihana and Peter Robinson, the contemporary art scene is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and its artists' ability to tell unique and compelling stories.

[View original article](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/abstract-expressionism-to-pop-art-four-movements-shaping-aotearoa-art/6PDGCZMMEZFT3NQAI56ZU4HRFA/)

Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art: Four movements shaping Aotearoa art

The Carl and Marilynn Thoma Foundation’s latest exhibition is a game-changer for portraiture, as it breaks free from traditional frames and fills every corner of their Cedar Springs headquarters. 

 The foundation, which was launched in 2014 by art collectors from Oklahoma, focuses on arts education throughout the Southwest, with scholarships and philanthropic initiatives. Having relocated to Dallas in 2023, the couple has quickly become immersed in the local arts scene, loaning work from their vast collection to various museums. 

 The yearly show, "Presence of Absence: Embodied Portraiture," is a standout, featuring 65 works that range from classical saints to digital video portraits, including a piece by stage director **Robert Wilson** of **Lady Gaga**. The exhibition was curated by collections manager Meagan Robson and digital arts curator Kathleen Forde, who drew from the foundation’s eclectic collection of Spanish American art, post-War painting and sculpture, Japanese bamboo, and high-tech media work.

[View original article](https://www.dallasnews.com/arts-entertainment/visual-arts/article/dallas-thoma-foundation-portraiture-exhibit-22379617.php)

Dallas art show lets portraiture break out of the frame

The design sector is rapidly growing, with rising demand in both national and international markets. In response to this need, the University Institute of Design is equipping students with the skills required to succeed in this field through creativity, innovation, and industry-ready skills.

 In the last three years, **307 students** of the University Institute of Design have secured placements in reputable companies, including fashion houses, production houses, and brands. This includes **108 students** in interior design, who have received opportunities in companies such as **Livspace** and **Asian Paints**. Additionally, **40 students** of industrial design have secured placements in top companies, with the highest annual package being **Rs 20 lakh**. The Department of Fine Arts has also seen success, with **77 students** securing placements in creative art and design companies.

 The University Institute of Design is not only preparing designers but also creative professionals and young entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of the design industry. Students have performed outstandingly in various fields, including fashion design, where **62 students** have secured placements in reputed fashion brands. The university's focus on project-based learning and practical training has enabled students to build successful careers in their chosen fields.

[View original article](https://www.aninews.in/news/business/307-students-of-fashion-industrial-interior-design-and-fine-arts-secure-placements-at-chandigarh-university20260813181621/)

307 students of Fashion, Industrial, Interior Design and Fine Arts secure placements at Chandigarh University

The **Sault Ste. Marie Museum** is set to host **Time in Colour**, a solo exhibition by contemporary abstract artist and educator **Chrissy Yendell**. The exhibition will feature expressive acrylic and mixed media paintings inspired by the landscapes, seasons, and quiet rhythms of Northern Ontario.

 **Yendell**'s work explores the intersection of nature, memory, time, and femininity, using rich layers of colour, texture, and intuitive mark-making to create paintings that invite reflection and personal interpretation. Her artistic process is driven by a desire to capture the essence of human experience, rather than simply recreating the world around us.

 The exhibition will showcase a new body of work reflecting **Yendell**'s ongoing exploration of contemporary abstract painting, with each piece evolving through an intuitive process of layering colour, texture, and expressive markmaking. Visitors are invited to attend the Opening Reception and Meet the Artist event, where they can meet **Yendell** and enjoy refreshments.

[View original article](https://www.sootoday.com/local-news/abstract-art-exhibition-coming-to-the-museum-next-week-12648501)

Abstract art exhibition coming to the museum next week

A new digital art exhibition in Delhi showcases technology as a new medium for artistic expression, featuring works by nine major contemporary artists. The exhibition, titled **(Re)claiming Rights of Render(ing)**, presents a range of digital art forms, including virtual reality, interactive installations, digital sculpture, video art, and projection technologies.

 The show features works by artists such as **Riyas Komu**, **Alex Davis**, **Atul Bhalla**, **Gigi Scaria**, **GR Iranna**, **Sibdas Sengupta**, **Teja Gavankar**, **Vibha Galhotra**, and **Waswo X Waswo**. Each artist has employed digital mediums to present ideas that remain deeply rooted in their existing practice, resulting in a conceptually strong show that explores various themes, including climate change and social concerns.

 The exhibition is presented by **NewArtX**, a Mumbai-based studio that offers tech support to artists who are keen on exploring the digital medium. The studio aims to remove the financial and technical barriers that often prevent artists from working digitally, and to create an ecosystem where artists can experiment with technology and express themselves in new and innovative ways.

[View original article](https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/this-digital-art-exhibition-in-delhi-showcases-technology-as-a-new-medium-for-expression/article71332042.ece)

This digital art exhibition in Delhi showcases technology as a new medium for expression

The **Anak Alam** collective is marking its 50th anniversary with a major exhibition at **Harta Space** in Ampang, Selangor, featuring a distinguished line-up of Malaysian artists.

 The showcase, **Anak Alam 50 Tahun (1974–2024)**, brings together over 60 artworks and archival materials by 12 **Anak Alam** artists, including **Latiff Mohidin**, **Mad Anuar Ismail**, and **Mazlan Noor Along**. The exhibition charts the movement’s development from the 1960s through the 2020s, with a gallery show and an archival documentation space.

 The exhibition aims to examine the contributions of each **Anak Alam** artist, with curator **Faizal Sidik** hoping it will lay the groundwork for a larger-scale exhibition in the future. **Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar**, who was part of the **Anak Alam** community in the 1970s, describes the showcase as an important occasion to reassess the collective’s contribution after five decades.

[View original article](https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2026/08/13/art-collective-anak-alams-50th-anniversary-celebrated-at-harta-space)

Art collective Anak Alam’s 50th anniversary celebrated at Harta Space

The **Temple Bar Gallery + Studios** in Dublin is hosting a solo exhibition of work by **Vanessa Donoso López**, titled (O-O-O), which takes its name from **Object-Oriented Ontology**. This philosophical concept argues that objects have their own lives and relate to each other in ways that have no necessary reference to humans.

 The exhibition is a cacophony of bits and pieces, with numerous small porcelain and clay objects laid out across interweaving benches and tables, interspersed with plants, coloured thread, bulbs, and more. The layout seems sporadically systematic, inviting the viewer to find order while also reminding them of its futility. **Ceramics and kiln-fired objects** are at the centre of everything, but they offer little enlightenment, becoming objects in their own right.

 The title of the exhibition can also be understood as an abbreviation of “**Out of Office**”, and the show is really nothing other than the artist's complete studio transported to the gallery floor, a microcosm of **Vanessa Donoso López**'s practice, just minus the artist herself. This is reminiscent of **Bruce Nauman**'s video pieces, where infrared cameras capture the natural nocturnal occurrences within his workspace.

[View original article](https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/art/review/2026/08/13/vanessa-donoso-lopez-o-o-o-review-inscrutable-cacophony-of-objects-left-to-their-own-devices/)

Vanessa Donoso López: (O-O-O) review - inscrutable cacophony of objects left to their own devices

A woman in her 30s has died at a popular tourist attraction in **Kakadu National Park** in the Northern Territory. The incident occurred at **Ubirr Lookout**, a site renowned for its exceptional Aboriginal rock art, which attracts tourists from around the world.

 The circumstances surrounding her death are not yet known, and **Northern Territory Police** are currently investigating the incident. The site has been closed to the public pending further investigation. **Ubirr** is one of **Kakadu's** most famous rock art galleries and has been featured in various films, including the 1986 classic **Crocodile Dundee**.

[View original article](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-13/woman-in-her-30s-dies-at-kakadu-nt-police-investigating/107032104)

NT Police investigating death of woman in her 30s at popular Kakadu National Park tourist spot

A surprising discovery was made in a San Francisco yard when a 150-pound stone statue was unearthed during landscaping work. The statue, which features an intricately detailed face carved into the stone, may have ties to **Ralph Stackpole**, a prominent local artist. 

 The sculpture was found by **Greg Gatwood** in his yard in the Russian Hill neighborhood. After consulting with other artists, **Judy Gittelsohn**, an artist and Gatwood's partner, suspects that the sculpture might be the work of **Ralph Stackpole**, who was known for his teachings at the California School of Fine Arts, now the **San Francisco Art Institute**. 

 However, determining the artist behind the sculpture is a difficult task, especially without a signature or historical documentation. **Bruce Marwick**, a member of the **Sacramento Art Deco Society**, notes that it is challenging to authenticate the piece without concrete evidence. While the **Stackpole** influence is apparent, it is possible that the sculpture was created by one of his students.

[View original article](https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2026/08/12/San-Francisco-Russian-Hill-buried-sculpture-Ralph-Stackpole/2531786549447/)

Sculpture found buried in SF yard might have ties to famed artist

The **Museum of Modern Art** will be honoring **Steven Spielberg** at its Film Benefit presented by **Chanel**. The event will take place on November 12 at the New York institution, where a screening series will be held to celebrate Spielberg's work.

 The screening series will feature some of Spielberg's most iconic films, including **Jaws**, **E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial**, and **Raiders of the Lost Ark**, all of which are part of MoMA's collection. This honor comes after Spielberg's most recent film and is a testament to his enduring influence on the film industry.

 Spielberg has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including a **Kennedy Center** honor, the **Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award**, and three **Oscars**. He will be following in the footsteps of previous honorees such as **Sofia Coppola**, **Samuel L. Jackson**, and **Martin Scorsese**.

[View original article](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/steven-spielberg-museum-of-modern-art-film-benefit-new-york-1236671235/)

Steven Spielberg to Be Honored at Museum of Modern Art's Film Benefit

The **Belleville Art Association** is showcasing a new art exhibition, **Here and Now**, at its gallery. The show features artworks inspired by the surroundings of the artist members, who were encouraged to interpret the theme from their personal perspective.

 The exhibition includes paintings, photographs, and artisan works such as ceramics, mosaics, fibre art, and jewellery. Additionally, cards with original art by various artists are available for purchase. The exhibition runs from August 11 to September 12 at the **Belleville Art Association gallery**.

 An opening reception is scheduled for August 15, from 2-4 p.m., providing an opportunity for attendees to meet the artists, enjoy refreshments, and support the local art community.

[View original article](https://www.thewhig.com/news/local-news/belleville-art-association-presents-here-and-now)

Belleville Art Association presents ‘Here and Now’

Gurugram has welcomed a new space for modern and contemporary South Asian art with the opening of **Antarang Art Gallery** at The Camellias, founded by **Sania G Vohra**. The gallery aims to foster a community of art enthusiasts and collectors by bringing together art, conversations, and connection under one roof.

 The inaugural exhibition, **Resonance: The Foundation Edition**, features an impressive lineup of renowned artists, including **FN Souza**, **MF Husain**, and **SH Raza**, among others. Rather than a traditional chronological approach, the exhibition explores the connections between artists from different generations, divided into themes such as nature, urbanity, portrayal, and sacred.

 **Antarang Art Gallery**'s interactive approach to art viewing was evident on its opening evening, with art writer and curator **Kishore Singh** leading a conversation that encouraged visitors to share their interpretations of the artworks. The gallery plans to host workshops, live demonstrations, talks, and guided walkthroughs to build an art community in Gurugram and promote engagement with modern and contemporary South Asian art.

[View original article](https://www.indiatoday.in/lifestyle/what-s-hot/story/dlf-camellias-south-asian-art-gallery-gurugram-antarang-opens-2969345-2026-08-12)

Gurugram gets a new home for modern and contemporary South Asian art

African calligraphy is a medium rich in cultural significance, used for storytelling and communication throughout history. Each character or symbol carries deep meaning, reflecting the values and beliefs of different communities.

 The fusion of African calligraphy with modern design techniques has resulted in some of the most innovative graphic designs. Designers are experimenting with digital tools to blend traditional scripts with contemporary layouts, resulting in visually striking pieces that appeal to a wider audience.

 This marriage of old and new allows for creative versatility while honoring the roots of the art form. The influence of African calligraphy has also extended into fashion and textiles, where designers are using these beautiful scripts to add a cultural touch to their collections. Educational initiatives are key to promoting awareness about African calligraphy in graphic design, providing opportunities for artists and enthusiasts to learn about this art form's intricacies.

[View original article](https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/how-african-calligraphy-is-redefining-graphic-design/story)

All about African calligraphy

A sand art installation has been created in Agartala as part of the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, which encourages citizens to hoist the National Flag and celebrate the spirit of patriotism across the country.

 The sculpture features a portrait of **Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose** alongside elements highlighting the initiative. Meanwhile, **Prime Minister Narendra Modi** has made a special appeal to citizens ahead of Independence Day, urging people to celebrate the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign as a festival in every household.

 The 'Har Ghar Tiranga 2026' campaign is currently underway, providing citizens with an opportunity to participate in the nationwide initiative by hoisting the National Flag, uploading selfies, and taking part in activities associated with Independence Day celebrations. The campaign aims to inspire citizens to proudly display the National Flag while ensuring that it is treated with dignity and respect.

[View original article](https://www.lokmattimes.com/national/tripura-sand-artist-creates-netaji-themed-sculpture-to-promote-har-ghar-tiranga-campaign/)

themed sculpture to promote 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign

In the city of Portland, a unique art installation has taken flight, featuring 30 giant crow sculptures inspired by **Colin Meloy**’s novel **Wildwood** and **LAIKA**’s upcoming animated adaptation. The colorful statues, each nearly six feet long, have been hand-painted by local artists and are scattered throughout the city, creating a giant treasure hunt for residents and visitors alike.

 The crows, which will be on display through Halloween weekend, can be found in various public spaces, including **Pittock Mansion**, **Lincoln High School**, and **Portland City Hall**. Each sculpture has a unique feather pattern, making them a must-see for art enthusiasts and fans of the **Wildwood** series. To complement the art installation, various events and activities are scheduled to take place, including guided walks, painting experiences, and lectures, culminating in a farewell weekend where the entire flock will be gathered together at **Darcelle XV Plaza**.

 To help navigate the trail, a map can be downloaded from the **OHSU Foundation** website, and participants can also use the **Wildwood: Follow the Trail** app to aid in their adventure. Whether you’re a fan of **Wildwood** or just looking for a fun and interactive experience, the **Wildwood Crows** are a must-see in Portland this fall.

