If you do decide to stick out the Autumn in the UK, there are plenty of things to look forward to. Halloween, Harvest Festival and Hogmanay provide the perfect excuse to gather friends, good food and maybe a drink or two.

Read more

An unseasonably warm September has lulled us into the (sadly false) idea summer might last forever. But it doesn’t have to. If you’re really committed to avoiding the cold, try this year-long circuit of the US, where the temperature never dips below 21 degrees. Our bags are already packed.

Read more

The good people at Conde Nast Traveller have made it easier than ever to plan a holiday full to the brim of art and culture. They’ve considered gallery concentration, architectural highlights, as well as the number of art schools and festivals to rank their top ten.

Read more

Some of our favourite fictional brands have done the impossible. Escaping the confines of our screens, they’ve broken into the real world. What is it about them that made viewers want to try them IRL? Brand designers spill their secrets for successful fake brands in this article by It’s Nice That.

Read more

Also known as a greasy spoon, the Great British Caff is an institution we shouldn’t take for granted. Though they’ve fallen out of favour as younger generations punt for Australian-influenced, TikTok-famous brunch experiences, a few authentic spots remain. This Instagram account documents them all.

Read more

If we could see the effect climate change has on our lives, our drive to combat it might become more imperative. NASA’s newest tool, Tempo, continuously measures and maps the air quality above North America – showing regular breakdowns of local air quality.

Read more

Want to get away form the angry comment sections and doom and gloom news that seem to dominate the internet? We recommend perusing this Guardian list of digital gems. Our favourites: The Fish Doorbell, Found in a Library Book and Sandwiches of History.

Read more

Curious client Pixel Artworks has designed an extraordinary (and free!) mixed reality experience for the Outernet on Denmark Street. Visitors travel through Professor Peter Perlgrin’s Botanical Workshop, where they meet the AR butterflies that live there.

Read more

Applying a formal portrait technique to some of the rarer and most beautiful breeds of pigeons, photographer Brendan Burden aims to upturn our preconceived notions of the birds most of us consider the “rats of the sky”.

Read more

When we call Soho our home, we mean it in a symbolic way. At 6 pm we say our goodbyes and head to homes in Zone 2 and beyond. But, for others, Soho is and always has been where they lay their heads.

Read more

When they were first proposed in 1856, ten postcode districts divided London. But, as postcode buffs will have already realised, today, only eight remain. What happened to the lost two?

Read more

The Curious Studio is always happier when one of our office dogs makes an appearance. It’s astonishing how much they brighten our mood. To showcase their appreciation for man’s best friends, the Hashimoto Contemporary is exhibiting dog-inspired artworks in a myriad of mediums.

Read more

No, it’s not an insult, it’s the name of a colour. The warm peachy-pink glow of a theatre spotlight, to be precise. What a fun name! And there are lots more. Drake’s-Neck, Banan-Appeal and Smaragdine are all part of a vast colour vocabulary we dramatically under-employ.

Read more

You order dumplings, but a plate of sushi arrives at your table. In any other restaurant, you might complain. But, at the Restaurant of Mistaken Orders, a regular pop-up in Japan, errors are part of the experience, as the restaurant hopes to raise awareness of dementia, which all its servers have.

Read more

It can be hard to find time (and motivation) to exercise. Early morning gym sessions and runs in the rain simply aren’t appealing. But keeping fit need not be that hard. Making healthier choices in your day-to-day life to increase your Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (or NEAT) can have a surprisingly big effect.

Read more

Calm weekend mornings before the adults were awake, or as a treat after school – our favourite childhood shows still hold a place close to our hearts. And, let’s be honest they were better when we were kids! Do the Guardian agree? See what made the list.

Read more

On the 2nd of November, the National Portrait Gallery will reopen David Hockney: Drawing from Life. Featuring over 30 new portraits including an excellent rendering of Harry Styles (we also love Joe Lycett’s version): it’s a must-see!

Read more

Coastal erosion doesn’t just harm human habitats – Britain’s seabird population is also affected. In some places, their population has declined by 90% as their cliff homes wear away. Now three mysterious structures on England’s east coast aim to put a stop to this decline.

Read more

Well, free beer for one lucky person… Whoever becomes Aldi’s new Official Beer Taster will be responsible for tasting and reviewing a complementary range of Aldi ales, lagers, and ciders. Great work if you can get it. Applications are open until the 21st of August.

Read more

Hear, see, smell, taste, and touch. We’re all familiar with the five senses. But do you know which you’re neglecting? Identifying (and rectifying) your neglected sense, could open up a whole new way of connecting to and enjoying the world around you.

Read more

Ever since his art began to appear on the streets of Bristol, people have questioned the identity of Banksy. How did he go from a graffiti kid to a cultural phenomenon? And has he left any clues to his identity? BBC Sounds investigate.

Read more

Yes, the shortlisted entries for the 2023 Comedy Pet Photography Awards have been unveiled, and they don’t disappoint. This year’s sensations selection includes photobombers, sneak attacks and some unfortunate hair coincidences.

Read more

For creatures of habit, humans are surprisingly bad at building positive routines. But, by adding a desired behavioural change to an existing ritual, it can become one of your daily practices. It really is that simple.

Read more

We have a new favourite show. Full of family conflict, backstabbing and power struggles, Chimp Empire has more in common with Game of Thrones or Succession than your usual nature documentary. Nevertheless, the combination of beautiful filmography and dramatic charge has us hooked.

Read more

It’s almost time for the Icon of the Seas to take its maiden voyage. 20 decks, the tallest waterslide to sail, 7 swimming pools, 1 ice rink, 8 Neighbourhoods and too many other things to list will make up the world’s largest cruise ship. But, we find ourselves asking, is this design improvement, or just a bit much?

Read more

Yes, you read that correctly. Until it opens in 2025, the Thames Tideway Tunnel, built to upgrade London’s Victorian sewage system, has been turned into a garden to showcase the ecological benefits it will bring to the city.

Read more

Portuguese artist Hugo Suíssas uses angels and scale to make playful compositions that insert everyday objects into otherwise ordinary scenes. We loved puzzling out how they were made.

Read more

It’s been 146 years since Wimbledon last looked at its famously strict dress code. Societal pressure may have had a hand in the relaxation of certain rules around women’s wear.

Read more

If you’ve ever (and we’re not saying we have) pretended to see a film to seem smart or cool, then we’ve got a tool for you. This sneaky website gives you everything you need to know to talk about a movie as if you’ve seen it.

Read more

Whilst Ken and Barbie are adventuring in the real world, they’ve listed the DreamHouse on Airbnb. And, because Ken couldn’t figure out the pricing, it’s available for free. If you fancy life in plastic (it’s fantastic!) you can book from July 17th.

Read more

MDMA’s use as a therapeutic agent has a lot of support in the scientific community – it has the potential to revolutionise how we treat mental health. But, to the surprise of everyone involved, accidentally including a white supremacist in a new trial revealed the extent to which MDMA can change our minds.

Read more

Every day, it seems, we hear about another mind-bending/life-changing and very cool AI tool we simply must try. Thankfully, iLib lists the most visited AI sites to keep us on top of the trends.

Read more

Every Monday, The Guardian kicks off the week with a selection of puzzles to get our heads out of weekend mode and ready for work. This week’s layering challenge, designed as an IQ test for children, made our adult brains ache. Can you solve them?

Read more

Inspired by their effortless movements, French artist Mantra has been blessing buildings with beautiful and bold butterflies. The murals, which are drawn freehand, are the result of a childhood dream of becoming a naturalist and some seriously impressive artistic skills.

Read more

This weekend is Pride. London will be brighter, busier and bustling-er than usual with parades, parties and protests popping up all over the capital. But, it’s more than just a celebration. This year’s theme, Never Walk Alone seeks to increase visibility and unity and equality for the entire LGBT+ community.

Read more

Ikea’s latest design gives a whole new meaning to fold out sofa. Working with Space10, they’ve designed a couch light enough and small enough to fit in an envelope – admittedly, it’s not a small envelope, but, nevertheless, impressive!

Read more

Over the last few months, we (like many others) have been busy exploring how AI might enhance our work. But we’ve noticed that the images it generates tend towards a particular gender. MissJourney is an AI determined to restore the balance.

Read more

Isn’t it intriguing how technology influences our lives? If some of Soren Iverson’s app “improvements” were ever implemented, it’d certainly make us think twice about our online behaviour. Thankfully, for now, they’re only ideas.

Read more

Now that the weather’s finally picked up, it finally feels like summer. And just in time! The summer solstice, the longest day of the year, is on Wednesday. Here are some suggestions for where you can celebrate the sunshine.

Read more

We love anything that makes our brains go “Wait. What?” – and optical illusions certainly fit that brief! What could be more curious than exploring why our eyes sometimes see things not how they are? Here are some of the best with handy explanations.

