Abandonment

Graphic watercolor

Whether it strikes suddenly like a clap of thunder or creeps stealthily, whether in a tangible, emotional, or symbolic manner, abandonment leaves a gaping scar on the soul, a wound whose healing seems impossible. This word contains a timeless human experience, affecting every individual, regardless of their age, culture, or era. Letting someone down, whether it's a child, an animal, a friend, a partner, or an elderly parent, can leave deep scars, like persistent marks caused by a sudden and unexpected rupture.

Leaving a child abandoned causes an irreparable tear. This can stem from financial problems, mental well-being, or family relationships. The repercussions on the child are of extreme severity: rejection, disruption of emotional bonds, and lasting alteration of emotional development.

Leaving an animal behind during a separation or trip reveals a lack of care, commitment, and foresight regarding its long-term care. Abandoned animals have the choice between finding refuge among humans or setting off on a solitary adventure. Left to their own devices, these individuals pose a potential threat, capable of triggering unfortunate incidents. When you injure the beloved animal and then abandon it, it can transform into a creature full of rage. Abandoning a friend is done in silence, but the pain remains just as loud. A beautiful friendship can fade away, swept away by the torments of disagreements, divergent values, or the miles that stretch between two kindred hearts. Letting go can be a solitary and tumultuous journey, but it can also be the fertile ground where self-discovery and the wisdom of human interactions blossom. The conclusion of a union, whether desired or imposed, represents a particularly difficult ordeal to endure. The reasons can vary between betrayal, discord, or excesses. Giving up can sometimes feel like losing a battle, but it is also an opportunity to ask essential questions about oneself. With the passage of the years, the phenomenon of elder neglect is gaining ground, thus posing an increasingly pressing challenge. The roots of these family conflicts can be found in a fertile ground of misunderstandings, heavy silences, prolonged absences, financial worries, or challenges related to the care of vulnerable relatives. The reasons that lead to abandonment are often the same: a shortage of resources, emotional obstacles, and unmet responsibilities. It happens that the act of abandonment stems from various social constraints, economic fluctuations, or cultural mindsets.

The repercussions of desertion are of extreme severity. These experiences leave behind a deep emotional imprint, sowing seeds of sadness, uncertainty, and despair in their wake. These torments can lead to dark thoughts, isolation, and a feeling of being set apart from society. The forgotten often carry within them the deep scars of the past. Sometimes, solidarity campaigns and the ability to access essential resources are crucial. The theme of abandonment has been so thoroughly explored by numerous artists, writers, and poets, as it resonates with the common human experience. Victor Hugo, in his masterful work Les Misérables, poignantly explores the theme of abandonment through the tragic destinies of Cosette, abandoned by her mother, and Jean Valjean, hunted by society. Artists, touched by abandonment, express their cruelty through dark hues, solitary forms, lost gazes, and abandoned settings. Art reveals what words attempt in vain to describe, offering a unique vision and emotion. The notion of abandonment, in its diversity, demands both communal and personal vigilance. By exploring the origins, repercussions, and possible solutions, it is conceivable to build a community imbued with kindness and solidarity. Each act of tenderness soothes hearts and weaves bonds between souls. When abandonment hurts, it does not necessarily conclude the story; it can transform into an opportunity for rebirth, rediscovery of our humanity, and a renewed love for oneself and for others.

 

Plastics

 

                                                                                

                                                     Illustration of technology, mixed media

                                                                 

It is simply astonishing to see how much plastics have infiltrated our daily lives, thus becoming indispensable players in our modern society. The materials, chameleons of the industry, juggle between modernity, utility, and endless ecological debates. Despite their image as a symbol of modernity, plastics actually have roots that delve deep into the 19th century. It was in 1869 that John Wesley Hyatt, an inventive mind from the United States, gave birth to the very first artificial polymer, poetically named celluloid. This innovative material was entrusted with the noble mission of replacing ivory in the design of billiard balls, in response to a growing demand for alternative options to natural resources, constantly exposed to depletion. At the turn of the 20th century, organic chemistry was advancing by leaps and bounds. In 1907, Leo Baekeland gave birth to Bakelite, a pioneer among plastics entirely created in the laboratory. It is with this discovery that the era of plastic materials begins, where unbridled imagination shapes a myriad of new substances, each with its unique properties.

