Arts

The Passing of a Wizard: 21 Quotes From Harry Potter’s Professor Dumbledore

Sir Michael Gambon, a renowned Irish-English actor famous for portraying Prof. Albus Dumbledore — a fictional character from the Harry Potter series — passed away in September 2023 at 82. He may not be with us anymore, but Harry Potter fans remember his character as the symbol of wisdom, wit, compassion, and leadership. Albus Dumbledore, ...

Nathan Machoka

Michael Gambon as Professor Dumbledore.

3 Iconic Classical Music Compositions and Their Interesting Backstories

The beauty and complexity of classical music are timeless. Even today, these musical pieces continue to inspire creativity, evoke emotions, and tell a story. From feelings of joy to tales of sorrow, these compositions from many years ago still carry the unfading impact they have and express the many complexities of life in the form ...

Arianne Ayson

A classical music composition.

5 Lessons on Creativity You Can Learn From Leonardo Da Vinci’s Inspired Legacy

The name Leonardo Da Vinci holds an excellent reputation that’s admired worldwide. He’s the artistic genius behind the famous Mona Lisa and the creator of The Last Supper, considered the world’s most important mural painting. However, his brilliance went beyond being a masterful painter. Leonardo Da Vinci was also an architect, sculptor, draftsman, engineer, inventor, ...

Arianne Ayson

A portrait of Leonardo Da Vinci.

Unmasking ‘The Phantom of the Opera’: Its History and Inspirations

The Phantom of the Opera has bewitched literature as much as theater for over 100 years. Few narratives have penetrated popular consciousness, and this tale is an epic of romance, obsession, and tragedy. The book is made up, but much of it was inspired by some real history and ideas, meaning it has endured the ...

Viena Abdon

The Phantom.

6 Things to Look for When Searching for a Piano Teacher

Learning to play the piano can be enriching. If you are a beginner or just seeking to become better, finding the right piano teacher can be the key that unlocks your musical prowess. But who’s the right teacher?  This article explores qualities to look for in a piano teacher to ensure a productive learning experience. ...

Nathan Machoka

A piano teacher and her student.

‘Les Miserables’ Lessons of Generosity and Compassion 200 Years Later

Les Miserables is a timeless masterpiece by Victor Hugo. Its memorable characters, powerful storytelling, and relatable exploration of the human condition have captivated audiences for generations.  Many themes form the core of the Les Miserables novel, musicals, and several stage and movie adaptations. But none is more resonant than the theme of human dignity and ...

Nathan Machoka

Jean Valjean.

Thomas Dambo: Meet the Danish Artist With Whimsical Sculpture Trolls Across the World

Thomas Dambo, or “The Troll Whisperer,” is a Danish visionary artist and storyteller known for his larger-than-life troll sculptures. He pushes the boundaries of imagination, bringing fantastical beings to life from recycled materials like scrap wood, twigs, pallets, and more. More than 120 of Thomas Dambo’s trolls roam the landscapes of Denmark, Australia, China, Canada, ...

Nathan Machoka

Thomas Dambo on one of his trolls.

Preparing Your Art for Gallery Submissions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ralph Waldo Emerson said: “Every artist was first an amateur.” Aspiring artists often experience excitement and fear at the prospect of showcasing their artwork in a prestigious gallery. While gallery exhibitions can provide valuable exposure, recognition, and connections with art enthusiasts and buyers, gaining entry into the gallery scene requires more than raw talent. A ...

Haidene Go

art-gallery

Plato’s Influence on Architecture: How Do Architects Think?

Architecture is a discipline where art meets mathematics (engineering). Architects essentially blend these two sides, making architecture interesting for many people.  But is there a one-size-fits-all design philosophy for architects? Why is one building more beautiful than another? Can architects create a building that will be universally beautiful, and what would be the characteristics of ...

Nathan Machoka

The Greek philosopher Plato.