Read more

We’re wrapping up this issue on a positive note. We’re excited to keep sharing all the things that enrich our thinking. Anyone from Dazed’s list of up-and-coming creatives might well end up in Shareables again!

Read more

Another impressive achievement is making 100 of anything – especially films (we hear there’s quite a lot of work involved). Only a handful of directors have ever managed it; their creations are delightfully varied.

Read more

Turning 100 is a pretty impressive achievement! It deserves to be properly celebrated. We think Barbados has the right idea. They’ve one-upped our Royal birthday cards and released stamps of their centenarians.

Read more

We’re throwing down the mantle. Issuing a challenge. Daring you. Could you live with only 100 items for a whole year? It sounds tough, but there are a whole host of benefits to stripping back your life to what’s truly necessary.

Read more

We could have picked the 100 best of anything, but we’ve opted for books. Often a conversation topic in our studio, we love how they have the power to teach us, open our minds, and take us to new worlds. Some of these are definitely going on our to-read list.

Read more

In small pockets across London, Jazz is making a comeback – though not how you know it. This new wave is re-examining the music through soul, hip hop and African lenses – reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the artists making it.

Read more

Our website recommendation this week is Emojiton. Type any film, book, or TV series into their search, and they’ll translate it into emoji speak. Perfect for quizzing your friends. Can you guess which film we’ve chosen?

Read more

In a curious corner of the internet, a question was asked; “Did people in the past look older when they were younger?”. Pictural evidence poured in. It seemed to be true. Younger people did seem to have aged faster. But, as always, there’s a scientific explanation.

Read more

No other band has had such an influence on global culture as The Beatles. To this day, they influence musicians and artists alike – as seen in Leon Edler’s new collection of Beatles-themed artworks.

Read more

Wouldn’t it be great if we could blame our chocolate addictions and bad habits on genetics? Well, scientists are increasingly confident it might be the case. Their research shows that everything from our personalities to food preferences and even our ability to maintain relationships might be influenced by our genes.

Read more

Being born royal practically guarantees an unusual upbringing, with the eyes of the world always upon you. But it also ensures there’ll be enough content for someone to make you a visual biography. See King Charles’ below.

Read more

The best part of any state event has got to be the memorabilia made to mark the occasion: Aldi is selling Kevin the king of veg, and The Royal Mint will sell you a commemorative £5 coin for only £14.50. But our favourites come from these independent artists.

Read more

The Corrie Quiche, as it will surely be known, is Charles and Camilla’s official coronation recipe. Featuring dill, spinach, and broad beans, it’s been released to mixed reviews. But if you’re curious about what tickles the king’s tastebuds, why not make your own?

Read more

Wherever you are in the UK this weekend, we predict you won’t be able to move for street parties, viewing parties, and afternoon teas. But, if you’re looking for a different way to celebrate, we have some suggestions.

Read more

With the BBC’s in-depth analysis, you can become a coronation connoisseur. The route, the robes and the regalia are all covered – there’ll be nothing you don’t know about the coronation.

Read more

Phones, fidgeting and short attention spans – with all the distractions you compete with for an audience’s attention, straightforward communication is more vital than ever. It’s not just down to the words you use: these techniques can also help you get your point across.

Read more

Whilst we’re on the subject of space, it appears you don’t have to be an astronaut to take out of this world photographs. With patience, a DSLR and some photo-editing practice, you too can create images worthy of the James Webb Telescope.

Read more

I’ll meet you at the crater at five, said one astronaut to another. But what time is five when you’re on the moon? UK time? US time? Future time? Or, as the days are longer, do we need a new time altogether?

Read more

Can you believe it’s been 50 years since the release of David Bowie’s iconic album? The Southbank is celebrating this brilliant example of musical branding with an exhibition exploring the ‘lightning bolt’ portrait. It’s on now until the 28th of May – we’ll see you there!

Read more

AI really is awfully clever. Its latest trick is assembling travel itineraries for curious explorers. Whether you’ve got all the details nailed down and are looking for a few extra activities or you’re searching for inspiration, this website takes the pain out of holiday planning.

Read more

Have you noticed things looking a little paler lately? Across brands, architecture, fashion, and interior design, creams, whites, and greys have crept into common use. But what are the causes and consequences of our chromophobia?

Read more

Spotted by one of our Curious team this week, the Acton Giant is the tallest mural in London. Peering over rooftops, he reminds London’s children (and adults, too!) that they should brush their teeth at least three times a day.

Read more

When asked by software developer Daniel Tait to “invent a logic puzzle similar to Sudoku” – after only a little bit of back and forth – ChatGPT invented Sumplete. We’re impressed and slightly scared.

Read more

On Tuesday (the 28th of March), stargazers will see Jupiter, Mercury, Uranus, Mars, and Venus all in a line. If all the rain has finally passed, they might even be visible without the aid of the telescope.

Read more

Have you noticed that all the heroes in action films have J names? James Bond. Jason Borne. Jack Reacher. What is it about these names that makes them prevalent among film protagonists? There are plenty of theories.

Read more

The best use of AI we’ve seen so far is Readow. Tell it the titles of all the books you’ve loved, and Readow will give you a personalised list of what to read next. What are you waiting for?

Read more

The word whizzes at Dictionary.com always have their ears to the ground, listening for new phrases that have entered the common vernacular. Recent additions to their dictionary include Cakeage, Nearlywed, and Antifragile – but what on earth do they mean?

Read more

In the last hundred years, we humans have had a bit of a growth spurt. Globally, we shot up 3 inches – and some countries saw average heights soar by an impressive 8 inches. Have we all been eating our greens, or is something else at play here?

Read more

It’s no secret: at Curious, we find animal pictures endlessly fascinating – we love the glimpse into the natural world photography can give us. Our latest fix comes from the World Nature Photography Awards – they’re an eclectic mix of humorous, intimate, and heartbreaking.

Read more

When you arrive at a ski resort, you expect to see freshly fallen powder waiting for you on the mountainside. Not grass! But this season, it’s been the reality for many visitors to The Alps. So, what’s the solution? Alternative activities, fake snow, or a shift in ski locations? Could it be the future of snow is up in the air?

Read more

Free! Not having to pay! Something for nothing! It’s sooooooo free-ing to find a website that gives you movies, or books, or online courses without expecting you to dip into your digital wallet. Bit like Shareables. More free brain nourishment is as easy as clicking this:

Read more

Scientists in Australia believe their coral wreaths may still be saved – if only they could speed up the rate they propagate and deploy new coral. Enter robots. Two mechanical arms are currently undergoing training in LA, ready to get to work revitalising coastlines worldwide.

Read more

Calvin Nicholl’s carefully cut paper sculptures seem to be breaking free of their frames. With scalpels, scissors, and glue, Nicholls builds up feathers and fur, until wild creatures emerge. His work is so complex, it can take two years to complete a piece.

Read more

A whole host of weird and wonderful things have been captured on Google Street View, from people caught unaware to breathtakingly beautiful nature and bizarre architecture. Click below for some of the greatest hits.

Read more

We’re all guilty of optimistically popping any empty packaging in the recycling – you can recycle anything these days, right? Not according to the Guardian. Luckily they’ve made a guide to tell us all what’s what with recycling.

Read more

You’re not the only one. Though they coveted concentration, even medieval monks sometimes had issues focusing. To keep their minds on track, they developed several methods to encourage singlemindedness.

Read more

It takes something extraordinary to shock a well-seasoned tube traveller. But Matthew Grabelsky’s portraits would give anyone pause for thought. The LA-based artist imagines human-animal hybrids sedately sitting on public transport.

Read more

A big curious question. Dreaming of losing your teeth, missing an exam or leaving the house starkers – do these reveal deep psychological truths about us, or are they completely random? Scientists and philosophers can’t agree. But maybe Artificial Intelligence can tell us what our dreams mean.

Read more

San Antonio zoo’s annual anti-Valentine’s fundraiser is back. Patrons have the honour of naming a cockroach, rodent or vegetable after a not-so-special someone. Or upgrade for a video of your cockroach being fed to one of the animals.

Read more

The 18th century might have been the most bonkers time for hair. Wigs reached dizzying heights as ladies outdid each other’s dos, and anything, even model ships, became accessories. How would you have done yours?

Read more

When The Girl with a Pearl Earring goes on tour next month, Mauritshuis Museum, where she usually lives, won’t leave her spot empty. Instead, they’ve commissioned the public to submit interpretations to display in her place.

Read more

Known unknowns are a curious concept. There are hundreds of scientific, academic, and philosophical questions we just don’t have a satisfactory answer for. They’re fun to ponder but impossible to solve. Here are some to try and wrap your head around.