[View original article](https://www.oregonlive.com/portland/2026/08/the-stunning-crow-sculptures-appearing-across-portland-are-part-of-a-magical-treasure-hunt-inspired-by-laikas-upcoming-animated-film.html)

LAIKA Wildwood movie Portland crow sculptures through Halloween

A couple in San Francisco has made a surprising discovery in their backyard, unearthing a carved limestone sculpture that may be linked to the city's **Art Deco** past.

 The sculpture, which was found by **Greg Gatwood** while digging in his **Russian Hill** backyard, is believed by some to be connected to **Ralph Stackpole**, a prominent figure in the San Francisco art world during the 1920s and '30s. **Stackpole** created major public works, including statues for the old San Francisco Stock Exchange and murals inside **Coit Tower**.

 **Gatwood** and his partner, **Judy Gitelson**, an artist herself, have several theories about the sculpture's possible connection to **Stackpole** or his students, given the proximity of their home to the former **San Francisco Art Institute**. While **Gitelson** does not believe the piece is a creation by **Stackpole**, she notes that its style strongly echoes his era, with distinct features linking the mystery sculpture to that milieu.

[View original article](https://nypost.com/2026/08/11/us-news/bay-area-couple-unearths-massive-sculpture-while-digging-in-backyard/)

Bay Area couple unearths massive sculpture while digging in backyard

Bharat Bhavan in Bhopal is home to thousands of artworks valued at hundreds of crores of rupees, but the constant rain in the city has put these treasures at risk of water damage.

 The collection includes over 2,000 paintings, with nearly 500 created by renowned artists, and is displayed at the Modern Art and Rangdarshini Galleries on a rotational basis. **MF Husain**’s painting, **Mother Teresa**, is one of the most prized possessions, with its current market value estimated to be in crores. Other celebrated painters like **Sayed Haider Raza**, **V S Gaitonde**, and **Tyeb Mehta** also have their artworks housed in the Bhavan.

 The roof of the Modern Art Gallery is leaking, and the walls are damp, with water collecting on the floor, posing a significant risk to the artworks. Some paintings have been removed from the gallery to protect them from the damp walls, but the situation remains precarious. The management of the Bhavan is working to undertake repairs and ensure the safety of the valuable exhibits.

[View original article](https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/bhopals-bharat-bhavans-crores-worth-artworks-face-water-damage-risk)

Bhopal’s Bharat Bhavan’s Crores-Worth Artworks Face Water Damage Risk

A rare fourth-century limestone sculpture of Hariti from the Telangana State Museum was recently showcased at the international antiquities exhibition **One Mother, Many Mother Tongues** in New Delhi.

 The sculpture, which depicts a seated female holding a child, is a significant representation of **Hariti**, a figure in Buddhist tradition who transformed from a child-abducting entity to a guardian and protector of children, symbolizing fertility, protection, and maternal care. 

 The exhibition, centered on the theme of motherhood, brought together various artistic representations of the mother-and-child motif from India and the Mediterranean world, including **Mater Matuta** of ancient Italy and the **Madonna and Child** tradition of the Italian Renaissance. 

 The sculpture's participation in the exhibition provides a valuable platform for showcasing the rich archaeological and artistic heritage of the region to a wider audience.

[View original article](https://www.deccanchronicle.com/southern-states/telangana/rare-sculpture-from-telangana-finds-place-global-antiquity-exhibition-1978443)

Rare Sculpture From Telangana Finds Place Global Antiquity Exhibition

A new sculpture has been added to Richmond airport, with a price tag of $400,000. 

 The sculpture is a notable addition to the airport's surroundings, and its installation marks a significant investment in the area's aesthetic appeal. 

 While details about the sculpture, such as its title and artist, are not immediately available, the significant investment in the piece suggests that it is a notable work of art.

[View original article](https://richmond.com/news/local/business/development/article_7e91f783-cc82-46ee-b7ac-da4c2196c9fb.html)

Richmond airport adds $400,000 sculpture

A proposed replacement for Wandsworth's famous roundabout 'pretzel' has been unveiled, sparking outrage from local residents. The new structure, designed by **Tate + Co**, is a 25m tall timber tree-inspired sculpture that will support four large digital displays. The original 'pretzel' has been a landmark in the area since 1995 and has been featured in films such as **A Clockwork Orange**. 

 The plans, submitted by **Wildstone Estates**, have received 62 formal objections from residents, who have described the new structure as 'garish' and a 'complete waste of money'. Concerns have also been raised about the potential for light pollution and distraction to drivers. Despite the backlash, **Wildstone Estates** remains committed to the project, stating that the new sculpture will 'enhance its surroundings' and create a 'nature-inspired landmark'. 

 The application is still under review by **Wandsworth Council**, with **TfL** also raising concerns about the potential impact on road safety. The fate of the proposed sculpture remains uncertain, with many residents eagerly awaiting the council's decision.

[View original article](https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/wandsworth-roundabout-pretzel-london-plans-unveiled-b1293033.html)

Designer unveils plans to replace Wandsworth's famous roundabout 'pretzel' with wooden sculpture

The art of Japanese ikebana, or flower arrangement, has been a beloved tradition in Australia, with **Ikenobo** being the oldest and largest school, boasting over 550 years of history in Japan. To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the **Ikenobo** Sydney chapter is hosting a special flower exhibition at the **Art Gallery of NSW** in August. This momentous occasion will feature a demonstration by **Senkō Ikenobo**, the Headmaster Designate of **Ikenobo**, as well as an appearance by **Aya Shibata**, president of the Sydney chapter.

 The **Ikenobo** school of ikebana has been a cornerstone of Japanese culture for centuries, and its Sydney chapter has been instrumental in sharing this tradition with the Australian community. The upcoming exhibition promises to be a spectacular showcase of this ancient art form, with **Senkō Ikenobo** and **Aya Shibata** offering unique insights into the world of ikebana.

[View original article](https://www.sbs.com.au/language/japanese/en/podcast-episode/carrying-on-the-tradition-through-mutual-understandings-ikenobo-sydneys-30th-anniversary-flower-exhibition-in-august/4goi5945o)

Carrying on the tradition through mutual understandings: Ikenobo Sydney’s 30th anniversary flower exhibition in August

Contemporary artist **Nikita** is set to unveil her solo exhibition, **Alchemy of Colors**, at the **Main Art Gallery, Bikaner House**. The exhibition will showcase a collection of vibrant works that highlight the transformative power of colour, inviting viewers to experience art as a language of emotion, hope, and human connection.

 Through her expressive palette and distinctive palette-knife technique, **Nikita** creates paintings that transcend representation, transforming colour into a powerful medium of storytelling. Each canvas becomes an exploration of memory, resilience, and the quiet beauty found in everyday moments. The exhibition reflects the artist's belief that colours possess the ability to heal, inspire, and transform, encouraging viewers to pause, reflect, and discover their own emotional narratives within the paintings.

 **Nikita** has committed the proceeds from the exhibition towards the education and welfare of underprivileged girls, reinforcing her belief that art can be a powerful force for positive social change. With **Alchemy of Colors**, **Nikita** invites collectors, art enthusiasts, designers, architects, and the wider public to experience an exhibition where colour becomes a transformative force--one that celebrates creativity while contributing to a meaningful social cause.

[View original article](https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/business/alchemy-of-colors-a-solo-exhibition-by-nikita/)

Alchemy of Colors A Solo Exhibition by Nikita

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, the boundaries between design, branding, and art continue to blur. The 2026 National Art Exhibition, organized by the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, brings together a diverse range of works that showcase the creative energy of Taiwanese art.

 Among the selected works is **One Suitcase**, created by **Ming-Ji Hsieh**, Creative Director of **Orbitel International Corp**. Inspired by **BOBAMAN**, the signature character of the **O's Bubble** brand, the artwork extends the language of branding into the realm of contemporary art. It transforms brand storytelling into a universal visual narrative, standing out as one of the exhibition's few interdisciplinary works built upon a brand's cultural identity.

 The artwork, **One Suitcase**, tells a universal story of movement and belonging, reflecting the shared experience of today's globally mobile generation. It suggests that embarking on a journey is not about possessing more, but about moving forward with purpose, conviction, and hope despite uncertainty. This idea forms the emotional core of the work, rooted in Taiwan's island culture yet speaking to a global audience.

[View original article](https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/08/11/tmt-newswire/media-outreach-newswire/orbitel-international-corp-creative-director-ming-ji-hsiehs-one-suitcase-selected-for-the-2026-national-art-exhibition/2402539)

Orbitel International Corp. Creative Director Ming-Ji Hsieh's One Suitcase Selected for the 2026 National Art Exhibition

The Encore Mt. Morris Art Gallery is set to unveil an extraordinary exhibit showcasing four generations of art from the **Mann** family. The family's artistic legacy began with **Heathcote “Hec” Mann**, who arrived in Mt. Morris in 1915 and became a renowned authority on print layouts, as well as a skilled cartoonist and designer.

 The exhibit features over 100 years of artwork from the **Mann** family, including **Hec** and his wife **Trine**, who were an artistic power couple of their era. Their descendants, including **Eric**, **Nancy**, **Chris**, **Cecilia**, **Ellen**, and **Jeff Mann**, have all contributed to the family's artistic heritage. The exhibit is a diverse collection of drawings, paintings, graphic design, photographs, fine art prints, and three-dimensional works such as quilts, resin art, and pottery.

 The Encore Mt. Morris Art Gallery, located in College Hall, will be open every Friday and Saturday in August, coinciding with the free Mt. Morris Jamboree and Strawfest concerts. Admission to the gallery is free, and donations are welcome.

[View original article](https://www.shawlocal.com/ogle-county-news/2026/08/10/new-encore-mt-morris-exhibit-features-4-generations-of-art/)

New Encore Mt. Morris exhibit features 4 generations of art

To commemorate two decades of partnership, **Emirates** has created a unique club crest for **Arsenal** using upcycled aircraft parts. The **Aircrafted Arsenal Crest** is a 2.4-metre-high sculpture made from 84 components of the **Airbus A380** and **Boeing 777**. 

 The sculpture features **Arsenal**'s famous cannon, formed from an **A380** wheel hub and a titanium air duct, with the face of the shield made from sheets of **777** aluminium fuselage skin. The crest was unveiled at the **Emirates Stadium** by **Sir Tim Clark**, president of **Emirates Airlines**, and **Richard Garlick**, chief executive of **Arsenal**. 

 The **Aircrafted Arsenal Crest** will be permanently displayed in **Emirates**' hospitality space at the stadium, serving as a symbol of the partnership between **Emirates** and **Arsenal**, which has been extended to 2033.

[View original article](https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/arsenal-crest-used-aircraft-tendendo-11102570)

Emirates creates new Arsenal crest from used aircraft parts to celebrate 20 years of partnership

The **Detroit Institute of Arts** is showcasing the work of high school students in Wayne County at the **Guardian Building** in downtown Detroit.

 The fifth annual **Wayne County High School Art Exhibition** features a diverse range of art forms, including drawings, photography, digital art, and mixed media, all created by students in 9th through 12th grade.

 The exhibition is open to the public and will run through August 24, with the **Guardian Building** open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., making it an excellent opportunity to experience the talent of local students.

[View original article](https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/local/2026/08/10/dia-brings-student-art-to-guardian-building-in-5th-annual-wayne-county-high-school-art-exhibition/)

DIA brings student art to Guardian Building in 5th annual Wayne County High School Art Exhibition

The **LG Gallery Plus** has introduced **Bob Ross**'s iconic artwork, featuring his signature 'happy little trees', into its digital art gallery. This move may spark interest among fans of the beloved artist, but it remains to be seen whether it is enough to encourage users to connect their LG TVs to the internet.

 The inclusion of **Bob Ross**'s work in the **LG Gallery Plus** is an interesting development, and its impact on the digital art world will be worth watching. As the line between technology and art continues to blur, it will be fascinating to see how this collaboration unfolds and whether it brings new audiences to both **Bob Ross**'s work and the **LG Gallery Plus**.

[View original article](https://www.theverge.com/tech/977215/bob-ross-comes-to-lg-gallery-plus)

Bob Ross comes to LG Gallery Plus.

An upcoming auction is set to feature a range of works by celebrated figures in Indian modern art, including **SH Raza**, **MF Husain**, and **Arpita Singh**.

 The sale brings together rare and important works that trace the evolution of Indian modernism, spanning abstraction, figuration, landscape, mythology, and personal narrative. Leading the sale is **Raza’s** ‘**Jala Bindu**’ (1990), a painting that transforms geometry into a metaphysical proposition, and an Untitled diptych by **Husain**, executed around 1970, which belongs to a period widely regarded as one of the most inventive phases of **Husain’s** career.

 Other notable works up for auction include **Husain’s** Untitled piece centered on the horse, a rare, paired work by **Husain** created as part of the artist’s ‘**Our Planet Called Earth**’ series, and an Untitled canvas by **Arpita Singh**, painted in 1999, which explores themes of intimacy, memory, and domestic life. The sale also features notable works by **Krishen Khanna**, **J Swaminathan**, and **Hemendranath Mazumdar**, offering collectors an opportunity to acquire museum-worthy examples by artists who continue to define the canon of Indian art.

[View original article](https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/arts/razas-jala-bindu-husains-diptych-to-go-under-the-hammer/)

Raza’s ‘Jala Bindu’, Husain’s diptych to go under the hammer

The natural world, particularly birds, can be a rich source of inspiration for home decor. Birds' nests, for example, showcase a genius blend of strength, comfort, purpose, and aesthetics. The great bowerbird's meticulous curation of treasures and the satin bowerbird's obsession with the color blue demonstrate a design philosophy that values function, beauty, and the reuse of materials.

 By observing birds' behaviors and nest-building techniques, we can learn valuable lessons for our own home decor. For instance, using a single accent color and repeating it throughout a space can create a deliberate and alive atmosphere. Additionally, birds' precision in choosing materials for their nests can teach us the importance of giving objects space and being intentional with our decor choices.

 The use of natural materials, such as twigs, grass, and feathers, in birds' nests can also inspire us to get curious about the textures and feels of different materials in our own homes. By incorporating unexpected materials like handmade ceramics, vintage fabrics, and salvaged wood, we can add depth and richness to our spaces. Ultimately, birds' nests show us that home decor can be a reflection of our personal stories and memories, making our spaces feel truly alive and unique.

[View original article](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/work-career/7-beautiful-and-functional-home-decor-tips-inspired-by-birds/photostory/133090116.cms)

7 beautiful and functional home decor tips inspired by birds

The **Henri de Triqueti** portrait medallion of Florence and Alice Campbell, created in 1857, will be displayed at **Buscot Park** in Oxfordshire after a successful fundraising campaign. 

