Kelly Richman-Abdou, Author at My Modern Met

45 Must-Have School Supplies for Creative Students

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 00:24:07 +0000

45 Must-Have School Supplies for Creative Students

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

The new school year is just around the corner, and that can only mean one thing—back-to-school shopping. Who said school supplies have to be boring? While stocking up on staples like ballpoint pens, pencils, and paper products may seem like a mundane chore, this selection of back-to-school supplies will make you want to go shopping all year round.

There are plenty of old-school supplies with a twist, like fun-shaped paper clips or erasable highlighters, as well as more modern must-haves like headphones. Whether you have a kid in elementary or high school, you'll find all the items you need to ease them into the upcoming school season.

Whether adorably animal-shaped or effortlessly embellished with simple pops of color, these outlandish office accessories are the perfect way to personalize everything from your desk to your devices. Ideal for the quirky and creative student, this curated collection of products is sure to help your child stand out in the classroom.

So get ready to set your favorite student up for the best experience possible and maybe even make doing homework fun with these cool school supplies.

Check out some of our favorite creative and cool back-to-school supplies below.

Llama Gel Pens

StencilsAndCraftsInc | $0.99+

Geometric Decorative Folders

Paper Junkie | $14.99

Rocketbook Smart Notebook

Rocketbook | $25.69+

Rainbow Ombre Glitter Stapler

BlueTideByJerri | $20

Cute Erasers

Dreamm | $14.99

Personalized Lunch Box

Ndzlilly | $15.54+

National Parks Notebooks

Field Notes | $14.95

Flower Push Pins (Set of 12)

The Indoor Garden Shop | $13

Large Crayola Crayon Box with Sharpener

Crayola | $16.97

Cute Snails Correction Tape

Borispaper | $7.72

Inspirational Pencil Set

Ban.do | $10.95

Foldable Lap Desk

Loddie Doddie | $22.99

Rainbow Pencils

Duncan Shotton | $15

Modern Rainbow Sticky Notes Cube

Gotcha Covered Notebooks Store | $14.99

Planet Shaped Paper Clips

OWLFAVO | $6.99

Tablet Stand

Pepper Jobs | $25.99

Doodle Pad Calculator

JEOEUS | $14.99

5-in-1 Tool Pen

Uncommon Goods | $25

Foldable Wired Headphones

noot | $20.99

Panda Electric Pencil Sharpener

ZMOL | $24.99

On-the-Go Watercolor Sheets

Viviva Colorsheets | $19.95+

Flower Colored Pencils

Trinus | $22

Funny To-Do List

Boygirl Party | $8

Erasable Highlighters

YOOUSOO | $11.99

Illustrative Washi Tape

Carousel Greetings | $14.99

Cool Cats Magnetic Bookmarks

Galison | $5.99

Eye-Catching Backpacks

Society6 | $56.25+

Dorm Room Survival Guide

Brit + Co. | FREE

Shimmering Scaley Skins

Monika Strigel | $27+

Personalized Pencil or Crayon Pencil Cases

Deer Custom Designs | $15

Floral Frida Notebook

Desirée Feldmann | $15+

Pantone Notebooks

Pantone Inc. | $18.85

Solar System Erasers

Suck UK | $11.01

Bunny Desk Buddy

Cub | $29.90

Laser-Cut Wood Journals

Cardtorial | $29

Retractable Gel Pens

Writech | $11.99

Mule Memo Holders

Monkey Business | $14.90

Study Planner

PrintableForPlanners | $4.70

Floral Binder

Three Oaks Store | $15.99

Personalized Eco-friendly Notebook

bluestiggy | $12.13+

Retractable Eraser (4 pack)

Staedtler | $11.17

“Vase with Twelve Sunflowers” by Vincent Van Gogh Laptop Skin

PrintableForPlanners | $28.99

Cactus Pen Holder

LeonBach | $13.95

Stainless Steel Water Bottle

MIRA | $15.82

Earth-Friendly Expanding File Folder

Blue Lake | $13.59

This article has been edited and updated. Prices were accurate at time of publishing.

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READ: 45 Must-Have School Supplies for Creative Students

14 Different Types of Houses Found in Countries Around the World

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Sat, 20 Jul 2024 23:15:40 +0000

14 Different Types of Houses Found in Countries Around the World

Throughout history, people have fabricated shelters that fit their surroundings. With a universal set of criteria in mind—including access to tools, availability of materials, and type of climate—individuals from all over the world constantly reinterpret, reimagine, and redefine the concept of home.

To many of us, a home is a four-walled fixture on a permanent foundation. But to others, it is a snowy sanctuary, a hidden cave, or even a floating boat. Here, we explore these different types of houses in order to understand how and why such a wide range of shelters exist across the globe.

Let's take a tour of different types of houses around the world.

Cave Homes (Matmata, Tunisia)

Photo: Ansgar Walk (photo taken by de:Benutzer:wotan) [GFDL, Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Germany license.

In Matmata, Tunisia, cave homes—ancient abodes that have been carved out of sandstone—keep people comfortable all year long. Situated around a central pit and connected by a network of passageways, these one-of-a-kind properties provide protection from the North African sun and desert winds.

Today, many cave homes around the world have been turned into unique cave hotels for tourists to stay in.

Rondavels/Round Homes (Lesotho, South Africa)

Photo: Rich Tracy [Public domain] via Wikimedia Commons

In South Africa, rondavels—rounded, single-cell huts—are favored for their ability to be built from natural, locally sourced materials. Like igloos, rondavels were traditionally used as temporary hunting lodgings.