Read more

Eat, pray, love. Win friends & influence people. Think fast and slow. When it comes to self-help, the overload of advice can be overwhelming. Thankfully, hundreds of bestsellers have been distilled into this one handy guide. Now there’s no excuse to not be the best version of yourself.

Read more

Though we grumble about packed carriages, sweltering summer temperatures and last-minute cancellations, the tube holds a special place in London’s psyche. From steam power, smoking carriages, and injury-inducing brake power, it’s come a long way over its 160 years.

Read more

Chinese New Year began on Sunday, and the festivities will continue until the 5th of February. Why not celebrate by trying some of the diverse Chinese cuisine available throughout London. Here’s The Modern House’s definitive guide.

Read more

When we want to convince others to adopt new ideas, we tend to focus on all the shiny good things. What we forget is to make change work, we need to remove the barriers to change, not just make it sound attractive.

Read more

Matt Stevens has been busy imagining films as classic book covers for the last two years. He’s built up quite the repertoire. From modern hits like Midsommer to cult classics like Before Sunrise and all-time favourites like Back To The Future – all are incredible.

Read more

We all need someone in our corner when we’re in a pinch. For the planet, that person is ClientEarth, a team of lawyers who challenge companies and governments on their environmental records.

Read more

Derek. Mary. Gustavo. Nora. Are they your pals or your pets? The trend of giving puppies people names has really taken off over recent years. Thanks to the Washington Post, you can now check if your name is more popular amongst dogs or humans.

Read more

If you’ve not already picked a new year’s resolution, may we be as bold as to suggest you be a little kinder? We’re not trying to say you’re a horrible person (we’re sure you’re lovely), but little acts go a long way. Here are several suggestions for where to start.

Read more

If you have time between turkey servings, why not visit The Museum of Architecture’s Gingerbread City? Over 100 architects, engineers and designers have baked a whole world out of delicious biscuits – no wicked witches were involved.

Read more

To stay sharp as a tack over the holidays, challenge yourself with GCHQ’s fiendish puzzles. If you get them all right, you might have a calling in the intelligence industry.

Read more

Our story begins in 1900-ish: tasked with making a lightbulb bright enough for surgical theatres, Erwin Perzy accidentally invents a snow globe instead. Fast forward one hundred years and his great-granddaughter is selling his mistake internationally.

Read more

Etch a Sketches, Pet Rocks or Cabbage Patch Kids – which toys fill you with nostalgia for your childhood Christmases? Stacker has put together a list of the most popular toys from 1900 to now.

Read more

These days Christmas starts in mid-October – that’s a lot of time to spend listening to the same ten songs. Never fear. We’re here to help. We’ve put together a list of alternative hits. It’s our Christmas gift to you and your ears.

Read more

If you’re stuck on what to buy particularly tricky *insert family/friend colleague as appropriate* – it might be time to take a step back and try a new approach. You only need to tick one of three boxes to be considered a thoughtful gift giver.

Read more

We’ve been told sometimes you have to be nasty to be nice. But psychology suggests we might have it the wrong way around. Changing how you approach an argument can lead to better results.

Read more

The rainbow lines stretching out across your screen are hundreds and hundreds of trees in Kern County, California, captured from above by Mitch Rouse. The precision planting makes the part of our brain that loves straight lines very happy.

Read more

The team at Storekit have done a lot of leg work, calling, and visiting the pub closest to every stop on the tube line all to identify their cheapest pint and put them in a handy guide. We thank them very much for their service.

Read more

We’re deep into the annual round-up season (shoutout to you, Spotify Wrapped). Pantone, eager beavers as they are, are looking ahead, not back, and have already revealed their colour of 2023.

Read more

When cinema was first introduced, it was considered an art form. But for many (us included), it’s become a way to unwind and switch off, with familiar tropes and plotlines guiding us into unthinking. This guide has everything you need to shake you out of your film funk.

Read more

From the very first Football World Cup in 1930, there have been questionable going-ons. That year the Egyptian team missed their boat, one player lost their lip, and a manager accidentally knocked themself unconscious. Not a great start.

Read more

It’s officially indoor weather – but that doesn’t mean you have to hunker down at home. Secret London has put together an excellent guide to the best exhibitions you can see right now. Don’t miss Strange Clay, Africa Fashion and many more.

Read more

Alliances, arguments, and audacious bids for power: European countries have long and complicated histories. Get an overview of their relationships from 1500 to now in this handy video. Set to some rousing classical music, it makes for a bizarre yet educational watch.

Read more

Grey days and plenty of rain have defined our weather recently. But, to see happier skies, you need only head to Instagram. There you can delight your eyes with Chris Judge’s wonderous cloud art.

Read more

This recoloured and sound-added video will transport you straight into the central London of the 1930s. The visuals are so vivid you’ll feel like you’re there. Which locations do you recognize?

Read more

Nowadays, we consume a great deal of our culture in snippets. A clip, a soundbite, a headline. But rarely do we sit and absorb content in its long form. Does viewing a fragment removed from its context mean we’re limiting our understanding?

Read more

Generating new, creative, or novel ideas can be beyond frustrating. When nothing you think of seems good enough, you might need to let everything out. From there, you might strike gold.

Read more

We don’t know why people develop unique hobbies – but we’re glad they do! Ard Gelinck spends his spare time creating images of celebrities with their former selves. Looking at how they’ve aged is endlessly fascinating.

Read more

Going paperless may seem like the eco answer. Think of all the trees we’d save. Alas. Nothing in life is ever that simple. Even online, everything we do creates waste. Unread emails, video wormholes and endless upgrades – all of them have a price.

Read more

Now and then, we’ve all made a faux pas, but it’s comforting that ours weren’t broadcast live on air. Enjoy some pure schadenfreude with this montage of when it all went wrong for these BBC presenters.

Read more

If you don’t get out of London much and you miss green spaces bigger than Hampstead Heath, this is for you. Tree FM plays sounds of woods and forests recorded all other the world whilst you look at stunning shots of nature. It’s like you’re really there.

Read more

When astronauts make their return to the moon in 2025, they’ll need a safe spot to park their spaceship. Their chosen method to map out such a place will rely on shadows. Using shade to create 3D models of their destination.

Read more

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – no, not Christmas (though it’s getting closer). The comedy wildlife photo finalists were released last week. Our favourites include a friendly raccoon, a penguin with serious attitude and a real-life Pegasus.

Read more

Stay ahead of the carve with a whole ghost of clever carving tips, techniques and inspiration and make your neighbours faint with envy. “Dear gourd”, they’ll say, “next door is creeping it real”.

Read more

Last weekend it was small business Saturday. But (and we’re not just saying this because we forgot) don’t limit your support to one day. There are brilliant and creative stores all over the UK that will always appreciate your business.

Read more

Go to Yale, get a hunting license, and ask your mother to take in borders. All feature on a 1958 edition of McCall’s Magazines list of ways to get a husband. Some have aged better than others.

Read more

Here’s another portion of awe for you. Artist Parth Kothekar has been making amazingly intricate papercuts using the maths behind M.C. Escher’s optical illusions. His excellent command of depth and scale makes the designs literally stand out.

Read more

Speaking of awe, why not get your daily dose with this timelapse of a Eurasian blue tit nesting and hatching her eggs. Watching the chicks open their beaks and beg for food is guaranteed to mesmerize.

Read more

Admiration. Wonder. Astonishment. Experiencing awe gives us all the good feelings. And science says, on top of improving our well-being, feeling awe actually makes us nicer people. Sounds pretty great. Here are ten ways you can get regularly awed up.

Read more

Arguments don’t have to end with a feeling of listlessness and frustration. A change in approach may make it possible to have more constructive debates. All it takes is understanding that winning may not be everything. Should be easy. Right?

Read more

How much sunlight does it take to make a glass of orange juice? More than you think. By showing the amount needed for even a tiny task, Cream on Chrome hope to provoke a discussion about the possibilities and limitations of solar power. Juicy stuff.

Read more

Past and present meet in a National Geographic photography series that uses modern photographic techniques to show World War Two activity against modern-day back drops.

Read more

Quaint and old-fashioned? Not anymore – Ant Hamlyn has bought flower pressing into the present. The playful pieces are sewn by Ant by hand, using materials to create a sense of tactility and physicality.

Read more

Using drones, we can see the world from a whole new angle – above. See the best of a seriously impressive bunch of shots from above in this year’s Drone Photo Awards. Waterlily harvesting, lava filled volcanos and baby blue whales are all included.

Read more

We found ourselves curious to know more about Her Majesty the Queen’s historic, 70-year reign. Here are some key moments from a truly remarkable life.

Read more

Jealously scrolling through friends’ carefully curated holiday snaps, we might forget that we’re not seeing the complete picture. In her new photography series, Natacha de Mahieu explores the reality of Insta-tourism.