 A descendant of Alice Campbell contributed to the fundraising effort, ensuring the piece remains in the UK. The sculpture, designated a national treasure, was commissioned by Robert ‘Tertius’ Campbell and depicts his daughters Florence and Alice as children. 

 The sculpture stands nearly two metres tall and features the sisters holding a Greek vase containing a lily, symbolising purity, while grape vines and convolvulus twine around the medallion, symbolising charity, and the bond between the sisters. Dr **Amy Lim**, curator, said the beautiful sculpture is the most important acquisition for the **Faringdon Collection** since 2013 and will help tell visitors about an important chapter in **Buscot Park**’s history.

[View original article](https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/26435188.oxfordshire-buscot-park-see-return-rare-sculpture/)

Oxfordshire Buscot Park to see return of rare sculpture

The **Rhythm of Life** series, on display at **Art Explore** in New Delhi, showcases the work of designer and visual artist **Harpreet Narula** in his first solo exhibition, **Inward**. This collection of abstract works features paint that resembles the texture of embroidered thread, reflecting the influence of three enduring traditions: the painted walls of havelis of Punjab, the frescoes of Shekhawati, and the loom.

 **Harpreet Narula**'s artistic practice is shaped by memory and rhythm, with inspiration drawn from past encounters with fabric, architecture, and visual art. His large collection of archival textiles serves as a reference point for both his fashion label and costume design for films, providing visual cues on texture, surface, and pattern. Narula believes that his subconscious absorbs these elements, which he then builds upon in his work.

 The convergence of **Narula**'s fashion and artistic practices is an interesting aspect of his career, with textile design requiring structural discipline and his art allowing for free-flowing expression. Over the years, he has felt the urge to pursue a path that enables him to express himself artistically without constraints, leading to the creation of new works that are entirely his own.

[View original article](https://www.livemint.com/mint-lounge/art-and-culture/designer-harpreet-narula-first-solo-art-show-rhythm-repetition-abstraction-11786254950899.html)

Designer Harpreet Narula explores rhythm and abstraction in first solo art show

The **Lalbagh** flower show in **Bengaluru** is a highly anticipated event that has returned for its 220th edition, this time with a floral tribute to the **Ganga dynasty**. The 12-day show features intricate and vibrant floral displays that celebrate the glory of the **Ganga Empire**.

 One of the main attractions is a 50-foot-high replica of the 1,200-year-old **Panchalingeshwara Temple Complex** at **Begur**, created using six lakh flowers. Other notable exhibits include floral depictions of the **Ganga kings' Gajasena**, battle scenes, the **Bahubali statue of Shravanabelagola**, and temples of **Talakad**.

 The show also features replicas of the **Bengaluru inscription**, **Elephant Battle**, and **Brahma Sthamba**, as well as statues of **Ganga rulers** and exhibits showcasing their contributions to **Kannada literature**, education, irrigation, and sculpture, all of which add to the heritage-themed showcase.

[View original article](https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2026/Aug/09/lalbagh-flower-show-returns-with-floral-tribute-to-ganga-dynasty)

Lalbagh flower show returns with floral tribute to Ganga dynasty

In the medieval landscape of Telangana, ancient stones whisper tales of a bygone era, echoing stories of ritual devotion, royal patronage, and martial valour. The region is home to numerous hero stones and inscriptions, including a rare Siditala Veeragallu from the 8th century CE, which commemorates a warrior's ultimate sacrifice.

These historical relics, found in places like Toopran and Gajjallapalli, offer a glimpse into the lives of warriors, rulers, and monks who once flourished under royal patronage. The stones depict scenes of combat, royal grandeur, and spiritual pursuit, while inscriptions record land grants, temple endowments, and battles won. **Karipe Rajkumar**, a history enthusiast, has dedicated himself to researching and preserving these treasures, urging authorities to conserve the fragile remnants of a rich cultural heritage.

The intricate carvings and inscriptions on these stones not only showcase the artistic prowess of medieval craftsmen but also provide a window into the social, religious, and political fabric of the time. As **Tribhuvanamalla Deva**'s royal land grant inscription and the stone pillar inscription near the Shiva temple in Gajjallapalli attest, the region's history is etched in stone, waiting to be deciphered and cherished.

[View original article](https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/2026/Aug/09/sacrifice-devotion-and-victory-carved-in-stone)

Sacrifice, devotion and victory carved in stone

In the city of Portland, a new art trail has emerged, featuring 30 vividly colored, 6-foot crow statues, each hand-painted by local artists. The sculptures are part of **Wildwood: Follow the Crows**, a free, self-guided trail that combines art, scavenger hunt, and civic celebration. The event is tied to the upcoming **Laika** movie **Wildwood**, which tells the story of a Portland girl rescuing her baby brother from a murder of crows.

 The art trail is a joint effort from **Laika**, **Downtown Portland Clean and Safe**, **OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital**, and **Wild in Art**, and will be on display through Halloween. After the event, the sculptures will be auctioned off, with proceeds supporting **OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital**. Participants can download a map or use the **Wildwood Follow the Trail** app to locate the crows and unlock rewards and exclusive offerings from sponsors.

 The project has a strong connection to Portland, with the series’ main character, **Prue McKeel**, hailing from the **St. Johns** neighborhood, where a special crow featuring a map designed by **Wildwood** co-creator **Carson Ellis** is on display. The event celebrates the city and its connection to the **Wildwood** story, which was written by **Decemberists** front man **Colin Meloy**.

[View original article](https://www.oregonlive.com/portland/2026/08/portland-woke-to-giant-brilliantly-colored-crows-lining-the-streets-and-theres-a-beautiful-reason-why.html)

'Wildwood: Follow the Crows' art trail launches in Portland in August 2026

The **Three Counties Open Art Exhibition** is currently on display at **Fenton Town Hall** in Stoke-on-Trent, featuring a diverse range of artworks from talented artists across Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Shropshire.

 This year's exhibition has seen a record number of submissions, making it the largest display of artwork in its history. The quality and variety of the pieces on display are a testament to the thriving artistic community in the region, with **Kerry Jones** from **ArtsKeele** at **Keele University** praising the strength of artistic talent across the three counties.

 The exhibition includes works by notable artists such as **Emily Galvin-Wilson**, Staffordshire's first female Poet Laureate, who is showcasing her mixed media abstract piece **Take Me Out To Sea**, and **Laurel Gallagher**, also known as **Feral State**, who is exhibiting a self-portrait diptych.

[View original article](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2gyqqr9p0o)

Three Counties Open Art Exhibition

The city of Bhopal is gearing up for an exciting couple of weeks with a wide range of creative workshops, shopping exhibitions, and **Raksha Bandhan**-themed events.

 From **Luxury Crystal on Wine** workshops to **Block Printing** sessions, there's something for everyone to enjoy, whether it's art, crafts, fashion, or shopping. Other events include a **Rakhi Special Card Making Competition** for children, **3D Sculpture Making** workshops, and the **Sundown Creative Flea Market**, which will feature over 20 creative workshops.

 For fashion enthusiasts, the **Riwaazz Fashion and Lifestyle Exhibition** will showcase special **Raksha Bandhan** collections from over 65 designers, while a shopping exhibition at **Bling Square Mall** will offer a variety of clothing, accessories, and home décor options.

[View original article](https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/bhopal-weekend-special-art-sculpting-workshops-rakhi-exhibition-more-things-to-do-on-august-8-9)

Bhopal Weekend Special: Art & Sculpting Workshops, Rakhi Exhibition & More-- Things To Do On August 8 & 9

The **Punjab Kala Bhawan** is currently hosting an eclectic exhibition that brings together a wide range of artistic mediums, from paintings and photography to sculpture. As visitors step into the gallery, they are met with a kaleidoscope of colours and textures, with each wall offering a unique visual experience.

 The exhibition features works by various artists, including **K.R. Kohli**, who is showcasing his charcoal piece **Trumpet Player**. Kohli's philosophy of experimentation and exploration is reflected in the diverse range of subjects, textures, and techniques on display. The exhibition also includes works by emerging artists, such as Kohli's daughter, whose painting is being showcased alongside her father's.

 Visitors to the gallery have been drawn to the diverse range of works on display, with some appreciating the vibrant colours and energy of certain pieces, while others are inspired by the more restrained and contemplative works. The exhibition has been described as a shifting score, with different notes and moods evoked by each piece, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for viewers.

 The **Annual Art Exhibition 2026** is a must-visit event for art lovers, offering a unique opportunity to experience the diversity and richness of contemporary art.

[View original article](https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/lifestyle/a-gallery-that-refuses-to-sit-still-inside-an-exhibition-where-paintings-photography-and-sculpture-share-the-spotlight/)

A gallery that refuses to sit still: Inside an exhibition where paintings, photography and sculpture share the spotlight

A recent 10-day art and craft training workshop at the **Sobha Singh Art Gallery** in Andretta provided 17 students with hands-on training in various art and craft activities.

 The students, ranging from Class III to Class XII, were guided by master trainer **Kamaljit Kaur** and created a range of handmade items, including decorative rakhis, crochet products, and greeting cards. The workshop aimed to enhance creativity, improve fine motor skills, and encourage self-expression through practical learning and creative activities.

 **Kamaljit Kaur** emphasized the importance of such workshops in helping children discover their creative potential, develop patience, imagination, and confidence, and nurture innovation and constructive thinking. This initiative is part of the **Sobha Singh Art Gallery**'s efforts to promote creativity among young learners and provide opportunities to learn and practise diverse art and craft forms during school vacations.

[View original article](https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/himachal/students-receive-hands-on-training-at-10-day-art-gallery-workshop/)

Workshop at Sobha Singh Art Gallery: 17 students receive hands

The city of Chennai is set to experience a vibrant display of contemporary art with the **Contemporary Now Edition III**. This exhibition will feature the work of 66 artists across 10 venues, bringing together leading galleries from around the country to celebrate artistic practice and dialogue.

 A conversation was held ahead of the exhibition, titled ‘From Mylapore to Mumbai (and Beyond): The Cultural South in the Context of Contemporary Art’, which discussed various aspects of the art world, including trust and transactions, social media, and the accessibility of original art. The conversation featured notable figures such as **Ashvin E. Rajagopalan**, **Benitha Perciyal K.**, and **Mortimer Chatterjee**, and was moderated by lifestyle journalist **Prasad Ramamurthy**.

 The exhibition aims to bridge the gap between the Chennai art scene and the more financially successful art scenes in Delhi and Mumbai, and to provide a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage in dialogue with art enthusiasts.

[View original article](https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/contemporary-now-edition-iii-brings-66-artists-to-chennai/article71318506.ece)

Contemporary Now Edition III brings 66 artists to Chennai

A multimedia art show is set to take place in the Village of Hilton Beach. The event, titled Arts at the Dock, will feature a wide range of artistic mediums including **painting**, **photography**, **pottery**, **stained glass**, and **textiles**.

 The show will be held at the Hilton Beach Community Hall, located on Hilton Road, as well as along the waterfront. Artists will be present to showcase their work, and the event will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine.

[View original article](https://www.nugget.ca/news/art-show-happens-sunday-in-hilton-beach)

Art show happens Sunday in Hilton Beach

Isha Ambani recently made a fashion statement in a **Schiaparelli** dress from the Spring/Summer 2026 collection, featuring intricate embroidery and a bright blue ombre tulle neckline.

 The businesswoman's look was styled by **Dani Michelle**, who chose minimal jewellery and **Chanel** accessories to elevate the overall appearance. The outfit included **Schiaparelli** Keyhole pumps and a **Chanel** plexiglass clutch, while her sleek pulled-back bun, flushed cheeks, and glossy pink lips added a touch of glamour.

 The entire look is estimated to be worth over ₹50 lakh, with the handcrafted couture silhouette, iconic **Chanel** minaudière, and **Schiaparelli** heels making it a true example of wearable art. This is not Isha Ambani's first time wearing **Schiaparelli**, as she had previously worn a sculptural silhouette designed by **Daniel Roseberry** during a wedding bash two years ago.

[View original article](https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/fashion/isha-ambani-schiaparelli-couture-worth-50-lakh-fashion-10796990/)

A Rs 50 Lakh Fashion Moment? Decoding Isha Ambani’s Schiaparelli Look

The **Origami House**, formerly owned by musician and filmmaker **Rob Zombie**, is a unique estate that combines dramatic architecture with secluded grounds, a flowing koi sanctuary, and rooms designed to blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.

 Located in Connecticut, the property covers approximately 15.57 acres and includes an 8,586-square-foot residence with four bedrooms and five bathrooms. The home's nickname comes from its angular, folded design, which gives the property a sculptural quality. Extensive glass walls and high ceilings bring natural light deep into the interior, creating a series of distinct views and atmospheres.

 The visual centrepiece of the estate is the **Glass Great Room**, a dramatic, light-filled space inspired by **I.M. Pei's** famous **Louvre Pyramid** in Paris. The room features three glass walls and opens onto an expansive terrace, giving residents a direct view of the property's landscaped grounds and one of its cascading waterfalls. The estate also includes a koi sanctuary, a lighted tennis court, mature fruit trees, open lawns, and a meditation garden connected to the primary suite.

[View original article](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/real-estate/news/inside-rob-zombies-former-6-5-million-origami-house-with-glass-walls-waterfalls-and-a-koi-sanctuary/articleshow/133010855.cms)

Inside Rob Zombie’s former $6.5 million Origami House with glass walls, waterfalls and a koi sanctuary

Marri Ngarr artist **Ryan Presley** has taken out Australia's richest Indigenous art prize, the **Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA)**, with his oil painting 'Our lifestyle of tranquillity undisturbed 2026'.

 The work invites audiences to reflect on who shapes history, and **Presley**'s win earns him the $100,000 **Telstra Art Award**. His multidisciplinary practice spans painting, sculpture, installation, video, and writing, and his work is described as interrogating the legacies of settler-colonialism while foregrounding Indigenous autonomy.

 The judging panel praised **Presley**'s painting for successfully bringing together diverse cultural, cross-cultural, and art history references, holding the viewer in affective contemplation about the past, present, and future. The **Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory** director, **Adam Worrall**, said the winning work presented a recomposed view of the past through references to Renaissance painting, and praised its technical precision.

[View original article](https://www.sbs.com.au/nitv/article/ryan-presley-wins-2026-telstra-natsiaa-with-painting-exploring-power-memory-and-the-past/t0ow78nzg)

Ryan Presley wins 2026 Telstra NATSIAA with painting exploring power, memory and the past

A new sculpture in Arcadia, Wisconsin, has been dedicated to honor 250 years of service by the nation's troops. The monument, titled **On Angels Wings**, was unveiled at Memorial Park during the 'Ashley for the Arts' event.