The vast universe of "plastic" encompasses a variety of polymer materials, which primarily originate from oil refining, but nowadays, increasingly, renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane are trying to catch up. A polymer, like a necklace of giant pearls, is composed of multiple monomers linked to each other by chemical bonds, thus forming a gigantic molecular structure. Plastics are divided into two categories: thermoplastics, which are malleable under the influence of heat and recyclable, and thermosetting plastics, which harden permanently after being heated. It is crucial to make this distinction, as it determines how the material will be shaped, used, and especially recycled: polyethylene (PE), the most produced plastic in the world; polypropylene (PP), the most robust; polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in our bank cards; polystyrene (PS) for food packaging; polyethylene terephthalate (PET) used in beverage bottles; polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), our well-known Plexiglas for glazing; and polycarbonate (PC), very resistant to shocks, used in our helmets.

Plastics, therefore, reign supreme in the daily lives of humans. Packaging plays the role of guardians, jealously watching over the freshness of food, the potency of medicines, and the safety of consumer goods. In the automotive world, plastics are valued for their lightness and flexibility, while in the construction field, they are appreciated for their sturdiness and ability to withstand weather conditions. Healthcare professionals have embraced it in their routine for its hygienic aspect and affordable price. The magic of electronics works thanks to the insulation properties of plastic. Artificial fibers (polyester, nylon, acrylic) open up vast prospects for the world of fashion and the textile industry. It is thanks to their ability to bend and be adorned with colors that leisure activities and toys become accessible. Thus, plastics offer a multitude of advantages: they are lightweight, strong, malleable, economical, and also possess insulating properties.

Beneath this appearance of versatility also lie some challenges. The proliferation of these tiny pieces of plastic, measuring less than 5 mm, in the oceans, rivers, and soils, represents a real headache, particularly due to their ability to pollute the entire food chain. Plastics, like persistent guests, take centuries to disappear, leaving behind overflowing landfills and tainted landscapes. Certain ingredients, such as phthalates or bisphenol A, are suspected of playing party pooper with our hormones and the possibility of causing cancers. Most plastics come from a non-renewable and highly polluting fossil source. The handling of plastics, particularly those that are multilayered or contain additives, remains a significant concern due to the challenges related to sorting, collection, processing, and recycling, which are no less difficult.

The tide of plastic now represents one of the most colossal challenges of our time. Year after year, millions of tons of plastic pour into the oceans, leading to the disappearance of numerous animal species, disrupting marine ecosystems, and polluting freshwater reserves. The tiny pieces of plastic are born from the fragmentation of large waste or emerge directly from various sources such as cosmetics, synthetic clothing, or even tires. From now on, their influence spreads to the peaks of mountains and the depths of the abyss.

Given the magnitude of the situation, a multitude of projects are emerging. Promote an eco-responsible approach by encouraging thoughtful creation and purchasing, reducing the excessive use of packaging, especially non-recyclable ones, and encouraging the reuse of objects as much as possible. Encourage the emergence of sustainable practices by rethinking the way we sort, collect, and design objects in order to make their recycling easier and more efficient. Opting for plant-based polymers, capable of transforming into compost or blending into nature, can help reduce our environmental impact. Explore new avenues to create innovative materials, rethink recycling methods, and invent futuristic plastics that are consumed by bacteria or capable of naturally degrading. Ultimately, it is crucial to raise awareness among everyone, even the youngest, about the impact of plastic materials and the vital necessity of selective sorting.

It is imperative to realize that plastics, omnipresent in all sectors of our daily lives, will not suddenly vanish from the landscape. However, a global revolution is underway: governments, businesses, and citizens are mobilizing to reduce their consumption, promote recycling, and support nature-friendly solutions. The upcoming technological advances, combined with a shared desire, could very well be the key to restoring harmony between humans and this resource that is both precious and complexly polluting. In reality, exploring the world of plastics and understanding their uses and repercussions amounts to offering ourselves the possibility of imagining new approaches to consumption and manufacturing, marked by sobriety and respect for our overwhelmed planet.