Read more

The people map of the UK replaces all the cities, towns and villages with their most famous resident – past or present (but not future, it’s not that clever). Curious to know your most famous neighbour?

Read more

It’s a big problem on set when microphones pick up more noise from the props than the actors. To minimize disruption, the props team think up crazy and creative ways to make silent versions of real-life products.

Read more

With the cost of living set to grow and grow, everyone is looking for ways to be smarter with their pennies. This wonderful website is full of creative ways to cook for less without having to resort to instant noodles and beans on toast.

Read more

From Poland Street to Floral Street to Shelton Street to Dean Street, only a mile radius but we’ve come so far. We’re proud to mark this milestone. Our achievements, our brave clients, our talented people. Doing great work means a lot to us. We’ve put it all in a video.

Read more

We would happily shout about our love of TED-Ed from our studio rooftop (if we could figure out how to get up there). Like us, TED love to ask curious, impossible, fascinating questions. Here are some of their best so far.

Read more

The mysterious Chirodectes maculatus is a slippery fellow. First sighted in 1997, it wasn’t until this year it was finally caught on camera off the coast of Papua New Guinea. Now you can watch its distinctive pattern swim across your screen.

Read more

“I like this place and could willingly waste my time in it”. Sure, Shakespeare wasn’t talking about Bankside, but it’s somewhere you can waste many hours – including exploring the new Shakespeare art trail that weaves its way through the neighbourhood.

Read more

Sitting on a cross-country train, we’re drawn to the window, glancing at the trees, mountains, fields, and valleys racing past us. Interrail can provide the perfect soundtrack to these moments of calm with playlists that adapt to the weather, time, and location.

Read more

When we present our work to clients, we like to show it in its best light. Naturally. But these mockups, or ‘Fockups’ as designer Wytze Hoogslag has christened them, might be a little more true to how they’ll be seen in the wild.

Read more

The waving cat, or maneki-neko, is a well-recognised symbol with several intriguing origin stories, all taking place in Japan, not China as commonly thought. Though, one thing’s the same in every tale, they always bring luck.

Read more

Airbnb’s lovely new UI (that’s User Interface to you and me) lets us choose our holidays based on the type of stay rather than dates and locations. Lakefront, tiny homes, beachfront – even caves are an option. See what’s available.

Read more

After 56 years, the hurt was over last weekend as England’s Women secured a 2-1 defeat of Germany to win the 2022 European Championship. Why not celebrate by immersing further in the world of football and discover how design has pushed it to new limits.

Read more

Combining birds with pineapples and fish with flowers, artist Beto Val has turned vintage illustrations into bizarre compositions. Using digital manipulations to alter original sketches, he has created a whole cast of whimsical characters.

Read more

Without taking a sneaky peak – can you think of the difference between a phone’s keypad and a calculator’s? Considering their similar functions, it’s strange there’s any difference at all.

Read more

With attention spans shorter than 30 seconds, it’s unlikely that anyone is reading more than a tiny fraction of your writing. Journalist Jim VandeHei shares his hard-won advice on how to communicate more effectively.

Read more

When was the last time you checked in on a friend ‘just because’? Recent research suggests that we almost always underestimate how much our friends appreciate being checked in on.

Read more

When a farm in Oregon accidentally put on the world’s first goat yoga class, they couldn’t have predicted its coming popularity. Relaxing animal therapy really appealed to their customers, but what do the goats think?

Read more

Now that we’re back to a cool twentysomething degrees, it’s time to take advantage of the best outdoor eating available in London. Here’s a guide to the best pop-up street seating, secret gardens, and shady terraces in the city.

Read more

The first-ever images from the James Webb Telescope have been revealed. Launched in December, it’s the largest and most powerful telescope ever developed, with the ability to see deeper into the cosmos than ever before.

Read more

The Soho section of last weekend’s Pride celebrations took place right outside our quirky Dean Street studio – and, with our design heads on, we wondered how the Pride flag came to be and how it has evolved.

Read more

We can’t get enough of tiny things. Our latest find is a miniature menagerie from Hungarian artist Fanni Sandor. She sculpts biologically accurate models of animals so small they fit in the palm of your hand.

Read more

The Guardian has reading suggestions for every genre of book lover. From fans of true crime to murder mysteries (or false crime – if you will), there’s something for everyone on their list.

Read more

If you’re an adrenaline junky, you might already know that the loop-the-loops on modern roller coasters aren’t perfect circles – and for a good reason! The original circular designs put more G-force on their riders than astronauts experience.

Read more

Time Out has printed its last ever physical issue. To celebrate (rather than commiserate), art director Bryan Mayes commissioned four memorable covers on the theme London Rising to celebrate the talent and culture that make up London and Time Out.

Read more

Curious about other people’s interests? This website will show you the most Googled questions on any topic: giving insights on the kind of queries we’d only ever ask our computers.

Read more

Creating a tune catchy enough to grab the attention of TikTok can catapult you to overnight fame. But what then? Vox and The Pudding have teamed up to investigate what happens to TikTok musicians after they go viral.

Read more

Travel gurus Lonely Planet are here to help us with travel inspiration. Their experts have shortlisted the countries, cities, and regions that should be on your list for 2022. If you can get on a plane, that is!

Read more

Shawn Anchor thinks we have it backwards. Instead of working hard to be successful – and then happy – we should be positive in the present. A sunny approach to life will make us more productive and ultimately more successful. Simple.

Read more

Search engine Ecosia is planting trees all over the world. They use the profit they make from adverts to bring greenery where it’s needed most. They’ve just reached their 150 millionth tree!

Read more

Things are starting to get real in the world of design. Visual culture is more detailed, tactile, and textured than ever. It’s Nice That has done a deep dive into which trends we’ll soon be seeing everywhere.

Read more

Marine Biologist Sylvia Earle wants the world to know the importance of the ocean. It governs climate and weather, holds 97% of the water, generates more than half of the oxygen in the atmosphere and provides a home for most of life on Earth. In short: no blue, no green.

Read more

Anyone with a to-do list as long as their arm – pay close attention – your life is about to change. The GTD (Getting Things Done) framework makes organizing tasks and projects second nature.

Read more

Isabel Reitemeyer is known for her uncanny collages, splicing images of animals together in unlikely combinations. And, with a beady eye, or the slight cock of a head, the personalities of her franken-creatures shine through.

Read more

In her 70 years on the throne, Queen Elizabeth has seen a lot of change: from the first man on the moon and colour TV to private space travel and virtual reality. See just how much the world has changed with this interactive guide.

Read more

The Crochet Coral Reef was started by sisters Christine and Margaret Wertheim in response to the environmental issues putting pressure on coral reefs. New patterns, materials, and designs mean, like natural coral reefs, the crochet version is constantly evolving.

Read more

Employees at Asana conducted an experiment. After deleting all the meetings in their calendar, they waited two days before putting any back. And, when they did, there were fewer of them; they were less frequent and much shorter.

Read more

If you’re curious about what you’d need to do to make it onto a banknote, check out The Pudding’s latest interactive essay about the famous figures who represent currencies around the world.

Read more

The Guardian’s list of ways to be happier has something for everyone. Suggestions range from perfecting your front crawl and buying proper bin shoes to inventing new cocktails. A day of country music got mixed reviews from the Curious team.

Read more

There are times at work when all of us have held our tongues. But no more! This guide rephrases your internal dialogue into office-appropriate work speak: giving you a professional way to say what’s on your mind.

Read more

Only a short tube ride away is an outstanding array of forests and woodland. Surrounded by lakes, rivers, and plenty of wildlife: a walk in the woods is the perfect way to help you forget the stresses of the city.

Read more

Carbon-catching cow muzzles and airborne seed dispersers are two winners of The Terra Carta Design Lab. These ‘high-impact, low-cost solutions for the climate crisis’ will receive funding and support to take them from prototypes to real-life responses.

Read more

Is there anything worse than going for a hug when the person you’re meeting has opted for a handshake? Conventions for greeting others have developed over several decades but changing social situations have meant new ways of welcoming have crept into common use.

Read more

Using real-life objects as inspiration means Bernie Kaminski often makes paper mâché models of the objects lying around his apartment. Self-taught and constantly improving, Bernie creates his art to make himself (and others) happy.

Read more

If your mind is prone to wander or your concentration span is shorter than a split second, an anti-procrastination café is what you need. For 300 Yen an hour, owner Takuya Kawai will keep you on track.

Read more

Almost everyone agrees trees are excellent for the environment. Their carbon-capturing abilities are essential for the planet. Now scientists are wondering if they can design them better.

Read more

Inclusive design creates experiences and products that everyone can experience – no matter their background. Cards for Humanity is an interactive tool that encourages designers to consider accessibility as they work.