 The sculpture is the latest addition to Memorial Park, which already features a number of monuments honoring the troops, including those dedicated to Gold Star Mothers and War Dogs. **Ben Golden**, the sculptor, expressed his excitement at seeing the monument take shape, which was made possible by a $1.5 million donation from **Ashley Furniture founder Rob Wanek**.

 The **On Angels Wings** monument is a significant addition to the park, and its dedication marks an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to honor the nation's troops.

[View original article](https://www.weau.com/2026/08/07/angel-inspired-monument-dedicated-our-nations-troops/)

Angel-inspired monument dedicated to our nation’s troops

The **Art In Transit** programme has been transforming Singapore's MRT stations into vibrant public art spaces since 1997. With over 100 artworks commissioned to date, the programme has become an integral part of the city's urban identity. From murals to sculptures, these artworks not only add visual appeal to the stations but also reflect the location and history of each area.

 The programme's expansion to existing stations along the North-South and East-West Lines has brought new life to these transit hubs. According to **Ho Yong Min**, a content creator and heritage educator, these artworks give stations their own unique character, making them more than just interchangeable points along the MRT network. By embedding stories, memories, and ideas into the city's physical fabric, these artworks will become a record of their time for future generations.

 The curation process for these artworks is a careful and considered one, with the **Land Transport Authority** conducting public calls for artists and overseeing the selection process with the **Art Review Panel**. With **Professor Tommy Koh** and **Mok Wei Wei** at the helm, the programme aims to create artworks that are inspiring, accessible, and technically feasible. As the MRT network continues to grow, the **Art In Transit** programme is set to become an even more significant part of Singapore's urban landscape.

[View original article](https://www.straitstimes.com/life/home-design/how-singapore-is-using-art-to-make-its-mrt-stations-the-most-beautiful-in-the-world)

Singapore MRT art showcase

The August force wipe in **Rust** has brought significant changes to the game with the launch of the **Power Trip** update. This update has altered the game plan for players, making it easier to access power and crude oil, while also increasing the importance of monuments. Players who control key locations such as **Dome**, **Water Treatment Plant**, **Airfield**, **Launch Site**, and **Power Plant** will have a clear advantage.

 The **Power Trip** update has introduced new features, including the ability to power up the **Power Plant** and unlock electricity across the island. Other modifications have been made to major landmarks, allowing players to extract crude oil, summon airdrops, and enable terminals. Additionally, the update has brought new DLC, including **Bar Games**, which allows players to engage in mini-games and edit stone blocks to create beautiful creations.

 Players have rushed to claim territory and take advantage of the recent changes, with many focusing on securing key landmarks to gain an upper hand over their enemies. With the update, players can now supply power to the **Power Plant** to unlock various perks, including turning on freezers and enabling electricity from powerline poles.

[View original article](https://www.polygon.com/rust-august-force-wipe-update-shell/)

Rust August Force Wipe Brings New DLC and Major Update

Tom of Finland, born Touko Laaksonen in 1920, is widely regarded as a pioneer in his field, influencing works such as **Scorpio Rising** by **Kenneth Anger** and the iconic looks of the **Village People**. His impact extends beyond the art world, with references to his work appearing in unexpected places, including the president's cabinet.

 The **Tom of Finland** exhibition, **Tom's Stretch**, showcases his enduring relevance in the art world by featuring his drawings, watercolors, and collages alongside works by over 70 contemporary artists. This diverse collection explores themes of sexuality, fetish, and extreme physiques, demonstrating the lasting legacy of **Tom of Finland**.

[View original article](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/06/arts/art-gallery-shows-to-see-in-august.html)

Art Gallery Shows to See in August

A controversy has erupted in a North Staffordshire village over a newly-painted sculpture and bench, prompting the parish council to call an extraordinary meeting to discuss the issue.

 The sculpture and bench, carved from a centuries-old chestnut tree, were dedicated to former borough mayor Barry Panter and have become a point of contention among villagers, with some calling for the paint to be removed and others defending the new design.

 Newcastle Borough Council has stated that it regards the bench and sculpture as a personal project for some parish councillors and considers the debate over their appearance to be a local matter, while villagers remain divided on the issue, with some arguing that the paint removes the link to their heritage and others seeing it as a matter of personal preference.

[View original article](https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/north-staffordshire-village-divided-row-11094505)

Council call extraordinary meeting as row breaks out over painted fish sculpture

This fall, the **Sheldon Museum of Art** will open four exhibitions celebrating painting, particularly abstract painting, across generations of American artists. The exhibitions will feature works from top-level public and private collections and will be on view through January 3, 2027.

 At the center of the fall lineup is **Grace Hartigan: The Gift of Attention**, an exhibition that explores how New York poets shaped the career of American artist **Grace Hartigan**. The exhibition unites works created between 1952 and 1968, a period marking Hartigan’s deep engagement with these writers and her rapid ascent in the art world. 

 Presented alongside Hartigan’s historical works, **Gender, Genre, Generation: Women Painting Abstraction** offers a living, contemporary response, featuring recent paintings by four artists working today. The exhibition asks what abstraction can still do today and makes the case for painting as a vital form across generations of American artists.

[View original article](https://journalstar.com/life-entertainment/community/article_fee20d4b-a78f-5065-a7bb-85fec7e3308a.html)

Grace Hartigan exhibition anchors Sheldon fall lineup

A historic art gallery in **Tangipahoa Parish** is in the process of rebuilding after a devastating fire in March. The fire, which was sparked by a lightning strike on March 9, caused significant damage to the **Twin Steeples Creative Arts Center** and forced its indefinite closure.

 The center has made significant progress in its repairs, with the entire roof truss system having been replaced. However, further work is still required, including updates to the steeple and interior. A tentative reopening date is expected to be announced soon, marking a new beginning for this beloved cultural institution.

[View original article](https://www.wbrz.com/news/ponchatoula-art-gallery-rebuilding-after-march-fire)

Ponchatoula art gallery rebuilding after March fire

The Indian government has partnered with **Netflix** and **YouTube** to promote the country's tourism destinations globally through cinematic storytelling. This partnership aims to showcase India's diverse regions and cultural heritage to a global audience. The Ministry of Tourism has entered into non-commercial agreements with these platforms, which will allow them to promote India's tourism destinations without any financial obligations.

 The collaboration with **Netflix** has already led to the creation of an 'As Seen on Netflix' section on the 'Incredible India' portal, allowing global viewers to discover real locations and cultural traditions featured in **Netflix** India's films and series. **Netflix** Co-CEO **Ted Sarandos** believes that these partnerships can create wonders and play a pivotal role in promoting Indian tourism, not only showcasing India to the rest of the world but also encouraging Indians to explore the country's diverse regions.

 The partnership is expected to have a significant impact on India's tourism industry, with **Netflix** having produced over 200 original productions in India in the last ten years and spent around two billion dollars on content. The collaboration with **YouTube** and other platforms is also expected to promote India's cultural diplomacy and creative economy, showcasing the country's incredible diversity and rich cultural heritage to a global audience.

[View original article](https://theprint.in/india/tourism-ministrys-partnership-with-netflix-youtube-can-create-wonders-shekhawat/3006753/)

Tourism ministry's partnership with Netflix, YouTube can create wonders: Shekhawat

The **Art Gallery Kimberley**, a hub for local artists and art enthusiasts, is set to permanently close its doors on September 13. Located in The Platzl, the gallery has been a cornerstone of the community, providing a space for people to discover and connect with original artwork.

 The gallery's owner, **Irma de Visser**, has expressed her sadness at the closure, but is also grateful for the experience and the connections she has made. Despite the closure, **Irma** plans to remain involved in the local arts scene. To celebrate the gallery's time in the community, two special summer sale campaigns are being offered, featuring discounted works by **Melanie MacVoy**, **Rob Toller**, and **Barbara Maye**.

 The sales will take place in the weeks leading up to the closure, with the goal of giving the community a chance to take home a piece of the gallery's magic. The **Art Gallery Kimberley** has been an inspiring space, and its closure will undoubtedly be felt by the community. The gallery will close on September 13, and any gift cards must be redeemed by 4 p.m. on that day.

[View original article](https://www.e-know.ca/regions/kimberley/art-gallery-kimberley-shuttering-sept-13/)

Art Gallery Kimberley shuttering Sept. 13

The Department of Posts has recently issued a commemorative postage stamp in honour of **Satish Gujral**, a renowned painter, sculptor, and architect, on his birth centenary year.

 The tradition of honouring painters through postage stamps in India began nearly 66 years ago, with the first stamp being issued on the birth centenary of **Rabindranath Tagore**. This tradition has continued over the decades, with stamps featuring works by prominent Indian artists such as **Nandalal Bose**, **Gaganendranath Tagore**, **Raja Ravi Varma**, and **Abanindranath Tagore**.

 The issuance of these stamps not only pays tribute to individual artists but also inscribes them into the public memory of the nation, making their work accessible to a wider audience. The postal department has effectively transformed the postage stamp into a miniature national art gallery, featuring works by major painters and recognising modern Indian painting as a cultural subject in its own right.

 By placing a painter on a postage stamp, the Department of Posts does more than pay tribute to an individual artist; it leaves a lasting impact on the nation's cultural memory, allowing the artist's work to be reborn on a smaller visual plane and begin a new journey through the hands of millions of citizens.

[View original article](https://www.theweek.in/leisure/society/2026/08/05/honouring-painters-on-postage-stamps-inscribing-art-and-their-artists-in-indias-public-memory.html)

Honouring painters on postage stamps: Inscriptions into India's public memory

A **10-foot golden trophy** created by the anonymous arts activist group **Secret Handshake** is embarking on a tour across the United States. The trophy, a satirical piece of protest art, was initially displayed on the **National Mall** and later moved to **Foley Square** in **Lower Manhattan**. Its next stop is scheduled to be **Minneapolis**. 

 The trophy is accompanied by a sign that invites the public to create their own handmade trophies, which can be left at the base of the sculpture. A plaque attached to the trophy provides a sarcastic justification for the award, citing **President Donald J. Trump**'s involvement in the **Iran War**. The group's representative expressed enthusiasm for the public's engagement with the artwork, particularly in **D.C.**, where people customized their own trophies and certificates. 

 **Secret Handshake** has been making headlines with their thought-provoking installations, including a previous work titled **"Best Friends Forever"**, which featured **President Trump** and **Jeffrey Epstein**. The group plans to bring the **Iran War Participation Trophy** to other cities, with **L.A.** being a potential destination.

[View original article](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2026-08-05/iran-war-participation-trophy-trump-tour-instagram-secret-handshake)

'Iran War Participation Trophy' for Trump is on tour, joins Instagram

The **Storm King Art Center** and **Art Omi** are two prominent sculpture parks in Upstate New York, recognized for their impressive collections of large-scale art pieces.

 
These parks offer a unique blend of art and nature, with **Storm King Art Center** spanning 500 acres and featuring over 100 permanent sculptures, including works by notable artists such as **Zhang Huan** and **Roy Lichtenstein**. In contrast, **Art Omi** covers 120 acres and showcases 60 works, including pieces by **Olaf Breuning** and **Will Ryman**.

 
Both parks provide an immersive experience, with **Storm King Art Center** offering temporary exhibits and **Art Omi** hosting residency programs that bring dozens of artists on site to work on projects and stage performances, making each visit a new and exciting experience.

[View original article](https://www.syracuse.com/living/2026/08/you-can-visit-two-of-americas-best-ranked-sculpture-parks-in-one-upstate-ny-day-trip.html)

Two sculpture parks in Upstate NY named among best in America

A willow sculpture trail has opened at an ice cream farm in Cheshire to celebrate its 40th anniversary. The trail features six large-scale sculptures, including a giant **Paddington**, made from sustainable Somerset willow by artist **Sarah Gallagher-Hayes**.

 The sculptures are part of a free trail that visitors can follow through a sunflower field, where they can take photos and admire the artwork amidst bright yellow blooms. The trail is open daily from 10am to 6pm and offers a memorable experience for families and visitors of all ages.

 In addition to the sculpture trail, the farm features a beautiful wildflower meadow and an ice cream parlour with a variety of unique flavours. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy an ice cream as part of their visit, with the farm's latest flavour being Miso caramel and brown butter ice cream. The farm is located on the A51 in Hurleston, just outside of Nantwich in Cheshire, and well-behaved dogs are welcome if kept on leads.

[View original article](https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/news/chester-cheshire-news/giant-paddington-dalek-dinosaur-free-34355029)

Giant Paddington, Dalek and dinosaur at free Cheshire willow walk

A stunning **20,000-pound sand sculpture** has been unveiled at **Caesars Atlantic City**, drawing large crowds and attention. The sculpture, which stands at **8.5 feet tall** and measures about **10 feet wide**, was created by a retired **Atlantic City firefighter** to celebrate the launch of the new **Caesars Beach Club**.

 The intricate design, inspired by **Roman architecture** and the casino’s iconic design, was crafted by **Matthew Deibert**, an internationally recognized professional sand sculptor, alongside his three sons. The project took over **150 hours** to complete and is not only a testament to Deibert’s craftsmanship but also a form of performance art, with the sculptor engaging with over **1,000 visitors** throughout the process.

 The sculpture highlights Deibert’s personal connection to **Atlantic City**, where he served as a lifeguard and later a firefighter for **25 years**. The installation is a celebration of the city’s historic ties to sand sculpting and a unique addition to the **Caesars Beach Club**.

[View original article](https://www.nj.com/business/2026/08/retired-jersey-shore-firefighter-creates-stunning-20000-pound-sand-sculpture.html)

Retired Jersey Shore firefighter creates stunning 20,000-pound sand sculpture

A historic fire alarm dispatch station in Sacramento is set to reopen as a contemporary art exhibition, featuring the work of nearly 30 local artists. 

 The **Albert Winn Fire Alarm Dispatch Station**, a restored Art Deco landmark built in 1937, will host the exhibition titled **Coordinates: Dispatch**, which will include sculpture, painting, sound, video, and live performances. 

 The exhibition, which runs from August 8 to October 10, marks one of the first major public uses of the building in over a decade, and is the result of a partnership between **Sites of Vacancy**, the **Midtown Association**, and the city of Sacramento to revitalize the vacant building and return it to public use.

[View original article](https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/sacramento-art-deco-fire-station-new-art-exhibit/)

Sacramento's historic fire dispatch station to reopen as contemporary art exhibit

A would-be thief broke into a **Dublin** art gallery in the early hours of the morning, only to quickly flee the scene upon realizing there was nothing of value to steal.