Today, round houses are built and bought by people interested in saving both space and energy.

Stilt Houses (Vietnam, Southeast Asia)

Photo: Jos Dielis [CC BY 2.0] via Wikimedia Commons

In Southeast Asia, where heavy rain is prevalent, you can find communities of stilt houses. These wooden houses are raised up on planks in order to protect their inhabitants and their possessions from flooding. They're also designed to sit just high enough to keep safe from invading vermin—namely, snakes and insects. Additionally, their roofs are sloped, in order to allow rainwater to easily stream down without damaging the property.

Though they're primarily built in Southeast Asia today, stilt houses are also present in the western hemisphere where homes are faced with hurricane damage. These traditional houses are thought to have first been used (in the West) by indigenous tribes of the Americas.

Yurts (Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia)

Photo: I, Ondřej Žváček [GFDL, CC-BY-SA-3.0 or CC BY 2.5], via Wikimedia Commons

Yurts or gers—portable tents traditionally composed of animal skins—have been used by Central Asian nomads for centuries. While, in the past, these structures were intended as temporary shelters, contemporary construction methods and access to new materials such as canvas have allowed them to be used as permanent housing.

Underground Houses (Coober Pedy, Australia)

Photo: Nachoman-au [GFDL, CC-BY-SA-3.0 or CC BY-SA 2.5-2.0-1.0], via Wikimedia Commons

In addition to being the “opal capital of the world,” Coober Pedy, a South Australian town, is renowned for its “dugouts,” special shelters built beneath the Earth's surface.

According to Smithsonian Magazine, these unique underground homes act as an oasis from the outback's heat (summer temperatures can reach a sweltering 113 degrees Fahrenheit) and occasional dust storms. For this reason, half of the town's residents—as well as a museum, a church, and even a hotel—have opted for this underground lifestyle.

Igloos (Baffin Island, Canada)

Photo: Ansgar Walk [GFDL, CC-BY-SA-3.0 or CC BY 2.5], via Wikimedia Commons

Though not as prevalent as they once were, igloos are used by outdoors enthusiasts as temporary shelters. Skillfully constructed out of insulating, compressed snow, the icy accommodations keep dwellers warm by blocking harsh winds and housing a small fire.

Today, igloos—which are deeply connected to Inuit history and culture—can be found in Baffin Island, Canada, and other snowy, North American locations.

“Honai” Homes (Indonesia)

Honai is the traditional house of the mountainous community in central Papua, Indonesia. The main, rounded body of the simple abodes are hand-built from wooden plank, and the interior walls are insulated with woven bamboo. The straw roofs can often be substituted with reeds or palm leaves. A typical honai home is approximately 4-6 meters in diameter and 5-7 meters in height. Despite their small size, they are usually occupied by 5-10 people.

Hanok Houses (Korea)

A hanok is a traditional Korean house that originates from the 14th century during the Joseon Dynasty. Culturally, architects would have considered the positioning and style of the house in relation to its surroundings, the land, and even the seasons. The ideal hanok house is built with a mountain in the back and a river in front.

Built from locally sourced materials, they consist of tiled roofs, wooden beams, and flooring built in the Ondol style, allowing the floors to be heated by smoke during winter and cooled in the summer. One of the most distinguishing features of the hanok home is the slightly curved roof line, sometimes revealing ornate designs on the underside.

Cape Dutch Architecture (South Africa)

Primarily found in the Western Cape of South Africa, Cape Dutch-style homes were built to resemble the townhouses of Amsterdam. They appear in locations where the Dutch settled during the 17th century, but many are still used in historical towns such as Stellenbosch, Paarl, Swellendam, Tulbagh, and Graaff-Reinet.

They are characterized by ornate rounded gables, whitewashed walls, wooden shutters, and thatched roofs.

Tiny Houses (Portland, Oregon)

Photo: Tammy (Weekend with Dee) [CC BY 2.0] via Wikimedia Commons

Today, many aspiring homeowners are foregoing standard-sized housing for less spacious alternatives. Communities dedicated to tiny homes have popped up across the United States, with Portland, Oregon, at its epicenter.

Easy to erect and relatively inexpensive, these small houses are perfect for people interested in downsizing.

Victorian and Edwardian Houses (San Francisco, California)

Photo: Tobias Kleinlercher [CC BY-SA 3.0] via Wikimedia Commons

In addition to its hilly geography, San Francisco is known for its Victorian and Edwardian houses. Featuring bay windows and ornate decoration, most of these colorful dwellings were built in the late 19th century and early 20th century.

Today, they can be found all over the city.

Adobe Buildings (Acoma, New Mexico)

Photo: Beyond My Ken (Own work) [GFDL or CC BY-SA 4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0] via Wikimedia Commons

Situated on a mesa, Acoma Pueblo is a historic site in New Mexico. The Acoma people have lived on the site for 2,000 years and began to build ladder-accessible homes out of adobe bricks and dried mud back in the 17th century.

Today, roughly 300 of these mudbrick homes exist in Acoma.

“Gingerbread” Cottages (Martha's Vineyard, USA)

Photo: Michele Schaffer (DSCF0625) [CC BY 2.0] via Wikimedia Commons

Charmingly named after the quaint Christmas candy tradition, the gingerbread houses of Martha's Vineyard look like they're straight from a sugary-sweet storybook.

According to Around The World L, these wooden, traditional homes popped up in the late 19th century. Since then, they have creatively been characterized as “Carpenter’s Gothic” due to their ornate decoration.