Read more

Known only as AnonyMouse, an unidentified group of artists have infiltrated European towns and cities, installing miniature models for mice into unassuming streets. Their latest target: Malmö.

Read more

The abilities of phone cameras are revealed in the winning shots from Apple’s latest photography competition. All shot on iPhone 13 Pros, the images capture details that would escape the most eagle-eyed amongst us.

Read more

We can develop complex and intimate connections with our belongings, even going as far as to give them names and personalities. But why do we do it? And how does it affect our relationships with them?

Read more

Thinking in colour is a quiz that examines how black and white your thinking is. Measuring empathy, open-mindedness, flexibility, and intellectual curiosity; it creates a visual representation of what colours your mind.

Read more

Cheaper technology, a fall in trust in governments, and a rising number of environmental crises mean that more and more people are beginning to take environmental research into their own hands.

Read more

For a brief few years after the Second World War, steel houses represented the future. Made in a factory in Lustron, Ohio, they could be shipped and assembled anywhere in the US. So, why didn’t houses with magnetic walls catch on?

Read more

Being creative with our clothes is one way we can care for the planet. Upcycling, visible mending, and organising give our wardrobes longer lives. Buying less will reduce our environmental impact.

Read more

Eiko Ojala has become the illustrator of choice for magazines and newspapers, including the Guardian and New York Times. With his distinctive cut out style, he creates simple yet striking statements.

Read more

In 1961 a Goya masterpiece vanished from the National Gallery in London. Security saw no intruders. No damage was done. And no trace was left. The thief must have been a criminal mastermind. At least that was the theory.

Read more

The way we write can create barriers to who can read it. Plain language, a style of writing that uses straightforward sentences, language, and structure, aims to make text more accessible. Or, put simply. Plain language makes writing easy to read for more people.

Read more

Miniature art has become a social media fixation. But, at a new exhibition in Brompton, you can see your favourite artists in real life. Doors open 15th of April. Don’t forget your magnifying glass!

Read more

Numerous and noisy: pigeons have been described as the “rats of the sky”. Now one of the most populous species on the planet, their rise to domination was helped by us.

Read more

Europe’s hills and mountains are home to some stunning scenery only accessible by foot. Brave the blisters, heavy bags and early mornings and you’ll be rewarded with a new appreciation of the great outdoors.

Read more

It’s Nice That is curating a list of resources in support of Ukraine. Links to petitions, charities to support, locations of donation points and ways to counteract propaganda are all included.

Read more

It’s too soon to speculate how the war will end. But it will certainly have implications for many years to come. Historian Yuval Noah Harari believes there are already lessons to learn from the conflict.

Read more

Art in any form becomes even more meaningful during war. Katerina Korolevsta and fellow Ukrainian designers are using their talent to share with the world what is happening around them.

Read more

The proliferation of information sources means news comes at us from every angle. For a concise account of events, the BBC’s Ukrainecast provides daily updates.

Read more

Ukraine has struggled to maintain its independence since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. In recent years, attempts to curtail Russian domination have resulted in the loss of life and territory. Now, Ukraine finds itself at war.

Read more

We have Eunice and Franklin to thank for London’s recent bout of rotten weather. Though it can be tempting to curl up and power down when the rain starts – unless there’s a literal storm – London still has plenty to offer those wanting to explore.

Read more

Yvette Mayorga’s latest work is full of nostalgia. At first glance, her super sweet rendition of the Polly Pocket mansion is an uncomplicated ode to a 90s childhood. A deeper look reveals a rich critique of excess and overconsumption delicately iced into her surrealist masterpiece.

Read more

‘May be an image of one person and a strawberry’ is an alt text description for the Mona Lisa. Picked up by screen readers, alt text is an invaluable tool for any user who’s blind or has low vision. When alt text is missing or mislabelled, web pages can be inaccessible for these users.

Read more

In linguistics, the rule of arbitrariness states there’s no natural or necessary connection between a word’s meaning and its sound or form. A cat is a cat simply because we decided so. But new research suggests that’s not the case.

Read more

Energy, creativity, and passion poured out of Maria Bradford when we worked on her brand back in 2020. Her determination, and some out of this world recipes, meant we weren’t surprised to see her pop up on the Observer’s latest list of things they love in the world of food.

Read more

The only photo of Vincent Van Gogh shows a young 19-year-old, far from the figure he would become. And paintings by his contemporaries depict him as many kinds of men. But, most revealing perhaps are his self-portraits. See them on display at the Courtauld Gallery until the 8th of May.

Read more

Bees have been nesting in crumbling bricks and mortar for hundreds of years. But, the bricks of new builds are too perfect to be suitable habitats. To rectify this, Brighton Council has passed legislation that requires new buildings to include special bee bricks for lone bees to nest in.

Read more

The architect, Sir Peter Cook, is (self-professed) not a natural drawer. Yet, since he developed an interest in architecture as a child, he’s designed by hand. His determination to creatively express ideas spurred him on throughout his illustrious career.

Read more

Westminster Abbey should surely have known better than to trust Twitter with a naming project. With questionable puns, political commentary, and ‘Tony’ all in contention, their gargoyle is destined to end up with a unique name. #DowntoungueAbbeyForTheWin

Read more

In the shadows of everyday objects, Vincent Bal creates whimsical scenes. Using simple sketching, he inserts wit and humour. Scissors become an angry crocodile, headphones transform into a downcast dog, and a pair of glasses frames a befuddled reader.

Read more

Picture the scene. It’s very late, or very, very early. You’ve been dancing all night, and you’re on top of the world. The DJ plays one final track, and that song comes to defines your memory. But, how do they know which song will perfectly fit the moment?

Read more

Former baker Yukiko Morita has found a way of combining her love of bread with her art – rescuing unsold bread and pastries from local bakeries and transforming them into lamps. Her novel approach is proving popular.

Read more

Mixed up in pickle jars or stuck in spiders’ webs, Victorian ladies spent time inserting pictures of friends and family into delightful and weird scenes. Full of visual puns and inside jokes, they were a way to send coded messages to a secret beau.

Read more

Stuck in a dreary British winter, a spot of sun sounds like a wonderful thing. But, for the Great Barrier Reef, too much light does more harm than good. To reduce coral bleaching, scientists have looked to the clouds for a way to power down the sun.

Read more

In 2022 it’s hard not to be available. Emails and alerts can find us at any time, wherever we are. And, if we don’t reply instantly, we feel the need to apologise and explain. But, when ‘Sorry for my late reply’ feels insincere, what alternatives are out there?

Read more

Drop a raindrop anywhere in the world, and River Runner’s interactive map will transport you through the rivers, streams and mountains it travels along on its route towards the ocean. It’s incredible how far one drop flows.

Read more

The creation of eccentric inventor Frederick Walton and long out of popular fashion, linoleum is staging a comeback. Eco-friendly and technically edible(!), the material has found favour with a new generation of interior designers.

Read more

Big resolutions can be daunting. So, if you’re not ready to run a marathon, cut out sugar or delete your social media, why not start smaller? These mini modifications can make a big difference.

Read more

However you plan to travel; soaking up culture or sunbeams, 2022 is a year for exploration. Get off the beaten track and try craft beer in Oregon, visit The Devil’s Museum in Kaunas or dive through the kelp forests off Stewart Island.

Read more

Big, bold and retro, It’s Nice That has rounded up its predictions of the design trends set to shape 2022. From 90s nostalgia to 3D art, they unpack what we’ll be seeing more of over the next 12 months.

Read more

Joes Miguel Sokoloff is one of the people responsible for a very unusual marketing campaign. Using creativity, welcoming words, and some well-placed Christmas lights, he helped thousands of guerrillas come home.

Read more

Mince pies. Turkey. Gingerbread houses. Pigs in blankets. Some foods are Christmas staples. Or maybe not. Recent research reveals several festive favourites might not be favourites after all.

Read more

Looking back at a year’s worth of ads, we’re reminded of all the twists this year took (cough *Covid* cough). But, in the face of uncertain times, the creativity and innovation of these brands put smiles on our faces.

Read more

Some children won’t get presents this year. Not because they’re on the naughty list. You can be a Secret Santa for vulnerable children and bring them food, warmth, and happiness this Christmas.

Read more

For the first time, Pantone has created a new shade for its annual colour pick. The periwinkle blue, with violet-red undertones, represents how colour trends in the digital and physical world influence each other.

Read more

Taking a cheeky power nap might sound very tempting after a less than perfect night’s sleep, but it might do more harm than good. Sleep scientist Matt Walker shares the pros and cons of an afternoon siesta.

Read more

With Typatone, anyone can be a composer. Type anything into their website and listen to it magically transform into a myriad of musical styles. We’ve had lots of fun thinking about what Shareables might sound like.