 The gallery, which has chosen to remain anonymous, shared the amusing CCTV footage on social media, showing the hapless crook climbing through a broken glass door before swiftly exiting. The gallery pointed out that the items on display have no resale value on the black market, rendering the break-in pointless.

 The incident occurred on a Sunday morning, at around 3:20am, and the gallery has chosen not to report the matter to the authorities, deeming it more trouble than it's worth. Instead, they've opted to poke fun at the situation, jokingly asking the thief to refrain from vandalizing the doors in the future.

[View original article](https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/dopey-criminal-breaks-art-gallery-37512175)

Dopey criminal breaks into art gallery before fleeing when he realises there's nothing to steal

The **Art Gallery of Sudbury** is hosting an exhibition to commemorate 30 years of **Myths and Mirrors**, a community arts project that was initially intended to last only three years.

 The exhibition, **Art for All(ways): 30 Years of Myths and Mirrors**, showcases the impact of this organization on the community, featuring a wide range of artistic projects, including solo and group collaborations, textiles, audio-visual material, murals, and public art. Curated by **Cora-Rae Silk** and **Ra’anaa Yaminah Ekundayo**, the exhibition celebrates the organization's commitment to exposing destructive myths and creating mirrors for people to see each other.

 **Myths and Mirrors Community Arts** has provided unique opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience and participate in the arts, creating innovative art, fostering community identity, and providing a platform for marginalized voices to be heard. The exhibition is a testament to the organization's dedication to its mission and its lasting impact on the community.

[View original article](https://www.nugget.ca/entertainment/from-a-three-year-art-experiment-to-a-30-year-sudbury-legacy)

From a three-year experiment to a 30-year Sudbury legacy

Stickers are miniature artworks that can be found almost anywhere, if you know where to look. From adorning laptops, cafe walls and trash cans to deejay flight cases and traffic lights, they bring a touch of personality to otherwise ordinary things and surroundings.

For many, the love of stickers begins in childhood, when earning one from a teacher for acing a spelling test felt like a small reward worth collecting. Trading stickers with friends became a way of sharing tastes, discovering new designs and building connections. The current exhibition at A4 Art Gallery, GMBB mall in Kuala Lumpur, called Sticky Friends, explores stickers and other forms of street art culture, highlighting the potential of KL’s increasingly diverse art communities and alternative spaces.

The exhibition has drawn audiences beyond the usual gallery circuit, with much of its publicity taking place online, particularly through TikTok, reflecting how art venues are increasingly engaging new audiences through social media. Featuring more than 60 artists and illustrators from around the world, Sticky Friends presents a selection of original sticker artworks, collectible sticker merchandise and specially created pieces, cultivating its own audience since its opening and drawing curious culture seekers and collectors to the gallery.

As an exhibition, Sticky Friends has created a meeting point between pop culture and contemporary art, while encouraging broader engagement by offering works at accessible price points, and has found a creative balance through these unconventional mediums, continuing to broaden the conversation around what can be considered art, and creating accessible entry points for new audiences.

[View original article](https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2026/08/04/a-kuala-lumpur-gallery-gives-sticker-art-culture-a-bigger-canvas)

A Kuala Lumpur gallery gives sticker art culture a bigger canvas

The **FMU Stephen F. Gately Gallery** is set to host a new exhibit titled **Land and Water: Environmental Conflict and Connection in the American Landscape**, featuring the works of printmakers **April Flanders** and **Josh Winkler**.

 The exhibit, which runs from August 13 to October 2, will showcase the artists' exploration of the relationship between people and the environment through contemporary printmaking. **Flanders** will display a large-scale installation titled **Trophic Cascade**, while **Winkler** will present panoramic woodcut prints inspired by his research into high-elevation Appalachian ecosystems.

 The exhibition is free and open to the public, with a public opening reception and an exhibit talk scheduled to take place at the gallery. The event aims to examine both environmental conflict and the enduring connections between people and the natural world, highlighting the artists' unique perspectives on the American landscape.

[View original article](https://www.postandcourier.com/pee-dee/news/florence-sc-stephen-gately-gallery-new-art-exhibit/article_8624eb10-26b4-4b59-8d4f-289ecbd38bf2.html)

Florence art gallery to host new exhibit

A young boy who was thrown from the 10th floor of the **Tate Modern** art gallery in London has made a remarkable recovery and returned to school after undergoing further brain surgery.

 The boy, who was six years old at the time of the attack, suffered severe injuries including a brain haemorrhage and multiple broken bones. Despite the life-changing conditions, he has shown tremendous courage and determination in his recovery journey. His family has shared updates on his progress, revealing that he has resumed school and community rehabilitation, and has even started learning again with the help of tailored lessons.

 The boy's family has expressed their gratitude to supporters who have donated over £536,000 to his recovery fund. They have planned an intensive physiotherapy programme and math tutoring sessions to help him catch up on the months of school he missed. The boy's bravery and determination have inspired many, and his story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity.

[View original article](https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/boy-thrown-10th-floor-tate-34398973)

Boy thrown from 10th floor of Tate Modern returns to school after brain surgery

In the heart of London's trendy Shoreditch, **Hart Shoreditch** stands out as a hotel that embodies the area's eclectic vibe, blending industrial heritage with touches of art and style.

 The hotel's interior is a testament to its surroundings, featuring exposed metal and wood details, warm lighting, and a plethora of bookcases that pay homage to the area's history. A striking wrought iron spiral staircase, illuminated by moon-shaped chandeliers, is a focal point and occasionally hosts immersive art exhibitions, currently showcasing the works of **Mali Mowcka**.

 Each of the 126 rooms is designed with the hotel's theme in mind, complete with crisp white beds, copper details, and wooden flooring. Amenities include a **Marshall Acton III** Bluetooth speaker and a well-appointed tea and coffee station with a **Nespresso** machine and high-quality tea from **Hoogly**. The hotel also offers a variety of activities, including a 24-hour gym, quirky wellness sessions, and art classes.

 For dining, the hotel's Asian restaurant, **UBA**, offers an exceptional bottomless brunch on weekends, featuring dishes like Korean fried chicken and rock shrimp tempura, paired with unlimited drinks, including high-end cocktails. With its mix of style, art, and entertainment, **Hart Shoreditch** is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the best of Shoreditch.

[View original article](https://www.thesun.co.uk/travel/39944565/east-london-hotel-bottomless-brunch-great-value/)

I stayed in the trendy London hotel that feels like an art gallery

The **Urban Collectibles** exhibition is returning for its fifth edition, transforming the luxury guest suites of **The StandardX** into an intimate "living gallery". This unique setup challenges the traditional "white cube" format, inviting collectors to experience art in a more personal and immersive way.

 The exhibition, held under the theme **Moving City**, explores the contrast between Bangkok's fast-paced movement and the stillness found in personal expression. It aims to provide a moment of pause, allowing visitors to rediscover hidden meanings and connect with the art on a deeper level. Featured artists include **Joan Cornella**, **Muklay**, and **Ping Hatta**, among others, with galleries such as **Art Zone Asia** and **Gallery.Sort of.** participating in the event.

 Visitors are invited to step into the curated atmosphere of the luxury suites, where they can witness how art pieces breathe life into a private space. The exhibition runs daily from 1pm to 9pm, from Friday to Sunday, offering a unique opportunity to experience art as it is meant to be lived.

[View original article](https://www.bangkokpost.com/life/arts-and-entertainment/3296249/the-standardx-hosts-art-show-urban-collectibles-on-phra-arthit-road)

The StandardX hosts art show 'Urban Collectibles' on Phra Arthit Road

The birth centenary of **Satish Gujral**, a legendary artist, architect, sculptor, muralist, and writer, has been marked with the release of a commemorative postage stamp. The special ceremony took place at **Bikaner House** in New Delhi, where the stamp was unveiled in the presence of distinguished guests, including members of the Gujral family and noted artist **Jatin Das**.

 The tribute celebrates **Satish Gujral's** remarkable creative journey, which spanned over seven decades and left a lasting impression on India's cultural landscape. His work crossed artistic boundaries, blending painting, sculpture, architecture, and literature into a body of work admired both in India and internationally. The commemorative stamp features a portrait of **Satish Gujral** seated with a paintbrush in hand, representing his lifelong dedication to creativity.

 The stamp serves as a national recognition of his enduring contribution to India's artistic heritage, preserving the memory of one of the country's most celebrated creative figures in a form that will continue reaching people across the nation. **Satish Gujral's** work extended far beyond galleries and public spaces, influencing generations of artists, architects, and creative professionals through bold ideas and distinctive expression.

[View original article](https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/law-order/3959021-india-marks-satish-gujrals-birth-centenary-with-special-postage-stamp)

India Marks Satish Gujral's Birth Centenary With Special Postage Stamp

Thousands of mourners gathered at the Irish Museum of Modern Art at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham in Dublin to pay their respects to **Glen Hansard**, the renowned musician and Oscar-winning songwriter.

 **Hansard**'s wicker coffin was laid in the Baroque Chapel, surrounded by greenery and apples, with two of his guitars at the foot of the coffin. Trad musicians played under the stained glass window as people filed in to pay their tribute. Many left flowers, cards, and notes to honor the **Frames** frontman, who was known for his generous spirit and trailblazing contributions to Irish music.

 **Hansard**'s legacy extends beyond his music, as he was also a devoted charity worker, initiating an annual Christmas Eve busk outside the **Gaiety Theatre** to support the homeless. His impact on the music community and beyond is evident in the outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians, who remember him as a kind, humble, and inspiring figure.

 Those who knew **Hansard** shared stories of his warmth, approachability, and dedication to his craft, from his early days as a musician to his later successes, including his Oscar win for **Falling Slowly**. His passing has left a profound void in the music world, but his memory and music will continue to inspire and uplift fans around the world.

[View original article](https://www.rsvplive.ie/news/celebs/mourners-pay-sweet-tribute-trailblazer-37509028)

Mourners pay sweet tribute to 'trailblazer' Glen Hansard at Dublin wake

A young boy who was thrown from a viewing balcony at the **Tate Modern** art gallery in London has been discharged from hospital, bringing a sense of relief and joy to his family. The boy, who was six years old at the time of the incident, suffered devastating injuries, including a brain bleed and multiple fractures, after being thrown 100ft to the ground by then-teenager **Jonty Bravery** in 2019.

 The boy's family has reported that he has been able to return to school briefly before the summer break, and is now receiving intensive rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, speech therapy, and neuropsychology. His family is planning a series of activities to help him recover and readjust to a normal family routine, including a tandem paragliding experience and adaptive swimming lessons.

 **Jonty Bravery**, now 24, was handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 15 years for the attempted murder, and has since been involved in further incidents, including assaulting nurses at a psychiatric hospital.

[View original article](https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/world-news/boy-thrown-tate-modern-balcony-37508664)

Boy thrown from Tate Modern balcony in attack finally released from hospital

The Latino vote in Philadelphia has been shifting, with many voters turning to the right and supporting **Donald Trump** in the 2024 presidential election. However, now some of these voters are planning to shift back and support **Josh Shapiro** in the upcoming gubernatorial election.

 A new sculpture of **Benjamin Franklin**’s “Join or Die” snake is set to be unveiled this fall on the Liberty Bell Center block of the Independence Mall, but still needs $600,000 in funding. The National Park Service has started a public donation page to close the funding gap.

 Local news also includes the charging of a former state lawmaker with a DUI and child endangerment, and the celebration of **New Barber’s Hall**, a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s Black heritage, before it says goodbye.

[View original article](https://www.inquirer.com/newsletters/morning/latinos-voters-philadelphia-election-democrat-independence-mall-sculpture-20260803.html)

🗳️ Examining Philly’s Latino voters | Morning Newsletter

A massive **46-foot-long sculpture** of a snake is set to be unveiled on Independence Mall, near the Liberty Bell Center block. The sculpture, derived from **Benjamin Franklin’s** iconic **“Join or Die”** political cartoon, will feature eight granite pieces representing the original 13 colonies.

 The **“Join or Die”** cartoon, first published in 1754, called for unity among the colonies during the French and Indian War. The sculpture will be installed on the ground, allowing visitors to interact with it directly, and is expected to create a new civic destination in the heart of Historic Philadelphia.

 The project, which has been in the works since the 1990s, has finally come to fruition with a total cost of approximately **$3.9 million**, raised by the Independence Historical Trust and various private donors. Despite some delays, the trust is confident that the sculpture will be a great addition to the mall, inviting residents and visitors to engage with one of America’s most enduring symbols.

[View original article](https://www.inquirer.com/arts/join-or-die-ben-franklin-sculpture-independence-mall-20260803.html)

A ‘Join or Die’ sculpture on Independence Mall is slithering its way into completion

The holy month of Shravan, also known as Sawan, began on August 3, 2026, with millions of devotees across India offering prayers to **Lord Shiva** on the first Sawan Somvaar. To mark this auspicious occasion, internationally acclaimed sand artist **Sudarsan Pattnaik** created a stunning sand sculpture of **Lord Shiva** at **Puri Beach** in Odisha, drawing the attention of devotees and tourists alike.

 The devotional sand sculpture, crafted by **Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik**, depicts **Lord Shiva** in a meditative form, symbolizing peace, devotion, and spiritual strength. The sculpture carries a heartfelt message celebrating the beginning of the sacred month of Shravan and encouraging devotees to seek **Lord Shiva's** blessings. Visitors gathered around the artwork to admire the craftsmanship and capture photographs of the devotional tribute.

 The month of Shravan is considered one of the holiest periods in the Hindu calendar and is dedicated to the worship of **Lord Shiva** and **Goddess Parvati**. Devotees observe Sawan Somvaar Vrat, visit Shiva temples, perform Abhishekam with milk, water, honey, and bel leaves, and chant sacred mantras such as 'Om Namah Shivaya' throughout the month.

[View original article](https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/shravan-2026-surdarsan-pattnaik-creates-a-devotional-sand-sculpture-of-lord-shiva-at-puri-beach-on-the-first-day-of-sawan-somvaar)

Shravan 2026: Surdarsan Pattnaik Creates A Devotional Sand Sculpture Of Lord Shiva At Puri Beach On The First Day Of Sawan Somvaar

Field trips are a valuable method for expanding classroom learning beyond the walls, helping to build dynamic learning environments that reduce the gap between theoretical learning and its practical application. They offer students hands-on and real-life experiences while enriching them with the knowledge required.

