paintless coca-cola cans

Heard about this through the grapevine, then confirmed via Gizmodo. Brilliant idea! They are not only saving the resources used to make the paint itself, but also the energy used to remove it during the recycling process. I know it seems like a small thing to eliminate just the paint... but considering that 25 billion cans of the stuff is sold every year, I would say it is definitely a step in the right direction. As an added benefit, this can is waaaaaay prettier than the traditional one (and my opinion gets weighted, at least a little, because I have an Industrial Design background... and because I said so).

And hey, Coca-Cola, if you're listening... if you're really committed to reducing your impact on the environment, try manufacturing a home fountain (well, one that costs less than $400 please). I've considered getting a SodaStream and stirring in the syrup as a cheaper alternative- but your average Joe isn't going to spend that kind of effort to reduce waste... so get on that. Still, thank you for the new and improved cans. I hope others follow in your footsteps.

two christmas goodies for you

Merry Christmas! 'Tis the season of giving, and in that spirit I will share some holiday fun.

My favorite xmas commercial:


And a modern gingerbread house (which, if you're inspired... the plans are here):

50 cent is... charming?

Okay, suspend your judgment and just watch it. Even though I'm a fan of rap and hip-hop, I have to say I kind of wrote him off. What with selling crack at the tender age of 12, being shot 9 times, aaaaand he's had beef with way too many people. But I digress. He's a man with real interests... following authors and production studios for no reason other than he's into it. He pays attention and is articulate, which, the older I get, I'm finding is a lot to ask of a person. I am impressed.

It doesn't hurt that Chelsey is flirting with him. I think she also has a thing for TI. Too funny. :)

an unlikely place to find beautiful art

Recognize this? I saw it on Ffffound! ... since they keep the details about images pretty sparse, I had a sort of wonderful moment with this before I knew what it was. I knew I had seen it somewhere. This piece is actually a preliminary gouache painting for Disney's Sleeping Beauty. It inspired me to dig around a little bit. Turns out it is one of many concepts by Eyvind Earle. And these weren't just ooo and aahhh concepts; they were used so faithfully throughout the whole film. He re-imagined forests, evil castles... there are a few that were more memorable for their narrative quality. I think that I can't help but love these for their mid-century feel, but I'm pleasantly surprised that a Disney movie is a source, at least in my opinion, of legit art. I didn't really think about this aspect as a child, and it's quite refreshing to rediscover it as an adult. I mean, the proportions on those trees. Mmm mmm good.

I thought about buying it, but it's a little spendy for something so mainstream. I'll hold out for the poster. There's bound to be one sooner or later.