Canal Boats (London, United Kingdom)

Photo: Oast House Archive [CC BY-SA 2.0] via Wikimedia Commons

While, like the rest of the world, most Londoners live in homes built on land, some have found that life on the canal floats their boats—literally!

Regent's Canal—a waterway that spans nearly nine miles of the city—is home to a community of canal boats. A less expensive alternative to London's pricey flats and homes, houseboats are becoming an increasingly popular way to live and work in the capital. But before you pick up and move into one of these “narrowboats,” make sure you're on board with the nomadic lifestyle; local law states that canal-dwellers cannot “remain in the same neighborhood for more than 14 days.”

Trulli (Alberobello, Italy)

Photo: Berthold Werner [CC BY-SA 3.0] via Wikimedia Commons

Trulli are traditional stone houses with conical roofs that can be found in the Apulia region of Southern Italy. Their charming size, white color, derived from limestone, and uniquely arched entrances make them a popular attraction among visitors.

Over 1500 trulli populate the town of Alberobello. Historically, they were used as housing by agricultural laborers or temporary field shelters. Now, luxury trulli in Italy are highly sought after in the real estate market as charming vacation homes.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 14 Different Types of Houses Found in Countries Around the World

Why Michelangelo’s ‘David’ Is an Icon of the Italian Renaissance

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 02:55:24 +0000

Why Michelangelo’s ‘David’ Is an Icon of the Italian Renaissance

Michelangelo's defiant David statue has captivated the world for centuries. Considered one of art history's major masterpieces, the marble sculpture showcases both the artist's skill and the fine art focus that defines the Renaissance.

Since its debut in the early 16th century, artists and art connoisseurs alike have admired the piece. Esteemed artist, writer, and historian Giorgio Vasari noted that “no other artwork is equal to it in any respect, with such just proportion, beauty and excellence did Michelangelo finish it.” To understand why the sculpture has garnered such praise, one must first understand the context in which it was created.

Who was Michelangelo?

Photo: Daniele da Volterra via Wikimedia Commons

Commissioning David

Michelangelo created the Statue of David from a single block of marble between 1501 and 1504.

Sculptors Agostino di Duccio and Antonio Rossellino were initially asked to hew the marble block but abandoned it after encountering various difficulties. Then, a prominent figure in Florence, Michelangelo—who was only 26 years old at the time—was commissioned by the Opera del Duomo to carve the sculpture as one in a series that would line the roof of theCattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (“Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower”). Weighing at six tons, however, it was clear that the statue would be nearly impossible to lift. Thus, a committee of notable artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Pietro Perugino, and Sandro Botticelli decided that David would instead be placed in the Palazzo della Signoria, near the entrance of Palazzo Vecchio. There David stood as a symbol of strength and defiance from 1504 until its permanent relocation to the Galleria dell'Accademia in 1873.

Photo: kalavenka via Shutterstock

Symbolism

The sculpture portrays David, a biblical hero. In a particularly well-known narrative (1 Samuel 17), David battles Goliath, a colossal Philistine. Against all odds, an unarmored David knocks down his giant enemy using a sling and then beheads him with his own sword. Given David's esteemed reputation, it is not surprising that the Office of Works would choose to feature the figure as a subject in their sculptural series of historical greats.

Additionally, as an independent city-state, the Republic of Florence was aware of the threats that surrounded it. Therefore, they viewed David as a perfect symbol of Florence, as he captured the unwavering courage, unexpected strength, and historic perseverance that the Florentines saw in themselves.

Artistic Significance

Lifelike Anatomy

Photo: Jörg Bittner Unna via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

During the High Renaissance, Michelangelo created figurative works that focused on balance, harmony, and the ideal form. David showcases these artistic sensibilities through his lifelike, asymmetrical posture—known as contrapposto or “counterpose. His realistic and highly detailed anatomy, with lifelike veins and muscles, further affirms these qualities.

Photo: Jörg Bittner Unna via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Unconventional Portrayal

In most depictions of David that have been painted and sculpted throughout history, artists opt to portray him as a young boy. They also commonly choose to capture the moment after he has slain Goliath. This approach is evident in well-known works by Early Renaissance artist Donatello as well as Baroque painter Caravaggio.

Photo: Caravaggio via Wikimedia Commons

Photo: Patrick A. Rodgers via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Michelangelo, however, curiously decided to depict David as a young man. He also creatively chose to show him in the minutes before his battle, with a sling in his hand and a look of determination on his face.

Photo: Jörg Bittner Unna via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Scale

At 17 feet tall, Michelangelo's David is clearly a larger-than-life portrayal. Given the relatively realistic scales of Michelangelo's other sculptures, like his Dying Slave (7 feet tall) and his Pietà (5.7 feet), why is David so tall?

Likely, the sculpture's stature is a result of its intended location: the roof of the cathedral. In order for the public to fully appreciate the sky-high figure, it would need to be large enough to view from the Piazza del Duomo, hence David‘s colossal size.

Photo: Iornet via Shutterstock

Replicas

Full-sized reproductions of the iconic sculpture can be found all over the world—even close to home in Florence. To mark the statue's official site, a marble copy has been placed in the Piazza della Signoria, a bustling square near the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery. A bronze cast can also be found in the Piazzale Michelangelo, a plaza with a panoramic view of the city's skyline and the surrounding Tuscan landscape.

Photo: Elnur via Shutterstock

In addition to Florentine locations, copies of the David are on-view in various museums and public spaces across the globe. Notable replicas include a plaster copy in London's Victoria & Albert Museum, a bronze casting in Buffalo, New York's Delaware Park, and a marble copy on the Avenue du Prado in Marseille, France.