Street Art

                                                   Drawing XXL—112 cm/110 cm—Amarie

For a long time, I think since the end of the sixties, I have been fascinated by street art or urban art. These artists had no choice but to perform on the walls of big cities, buildings, trains, bridges, and other public spaces to make themselves known. From my perspective as a spectator and a sketch artist, I was delighted to see ugly dark walls in remote corners or in degraded urban spaces adorned with colors and ingenious drawings, sometimes featuring captivating perspectives or trompe-l'œil effects. Here and there, the artist conveyed their message through the careful execution of graffiti. Their courage lay in confronting the authorities, as their actions were considered vandalism. No wonder they acted anonymously or under a pseudonym. Fortunately, over the decades, street art has evolved to become a recognized and respected form of art. Artists then experiment with various techniques and mediums, including stencils, posters, stickers, and temporary installations alongside graffiti. As a form of free and accessible expression, it allows artists to express themselves without filters and to interact directly with the public. Many street artists use their art to denounce injustices and inequalities. Street art thus becomes a form of resistance and protest, giving a voice to the voiceless and the marginalized. 

From now on, during every urban getaway to Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, or Paris, we delight in the artistic treasures that unfold before our eyes. Over the years, this artistic movement has transformed into a true mosaic of expressions, captivating our attention with its ability to constantly push the boundaries of creativity and social engagement. Whether by infiltrating urban facades or taking over exhibition spaces, urban art has managed to secure a prominent position within the current cultural landscape. Keith Haring had just injected a dose of creativity into the subdued atmosphere of the casino and cultural center of Knokke, this popular seaside town on the Belgian coast, famous for its array of art galleries.

 In the meantime, another artist of the same genre manages to catch my eye: Kid Acne. Born in 1978, this British artist lived in Sheffield, a city that profoundly shaped his work and artistic perception. From his early years, immersed in comics, graffiti, and punk chords, he began mural painting and creating zines, independent magazines, in his adolescence. Under the pseudonym Kid Acne lies a subversive blend of sharp humor and unapologetic rebellion. Typography becomes the very soul of Kid Acne's art, merging impactful slogans and verbal poetry at the heart of his visual creations. Kid Acne has transformed urban art into a powerful, vibrant, and expressive language.

 One of the recurring motifs in Kid Acne's work is that of the "Warriors," strong and independent female characters often depicted in combat postures. These figures symbolize resistance and empowerment, reflecting the artist's vision of the strength and resilience of women. Through his works, he denounces injustices, questions social norms, and inspires new generations of artists. His ability to combine humor, aesthetics, and social message makes him an iconic figure in contemporary street art.

 In 2011, the Academy of Visual Arts of Knokke was invited to compete in a giant XXL drawing competition against other Belgian academies, organized by Komask, the Royal Society for the Promotion of Fine Plastic Arts, in Antwerp. The artistic creations will be showcased in the majestic entrance hall of the courthouse in Antwerp. To celebrate Kid Acne's multiple talents, I discovered a striking photo of the artist in one of my weekly magazines, which will become the starting point of my tribute. Here is the culmination of my artistic work spanning one square meter. Despite a series of unfortunate events, my work did not find its place in the exhibition but was warmly welcomed in the prestigious virtual showcase of Saatchi in London.

Kid Acne

                                                                            Kid Acne

Solar energy and navy

 

Sailboats competition

Since time immemorial, solar energy, like a luminous and benevolent caress, has enveloped our world. Today, it proves to be one of the most radiant solutions to contemporary energy and ecological challenges. Whether used explicitly or implicitly, this infinite, ecological, and pure resource is increasingly attracting the attention of researchers, technicians, but especially individuals and authorities. There are various ways to capture solar energy. Whether through the use of photovoltaic cells that transform light into electricity by exploiting semiconductor materials such as silicon, by capturing heat directly via solar water heaters, through solar thermal power plants that concentrate sunlight using mirrors to drive steam turbines and generate electricity, or thanks to the ingenuity of architects who design buildings to optimize natural heating, lighting, and ventilation, solar energy offers a multitude of possibilities.