Read more

Only a tiny 1% of the Smithsonian’s collection is on display across their 20 museums and galleries. That leaves a whole host of treasures tucked away in high-security storage. Want to know what they’re hiding?

Read more

Wired are speaking our language. Curious podcasts – yes, please! From true crime and chat shows to Dolly Parton documentaries, podcasts soundtrack our day. And we’re always on the lookout for our next listen.

Read more

Ruby Silvious doesn’t let her teabags go to waste. They go from a morning brew to a blank canvas as they become the backdrop of her miniature paintings. It’s incredible how much detail fits on one tiny teabag.

Read more

That science is still a way off! But, living to 100 – increasingly probable. And staying healthy for as long as possible is key. Here’s what you need to do to get your birthday letter from the Queen.

Read more

Eric Kogan has an unprecedented ability to find humour in his surroundings – spotting quirky coincidences as he walks around the streets of New York City. He’s curated a whole archive of unexpected images.

Read more

Every year Café Art hands out 100 single-use cameras to people affected by homelessness then gives them seven days to photograph their city. The diverse people, wildlife, and landmarks they capture make up a Calendar of London.

Read more

Applying for any job – even a dream job – is a minefield. But of all the unpleasant elements, the cover letter is the worst. How formal should you be? How enthusiastic? And, how honest? In this essay, Rob Alderson shares our pain.

Read more

Prescribing genders to type can be traced back to 1940s America, where retailers used fonts as gender signifiers for their kid’s products. Gendering and personalisation improved their sales – but, long term, has this done more harm than good?

Read more

That feeling when you walk into a bookshop – nothing beats it. The quiet calm. The smell of books, new and old. And, best of all, the thousands of worlds waiting to be explored. Here are some of the best in the world.

Read more

From the outside, the Skirvin Hotel looks normal. Pretty, even. But, book a room, and its true spirit is revealed. Guests report unexplained creaks, groans and ghostly apparitions. Are you brave enough to spend a night?

Read more

More than 800,000 fireworks were set off in the largest ever fireworks display, which lasted for over an hour. Whilst we can’t promise any of the events on this list will break that record, they’re rumoured to be the best in the country.

Read more

Wes Anderson’s films have a distinctive feel: full of pastel colours, symmetrical designs and more than a slight nostalgia for retro design. If they’re your cup of tea, why not visit these real-life locations that perfectly capture his aesthetic.

Read more

Now in its third year, the Close-Up Photographer of the year contest receives all kinds of incredible entries. From salamander silhouettes to ants eating, the images give a glimpse into the delicate details of the natural world.

Read more

It’s spider season! As the weather turns colder, spiders, like us, want to be warm and cosy in our houses. But, whilst all uninvited guests are a nuisance, what is it about spiders that mean they’re likely to meet an untimely end?

Read more

Too much to see. Too much to do. So much time is taken up doing tedious (but necessary) tasks – they eat into the time we could be rollercoaster riding/dolphin watching/rainbow chasing. But use these handy hints and you’ll have more time for the good stuff.

Read more

If you can work from home, why not work from Spain? Small towns there are attempting to reverse emigration by welcoming workers on ‘digital nomad visas’. Those who apply can expect traditional rural life – with superfast broadband.

Read more

London’s iconic tube map has been reimagined in honour of Black History Month. In collaboration with the Black Cultural Archives, TFL has renamed every station to celebrate great black Britons from throughout history.

Read more

Drawing in the air – that’s what Lee Sangsoo considers his art. Using long strips of metal, he transforms his 2D illustrations into 3D sculptures. The flows, twists and subtle gradients bring his subjects to life.

Read more

Coffee is the lifeblood of our studio. We’re always on the lookout for new places to try, so we were delighted to find this handy guide to the best independent shops in locations all over London. A great excuse to drink more coffee! Find your new local.

Read more

In November 2001, Wim Wenders visited Ground Zero to capture the devastation caused by 9/11 and document the recovery operation then underway. A new exhibition at the Imperial War Museum reveals the gravity of what he saw. Free until January 9th.

Read more

There really is a Wikipedia page for everything. The buttered cat paradox? Got it. The Twinkie defence? Naturally. George H. W. Bush’s broccoli comments? Covered. They even have a list of lists of lists, which, of course, contains itself.

Read more

Cycling is part of the solution to climate change. It’s a greener way to get around that’s sustainable and accessible. Some people are so certain about the role it’ll play that they’re going to extreme lengths to get everyone on their bikes.

Read more

Gritty and beautiful. Taking inspiration from Bourne, Batman, and Black Widow – Daniel Craig’s era as James Bond aimed to modernise and rejuvenate a franchise that felt stuck in the past. And, now that his tenure is over, it’s time to evaluate his success.

Read more

After a rough tackle ended in a broken leg, NFL quarterback Alex Smith was left questioning his future. With time and support, he slowly overcame his self-doubt and anxiety. Now, he shares his hard-won insights for dealing with setbacks.

Read more

Since he knew that he was losing his sight, Ian Treherne has been obsessed with capturing moments on film. And the Paralympics were no exception. In his signature cinematic style, he seized the opportunity to showcase inspiring young athletes.

Read more

Pandemic restrictions have turned the idea of living, working, shopping, and socialising within walking distance into something that might actually be possible. But, what are the benefits of living locally?

Read more

With their new feature, BBC Travel hope to share joy and extraordinary stories from around the globe. Spotlighting thriving communities and natural wonders – they challenge you not to fall in love with the world around you.

Read more

It can be hard to compute that our digital activities have a real-world impact. But everything we do, even ignoring our email pile-up, adds up. So, maybe it’s time to clear out your inbox.

Read more

It’s a proven fact that talking to your plants can help them grow. But, have you ever wondered if they could talk back? It turns out there’s a whole team of scientists investigating plant communications. So, one day soon, we might know what plants are saying.

Read more

Wilfrid Wood is probably best known for the satirical sculptures used in Spitting Image. But recently, he’s branched out into portraits, painting all the imperfections and idiosyncrasies of “curious people” who put themselves forward via Instagram. Would you volunteer?

Read more

At the end of a hectic week, our minds can feel busy and full. To help you relax into the weekend, take a peek at Yuki Kawae’s zen gardens. Watching his beautiful patterns emerge, all your stress will melt away.

Read more

Time-lapse photography is an art that requires preparation and patience – two things Louie Schwartzberg must have in spades. He spent 15 years meticulously capturing stunning footage of a myriad of magical mushrooms for Netflix’s Fantastic Fungi documentary.

Read more

Research suggests that people with freely moving thoughts are happier. The kind of thoughts that takes you from dinner deliberations to musings about the view from the Eiffel Tower. It’s easy if you’re in the right mindset.

Read more

As global temperatures continue to rise, scientists have noticed a strange phenomenon. Birds, fish, and even mammals are shrinking. For now, the changes seem small, but they could eventually push species towards extinction. But why is this happening? And what can we do to stop it?

Read more

All of us were beyond excited to move into our shiny new office this month. But, after more than a year of remote working, there was something a little curious in the air that first morning as we all tried to remember how to make small talk for longer than it takes everyone to join a Zoom call.

Read more

2021 has been the summer of the staycation: even Banksy had one. The artist has been on a tour of East Anglia, leaving souvenirs in all the towns he visited. Though it appears not everyone appreciated his gifts.

Read more

In search of an eco-friendly alternative to the plastic shading sitting above their town, the council of Alhaurín de la Torre turned to local crochet teacher Eva Pacheco. With her students, she has produced almost 500 square meters of colourful shade.

Read more

Thumbs up for good and down for bad. Universal symbols that transcend languages. Or so you might think. Only it turns out, like languages, hand signals don’t always translate. What to you might mean ‘that’s great’ could be interpreted as an offensive gesture or a sign that you’re swimming back to the surface.

Read more

From 50 years in the future, sci-fi writer Kim Stanley Robinson reads a ‘history’ where humans have ended climate change and improved quality of life for all. His words lay out a plan of what we might do to make his past our reality. Will we take his advice?

Read more

Dr Adrian Smith has a history of filming insects in incredible slow motion. Recording 6000 frames per second, not even microscopic movement escapes his capture. Now, he’s turned his attention to moths, shooting their flight in stunning slow motion.

Read more

Rickrolling has gone from a fringe phenomenon to a universal pop culture reference: introducing Rick Astley’s Never Gonna Give You Up to a whole new generation. To commemorate the video reaching 1,012,897,703 views on YouTube, The Pudding has done a deep dive to chart its history.

Read more

Fossil evidence suggests that early humans spent a lot of time in trees. So, climbing is literally in our bones. So much so that Germany’s Olympic climbing coach took inspiration from their movements. Translating their twists and turns into tactics for his competitive climbers.