Photo: Spiroview Inc via Shutterstock

While no reproduction made to perfection could replace the original, these castings serve two important purposes: to educate the public (some replicas are even used as tactile teaching aids for scholars studying the statue), and to spread Michelangelo's profound legacy, both in Italy and beyond.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: Why Michelangelo’s ‘David’ Is an Icon of the Italian Renaissance

28 Gifts To Get You Outside and Staying Creative This Summer

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 00:24:55 +0000

28 Gifts To Get You Outside and Staying Creative This Summer

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

As kids, nothing could compare to summer. With its warm weather and long days, the season was seemingly made for outdoor activities. However, as adults, many of us have forgotten how to unplug no matter the time of year- until now. Thanks to this list of cool outdoor gear, you'll find plenty of inspirations to spend some time in the great outdoors.

For a hands-on outdoor project, look no further than our selection of summer crafts, including a delightful DIY birdhouse and a charming mosaic kit. If you're more of a wildlife observer, you'll love flipping through the National Geographic Backyard Guide to the Birds of North America . Spinning the handy star wheel will help you name the stars in the night sky during outdoor adventures. And if you're mostly an enthusiast of summer style, you're bound to turn heads when you swim around with a mermaid flipper.

What are you waiting for? Grab something to do, go get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery!

Looking for fun things to do outside? Check out these summer crafts and cool outdoor items!

Mermaid Swim Fin

Body Glove | $24.50

How to be a Wildflower

Katie Daisy | $19.95

Instant Ice Pop Maker

ZOKU | $59.99

Camper Birdhouse Kit

GiftWildflowers | $10+

Wildflower Seeds

GiftWildflowers | $19.99

Cyanotype Kit

DaisyBowCraft | $16.21+

Mosaic Kit

Glass Art Stories | $60

Temporary Watercolor Butterfly Tattoos

Tattly | $15

DIY Bee Hotel Kit

BEEVIVE | $25.31+

Colorful Picnic Cooler

Lakeside Collection | $26.47

Biodegradable Colorful Heart Seed Bombs

Free Mountain Designs | $8.90+

Watercolor Sheets

Viviva Colorsheets | $19.95+

Bird Feeder with Camera

Eksvefot | $99.99

Seek App

iNaturalist | Free

Large Rope Hammock

Sunnydaze Decor | $69.95

Retro Cooler

Igloo | $43.99

Backyard Guide to the Birds of North America

National Geographic | $20.45

Japanese Pagoda Lantern Kit

1Man1Garage | $24.75

Travel Easel

Jullian | $89.99

Geode Windchime Kit

EDUMAN | $12.99

Outdoor Acrylic Paint

Folk Art | $34.99

National Parks Journal

Paige Wunder | $11.43

Indigo Dye Kit

ShopAdroit | $64

Croquet Set

GoSports | $53.54

Northern Hemisphere Sky Wheel

Ken Graun | $24.95

Butterfly Puddler

Jo-Anne and Gerald Warren | $45

Outdoor Yoga Blanket

Benevolence LA | $24.47

Octopus Kite

Singare | $16.97

This article has been edited and updated. Prices were accurate at time of publishing.

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32 Summery Gifts That Will Make a Splash This Season

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 00:24:11 +0000

32 Summery Gifts That Will Make a Splash This Season

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

At long last, summer is here. From spending the day by the pool to enjoying a cool glass of lemonade, there's a lot to enjoy about this time of year. On top of warm weather essentials like sunscreen and swimwear, creative summer gifts can help you make the most of the sunny season. We've picked out some goodies that will prepare you to face the heat, whether you're spending a day at the pool or enjoying an outdoor party.

In this selection of seasonal products, you'll find everything you need to dive into summer. Accessories made with real flowers and artistic tote bags let you stay stylish as you soak up the sun, while a high-tech portable neck fan will keep things nice and breezy wherever you go. And, if you're looking for the perfect poolside activity, why not try some crafts? A festive embroidery kit with buzzing bees or a nostalgic tie dye kit, will keep you in the summer spirit.

No matter the temperature, these fun and festive gifts will keep you cool all summer long! Whether you need the perfect gift to bring to a summer party or are looking to treat yourself during summer vacation, you'll be sure to find something.

Make a splash this season with this selection of unique summer gifts.

Arts & Crafts

Bees and Wildflowers Embroidery Kit

Oh Sew Bootiful | $27.50

How to be a Widlflower Guidebook

Katie Daisy | $19.95

Tie Dye Kit

Lauren Sadler | $38

Find Your Artistic Voice Book

Chronicle Books | $18.95

Viviva Portable Watercolor Sheets

Viviva Colorsheets | $19.95

Summer Accessories

Summery Tote Bag

LOQI | $17.50

Real Flower Earrings

annstylestore | $14.99

Frida Kahlo & Milagro Earrings

Yellow Owl Workshop | $21.50

Embroidery Temporary Tattoos

Tattly | $15

Shoreline Necklace

Wellington Williams | $48

Peace & Love Earrings

Yellow Owl Workshop | $21.50

Food & Drink Gifts

Homemade Limoncello Kit

Uncommon Goods | $55

Bartending Glasses (Set of 4)