 The academic benefits of field trips are numerous, starting with providing hands-on learning to reinforce theoretical concepts, improving retention capabilities, and encouraging cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary exposure. They also enhance critical thinking, aiding inquiry-based learning and problem-solving. Field trips promote personal growth and social development by encouraging teamwork, strengthening peer relationships, and enhancing cultural awareness.

 Field trips play a significant role in building professional skills and encouraging engagement, allowing students to explore diverse career paths and interact with professionals in different fields. They offer platforms for active learning, initiating inquiry and enthusiasm, and encouraging students to participate in learning. By linking classroom knowledge with tangible experiences, field trips make learning meaningful and enjoyable, finding common ground between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

[View original article](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/parenting/moments/field-trips-enhance-learning-bridging-classroom-theory-with-real-world-application-and-student-engagement/articleshow/132825704.cms)

Field trips enhance learning: Bridging classroom theory with real-world application and student engagement

The **Atlantic Cape Art Gallery** is hosting an inspiring exhibit called **Shelter Stories**, featuring creative works by local artists that highlight the stories of shelter and rescue animals waiting for a loving home. The exhibit runs from August 3 to September 17, with an opening reception on August 3.

 The exhibit is particularly significant as it coincides with Clear the Shelter Month, aiming to raise awareness and inspire visitors to consider adoption. Half of the artwork showcases dogs and cats in need of a home, while the other half features those who have found their forever homes. The gallery is open Monday through Thursday, making it an accessible destination for those interested in art and animal welfare.

 The **Atlantic Cape Community College**, where the gallery is located, is a reputable institution that serves the residents of Atlantic and Cape May counties, offering a range of undergraduate degree programs and certificate courses. By hosting the **Shelter Stories** exhibit, the college is not only promoting local art but also supporting a noble cause.

[View original article](https://pressofatlanticcity.com/life-entertainment/community/article_bf350c66-a3b9-53d2-bdd3-00eb9a9046c6.html)

Atlantic Cape art gallery hosts ‘Shelter Stories’ exhibit

The **Open Space Art Gallery & Studios** is undergoing an exciting transformation in downtown Ottawa. After eight years on Madison Street, the gallery is expanding to a new location while maintaining its current space.

 The new location, situated at 722 La Salle St., will boast a gallery, artisan shop, and facilities for drop-in art-making, as well as adult classes and workshops. Meanwhile, the current location at 223 W. Madison St. will be repurposed as **Open Space Kids**, a dedicated space for children's classes and events, offering a wider range of classes, longer class durations, and more open studio time.

[View original article](https://www.shawlocal.com/illinois-valley/2026/08/02/open-space-art-gallery-expanding-in-downtown-ottawa/)

Open Space Art Gallery expanding in downtown Ottawa

The **Feminist Image Group** is set to unveil their latest exhibition, **Master Glitch**, at the **Techne Art Center** in Oceanside. This showcase features 29 artists who have come together to challenge dominant social narratives and give voice to formerly oppressed and silenced voices. The exhibition focuses on the idea that glitches, often seen as mistakes, can represent a commitment to truth and a site of resistance.

One of the featured artists, **Nanette Newbry**, is an encaustic artist who has been part of the **Feminist Image Group** for four years. Newbry's work is characterized by its use of beeswax, pigment, and heat to create textured and layered pieces. She is drawn to the physicality of encaustic art and the ability to build up layers and create unique textures.

The idea for **Master Glitch** was inspired by the concept of truth-telling in a world where media and echo chambers can perpetuate untruths. The exhibition features a diverse range of artists and artworks, including **Lisa Hutton**'s environmentally-focused pieces and **Kathy Nida**'s stunning quilts that address feminism and reproductive rights.

[View original article](https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2026/08/02/in-this-art-exhibition-the-disruptions-are-where-the-truth-resides/)

In this art exhibition, the disruptions are where the truth resides

This summer, Connecticut is hosting a range of exciting classical and jazz concerts that promise to delight music lovers. The Music Mountain Summer Festival is featuring a special three-part series called The Clarinet Quintet Project, which showcases the talents of concert clarinetist Oskar Espina Ruiz alongside other renowned musicians.

 The series includes performances by the Erinys Quartet, The Ulysses Quartet, and the Cassatt String Quartet, with works by famous composers such as Mozart, Schubert, and Schumann, as well as world premieres by contemporary composers. Meanwhile, the Underwater Kite Contemporary Art Center in Windsor is launching a new jazz concert series, featuring local and international jazz musicians, including Nat Reeves, Joe Carter, and Warren Byrd.

 The Connecticut Virtuosi is also presenting a summer classical concert series at the First Presbyterian Church in Hartford, with performances by pianist Ina Jun, violinist Brunilda Myftaraj, and cellist Zachary Sears, among others. These concerts offer a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of classical and jazz music in intimate and historic settings, making for a truly unforgettable summer experience.

[View original article](https://www.courant.com/2026/08/02/sounds-of-august-include-two-classy-classical-music-series-and-jazz-in-a-new-art-gallery-in-ct/)

Sounds of August include two classy classical music series and jazz in a new art gallery in CT

The **Astley Cheetham Art Gallery and Library** in Stalybridge is set to undergo a significant transformation with a £1.8m makeover. The Grade-II listed building, known for its Jacobean Revival style, has been closed temporarily to allow for improvements to access and the interior spaces.

 The renovation plans include the refurbishment of the library and art gallery areas, with new wall, floor, and ceiling finishes, as well as the installation of a new platform lift and an accessible toilet. These updates aim to restore the building's original dignity and quality while avoiding over-modernization, ensuring that the character and significance of the listed building are preserved.

 The project is part of a wider regeneration plan for Stalybridge's cultural quarter and historical assets, following the recent renovation of the adjacent **Civic Hall**. With its focus on enhancing the existing qualities of the space, the renovation of the **Astley Cheetham Art Gallery and Library** promises to revitalize this historic venue, making it more accessible and enjoyable for the public.

[View original article](https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/historic-stalybridge-art-gallery-ready-34386877)

Historic Stalybridge art gallery ready for £1.8m makeover, but 'the intention is not to over

**Thota Vaikuntam**, a name synonymous with India's contemporary art scene, has traversed an extraordinary journey from a humble village in Telangana to international acclaim. 

## Early Life and Inspiration
Born in 1942 in Burugupalli, a small village in the Karimnagar district of Telangana, Vaikuntam's early life was marked by simplicity and a deep connection to his roots. His father ran a grocery shop, while his mother, Satyamma, played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic imagination. Vaikuntam's fascination with local theatre performances and his mother inspired his earliest sketches, setting him on a path to becoming one of India's most celebrated artists.

## Artistic Journey and Achievements
Vaikuntam's artistic journey, marked by decades of dedication and perseverance, has been nothing short of remarkable. Some key points include:
- Studied at the College of Fine Arts and Architecture in Hyderabad (1960-1970)
- Awarded a fellowship by the Andhra Pradesh Lalit Kala Akademi to study at the Maharaja Sayajirao University in Baroda (1971)
- Trained under the legendary **K.G. Subramanyan**
- Held his first solo exhibition at the **Kala Bhavan** in Hyderabad (1973)
- Received the **National Award for Painting** (1993)
- His works are part of the collections at the **National Gallery of Modern Art** in New Delhi, **Peabody Essex Museum** in Massachusetts, and **Glenbarra Art Museum** in Japan

Vaikuntam's distinctive style, characterized by dusky-toned figures adorned with traditional elements, has earned him serious attention globally. Even in his eighties, he continues to paint every day, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft.

Thota Vaikuntam: A grocery shop owner's son from a village who became one of India's most celebrated artists; his paintings are hung from National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi to Peabody Essex M

**Art Basel 2026** is set to once again raise the bar as the premier event in the international art market. 
## A Global Art Phenomenon
Art Basel is widely regarded as the benchmark of the international art market. Each edition presents museum-quality exhibitions, groundbreaking contemporary works, and the world’s leading galleries. 

## What's in Store
Beyond the exhibition halls, the city becomes a global meeting point for artists, collectors, institutions, and cultural innovators. Key aspects of the event include:
- Museum-quality exhibitions
- Groundbreaking contemporary works
- Participation of the world’s leading galleries
- A platform for artists, collectors, institutions, and cultural innovators to converge

The city’s transformation into a vibrant art hub underscores **Art Basel**'s status as one of the most important events in the international art calendar, hosted at the **art-factory**.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/art-factory/posts/art-basel-2026)

ART BASEL 2026

**Stunning Glass Art Emerges from **Fokin Glass Studio****. The latest masterpiece from **Anton Fokin** at **Fokin Glass Studio** has left art enthusiasts in awe. This breathtaking work, titled **Golds**, showcases the incredible versatility of glass as a medium.

## A Testament to Glass Artistry
The piece is crafted from **100% glass**, a material that **Anton Fokin** has mastered. Key highlights of this work include:
- Exquisite craftsmanship
- Innovative use of glass
- A testament to the artistic vision of **Anton Fokin**

The unveiling of **Golds** at **Fokin Glass Studio** cements the studio's reputation as a premier destination for glass art. **Anton Fokin**'s ability to push the boundaries of this medium has once again been demonstrated through this stunning creation.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/fokin-glass-studio/posts/golds)

Golds

**Alexander Fokin**'s latest masterpiece, **Tree**, has taken up residence at the **Fokin Glass Studio**. This stunning work of art is crafted entirely from **100% glass**, showcasing the artist's exceptional skill and attention to detail.

## A Testament to Glass Artistry
The **Tree** sculpture is a testament to **Alexander Fokin**'s innovative approach to glass art. By pushing the boundaries of this delicate medium, Fokin has created a truly breathtaking piece that showcases the versatility and beauty of glass.

Key highlights of **Tree** include:
- Crafted from 100% glass
- A showcase of **Alexander Fokin**'s technical skill and artistic vision
- Currently on display at the **Fokin Glass Studio**, a venue synonymous with exceptional glass art

The **Fokin Glass Studio** is renowned for featuring the works of **Alexander Fokin**, and **Tree** is no exception. This latest addition to the studio's collection is sure to captivate art enthusiasts and glass art aficionados alike.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/fokin-glass-studio/posts/tree)

Renowned Glass Artistry on Display

**Stunning Glass Artwork Unveiled**

The **Fokin Glass Studio** is proud to present a breathtaking glass artwork, **'100% Glass'**, created by talented artist **Taisiya Fokina** in 2024. This masterpiece showcases Fokina's exceptional skill and artistry in glasswork.

## A Closer Look
- The artwork is made entirely of glass, highlighting Fokina's expertise in this medium.
- **'100% Glass'** is a testament to the artist's creativity and attention to detail.
- The piece is now on display at the **Fokin Glass Studio**, offering art enthusiasts a chance to experience Fokina's work up close.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/fokin-glass-studio/posts/art-flower)

Art flower

**Edwin Blashfield**'s majestic work, **Springt Scattering Stars**, painted in 1927, showcases the artist's mastery in oil on canvas. This stunning piece measures 130 cm × 110 cm and is part of a private collection.

## A Life of Artistic Devotion
Blashfield was a multifaceted artist, born in Brooklyn in 1848. He initially studied engineering at the **Massachusetts Institute of Technology** before shifting his focus to painting at the **Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts**. His artistic journey took him to Europe, where he studied under **Léon Joseph Florentin Bonnat** in Paris.

## Achievements and Legacy
Some key highlights of Blashfield's career include:
- Muralist works at the **1893 World's Columbian Exposition** in Chicago and the **Library of Congress**
- President of the **National Society of Muralists** from 1909 to 1914
- Member of the **National Academy of Design**, **American Academy of Arts and Letters**, and **National Institute of Arts and Letters**
- Recipient of the **National Academy of Design's Gold Medal** in 1934

Blashfield's remarkable life and artistic contributions have left a lasting impact on the world of art.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/este-gallery/posts/springt-scattering-stars-by-edwin-blashfield-1927-oil-on-canvas-130-cm-110-cm-private-collection)

Edwin Blashfield's 'Springt Scattering Stars'

**Gordon Mortensen**, a renowned artist celebrated for his intricate woodcut technique, has been perfecting his craft for decades. Born on April 27, 1938, in North Dakota, Mortensen's artistic process involves creating a single painting that can take up to three months to complete.

## A Unique Woodcut Technique
Mortensen's work involves using a single block of wood, usually basswood, and applying the image to it. He then cuts away the layers, making each press onto handmade Japanese mulberry paper. This labor-intensive process allows him to achieve remarkable results, with each painting using up to 64 colors and 45 presses.

Some key aspects of Mortensen's technique include:
- Using a single block of wood per piece
- Cutting away layers to achieve up to 64 colors
- Making 45 presses per painting
- Working with handmade Japanese mulberry paper

**Mortensen's** mastery of pattern, depth, and contrast, combined with his use of soft, opalescent hues, beautifully capture the essence and mood of the landscape. His work has earned him numerous prestigious awards and critical acclaim worldwide, solidifying his legendary status in the art world, with pieces showcased at **este-gallery**.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/este-gallery/posts/artist-gordon-mortensen-woodcuts)

Artist Gordon Mortensen. Woodcuts.

**Scott Prior** is a highly regarded American realist artist celebrated for his captivating depictions of everyday subjects. 
## A Master of Light and Composition
Born in 1949 in Exeter, New Hampshire, **Prior** has spent his career perfecting his craft, graduating with a BFA in graphic arts from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1971. Since then, he has lived and worked in Northampton, Massachusetts, producing a body of work that has been showcased in numerous cultural and group exhibitions worldwide.

Some key highlights of **Prior**'s achievements include:
- His works are held in the collections of prestigious institutions such as the **Boston Museum of Art**, the **DeCordova Museum** in Lincoln, Massachusetts, and the **New Britain Museum of Art** in Connecticut.
- **Prior** is known for his innovative use of light to transform familiar subjects, whether in landscapes, still lifes, or figurative works.
- His paintings offer fresh perspectives on the ordinary, making the mundane appear extraordinary through his masterful use of composition and illumination.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/este-gallery/posts/scott-prior-is-a-talented-american-realist-artist)

Acclaimed American Realist Artist Scott Prior

**Johann Nepomuk Schödlberger**'s breathtaking landscapes captivated royal patrons and art enthusiasts alike in the early 19th century. Largely self-taught, Schödlberger began teaching drawing at Viennese schools in 1797 and was eventually elected to the **Vienna Academy of Fine Arts** in 1815.

## Influences and Artistic Style
Schödlberger's style was shaped by his meticulous copying of paintings by **Claude Lorrain** and **Jacob van Ruisdael**, as well as his transformative Italian journey from 1817-18. This period solidified his reputation as a landscape painter, with a penchant for depicting **highly idealized landscapes**.