What a wonderful discovery made in 1839 by Edmond Becquerel: photovoltaic solar energy! The cells, like a complex network, catch the light photons to transform them into dynamic electrical energy. I am literally captivated by the creativity and technological advancements in the maritime field. Indeed, the oceans are responsible for nearly 3% of global CO₂ emissions, primarily due to the use of heavy fuel oil by ships worldwide.

Sailing with a solar sail at sea offers numerous advantages: it helps reduce emissions, lowers operational costs, and actively supports sustainable development. However, a few obstacles remain. The investment costs remain astronomical, adapting to ships already in service proves to be a real headache, and the results are subject to the whims of the weather.
Solar sails at sea take advantage of advancements made in various fields: more efficient solar panels, innovative materials that are both strong and lightweight and corrosion-resistant, navigation assisted by intelligent automated sails, and the use of lithium-ion or sodium-ion batteries to store energy (valuable during nights or cloudy days).
As global rules tighten—with bodies such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) aiming to halve CO₂ emissions by 2050—solar sailing at sea is set to become a cornerstone in the ecological transition of transporting goods and passengers.
Pioneering rigid solar sails, such as "EnergySails" or wing-type sails, have demonstrated remarkable fuel savings, reaching up to 30% on certain routes. These advancements pave the way for broader adoption in the field of maritime navigation.

Many shipping companies and shipyards are embarking on the adventure of solar sails, thus sailing towards a more ecological and innovative future. Among the notable initiatives, we can mention the Eco Marine Power project in Japan, which envisions hybrid rigid sails cleverly combining solar panels.
The Oceanbird, a proud Swedish vessel, will sail through the vastness of the Atlantic, carrying its precious automotive cargo, propelled by imposing sails and the benevolent power of the sun. Luxurious yachts and leisure catamarans are exploring the use of flexible solar sails to generate electricity on board, ensuring autonomy at sea and the well-being of travelers. 

The Norwegian cruise operator is embarking on the adventure of creating a ship with zero carbon emissions by 2030. Hurtigruten unveils the first images of its revolutionary electric ship, proudly featuring solar sails to sail towards an eco-friendly future. In pursuit of an ecological transformation, Hurtigruten plans to reduce the size of its fleet by opting for customized ships to ensure a carbon-neutral footprint. The initiative called "Sea Zero" brings together a dozen maritime partners in collaboration with the SINTEF research institute. Its goal is to cover distances with no carbon footprint whatsoever. The ships will sail using electric energy and will recharge their batteries once docked at port. They will face a significant challenge with their retractable sails of 1500 m² of solar panels, capable of meeting a multitude of energy needs on board. Hurtigruten also offers the possibility to navigate with propellers that turn in reverse and retractable thrusters. This giant of the seas will stretch over 135 meters, housing 270 cabins to pamper 500 travelers and accommodating 99 dedicated sailors. Thanks to its streamlined silhouette, it will be able to slice through the air with elegance, thereby reducing its energy expenditure. Artificial intelligence should make maneuvers easier. This artificial intelligence will gather information to perfect docking techniques tailored to each port, thereby optimizing maneuvers during unfavorable weather conditions. Travelers will have the power to regulate the airflow in their cabins using a mobile app while closely monitoring their energy footprint.

Navigation using solar sails at sea represents a silent but crucial revolution for the maritime industry. It skillfully merges heritage and innovation, harnessing natural energies to reinvent the art of sailing towards the future. Despite the persistent technical and economic challenges, the advancements made suggest a future where oceans will be traversed by silent, ecological, and autonomous ships sailing, thanks to human ingenuity and the alliance of wind and solar energy. thanks to human 

Solar energy appears as a ray of hope for tomorrow, combining respect for nature and an inexhaustible source of innovative ideas. Despite the challenges it may present, this technology proves to be a valuable ally in building a cleaner, fairer, and more independent world. The solar star, a generous provider of life and dynamism, continues to guide us and push us towards unexplored horizons, flooding our minds with light and inspiration.