Kikkerland Design | $25

Shark Bait Serving Board

Meghan Miller | $104.99

Shaved Ice Machine

Hawaiian Shaved Ice | $54.99

BBQ Blends Rub & Sauce Kit

Neil Edley | $34

Summer Survival Cocktail Kit

Uncommon Goods | $40

Beer Preserver

Tyrone Hazen | $20

Summer Birthday Gifts

Blown Glass Hummingbird Feeder

LUJII | $33.99

Solar-Powered Rainbow Maker

Kikkerland Design | $34.95

Twister Game

Hasbro | $19.99

Art Playing Cards

Rebecca Clarke | $12.50

Lizard Infinity Puzzle

Nervous System | $70

Summer Must-Haves

Invisible Sunscreen

Supergoop! | $38

Picnic Blanket

ZAZE | $29.99

Floating Waterproof Smartphone Pouch

Travelon | $11.08

Maui Yoga Mat

Monkey Business | $55

Water Bottle With Time Marker

Hydracy | $24.97

Portable Bladeless Neck Fan

NEXAIR | $19.99

Beach Towel

Touchat | $15.99

Farmers Market Harvesting Bag

Uncommon Goods | $85

Packable Beach Pillow & Cooling Gel Pack

Uncommon Goods | $35+

This article has been edited and updated. Prices were accurate at the time of publication.

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The History and Legacy of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mysterious ‘Mona Lisa’

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Sat, 29 Jun 2024 00:24:57 +0000

The History and Legacy of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mysterious ‘Mona Lisa’

For centuries, audiences have been captivated by the mysterious Mona Lisa. A key piece of Italian master Leonardo da Vinci‘s oeuvre and a prime example of High Renaissance painting, the piece has become known as one of the most recognizable and skillfully rendered works of art.

Since 1804 the iconic oil painting has been housed at the Louvre in Paris. Each year millions crowd the painting is hung, waiting for their turn to snap a photograph of Leonardo's most famous artwork. Through her captivating gaze and mysterious smile, the Mona Lisa has been enchanting the public since it was first painted in the early 16th century.

Renowned for its curious iconography, unique history, and infamous theft, the Mona Lisa has become one of the most well-known paintings in art history. Here, we explore these aspects of the painting in order to answer the question: why is the Mona Lisa famous today?

About the Artwork

Title	Mona Lisa
Artist	Leonardo da Vinci
Year	1503-1506
Medium	Oil on wood panel
Size	30 in × 21 in (77 cm × 53 cm)
Location	Louvre (Paris, France)

What is the Mona Lisa?

The Mona Lisa is an oil painting by Italian artist, inventor, and writer Leonardo da Vinci. Likely completed in 1506, the piece features a portrait of a seated woman set against an imaginary landscape.

In addition to being one of the most famous paintings, it is also the most valuable. Permanently located in the Louvre Museum, it is estimated to be worth an impressive $800 million today.

Who is Mona Lisa?

Photo: Galerie de tableaux en très haute définition via Wikimedia Commons (PD-1923)

Rendered similarly to Renaissance portrayals of the Virgin Mary, the piece features a female figure—believed by most to be Lisa Gherardini, the wife of cloth and silk merchant Francesco del Giocondo—from the waist up. She is shown seated in a loggia, or a room with at least one open side.

Behind her is a hazy and seemingly isolated landscape imagined by the artist and painted using sfumato, a technique resulting in forms “without lines or borders, in the manner of smoke or beyond the focus plane.”

“Mona Lisa” detail

The figure sits with her arms folded as she gazes at the viewer and appears to softly smile—an aesthetic attribute that has proven particularly eye-catching over centuries. The halfhearted or even ambiguous nature of this smile makes the iconic painting all the more enigmatic, prompting viewers to try to understand both the mood of its muse and the intention of its artist.

“Mona Lisa” detail

Her gaze is another bewitching part of the composition. Many believe that her eyes follow you across the room, making her an active participant when being viewed, rather than remaining an object to look upon. But while her eyes may seemingly follow you, according to German researchers, this “Mona Lisa effect” actually does not occur in the painting. In fact, they claim that the woman is always look about 15 degrees to your right, so more likely at your ear than your eyes. Whatever the case—perceived or real—her ambiguous expression is one of the strongest reasons for the Mona Lisa‘s enduring success.

In addition to its mysterious appearance, her expression has resonated most strongly with art historians for its possible symbolism, as many believe it to be a clever “visual representation of the idea of happiness suggested by the word ‘gioconda' in Italian.”

Why is the Mona Lisa so famous?

Photo: The Telegraph via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

After Leonardo's death in 1519, the Mona Lisa remained in France, where the artist had spent the remainder of his days. There, it stayed in the possession of the royal family for centuries, until it was finally put on permanent display in the Louvre in 1797.

At the beginning of the 2oth century, the Mona Lisa was still relatively unknown outside of the art world. Then, in 1911, a heist put the painting in the spotlight. Louvre employee Vincenzo Peruggia—an Italian native—stole the portrait from the museum with the intention of returning it to Italy, where he believed it belonged.

Newspaper detailing that the ‘Mona Lisa' had been found two years after its disappearance. (Photo: Le Petit Parisien via Wikimedia Commons, PD-1923)

After keeping the painting hidden in his apartment for two years, he presented it to a suspicious art dealer and the director of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, and it was exhibited in the museum for two weeks. Eventually, the Mona Lisa was returned to the Louvre, and Peruggia had to serve six months in prison.

This incident thrust the previously looked-over painting into the limelight, becoming an overnight sensation and inspiring people to appreciate it as an example of High Renaissance portraiture. Since then, the Mona Lisa has survived vandalism, like thrown rocks and red paint, which have only added to the lore of this masterpiece.

The Mona Lisa Today

Photo: Stock Photos from Resul Muslu/Shutterstock

Due to its tumultuous past and contemporary fame, today, the Mona Lisa is exhibited behind a layer of bulletproof glass. Even in such a unique and controversial display, the painting remains one of the most popular pieces in the Louvre and, unsurprisingly, one of the most viewed and visited paintings in the world.