Some key points about Schödlberger's career and artistry:
- Taught drawing at Viennese schools from 1797
- Elected to the **Vienna Academy of Fine Arts** in 1815
- Influenced by **Claude Lorrain** and **Jacob van Ruisdael**
- Enjoyed great success with royal patrons, including **Francis II** and **Ludwig of Bavaria**
- His notable work includes **"Rocky Coast in Moonlight,"** 1830

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/este-gallery/posts/rocky-coast-in-moonlight-1830-artist-johann-nepomuk-schdlberger-austria)

Austrian Landscape Painter Johann Nepomuk Schödlberger's Idealized Works

**Breaking Boundaries in Digital Art**: Danish digital artist **Morten Laskogen**, born in 1986, has been making waves in the art world with his stunning 3D graphics. 

## A New Era of Creative Freedom
After nearly a decade of working as a photographer, **Morten Laskogen** began exploring 3D graphics in 2018. He found that the principles of lighting and composition he learned from photography were still applicable, but with a game-changing twist: in a 3D environment, he had complete control over lighting. 

Key aspects of his work include:
- Experimentation with 3D graphics since 2018
- Application of photography principles to 3D art
- Unlimited lighting possibilities in 3D environments

**Morten Laskogen** continues to practice photography, but his work in 3D has allowed him to create captivating pieces that push the boundaries of what is possible with photography alone.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/este-gallery/posts/work-by-danish-digital-artist-morten-laskogen-b-1986)

Work by Danish digital artist Morten Laskogen (b. 1986).

**Discover the blissful world of ceramics** at **Art-Factory** with **Marina Novitckaya**'s latest exhibition, *Ananda*. The concept of *Ananda*, meaning "joy" or "bliss" in Sanskrit, is deeply rooted in the idea that our true essence is made of unlimited, increasing bliss.

## The Art of Ceramic Craftsmanship
Marina Novitckaya's handmade sculptural ceramic vases embody this philosophy, harnessing technology to create stunning pieces from high-temperature ceramic and bare clay bodies. Key highlights of her work include:
- Handcrafted with precision and care
- Made from high-quality, durable materials
- Unique sculptural designs that evoke a sense of joy and wonder

Visit **Art-Factory** to experience the beauty and tranquility of **Marina Novitckaya**'s *Ananda* exhibition, and uncover the bliss that lies within.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/art-factory/posts/ananda)

Ananda: Joyful Ceramic Vases by Marina Novitckaya

**Connection Vase** brings together seemingly opposing materials in a stunning visual representation of harmony. 
Crafted by **Belotserkovsky Roman** in 2024, the **Connection Vase** combines chestnut burl wood and steel to create a thought-provoking piece. 
## A Study in Contrasts
The vase's design serves as a metaphor for the Tao, a force that unites opposing elements in nature.

Key features of the piece include:
- Crafted from chestnut burl wood and steel
- A visual representation of the harmony of opposites
- On display at the **art-factory** gallery

The union of the cool, industrial steel with the warm, organic charred wood embodies the endless flow of the Tao, bringing antagonistic elements into a single, cohesive whole.

[View the original on ArtMap](https://www.artmap.gallery/name/art-factory/posts/connection-vase)

Connection Vase

**A chance visit to a quilt show** turns into a surprising journey of discovery for a self-proclaimed non-sewer. A husband's weekend outing to the **Boundary Bay Quilters Guild**'s quilt show at the **South Delta Recreation Centre** in Tsawwassen, BC, becomes an eye-opening experience.

## Discovering the Art of Quilting
The writer, initially unenthusiastic about quilts, finds himself astounded by the variety and complexity of the quilts on display. He encounters quilts that are not just beautiful but also tell stories, evoke emotions, and push the boundaries of traditional quilting.

Some key highlights from the show include:
- Quilts that rival murals in size and impact
- Pieces that showcase a range of styles, from utilitarian to fine art
- Examples of modern quilting, studio art quilts, and craftivist works

**Dawn Fielden**, vice-president of the **Boundary Bay Quilters Guild**, provides insight into the evolution of quilting as an art form. She notes that quilting has transformed over the last 50 years, with modern quilters drawing inspiration from various styles and using fabric as a medium for expression.

Pete McMartin: A disinterested husband falls in love with quilts

In a high-end art gallery or modern mansion, the floor looks like a work of art in and of itself. If you work in a factory, polished concrete is not nearly as modern or high-tech. But putting a machine over the floor isn’t the only way to make it look great. Here are seven design tricks that professionals use to make rooms look beautiful.
1. Selecting the perfect aggregate exposure
The “aggregate” refers to the small sand and stones that mix into the concrete. You can opt for a “salt and pepper” look, where only tiny grains are visible, or a “full exposure” look that shows larger, colorful stones. This choice changes the texture and character of the room.
For your decor, you can adapt this exposure to match your style and work with polished concrete specialists. If you prefer a minimalist, industrial feel, a light grind will generally be your style. Exposing larger stones allows you to project the appearance of an expensive terrazzo at a fraction of the cost, making it look much more decorative and luxurious.
2. Mastering the levels of reflectivity
Not every concrete floor should look like a mirror. Specialists provide levels of “sheen”—from a soft matt to a high-gloss finish. In busy areas, matte finishes are ideal to obscure dust and footprint marks, offering an elegant and unobtrusive facade.
High-gloss finishes, meanwhile, are like a giant lamp in your room. They reflect natural light and overhead lamps, and small spaces can feel bright and airy. The key is to keep the gloss level the same so that your lighting plan works and the room doesn’t feel too bright or too dark.
3. Utilizing integral color and dyes
Concrete doesn’t have to be grey. Specialists use integral colors added to the wet cement or topical dyes applied during the polishing process to create almost any color. The color possibilities are virtually limitless, ranging from deep charcoal to warm, earthy tones.
Topical dyes are well recommended because they are layered to develop a variegated, natural stone pattern. The method adds depth and movement to the floor so it doesn’t appear to be a flat, painted surface.
4. The role of grout and densifiers
Professional grinders use grout to smooth out uneven surfaces by filling in tiny fissures and holes. After that, densifiers are used to chemically harden the concrete from the inside. It increases the floor’s resistance to water and stains.
The process guarantees that the shine will remain for a long time. Future applications of waxes and coatings are rendered unnecessary. An appropriately densified floor is ideal for high-traffic areas like retail stores or households with young children because it requires far less cleaning and upkeep.
5. Creating decorative saw cuts and patterns
You can experiment with ornamental saw cuts for architectural details or scale. These shallow grooves can mimic the appearance of large-format tiles or illustrate geometric designs. They improve the visual appeal of a room by breaking up large areas of flooring.
For a more striking effect, colored resins can be used to fill these cuts. The floor feels more “designed” than “just finished” thanks to this subtle design detail.
6. Managing the edging and corners
While large machines handle most of the work, workers use smaller tools to finish the corners and edges by hand. If you don’t do it right, the room’s border will have a different texture and shine than the rest.
Experts put in many hours to ensure the “edge-to-center” transfer goes off without a hitch. Your floor will appear perfect from any angle thanks to this meticulous approach. It’s the deciding factor between an amateurish-looking renovation and a high-quality architectural addition that increases the value of your home.
7. Protecting the surface with penetrating sealers
The last secret is in the sealer you pick. Professionals use penetrating sealers instead of regular floor finishes, which just sit on top of the surface and can scratch or peel. These penetrate the pores of concrete and protect it from within.
This keeps the concrete’s natural ability to breathe while making it very resistant to spills. It also doesn’t change the way the floor looks, so the natural beauty and color of the aggregate stand out.
Investing in architectural excellence
Polished concrete is more than just the floor; it’s also about the longevity and aesthetic of your home. If you go into your next renovation, think about how the perfect floor could influence the design of the entire interior. Choosing polished concrete now is a decision well worth making, given its low maintenance and high impact. It’s fun to see how the material can change the look of your room.

7 Design Secrets from Polished Concrete Specialists Today

Article content
Staff was also directed work the consultation of stakeholders in the area into their 2027 workplan after there was some discussion about further increasing the number of short-term parking spots along 1st Avenue West.
Owen Sound and North Grey Union Public Library CEO and Chief Librarian Tim Nicholls Harrison appeared before council during the public forum portion of the meeting, where he called the city’s plan to incorporate two short-term parking spaces on 1st Avenue West “the start of the right idea.” He said the move by council only partially addresses the issue because the spaces “are always going to be filled.”
Nicholls Harrison noted that parking along the street is limited to two hours, but that isn’t enforced and some motorists are parking there all day.
Article content
He asked that the city increase the two current accessible parking spots to four larger spaces, and designate the rest of the parking spots from the corner of 8th Street East to the bandstand as short-term parking with a 30-minute maximum time limit.
He said the library was involved in the consultation process for the parking changes, and encouraged the city to make its recommended changes in order to have it implemented quickly, but asked for more to be done.
“We know the number one issue for people using the library forever has been parking,” said Nicholls Harrison. “So you have come up with a solution that doesn’t help us in the big picture, when there is actually an opportunity where we can do a lot more together.”
Coun. Marion Koepke moved an amendment to staff’s recommendation of two short-term spaces to make a longer stretch of short-term spaces to the bandstand and to review the accessible parking spaces, but that change was defeated after discussion by council.
Concerns were raised that other stakeholders like the nearby St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, should be consulted before making such a change.
The short-term parking spaces will be identified by signs and be implemented for the July/August summer season, according to a staff report.
The spaces will be enforced by the city’s parking enforcement contractor as part of scheduled patrols during the downtown hours of enforcement, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the report said.

Short-term parking going in near Owen Sound library, art gallery

FOR collectors who have admired the work of Cyril Kongo on everything from Richard Mille timepieces to collaborations with Hermès and Chanel, there is now a new way to experience his art — not on the wrist, on a handbag, or hanging on a gallery wall, but from behind the wheel.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled the Black Badge Cullinan by Cyril Kongo, a series of just five specially commissioned SUVs that transform the marque’s most rebellious model into a moving work of contemporary art.
Kongo is no stranger to the world of high-end collectibles. The French-Vietnamese artist, whose bold graffiti-inspired style has made him one of the most recognizable names in contemporary art, gained particular attention among watch enthusiasts through his celebrated collaboration with Richard Mille. His hand-painted RM 68-01 Tourbillon remains one of the most visually distinctive and sought-after creations in modern horology.
Now, collectors who follow his work have the chance to ride in the Kongoverse.
Each of the five Cullinans carries Kongo’s unmistakable visual language across the Starlight Headliner, dashboard, picnic tables, rear center console, and waterfall between the rear seats. Every painted surface was completed by hand at Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke facility in Goodwood, where Kongo worked side by side with the company’s designers and artisans for several months.
Although all five vehicles share the same overall concept, no two are identical. Each features a one-of-one composition, making every Cullinan as unique as a signed canvas.
The interior is particularly striking. Against a black backdrop, bursts of Phoenix Red, Turchese, Forge Yellow, and Mandarin divide the cabin into four distinct color zones. Above, the Starlight Headliner becomes Kongo’s cosmic playground, incorporating imagined planets, constellations, and references to quantum physics. In a first for Rolls-Royce, one shooting star stretches the full length of the roof.
The hand-painted veneer extends across 19 wood surfaces, from the fascia to the rear picnic tables. After Kongo completed each artwork, Rolls-Royce artisans sealed the pieces under ten layers of lacquer before sanding and polishing them to the glass-like finish expected of the brand.
The exterior is intentionally muted, serving as a subtle introduction to the dramatic cabin. Finished in Blue Crystal Over Black, each Cullinan features a multicolored gradient coachline and different-colored brake calipers behind the 23-inch wheels—another first for Rolls-Royce.
This is not the first time Rolls-Royce has collaborated with artists, but the depth of Kongo’s involvement was unprecedented. Rather than merely supplying sketches, he was embedded within the Bespoke Collective and given his own studio space inside the Goodwood headquarters, where his ideas evolved in real time with Rolls-Royce engineers and craftspeople.
All five Black Badge Cullinan by Cyril Kongo models have already been allocated to collectors around the world.
For those who appreciate Kongo’s work on a Richard Mille watch, a limited-edition handbag, or a commissioned canvas, this may be the ultimate expression of his art. It is not something you wear or display. It is something you drive.

Watch and art collectors get a new canvas with the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan by Cyril Kongo

The items studied were two nights’ three-star weekend accommodation, a three-course meal for two with a bottle of house wine, a cup of coffee, a bottle of beer and Coca Cola, a glass of wine, return airport transfers, a 48-hour travel card, a sightseeing bus tour and tickets to top heritage attraction, top museum and top art gallery
An often-overlooked city with a rich history and breathtaking natural scenery is Europe’s best-value city for a short break.
Despite having a population smaller than Reading and sitting hundreds of miles inland from the coast, Sarajevo is a destination that packs a serious cultural punch, while being perfect for a summer holiday.
If for no other reason than for how cheap it is.
The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina has topped Post Office Money's City Cost Barometer 2026, ranking it the cheapest of the 50 European destinations included.
The items studied were two nights’ three-star weekend accommodation, a three-course meal for two with a bottle of house wine, a cup of coffee, a bottle of beer and Coca Cola, a glass of wine, return airport transfers, a 48-hour travel card, a sightseeing bus tour and tickets to top heritage attraction, top museum and top art gallery. Sarajevo's total basket price was £248 - less than a third that of last place, Oslo.
READ MORE : Thailand makes visiting harder in attempt to stop 'low quality' tourists comingREAD MORE : Not Blackpool or Brighton - the UK's best seaside town has been crowned
According to local tour guide Nermin Numic, life in Sarajevo is cheap and easy. Filling up on the city's most famous local dishes, such as grilled minced meat cevapi, or the slow-cooked stew Bosanski Lonac, is easily achievable for £5. A fancier dinner and drink will set you back £15 a person.
In the high season, a simple room for two can be found for under £50, while higher-end hotels and Airbnbs charge around £150.
Nermin spent time out of the country during the Kosovo War and Covid, experiences which helped him see his home through different eyes.
"Sometimes it takes time being separated to appreciate things. It is amazing for me what this city and country has. So much diversity and these amazing mountains that I took for granted."
Known as the Jerusalem of Europe, Sarajevo is a place where cultures, regions, and religions intersect. The Ottoman influence can be felt in the narrow winding alleys, bustling copper-smithing bazaars and traditional timber-framed houses. It butts up against the Austro-Hungarian influence, felt in the wide European avenues, grand neoclassical facades, and opulent public buildings, reflecting the city’s rapid modernization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
"It's diverse in so many ways. It is called Little Jerusalem, it has churches, mosques, and synagogues next to each other, and it has for centuries. There are Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and communist social blocks part of the town," Nermin explained.
The city sits between four mountains that hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, meaning skiing opportunities in the colder months - and hiking trails in the summer - are within easy reach.
While Nermin insists that two days and nights in the city is the absolute minimum required, any flying visit should take in the disused bobsleigh track. "It is now a canvas for local artists. You can walk down the track from the hills into the city," he said.
The Old Town is another must. "It looks very exotic, but feels familiar. It's a meeting of cultures. Look east, and you're in Turkey. Look west, and it feels Hungarian."
Suitably for a destination known for closing divides and bringing cultures together, Sarajevo is a place of bridges. Thirteen of them to be precise. The best-known is Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in an event that triggered the WWI. The Mostar Bridge is on the cover of almost every Bosnian travel guide, arching dramatically as it does over the emerald green Neretva River.
Unlike Bosnia and Herzegovina's second city, Mostar, Sarajevo is rarely crowded. The one exception is in August, when the diaspora returns and the Capital's film festival injects a real buzz into the place.
Ryanair flies from London Stansted to Sarajevo, while Wizz Air takes off from Luton. Return fares this summer are available for around £60.
All of the five cheapest cities in the Post Office Money rankings are in Eastern Europe. Bucharest (£258, Romania), Tirana (£263, Albania), Belgrade (£265, Serbia) and Trenĉin (£272, Slovakia) complete the top five. All five now offer direct flights from the UK.
Lowest-priced cities
Sarajevo – £248.27
Bucharest – £258.07
Tirana – £262.85
Belgrade – £265.13
Trenčín – £271.64
Riga – £278.19
Lille – £289.33
Vilnius – £289.39
Strasbourg – £319.13
Podgorica – £332.45
Most expensive cities