Read more

Today is the only Friday 13th of 2021. A day so scary, it inspired a hit slasher film and compels the deeply suspicious to avoid leaving the house. Fear of the number 13 even has its own name; triskaidekaphobia. But where did all this superstition come from?

Read more

The Arc is the latest building to be completed on the site of the Green School: a private school in Bali promoting sustainability through learning in a natural environment. The intricate design is the most complicated they’ve attempted, but the months of research and planning were undoubtedly worth the spectacular results.

Read more

It turns out that making something look simple is actually really, really complicated. Extensive planning goes into every one of Anna Devís and Daniel Rueda’s cheeky compositions. They don’t use any editing software, so everything needs to come together flawlessly. #nofilter

Read more

No longer the preserve of children’s parties and hospital meals, jelly is having a renaissance. Breaking free of its associations as a textureless, tasteless blob, it has become popular with grown-ups seeking a subtle and sophisticated taste sensation. But why is it making a comeback now?

Read more

Like it’s that easy. Except, maybe it is. We put too much pressure on ourselves to always pick the perfect option. For a more relaxed approach to decision making, we need to take a leaf out of Jeff Bezos’ book (not something we ever thought we’d recommend!).

Read more

The BBC’s Tokyo trailer is one of the stars of this year’s games. Inspired by Japanese anime and video games, a single shot carries viewers through a myriad of vibrant scenes. Hidden in the intricate details are references to the Olympics and athletes. How many can you spot?

Read more

The year is 1994. Onboard a ferry heading for a remote Irish island, Neville Presho scans the shore for the house he hasn’t seen for eight years. It’s one of the oldest and sits right above the harbour – it should be easy to see. But it isn’t there. It isn’t anywhere.

Read more

The quirky characters at Nante’s Jardin des Plantes have three new friends. Stroll through the gardens, and you’ll spot Artist Jean Jullien’s colourful sculptures reclining in the grass, floating in the lake and hiding amongst the trees all summer long.

Read more

Blooming between buildings, sprouting in backyards and taking route in abandoned plots, tiny forests the size of tennis courts are growing in cities all over the world. These patches of nature provide shade, attract animals and insects and capture carbon – helping cities adapt to climate change.

Read more

What you can make with Lego is only limited by your imagination. But if you need a hit of inspiration, try Brickit. The AR app scans your pile of pieces and suggests which of Lego’s many sets you can build from what you have on hand. Time to dust off your collection.

Read more

Great managers inspire teams. And Gareth Southgate inspired his to their first-ever Euro final. Though it didn’t end with football coming home, England hadn’t played so well in years (55 to be precise). But, what is it about Southgate’s leadership style that brought out the best in England?

Read more

Composers have always seen the link between music and nature, but now scientists have found it too. Like music, natural sounds can influence our mood: make us feel safe, relaxed and reduce our stress levels. Even digital versions can do us some good.

Read more

Peel back the layers of tropical fruit, and what do you get? A mesmerizing stop motion video. Toronto-based animator Kevin Parry strips kiwis, mangoes and dragon fruit, revealing their curious insides. But, perhaps even more enrapturing is how he did it.

Read more

Jamie Hawkesworth approaches his subject with no preconceived notions. Instead of seeking out pubs, rain and cups of tea, he captures moments as he finds them. His most recent collection, The British Isles, is the culmination of a decade’s worth of observations from around the country.

Read more

Combatting climate change can feel like an impossible task. With so much to do, what can one person achieve? But, as climate activist Clover Hogan explains, challenging the stories that make you feel powerless can be the first step to taking action.

Read more

Everyone has their rituals – little habits that make them feel better – and professional athletes are no different. For most tennis players choosing which ball to serve with is one such custom. (Just check out Wimbledon.) But is it all just luck? Or is there some science behind their choices?

Read more

Now that summer’s truly underway, you might be in search of somewhere to cool off. To escape the crowds, forgo London’s lidos and head outside the city. Some of the best wild swimming spots around are only a train ride away. You can thank us later.

Read more

What makes a pear taste like a pear? And how can you make something else taste like one? As a flavour inventor, Maria Wright tries to answer questions like this every day. She’s invented over 1,500 flavours – including some you might have tried.

Read more

It’s time to evolve our working habits. At least according to design consultancy Arup, whose employees can work any day of the week. Extending the working week means they can take time off during the week or work extended hours to unlock a longer weekend.

Read more

From a fresh glass of lemonade to a classic banana split, Andrea Love makes all the summer staples. In her miniature kitchen, Love makes tutorials for recipes that look more than good enough to eat. The catch? They’re made of wool.

Read more

East London has been transformed into England’s largest outdoor gallery. Over 500 works of art from independent galleries are on display from now until the 27th of June. Art appreciators can spend a sunny afternoon winding their way through the numerous displays.

Read more

Nestled away in rural Ontario, Footsteps Studio makes the sound effects for some of your favourite films. Using their extensive and eclectic collection of props, they can make sounds to fit any film: whether it’s creating the perfect splash or finding the ideal pair of shoes for footsteps.

Read more

Creating more nuance and vulnerability than should be possible using unspun wool, Salman Khoshroo sculpts bold faces. The portraits, inspired by his experience in quarantine, have been like therapy for Khoshroo. He finds joy in the juxtaposition of using a traditionally feminine material to interpret the masculine condition.

Read more

The preference for aesthetically pleasing plants doesn’t just exist in the general population; scientists have it too. Their bias towards pretty plants means less conventionally appealing species are less likely to be studied and could be disappearing without anyone noticing.

Read more

What defined your lockdown? Endless jigsaws, multiple attempts to perfect banana bread, or maybe a love-hate relationship with your laptop? In Future Archaeology of a Global Lockdown, Paula Zuccotti compiles over 1000 images taken by people from around the world, representing their lockdown story through 15 objects.

Read more

To celebrate the 50th edition of Shareables, we’ve found 50 curious facts to get your brain whirring. Click to discover: the dangerous consequences of sneezing too hard, the world’s most stolen book, and which is the only mammal that can’t jump.

Read more

Exploring the world through Interest-Curiosity (the kind that makes you question who built the first snowman or decided to put milk in tea) can help you break bad habits and reduce anxiety. What a great reason to keep reading Shareables!

Read more

Britain has hundreds of museums, and now that they’re open again, it’s time to immerse yourself in all the curiosities they have to offer. Indulge your fascination for farm wagons at The Museum of English Rural Life, or learn the history of Queen Victoria’s stockings in Framework Knitters Museum.

Read more

For two months, from the 26th of May, Leadenhall Market will be alight with the glow of hundreds of neon signs as God’s Own Junkyard takes over the historic venue. The interactive display will be full of props from famous films like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. How many movies will you spot?

Read more

If you’re too busy texting to watch where you’re walking, never fear, Third Eye can do it for you. The eye, which rests on the forehead, can alert you to upcoming obstacles. Pretty clever but, if you think you need one, perhaps it could be time to reassess your relationship with your all-consuming phone!

Read more

In cities throughout France, mosaics have crept into public spaces. Cracks in the pavement and gaps in plaster have been filled with vivid geometric patterns. Boldly contrasting with their grey surroundings, artist Ememem’s mosaics bring colour to everyday life.

Read more

Conrad Withey has designed a new way to find up-and-coming musical talent. His system tracks streaming and social media data to identify artists who already have an audience. But, as he readily admits, what’s popular isn’t always good.

Read more

Since it dethroned Times New Roman 14 years ago, Calibri has been Microsoft’s default font. But now, they’re searching for its successor. Five custom fonts have been revealed as potential replacements, and Microsoft is asking the public for feedback. Always a risk!

Read more

When the sun goes down, self-taught photographer Steven Kovacs heads down to the ocean. It might seem counterintuitive, but this is the best time to capture some of the sea’s more unusual inhabitants. The dark background highlights the most striking features of the life below the water’s surface.

Read more

Nowadays we’re turning our homes into urban jungles. But, once upon a time, fairytale-like forests spread over the countryside. Many were lost long ago, but some still survive in secluded and wild pockets of the world, and they need to be protected.

Read more

The right soundtrack can set up your day. Up-beat, down-tempo, old school or new wave: there’s music for every mood. And, for when you need to be inspired, there’s Brainstorm Radio. A collection of tunes curated by the great and the good of the creative industry.

Read more

In search of a better ending, Pamela Mishkin re-examines her last relationship in the form of an interactive essay. Co-written by GPT-3, a virtual text generator, the essay blurs the lines between artificial and emotional intelligence. Find your own version of this interactive adventure.

Read more

Just in case you ever find yourself about to take off, Megan McArthur shares her advice on how to prepare to shoot for the stars. Megan has already logged more than 500 million miles in space and so who better to share their experience.