For the 500th anniversary of Leonardo's death in Paris, the Louvre hosted a blockbuster exhibition that used innovative virtual reality to bring visitors closer to the Mona Lisa. Using cutting-edge technology, this event enabled art lovers to go behind the bulletproof glass and examine the hidden details of the painting.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: The History and Legacy of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mysterious ‘Mona Lisa’

36 Creative Father’s Day Gifts for the “World’s Greatest Dad”

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 00:24:48 +0000

36 Creative Father’s Day Gifts for the “World’s Greatest Dad”

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Year after year, stores sell the same old Father's Day presents, from boring barbecue accessories to tried-and-true toolsets. While these standard gifts are always a safe bet, why not push the envelope this year with a unique Father's Day gift?

In this selection of creative presents for dad, you'll find products that put a fun twist on dad's age-old favorites. With a punny Yoda mug, you can skip the store-bought blend and classic “world's greatest dad” cup. Similarly, instead of settling for generic socks and ties, you can give him accessories that let him stand out from the crowd. And, if you're looking to make a new father's big day extra special, you can choose between a sentimental keychain and a silly set of beer labels.

A lot of gifts on our list play on common hobbies. That includes a solar system desk accessory for science geeks or amazing grill accessories that can up your dad's BBQ game. With instant smoker pucks, he can become a grill master and smoke up a mean steak. Or, he can even grill up a pizza with a grilling accessory that is a convenient replacement for an outdoor pizza oven. Outdoorsy dads will appreciate things like a solar-powered radio and speaker to keep them connected when out camping or on a fishing trip, while anyone who loves a cool gadget will appreciate a multifunctional pen tool or a Go cube, which is like an interactive Rubik's cube.

Much like your dad's hilariously cheesy jokes and heartfelt pep talks, the possibilities are endless! Check out our treasure trove of great gifts, many of which can have personalization options. From tech gadgets to sentimental items, you'll find the perfect present, no matter what your budget is.

Let Dad—or any father figure in your life—know he's #1 with these cool Father's Day gifts!

Crappie Patch Hat

Vital | $37.33

5-in-1 Multifunctional Pen Tool

Uncommon Goods | $25

Dad Beard Fridge Magnet

The Bespoke Workshop | $8.13

Instant Smoker Grill Pucks

Uncommon Goods | $15

Homemade Ravioli Kit

Carley Sheehy | $36

First-Time Dad Beer Bottle Labels

PaprikaPaperie | $14.64+

Solar Powered Speaker and Radio

Uncommon Goods | $35

Yoga Joes

Brogamats | $25

Hanging Cocktail Bar

KALALOU | $71.11

Gamer's Galaxy T-Shirt

Uncommon Goods | $29

Miniature Brass Helicopter Model Kit

Another Studio | $21.14

Monstera Print

Studio Rebel Unlit | $45.38+

Interactive Go Cube

Go cube | $70

Home Team Baseball Game

Ryan and Kim McDaniel | $75

Outdoor Yard Games

Yard Games | $44.99

Mason Jar Fermentation Kit

Masontops | $49.99

Treehouse Architecture Book

Taschen | $23.25

Hand Forged Wood Carving Tools

Forged Tools Naumov | $57.10

Wooden Airpods Case

AlbaDoroWood | $29.70

Kabob Grilling Baskets

Uncommon Goods | $20

Bourbon Lip Balm

LittleFlowerSoapCo | $6.10

Out There: The Science Behind Sci-Fi Film & TV

Ariel Waldman | $28

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 36 Creative Father’s Day Gifts for the “World’s Greatest Dad”

A “Wee” History of the Leprechaun, a Legendary Character From Irish Folklore

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 00:24:53 +0000

A “Wee” History of the Leprechaun, a Legendary Character From Irish Folklore

Photo: Stock Photos from natnatnat/Shutterstock

Though famously short in stature, leprechauns have landed a big role in Irish folklore. These “wee folk” have captured imaginations for centuries, enchanting generation after generation with green get-ups and promises o' gold.

Though the leprechaun is a staple of pop culture in the Emerald Isle and beyond, its origins are a bit more mysterious. Fortunately, if you've ever wished you knew more about these little sprites, you're in luck! Here, we take a look at the history of the legendary figure.

What is a leprechaun?

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

In Irish folklore, a leprechaun is a type of fairy. The character is commonly depicted as a tiny, bearded man clad in an emerald ensemble comprising a waistcoat, buckled shoes, and a top hat. In traditional tales, they are shoemakers, fancifully represented by a distinctive “tapping” sound. “Lay your ear close to the hill,” The Leprecaun; or Fairy Shoemaker, an 18th-century poem by William Allingham, reads, “Do you not catch the tiny clamour, Busy click of an elfin hammer, Voice of the Lepracaun singing shrill As he merrily plies his trade?”

In addition to their signature look and sound, leprechauns are known for their love of making mischief. According to legend, they are not to be trusted, as they love playing tricks on people. On the other side of the coin, however, their deviousness makes them lucky; they will grant three wishes to anyone crafty enough to catch them.

Although the leprechaun is unique to Ireland, the figure is an archetype that exists in cultures throughout the world. Places including Iceland, the Philippines, and Indonesia, as well as the Indigenous people in North America, also have stories about little people with supernatural abilities known for their luck and guile.

Enchanting Evolution

While traces of the leprechaun legend date back to the 8th century, the character as we know it today is likely a conflation of two figures from Irish mythology: the luchorpán and the clúrachán. Over the centuries, elements associated with each of these enchanting creatures have mixed and mingled to conjure up the concept of the leprechaun.