Not Tirana or Prague - Europe's cheapest city for a 2026 holiday is named

Editor’s Note: This is part of a monthly feature on arts and culture offerings in Orange County, which is rich with indoor and outdoor, often inexpensive or even free, options that you might not know about.
The city of Brea makes sure visitors driving around town know it supports the arts with an extensive public art collection, but people may not know its appreciation for contemporary art — particularly the creative expressions of up-and-coming artists — can also be discovered within the city’s own gallery.
The Brea Gallery, a 6,500-square-foot art space, opened in the Brea Civic and Cultural Center in 1980.
Just steps from the Brea Mall, the Brea Gallery focuses on contemporary work by living artists and mounts four exhibitions a year, gallery director Katie Chidester said.
“We mix it up,” Chidester said. “Sometimes we bring in a guest curator; sometimes it’s curated in-house by me and the staff — just depending.”
Currently, the gallery’s signature exhibition, running year after year since its early days, is open: “Made in California.”
The 41st “Made in California” exhibition, which features the work of nearly 100 artists, will run through June 28.
“It just keeps getting bigger every year, which is really exciting,” Chidester said. “We had 5,000 submissions.”
The juried exhibition features multiple media and is not organized around a single theme, Chidester said.
All artists submitting work live in California, and their art has been created within the last three years.
“So, it’s a little bit of everything,” Chidester said. “We’re trying to get a sense of what’s the pulse. We’re really interested in what artists are doing right now, what’s contemporary, what’s present.”
The gallery’s next exhibition, opening July 31, will be “America 350,” showcasing artists’ reflections of what America will look like in 100 years, forecasting the impacts of technology such as AI and augmented reality.
The fall exhibition, “What Fearful Shadows,” will seek to reimagine “iconic elements of early American horror — The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the Salem Witch Trials, and the works of Edgar Allan Poe — through the lens of modern culture.”
“What Fearful Shadows” is scheduled to open Oct. 10.
“We keep calling it the spooky show,” Chidester said.
The gallery regularly hosts artist-in-residence weekends and occasionally holds workshops and classes, Chidester said.
“We get a ton of kids all the time,” she added. “It’s nice that we’re right here next to the library. We get a lot of foot traffic.”
“There is some really good art in there,” said Michael Trino, a member of the city’s cultural arts commission. “It’s the curation. You can tell the difference.”
The five-member city commission is directly involved with the cultural arts center, giving guidance on culturally oriented programming.
And on the way to the Civic Center and Brea Gallery, visitors can tour the nearly 200 pieces of public art beautifying the city’s landscape, ranging from sculptures of individuals who reflect the town’s history to abstract pieces forged from metal that convey an artist’s thoughts. Brea’s Art in Public Places program recently celebrated 50 years — it requires a piece of public art with new developments of $1.5 million or more.
Also playing a significant role in the Brea Cultural Arts Center is the 199-seat Curtis Theatre.
The intimate setting puts the audience in close contact with the stage for curated live theater, musicals, and youth theater.
Check it out
What: Brea Gallery
Where: 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea; it is on the plaza level of the Brea Civic and Cultural Center at the corner of Birch Street and Randolph Avenue.
Hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays
Admission: $3 general admission

Brea Gallery is made for enjoying art

An EastEnders legend has denied using artificial intelligence in his paintings as he opened his first solo exhibition.
Jake Wood, who plays Max Branning, launched his “Icons” series of portraits at Brighton's Indelible Fine Art Gallery on 7 May.
After posting images and videos of his paintings online, including a portrait of Sir David Attenborough, Wood's followers accused him of using AI in his pieces.
Wood denied this, writing: "I do not use AI to generate any of my artworks. I do not use AI personally. The images and photos I’ve used were already in existence and I have then collaged them (digitally or manually) and then painted over them digitally myself before printing and sticking them over a mixture of collage, spray paint and acrylic."
Ten per cent of the sales of Wood's prints will be donated to Dementia UK, "a cause closely connected to the spirit of the exhibition and the people it honours," the gallery said.

EastEnders legend forced to deny he used AI in paintings

David Ruben Piqtoukun once attributed his existence to the trial-and-error survival skills that he learned growing up in the western Arctic. But it was carving that rescued him at his lowest point in adult life and it was sculpture inspired by traditional storytelling that shaped his career as an Inuvialuit artist living in Southern Ontario. He could have said he owed his existence to art.
The sculptor, who used the Inuvialuit name Piqtoukun, died from cancer Jan. 22 in Hospice Quinte in Belleville, Ont. at the age of 75.
One of 17 children in a nomadic family, he was born in a canvas tent near Paulatuk, NWT. His parents, Billy Esoktak Ruben and Bertha Thrasher, were the descendants of Alaskans who had worked in the whaling industry until it collapsed and they relocated to the Paulatuk region (in what is now the Inuvialuit Settlement.)
Billy, renowned as a hunter and trapper, was of Irish and Yupik ancestry while Bertha, a seamstress and storyteller, was of Portuguese-African and Yupik descent. The family lived on the land and Bertha raised her many children with both Christian and Inuit beliefs. At birth David Ruben was also given the Inuvialuit name Piqtoukun, meaning strong wind, a reference to Arctic hurricanes.
He was only five years old when he was forcibly removed from his family by Catholic missionaries and taken to a residential school hundreds of kilometres west in Aklavik, NWT. He would refer to this as “the abduction,” and in sculptures about planes and flight often represented the terror he felt as a child.
“The rules were very straightforward,” he wrote in a 1991 text that he reworked in 2014, describing how the children had their parkas and kamiks stripped off them and their heads shaved to discourage lice. “Do not speak your language or even whisper your original language to yourself or anyone else around you. You will be dressed to all look alike, in pants, shirt or sweater and will wear shoes (whether they fit or not). … Always obey the nuns, keep your snotty nose clean, no fighting and never speak your Eskimo language! Welcome to an education in forgetting.
“My recollection was that I retaliated at every turn. I was always cussing and cursing, fighting. … But my deepest resentment was being surrounded by all the religious statues and forced to recite religious prayers and to eat unknown food; and not having a clue about the whereabouts of my parents. I was your classic Lost Child.”
He left the Arctic at 18, scrounging enough for the plane ticket to Edmonton, and would never return north to live, although he often visited family in Inuvialuit. At first he worked as a labourer and a roughneck in Alberta, but he said he could never hold down a job. Around 1970, he moved to Vancouver where his brother, the artist Abraham Anghik Ruben, encouraged him to take up carving.
“There’s something magical about this material. It felt like silk,” he recalled of his first experience carving stone in a 2023 interview with the Canadian Press.
He did an apprenticeship at the New World Jade Company in Vancouver and was soon selling pieces to galleries.
He didn’t stay long in Vancouver, however, but relocated to Toronto around 1972. In the mid-1970s, he met Allan Gonor, a medical doctor and Inuit art collector from North Battleford, Sask., who often worked in settlements in the western Arctic. It was Dr. Gonor who encouraged Piqtoukun to collect traditional stories from his family every time he went home to access a mythology he could then translate into his carving. The artist once cited Shaman Returning from the Moon, a stone carving from 1984 now at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, as an example: It was based on a story his father told him.
Yet despite his artistic development, the 1980s in Toronto were not kind to Piqtoukun, and by 1991 he was in crisis: “My personal life was collapsing,” he said in the essay. “Mentally, emotionally, physically and financially, I was totally spent. I was a troubled Inuk. I endured borderline homelessness, with nowhere to turn and a questionable future.”
His solution was to carve Bear in Shamanic Transformation, a figure of a bear with a man’s head, as a reminder of the shaman’s ability to bring about spiritual and physical healing. Piqtoukun explained in his essay that the bear-man was the most powerful Inuit shaman and was summoned to cure the people of illness and hunger, and to bring back the caribou, fish and geese that had disappeared. The shaman observed that taboos had been broken and once this was recognized order would be restored. The moral was that acknowledging and then learning from mistakes were crucial, and that message returned Piqtoukun to himself. Trial and error had helped him survive so far, and it would help him again.
In 1996, he met Katherine Lee, an artist of Korean heritage, at a studio in Toronto; they married in 1998 and soon moved to Georgina, Ont. They lived on Lake Simcoe where Piqtoukun would sit on the dock whittling and took up ice f

Sculptor David Ruben Piqtoukun found inspiration in Inuit myths and his own early trauma

Most people just want their homes to be a place to chill out, right? For Poh Ling Yeow, though, home is so much more than that: it’s her canvas, her gallery, her collection of memories, all rolled up into a constantly shifting work of art.
Hidden away in the suburbs of Adelaide, Poh’s home, cheekily named “Cassida Chaos,” really lives up to its name. It’s vibrant, layered, and unapologetically chaotic in the best way. Forget all those minimalist vibes with blank walls and clean lines; this place is overflowing with personality. It’s a wild mix: vintage finds, salvaged treasures, splashes of color everywhere, big bold artworks, and emotional storytelling woven into every corner.
People know Poh as the ever-creative MasterChef judge, artist, author, and TV personality, and she brings that same spark to everything. Whether she’s plating up a dish, painting huge murals, or styling her space, her fearless creativity shines through. She fills her home with “things with history,” the kind of objects that have scratches, quirks, and loads of stories behind them.
The house itself, named “Cassida Chaos,” which is a split-level built in 1959, has transformed over the years into something both wildly imaginative and cozy. Poh’s not chasing perfection; she’s chasing personality. And honestly, every room catches you off guard: Moroccan-inspired color-filled corners, a kitchen with Turkish tiles, forest murals in progress on the walls, rescued chairs, handmade furniture, and gallery walls that feel a bit like stepping into her brain.
Remember her joke about Marie Kondo’s “keep only what sparks joy” motto. Poh’s own personal twist? — “Everything sparks joy.” And you can tell, as there’s not an inch of Cassida Chaos that doesn’t feel alive.
The '59 build has serious character. The split-level layout, mezzanine spaces, concrete floors, and open flow scream mid-century charm, which immediately grabbed Poh. She bought it over a decade ago with her former partner, Jonathan Bennett, and took her time shaping it, letting it age gracefully instead of chasing a flashy renovation. Poh loves objects that are “old and sad” because they’re packed with mystery and memory, and she treated the house the same way, working with what was already there instead of wiping the slate clean.
Cassida Chaos is basically color unleashed. Poh does not do muted beige. In fact, she says neutral spaces drive her “bonkers.” For her, color is all about fuel: emotional and creative.
Take the living room, for example. It’s like a mini gallery with Australian art, vintage mirrors, chandeliers, bold rugs, standout furniture: a “Great Britain” sofa and armchair anchor the visual madness. Her art collection turns the room into a private exhibition.
The TV room is pure Moroccan drama: deep shades, rich textures, moods everywhere. Poh never designs for trends; she designs for how things feel.
She calls herself a “bowerbird,” almost a “borderline hoarder,” and the house is proof. Antique tins, quirky finds, sentimental objects dragged back from bazaars, second-hand furniture… You name it, she’s probably found a home for it. One favorite? A tiny old tin with a boy’s name scratched inside; she likes to imagine it once held marbles, but now it’s filled with tea. That’s exactly how she thinks: ordinary things become magical if you look at them right.
For a chef, the kitchen isn’t just a room; it’s the heart. Poh’s kitchen is bursting with personality: Turkish tiles for a splash of energy, a mosaic border she made herself. That’s not all; she even cut the tiny tiles by hand for a brick pattern, and jokes she nearly “lost an eye or two” doing it.
The result? The oven and stovetop are pretty much industrial size, because Poh doesn’t believe in holding back on food. There’s an entire wall covered with a forest mural (still unfinished), interrupted only by the fridge. She says the mural demands total immersion; blending every leaf for that lush, layered effect.
For Poh, the kitchen’s got to be more of a creative studio than just a cooking space.
Poh Ling Yeow is a Malaysian-born Australian cook, artist, author, and TV presenter. She became a star as runner-up in the first MasterChef Australia season in 2009, and returned as a judge in 2024. You know her for that bright Chinese-Malaysian cooking style and creative background.
Poh moved from Kuala Lumpur to Australia at age nine, and has since turned into a household name: returning on ‘Back to Win’ (2020), hosting shows like ‘Poh’s Kitchen’ and ‘Poh & Co’, publishing cookbooks, running Jamface, her food stall in Adelaide. She spent over 20 years as a professional painter before food fame, and hosts other shows like ‘Snackmasters Australia’ and ‘Adam & Poh's Great Australian Bites’.
She’s loved for her warmth and her creative blending of art and cooking. And as for Cassida Chaos, her Adelaide abode isn’t built to impress; it’s shaped to feel alive. And that’s luxury in its truest form.

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