Solar Light

We have all seen the unicef advertisements featuring third world countries and their lack of food, water and sufficient housing. Unfortunately these third world problems are often approached with first world solutions that are unsustainable under the current conditions.
In Sito Maligaya; a small town in the Philippines made up of small dark buildings placed close together a man has come up with an inventive and sustainable solution for electric lights. Watch this video to see how solar energy works in a third world town.

Forging Swords

Traditional craftsmen are few and far between in this digital age. In most areas machinery has adequately replaced human hands but certain items need a little more attention. Machines can make great hammers but to create the perfect balance in a sword it takes many years of training and a critical human eye. Today there are only 30 recognized craftsmen in Japan that make swords for a living. It is a dying art that has been passed down through the generations.
Korehira Watanabe believes in passing down these techniques as authentically as possible. He recognized an intense passion for sword making in his mentor and he is now passing that along to the next generation. Watch this video for a glimpse into his world of historical swords.

Fantastic worlds

As a child much of my time was spent creating fantastical worlds of make believe. One of my favorite childhood toys was a hand made doll house built and furnished by my grandparents. I loved the miniature furniture and all the details that were lovingly put into the house.
I am reminded of these imaginative childhood moments when I see the care and details put into the sets and scenery for the movie Fantastic Mr. Fox. Wes Anderson immersed himself in Roald Dahl's world and created Mr. Fox's habitat right to the last detail.
Watch this video to get a behind the scenes view of the inspiration for Fantastic Mr. Fox!

Recycled Homes

What does your dream house look like? Perhaps it is a mansion in a gated community or a rustic beach front cottage; maybe it has a white picket fence. Our general idea of the perfect home is largely based on symmetry and perfection and the constant competition of not being the neighborhood eye sore. Dan Phillips builds his homes with imperfect and recycled materials creating an off balance elegance and heightened function. Each home is unique and leaves a considerably smaller environmental footprint on our Earth.
check out this video to see some of his innovative creations!

Sustainable Tools

In an age when most of our time is spent sitting in front of a computer, tools are often cyber applications that one might find under 'File' or 'Edit.' Physical tools and the craftsmen and women that wield them have become a minority in our modern society. Small jobs such as installing windows or painting walls are more often carried out by specialty companies and their trained workers.
Not so long ago these skills were learned by everyone as were the techniques to use the tools required for the never ending list of domestic jobs. My Dad's toolbox spills out into the rest of the garage and although his collection seems excessive every single tool has been used at one time or another.
Sustainable living requires us to have the skills to get by on our own and H.G. Brack is salvaging the tools we need. He collects, recycles and resells tools to those who wish to break free from the corporations and lead a sustainable lifestyle. His passion for tools is inspiring and I hope you enjoy this quick video!

Inspiration through Classical Music

How can perspective change our lives? Is the glass half empty or half full or maybe both all at once.
Benjamin Zander teaches through classical music how different perspectives can completely change a situation. As a conductor he inspires his audience to really listen and understand the music and then apply that understanding to their lives. He uses the music to move his audience and then encourages us to think outside of the box and inspire people in our own lives with our own passion.
I hope you enjoy this video as much as I did!