The Luchorpán

Photo: Stock Photos from Marshall Courtney/Shutterstock

The word “leprechaun” likely derives from the Old Irish (the language spoken in Ireland between 600 and 900) luchorpán, a compound word whose roots, lú and corp, mean “small” and “body,” respectively.

The earliest recorded use of this term is found in The Death of Fergus mac Leiti, an 8th-century story about tiny water spirits—the luchorpán—who tricks a king into giving up his throne after attempting to drag him into the sea and granting him three wishes.

The Clúrachán

Leprechaun or clúrachán (Photo: Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)

A clúrachán is a solitary, household fairy. Legend has it that the clúrachán haunts wine cellars—a move motivated by the small sprite's love of drinking—and, like the leprechaun, revels in tomfoolery and trickery. They traditionally dress in green, which is likely where the leprechaun's signature color scheme came from. In fact, until the 20th century, leprechauns were customarily clad in red!

“But he is quite a beau in his dress, notwithstanding, for he wears a red square-cut coat, richly laced with gold, and inexpressible of the same, cocked hat, shoes and buckles,” Samuel Lover wrote in Legends and Stories of Ireland, an anthology published in 1831.

Over the last couple of centuries, however, the clúrachán‘s association with the color green has trickled into tales of the leprechaun, eventually becoming one of the sprite's most defining features.

The Modern Leprechaun

Photo: Stock Photos from babenkoirusa/Shutterstock

Today, the legend of the leprechaun has taken on a life of its own. In addition to elements borrowed from the luchorpán and the clúrachán, the modern leprechaun has come to be associated with other attributes—namely, a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. While the origin of this trope isn't crystal clear, a popular explanation is that the leprechauns would use their elusive treasure as a means to trick passersby and barter with their captors.

Leprechauns are seen throughout American culture, where they are the faces of breakfast cereals (Lucky Charms) as well as the mascots of basketball teams (the University of Notre Dame and the Boston Celtics).

Our perception of the enchanted creatures has changed over the years, culminating in the “toadstool sitters, with red Galway beards and green hats” that we associate with one particularly magical holiday: St. Patrick's Day.

The Leprechaun and St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick's Day is a Christian feast day that falls on March 17. It celebrates St. Patrick, a Romano-British Christian bishop who converted the pagan Irish to Christianity in the 5th century.

He was made a patron saint of Ireland as a posthumous reward for his tireless efforts, which he recounted in an autobiographical letter. “The love of God and his fear grew in me more and more, as did the faith, and my soul was rosed, so that, in a single day, I have said as many as a hundred prayers and in the night, nearly the same. I prayed in the woods and on the mountain, even before dawn. I felt no hurt from the snow or ice or rain.”

Given the holiday's heavily religious roots, why is the leprechaun is associated with St. Patrick's Day? In popular culture, St. Patrick's Day is less of a liturgical holy day and more of a celebration of all things Irish. This includes the evergreen leprechaun, who magically captures both the heritage and hue of the historic Emerald Isle.

Children enjoy celebrating St. Patrick's Day, and a recent trend is a nod to their trickster side: kids and their parents set “leprechaun traps” each year. If the kids wake up and find that there are gold coins or treasure in the trap, they will know they caught the leprechaun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a leprechaun?

A leprechaun is part of Irish folklore and is part of the fairy world. These mischievous little creatures were cobblers in traditional tales, but today the modern leprechaun is known for his love of gold and for trying to trick people.

Why do leprechauns wear green?

Until the 20th century, leprechauns actually wore red. It's believed that the tradition of dressing their little bodies in green clothing came from the clúrachán, a solitary, household fairy whose personality slowly merged with that of the modern leprechaun. This traditional figure also loves trickery and dresses in green.

Why do leprechauns like gold?

The association between leprechauns, gold, and rainbows is actually quite new. It was not present in Irish folklore, and it's not totally clear where the connection began. Some scholars believe that their greed and love of hoarding gold are used as excuses for their trickery.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: A “Wee” History of the Leprechaun, a Legendary Character From Irish Folklore

20 Treasures To Make St. Patrick’s Day Even More Magical

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:24:15 +0000

20 Treasures To Make St. Patrick’s Day Even More Magical

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Looking for a way to get in the spirit of St. Patrick's Day? If so, you're in luck! To celebrate this enchanting holiday, we've put together a treasure trove of goodies that is bound to brighten up your holiday.

Whether you want to wish someone a happy holiday or treat yourself this St. Patrick's Day, you're sure to find something that tickles your fancy. These great gifts feature lucky clovers, radiant rainbows, mischievous leprechauns, and pretty pots of gold. This quirky collection of Irish-inspired gifts will transport you straight to the Emerald Isle. From sweet treats shaped like shamrocks to beautiful jewelry, these unique items are a great way to show off your Irish pride.

Have a happy St. Patrick's Day with these magical trinkets, treasures, and lucky charms!

In this treasure trove of St. Patrick's Day gifts, you'll discover goodies inspired by symbols of the holiday.

