Cool Hunting
| 13 February 2008view entries from: this week | this month | view previous day | view next day |
Apple TV v2
by Ami Kealoha
Adding a few capabilities that help realize its full potential, the newly-launched version of Apple's computer-to-TV entertainment software is a massive improvement over the original. The biggest plus for aesthetes like us is the 1080p output which means you can stream HD movies, TV shows and podcasts (including featured titles like CHV!) with little more than a click in iTunes (TV and movies will cost you of course). Also sure to soothe the frustrations of current users, a new single menu interface allows for quick, predictive searches of all available titles (both in the store and in your iTunes).
In addition to the direct interface with iTunes, rentals and the simplified interface, AirTunes support means you can stream content directly from your computer and (limited) 5.1 surround sound means Apple's inching toward a full-on home AV experience. The update also introduces Flickr integration, making it easier than ever to bore guests with travel slideshows.
The new software is free for current users, but if you want to join the bandwagon, the device also dropped in cost, now starting at $229 from Apple.
Also on Cool Hunting: Internet TV Alternatives
Tatsumi Orimoto Retrospective
by Phuong-Cac Nguyen
Believe in the power of bread. That was the idea behind Japanese artist Tatsumi Orimoto's "Bread Man" performance art series in the '90s. Meant as a unifying symbol of communication, he made his name with the body of work which involved global travel to places like Nepal and Germany with loaves of bread tied around his head while a puzzled public looked or laughed on.
Now MASP, or the Art Museum of São Paulo (where thieves recently jacked Picasso and Candido Portinari artworks which were found a few weeks later leaning against a house in a favela), is presenting a heady retrospective exhibit—1,000 photographs, 160 drawings and 10 videos—of the bizarre but fascinating artist.
In addition to photos of "Bread Man," the show includes "Art Mama," moving photographs by Orimoto examining his dear mother who suffers from Alzheimer's and depression. By focusing so intently on his subject, he means to rescue her (and those handicapped in general) from the outer limits of society. His mother makes up a large chunk of his work up to today and reflects how much of a part of his life she has become since she's under his 24-hour care.
Other works at the show include posed photos of Orimoto boxing and others of him laying among chickens with a large clock hanging from his neck. All in all, it's spectacular stuff.
The Orimoto exhibit is his first retrospective outside of his home country and helps commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first arrival of Japanese immigrants to Brazil.
Tatsumi Orimoto Retrospective
Through 6 April 2008
MASP
Avenida Paulista, 1578
São Paulo
Brazil map
tel. +55 (11) 3251 5644
Youps Bag
by Letizia Rossi
To celebrate their centennial UPS collaborated with French designer Karine Arabian to create Youps, a bag symbolizing "Woman UPS." Designed to hold gadgets as well as other necessities, the bag features two large outside pockets, a dual-compartment laptop pocket, a pocket for an MP3 player, a phone, a passport and zippered pockets for cables. It's made from fine leather and can also be customized with various colors, leather and dimensions at Karine Arabian's website and then delivered, via UPS natch.
Joe Sorren
by Lost At E Minor
One would think a life out in Arizona would produce imagery of arid deserts and funny little plants that grow under such conditions. But Joe Sorren's paintings speak of hope, innocence and another world, with the bright sun rising high into the clouds over an endless ocean of dreams. Sorren's new painting "In the Morning, in the Tide," will show at Alix Sloan's new gallery in New York later this month.
Puma x BDGA Spy II Hi
by Josh Rubin
Everyone's favorite dueling spy duo, Spy vs. Spy, are making their way from the pages of Mad Magazine onto a new limited edition sneaker.
Inspired by the classic comic, Puma and Boston-based boutique Bodega got together to create a special shoe based on Puma's classic Sky II Hi silhouette, aptly named the Spy II Hi. Made of premium leather, I especially like the translucent outsoles embedded with the iconic black and white spy characters.
In keeping with the theme, there are hidden messages on the shoe and even a stash pocket holding a top secret message for decoding. A limited number of pairs will be released on Saturday, 23 February 2008, at only a handful of stores. More images of the sneaker and retail locations here. We recommend a little of your own espionage to secure a pair now.