Hurtigruten Norway's ships are to be solar-wind powered and AI-maneuvered.

Note: the propulsion sails are retractable

Beauty

 

                                                                 Watercolor by Amarie

Beauty, both varied and profound, exerts an infinite fascination on me. It transcends the physical realm to impact my heart, my mind, and my soul. Beauty, whether it manifests in nature, human interactions, or artistic works, represents a universal ideal that inspires, elevates, and enriches me. By celebrating the vast diversity of human aesthetic characteristics, I learn to appreciate the specificities of each individual on Earth.
The human brain's appreciation of beauty highlights the importance of symmetry, proportions, and colors. Symmetrical faces or harmonious landscapes stimulate brain regions associated with pleasure and appreciation. With passion, I began the analysis of the relationships between beauty and attraction, highlighting the influence of aesthetic standards on our social interactions. I am convinced that beauty possesses the ability to provide comfort, inspire, and motivate by promoting well-being and fostering flourishing. Aesthetically pleasing environments, such as a functional modern house with soothing shapes and colors, a botanical garden with an innovative structure and carefully maintained original flowering plants, watching or creating a captivating work of art, reading a poem by Victor Hugo, "Les Djinns," or listening to the moving music of Jean Sebastian Bach's Cello Suites, have the ability to enhance my emotional well-being by reducing stress levels.
Writers and philosophers such as Victor Hugo or Socrates have emphasized the idea that true beauty lies within, in the soul and actions, and not in physical appearance. Indeed, apart from physical appearance, inner beauty reveals itself as complex and profound. It is frequently associated with moral, emotional, and intellectual attributes. Kindness, generosity, tolerance, intelligence, and inspiration represent manifestations of beauty that transcend age and physical appearance.
The media and advertising have significantly influenced perceptions of beauty. The press disseminates unrealistic aesthetic standards, thereby creating social pressure on our current youth regarding physical appearance. It is true that ancient Greece imposed beauty standards close to human perfection, equally unattainable, and that the multi-talented artist Leonardo da Vinci adopted them as criteria of excellence in his works. Over the centuries, beauty standards have evolved according to different historical periods and various cultures.
The perception of beauty is subjective and influenced by various factors, such as temporal, spatial, and emotional contexts, thus surpassing the limits imposed by cultural, social, and individual differences. The Romantic movement in literature and the arts highlighted the relationship between man and nature, bringing to light the imperative to maintain a balance between society and the environment. Moreover, true beauty resides within nature. From the mountains to the ocean, passing through the twilight sky, nature offers a diversity of visual and sensory experiences that have a profound impact on human beings.
Builders and architects throughout the ages have always aspired to excellence by examining how natural elements, fractals, and symmetrical patterns contribute to a universal aesthetic, boldly combining modern forms with ancient classical currents. 

Young Talent or Virtuose

 

Watercolor by Amarie

In my opinion, talent can be defined as a natural and innate ability that manifests from the very first moments of life. This aptitude can appear in various fields such as the arts, sciences, or sports. Subsequently, time is taken to develop, shape, and refine it to allow it to fully flourish. In adulthood, these individuals have developed remarkable skills that demonstrate exceptional potential and set them apart from others; they become virtuosos (music), famous artists (arts), geniuses (science), and athletes (sports).

When one looks up the definition of this term in the dictionary, one can only be struck by the lack of detail and precision surrounding it. Indeed, it is described as an exceptional ability in the intellectual or artistic field, without specifying other criteria or characteristics that define this talent. Is it possible that this ability is the result of a skill developed gradually through experience, a natural gift present from birth, or a simply innate inclination, or is it rather the result of a complex combination of one or several of these factors? The question of the nature of talent sparks lively debate among specialists, researchers, and people passionate about this subject. Indeed, the complexity and diversity of talents, whether innate or acquired, the multiple forms they can take, as well as the different fields in which they can be expressed, their genetic or non-genetic origins, their simultaneous manifestations of multiple gifts, and their evolutionary potential thanks to a supernatural physical and mental capacity. These fields notably include art in all its forms, the sports domain with its various disciplines, and the intellectual domain encompassing thought, creativity, and problem-solving.