Read more

London’s parks have provided a literal breath of fresh air for many in the past year. For those of us confined to the capital, they’ve become outdoor gyms, places to gather with friends and a welcome connection to nature. It’s no surprise they’re some of the country’s favourites.

Read more

The Curious Film Club is proud to recommend Conor Finnegan’s new short film ‘Fear of Flying’. The charming animation follows Dougal as several setbacks scupper his plans to hunker down for the winter. Left with no other options, Dougal confronts his fears and flies south – but not in the way you’d expect.

Read more

The Design Museum’s Supermarket installation is motivated by the idea that creativity should be accessible to everyone. The aisles of the ’80s inspired shop will be stocked with essentials from kidney beans to loo roll, all wrapped up in packaging designed by emerging artists. Doors opened on April 21st.

Read more

14.5% of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions come from livestock, and cows make up two-thirds of that figure. But there’s a solution: seaweed. A sprinkle of Asparagopsis taxiformis in a cow’s dinner will reduce their methane production by 85%. Holy cow that’s a lot less methane!

Read more

Described by its creator, Pascal Schelbli, as ‘simultaneously stunning and filthy’, short film The Beauty imagines the world on the ocean floor is made entirely of plastic. Bubble-wrap pufferfish swim serenely through coral made from plastic straws and cutlery, highlighting the extent to which we have already damaged a delicate ecosystem.

Read more

Coronavirus restrictions have limited our opportunities for social interaction. Dinner parties? Cancelled. Post-work drinks? Online only. Zoom quiz? Please, not another one. So, it’s not surprising that one year on, certain friendships have fallen by the wayside. But is prioritising who we spend time with actually a bad thing?

Read more

Have you heard of a medlar? It featured in the Canterbury Tales and Romeo and Juliet, but now it’s not available in a single British supermarket. How did one of medieval Europe’s favourite fruits go from a dietary staple to a distant memory in less than a hundred years?

Read more

Art lovers rejoice! The world’s most visited museum has made almost 500,000 works from its collections available online. Now you can wander through the Louvre’s virtual galleries admiring the art while you wait for their doors to reopen IRL. Merci beaucoup le Louvre!

Read more

In the past, mosaics depicted epic tales, gods and objects of value. Ruaidhri Ryan has taken a different approach. His mosaics feature items most would consider mundane, typical of contemporary life. He finds humour in the juxtaposition of his subjects’ perceived value and the time and labour he puts into honouring them.

Read more

The star of Anna Matzaris’ new stop motion short film displays increasingly improper workplace behaviour from stealing food to cutting someone’s tie off in a meeting – none of which will stand you in good stead for a promotion. But beneath the humour, the film highlights how becoming a mother can actually trump every inappropriate action when it comes to career progression.

Read more

Chemical engineer turned artist Masayoshi Matsumoto creates sculptures from balloons. He can twist and fashion any animal you can imagine, from a hummingbird to a jellyfish. His Instagram feed, where he documents his work, could convince anyone that balloons are not just for children.

Read more

Chemical engineer turned artist Masayoshi Matsumoto creates sculptures from balloons. He can twist and fashion any animal you can imagine, from a hummingbird to a jellyfish. His Instagram feed, where he documents his work, could convince anyone that balloons are not just for children.

Read more

Shake off the lockdown blues by taking a look at some of the most colourful destinations from across the world. This is a golden opportunity to start planning a trip that will make your friends green with envy. So, when travelling becomes more than a rose-tinted memory, you can head straight to Rainbow Mountain.

Read more

‘Where do you see yourself in five years?’ An innocent question with the power to send you spiralling. Most people don’t have their whole life planned. But, if you’re asking yourself, ‘what’s next?’, Professor of design, Bill Burnett, has five tips for how applying design-based thinking can help you re-envision your life.

Read more

If grapes can survive in space, they can survive anywhere. That was Space Cargo Unlimited’s thought when they sent 320 grapevines to the International Space Station. They hope the grapes will evolve up there to then be able to grow in harsher conditions on Earth. So, in the case of climate disaster, at least there will be wine.

Read more

Love it or hate it, working from home has been part of the ‘new normal’ for nearly a year. And while we’ve enjoyed the extra half hour in bed, we’ve missed the hustle and bustle of the office. Sam Mellish’s new photography collection holds up a mirror to the reality of working from home.

Read more

Have you ever wondered how Stockholm Syndrome got its name? The film industry portrays it as romantic (we’re looking at you Beauty and the Beast), but ultimately illogical. Yet, in the original case, defending the kidnappers might have been the most rational course of action…

Read more

Even your washing has the potential to become a masterpiece. Visual artist Helga Stentzel makes art from the everyday objects around her. Her latest works of ‘household surrealism’ are Pegasus and Smoothie; animals made out of unwanted clothes. More animals coming soon.

Read more

Not literally. But food is an important part of culture. In Singapore, the hawker markets are a physical representation of the country’s identity. They sell food from the Chinese, Malay and Indian communities that live there and have grown and changed alongside Singapore. So much so, that they’re now UNESCO recognised.

Read more

It’s easy to get lost in big questions. We know, we ask them all the time. What if we make the wrong decisions? Should we be doing more? Does what we do even matter? This charmingly illustrated short film reminds us all to stop, breathe, and enjoy the moment. No one knows all the answers.

Read more

When Christoph Niemann looks at an apple, he sees a whisk. As part of his Sunday Series on Instagram, Niemann, who is well known for playing with scale and position, incorporates everyday objects into his illustrations. The result is a collection of quirky and clever compositions.

Read more

Experience your travel plans vicariously through the winning entries of the Sony World Photography Awards 2021. From awe-inducing ariel shots to striking portraits, the images from more than 50 countries capture the earth’s beauty and diversity. So you can explore the world from your own home.

Read more

Graphic artist Anthony Burrill has been busy in lockdown. He’s brought his signature style to a seven-story high mural in central Leeds. In a behind the scenes documentary, Burrill explains how he decided on the design and why it signifies to him “a particular moment and a particular time” during the global crisis.

Read more

The ‘overview effect’ describes how astronauts’ perspectives change when they look down on Earth from space. Benjamin Grant and Timothy Dougherty want everyone to be able to experience this. Their new book uses satellite and aerial imagery to show readers the world from high above.

Read more

Ladybird’s ‘What to Look for’ series has a new look. The books, which were published in the 1950s, have been modernised to teach a new generation of children about the world around them. The new illustrations both celebrate nature and warn of the dangers that threaten it.

Read more

With meticulous attention to detail, Thomas Duke has been recreating famous film scenes in London and beyond. By matching stills from films to the locations in which they were shot, Duke has brought characters from the distant past and magical worlds to familiar modern-day sites.

Read more

The Great Big Art Exhibition is open! From now until April, renowned artists including Ai Weiwei and Sonia Boyce are setting the nation new themes to respond to every fortnight. Everyone is encouraged to draw, sculpt, paint or build their own works of art and display them in their windows. Time to dig out your watercolours.

Read more

No, we’re not a month late – the Chinese New Year begins next Friday. It will mark the start of the Year of the Ox believed to be a symbol of hard work, intelligence and honesty. Did you know that more than a billion people celebrate Chinese New Year, with more fireworks set off in celebration on this night than any other all year round?

Read more

In the UK, 60% of wasted food is still safe to consume: Solveiga Pakštaitė created Mimica Touch to combat this problem. While best before dates provide a worst-case scenario, Pakštaitė’s temperature-sensitive labels give a more accurate indication of whether food is safe to eat combined with a fun tactile twist.

Read more

In partnership with Mailchimp, It’s Nice That presents a new animated series detailing the ups and downs of entrepreneurial life. Brought to life with humour, energy and emotion, the situations the characters find themselves in are easy to relate to, even if you aren’t a business owner.

Read more

It’s curious which things stick in our minds. Why is it that you can remember your 5th birthday party but not what you ate for dinner last week? Whatever the reason, if you want to improve your memory, it might be as simple as chewing gum while you work. Try these tips and see what works for you.

Read more

Over 150 years before the first animated GIF, Belgian physicist Joseph Plateau invented the phenakistoscope. This device showed users a series of images in rapid succession. To viewers, these appeared to be a single moving picture. Colossal has curated a collection of digitised phenakistoscope images.

Read more

As many of us are spending more time at home than ever before, our houses should be somewhere we feel comfortable. The Modern House has put together a list of suggestions for turning your house into a safe haven. While installing a wine tap might seem like a pipe dream, their other ideas are infinitely more doable.

Read more

Tatsuya Tanaka has been crafting scenes from everyday items and tiny figures for 10 years. His work has featured Oreos as pianos and melons as bridges. Recently his art has featured objects that have become synonymous with coronavirus. Facemasks and toilet rolls have transformed from objects that represent the pandemic to ski slopes and camping grounds.

Read more