Link About It: This Week’s Picks
Giant ancient sloths, Netflix weed, ditching Columbus Day and more in our look at the web
1. A Menagerie of 13,000-Year-Old Life
In the low oxygen waters of a deep pit inside a cave known as Hoyo Negro (“Black Hole”), scientists have not only found the 13,000-year-old remains of a female body but also the skeletons of saber-toothed cats, elephant-like animals called gomphotheres, giant sloths, and other wild creatures. The human, referred to as Naia, “is the oldest, most complete human skeleton yet discovered in the Americas,” according to National Geographic. And while she’s a very important discovery, the knowledge gained about the Great American Interchange, or the mixing and migrating between North and South America, is profoundly impacting paleontology.
2. Tesla Model X SUV Faster Than a $500K Lamborghini
It’s long been noted that the Tesla Model X SUV carries tremendous, almost unexpected speed. But to see the new Model X P100D Ludicrous SUV drag race a Lamborghini Aventador SV—and set a world record for the quickest SUV on the planet—is still quite stunning. Over the 1/4 mile race, the Tesla started off with undeniably impressive and smooth force. It’s also fascinating to consider the difference in price, with the Lamborghini more than $500K and the Tesla at $165K. You can watch the video on YouTube at Drag Times’ channel.
3. Netflix Has a Cannabis Range
Inspired by 10 of its shows, Netflix has produced a series of different cannabis strains. Not for sale—Netflix is using it as a promotional tool only—the weed will be available at West Hollywood’s Alternative Health Herbal Services this weekend, but only for those who have a medcard. Apparently each strain “was cultivated with the specific shows in mind, designed to complement each title based on their tone. For example, sillier shows may be more indica dominant, while dramedies will be more sativa dominant to help the more powerful scenes resonate.” Read more at Variety.
4. Amazon’s AI Fashion Designer
An algorithm developed by Amazon can create clothing designs based on images of various other items of apparel. Developed by Amazon Lab126 (the R+D arm of the company), this tech is most probably for fast fashion—so that Amazon’s AI can analyze new styles and craft similar pieces quickly. As The Verge says, “Amazon’s reach coupled with consumer desire for cheap, trendy clothes could one day create the clothing juggernaut of every clothing retailer’s nightmare.” Read more at The Verge.
5. Tudor Watches’ Unexpected First Female Brand Ambassador
Traditionally, brand ambassador news excites two types of individuals: a brand and then the fans of the ambassador. With Tudor’s recently announced partnership with Lady Gaga, there’s far more to find compelling. Gaga is the brand’s first-ever female ambassador. She carries along a massive fanbase, many of whom may be exposed to the brand for the first time. And her last decade of eccentricity seems like an unexpected pairing for the Swiss brand. That said, a commitment like this demonstrates the brand’s desire to be different. It’s appreciated and, agreeing with Hodinkee, it will be fascinating to see what one of our favorite watchmakers (already in the midst of a big year) achieves with Gaga.
6. Manolo Blahnik Documentary Has a Fashion Month Release Date
A documentary about iconic shoe designer Manolo Blahnik has finally got a release date, after months of trailers and teasers. The film, narrated by Blahnik himself, will be out 29 September and features appearances by Anna Wintour, André Leon Talley, Naomi Campbell and others. The title “Manolo: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards” refers to Blahnik’s childhood obsession with shoes and lizards, yet the film (directed by his friend Michael Roberts) spans the length of his incredible career. Watch the trailer at DazedDigital.
7. LA City Council to Replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day
This week, the Los Angeles City Council voted to replace the Columbus Day holiday with Indigenous Peoples Day—a move that has many LA locals happy considering Columbus’ legacy is marred with slavery and violence. In a 14-to-one vote, the new holiday has been confirmed there though Columbus Day will remain a federal holiday. Read more at abc7.
8. Upcoming Graphic Novel About Frida Kahlo
Illustrated by Vanna Vinci, the new graphic novel “Frida Kahlo: The Story Of Her Life” endeavors to illuminate her ups, downs, passions and immense talent. The story is set to be part fact and part fiction, and while the Mexican artist has been the subject of countless films, books, and more, this is the first graphic novel. Take a look at DazedDigital for preview imagery.
Link About It is our filtered look at the web, shared daily in Link and on social media, and rounded up every Saturday morning.