 At what level of skill or ability must a person reach to be recognized as talented? Is it possible to spot certain signs that can reveal these talents? Yes, of course, such as an ability to quickly assimilate new information, a skill in finding original solutions to complex problems, or a passionate and constant interest in a particular field.

see Youtube: Violin virtuoso Yeonah Kim (10j) playing Vivaldi in airport of Rome with Julien Cohen on piano in august 2024

https://1drv.ms/v/c/d423ee36d84c527d/EZs6xZo-9IVCiJSWSyCsVEBFtC2_qr3l-cMm65X4Qr-3g

In summary, talent is a valuable component of human diversity, enriching society through the creativity, performances, and exceptional achievements it allows.

Yeonah Kim

Healthy Proteins

  

 

One of my ancestors, a merchant, traded all kinds of seeds, selling them wholesale or retail, whether they were intended for consumption or not, to individuals, institutional kitchens, gardeners, or nurserymen. This profession shone brightly before, during, and after the Second World War.
During the turmoil of the war, faced with the scarcity of meat, people gradually embraced legumes, those precious seeds nestled in their plant-based pods, to sustain themselves. There were individuals who had completely given up meat, and at home, a large amount of beans, lentils, and peas were incorporated into the weekly menus. Everyone became engrossed in gardening, transforming every available space into fertile land: from terraces to balconies, each person passionately sowed vegetables, accompanied by delicious legumes in simple yet tasty recipes. After the end of the war, surprisingly, the general nutritional state had considerably improved. Nowadays, it is essential to highlight this food in our diet due to its numerous benefits for our well-being. Their nutritional qualities are already shining through. It is important to distinguish between forage legumes such as alfalfa, sainfoin, lupin, birdsfoot trefoil, clover, and vetch, and grain legumes intended for human consumption such as soybeans, fava beans, lentils (brown, green, coral, etc.), broad beans, beans (black, red, white, mungo, azuki, etc.), peas, and chickpeas.

Starchy foods include cereals (such as rice, semolina, and pasta) and potatoes, as well as various cereal flours used to make bread and pancakes (such as wheat, buckwheat, spelt, millet, and many others). On the other hand, let's look at legumes, which are packed with top-notch energy and play a crucial role in regulating hunger due to their high carbohydrate content with a low glycemic index. Presenting themselves in the form of starch accompanied by fiber and protein, these components offer top-notch fuel for the brain and muscles. They have the fabulous characteristic of containing no traces of gluten. Thanks to their exceptional fiber content, ranging from 4.5 to 16.5 g per 100 g once cooked, these foods make the goal of 25 g of fiber recommended per day more accessible. They serve as vigilant protectors, obstructing the absorption of fats and cholesterol, delaying the conversion of sugars, and averting the accumulation of undesirable residues in the intricate intestines. Dietary fibers play the role of a conductor in the intestinal ballet: they bulk up the stools, juggle with water in case of diarrhea, and prevent constipation. They encourage the flourishing of intestinal bacteria and help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

The undeniable advantage of storing them in jars for extended periods without any concerns is evident. You can enjoy these legumes in a velouté, mashed, or simply after letting them infuse and simmer. The magic of cooking dried legumes works depending on the soaking and cooking time, which varies according to the type chosen. For example, to prepare chickpeas or beans, you need to let them soak in water overnight before subjecting them to a prolonged cooking session, lasting from 1 to 3 hours. When time is tight, you can opt for canned goods that you wash thoroughly before adding them to your recipes. Savory dishes like cassoulet, lentil stew, chili con carne, baked beans, and many others pair well with dried fruits. You can also invite them to dance in fresh salads, letting your imagination run wild or following the advice of a cookbook specialized in legumes.

                                                                   
                                                           1938—Golden Lion Place, 4, Ghent

                                                        Merchant, A. De Meese, Grossist & Detail