Four Leaf Clover Necklace

New Jewellery Story | $22.25

Chocolate-Covered Oreo Shamrocks

Chocolates Unlimited | $34.99+

Shamrock Soap

SunbasilgardenSoap | $4.50+

Shamrock Washi Tape

Lacelit | $6

Lucky Penny Keychain

CreationsByMeganK | $8+

Leprechaun Crochet Pattern

JennieDoll | $2.19

Pot-o'-Gold Bath Bombs

Rustic Witch Creations | $8.50

Gold Coin Ring

Eldor Tina Jewelry | $51

Rainbow Maker

Kikkerland Design | $34.95

Rainbow Pencils

Duncan Shotton | $15

Rainbow Yoga Joes

Brogamats | $25

Mini Macrame Rainbow Keychains

BFLOxBohoBabe | $3.75

Ireland Poster

DareToDreamPrints | $14+

Emerald Claddagh Ring Band

Kundanika Jewels | $90

Carved Coin Pendant

MoneJoyas | $38.40+

Irish Turf Candle

Ellie Crawford Candles | $31.95

Whiskey Board Game

Talking Tables | $37

Whiskey Making Kit

Aged and Charred | $69.99

Ireland Necklace

Silversmith925 | $31.12+

Irish Toast Whiskey Glasses

Uncommon Goods | $68

This article has been edited and updated.

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20 Creative Products to Help You Relax, Unwind, and Achieve “Zen”

Kelly Richman-Abdou — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:24:20 +0000

20 Creative Products to Help You Relax, Unwind, and Achieve “Zen”

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, remembering to find time to relax can be tough. However, this collection of creative zen gifts is guaranteed to put your mind at ease and help you take a much-needed breather.

Ranging from serene decor—including a glowing lunar lamp and cactus candles—to fun, calming games (cat Jenga, anyone?), these goodies put a quirky twist on traditional relaxation products. Whether using a lamp that looks like a tiny moon, a tea infuser modeled after an origami boat, or colored pencils that bloom before your eyes, these unique trinkets and toys are guaranteed to guide you to your inner peace.

Finding creative ways to keep calm is a breeze with these zen gifts. Some will help you keep your surroundings soothing.

Therapy Zen Garden

Mossterpiece | $19.27

Moon Lamp

Himalayan Glow Store | $20.80

Cactus Candles

MakeVana | $11.99

Cloud Chandelier

ZOKON | $27.99

Plant Pillows

Plantillo | $79

Power-Lift Recliner With Massage, Head, and Headrest

Flexispot | $469.99

Deskspace Solar System Series With Sun Lamp

DeskX | $368

Self Love Candle

Homesick $25

Others clear your mind by keeping your hands busy.

Stackable Cats

Comma | $39.95

Marbling Infinity Puzzles

Nervous System | $45

DIY Racoon Doll Kit

Kiriki Press | $22

Calming Coloring Book

Wendy Piersall | $10.20

Flower Colored Pencils

Toshihiro Otomo | $22

Knot Pillow Crochet Pattern

DeBrosse | $5

Magnetic Sculpture

Rockymart | $5.06

And some serene goodies simply aim to make you smile!

Yoga Joes Figurines

Brogamats | $25

Origami Tea Strainer

Ototo | $14

Bath Bomb Set

Lizush | $28+

Yoga Cat Magnets

pannya | $10.50+

You Can Do All Things Book

Kate Allan | $13.99

This article has been edited and updated.

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Kelly Richman-Abdou, Author at My Modern Met

45 Must-Have School Supplies for Creative Students

45 Must-Have School Supplies for Creative Students

Check out some of our favorite creative and cool back-to-school supplies below.

Llama Gel Pens

Geometric Decorative Folders

Rocketbook Smart Notebook

Rainbow Ombre Glitter Stapler

Cute Erasers

Personalized Lunch Box

National Parks Notebooks

Flower Push Pins (Set of 12)

Large Crayola Crayon Box with Sharpener

Cute Snails Correction Tape

Inspirational Pencil Set

Foldable Lap Desk

Rainbow Pencils

Modern Rainbow Sticky Notes Cube

Planet Shaped Paper Clips

Tablet Stand

Doodle Pad Calculator

5-in-1 Tool Pen

Foldable Wired Headphones

Panda Electric Pencil Sharpener

On-the-Go Watercolor Sheets

Flower Colored Pencils

Funny To-Do List

Erasable Highlighters

Illustrative Washi Tape

Cool Cats Magnetic Bookmarks

Eye-Catching Backpacks

Dorm Room Survival Guide

Shimmering Scaley Skins

Personalized Pencil or Crayon Pencil Cases

Floral Frida Notebook

Pantone Notebooks

Solar System Erasers

Bunny Desk Buddy

Laser-Cut Wood Journals

Retractable Gel Pens

Mule Memo Holders

Study Planner

Floral Binder

Personalized Eco-friendly Notebook

Retractable Eraser (4 pack)

“Vase with Twelve Sunflowers” by Vincent Van Gogh Laptop Skin

Cactus Pen Holder

Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Earth-Friendly Expanding File Folder

This article has been edited and updated. Prices were accurate at time of publishing.

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14 Different Types of Houses Found in Countries Around the World

14 Different Types of Houses Found in Countries Around the World

Let's take a tour of different types of houses around the world.

Cave Homes (Matmata, Tunisia)

Rondavels/Round Homes (Lesotho, South Africa)

Stilt Houses (Vietnam, Southeast Asia)

Underground Houses (Coober Pedy, Australia)

Igloos (Baffin Island, Canada)

“Honai” Homes (Indonesia)

Hanok Houses (Korea)

Cape Dutch Architecture (South Africa)

Tiny Houses (Portland, Oregon)

Victorian and Edwardian Houses (San Francisco, California)

Adobe Buildings (Acoma, New Mexico)

“Gingerbread” Cottages (Martha's Vineyard, USA)

Canal Boats (London, United Kingdom)

Trulli (Alberobello, Italy)

This article has been edited and updated.

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