Surdel Coffee News

Trash treasure: In a Dutch museum, a technician unknowingly tossed a renowned piece of art into the trash, mistaking it for debris. The piece, crafted by Alexandre Lavet to resemble dented beer cans, was part of the LAM Museum’s unconventional displays that transform everyday objects into art and challenge perceptions in delightful ways. A curator, noticing its absence, retrieved the artwork just before it was permanently discarded, saving it just in time. While the technician meant no harm, the museum plans to rethink display placements to prevent such confusion in the future. This amusing mix-up reminds us how art transforms the ordinary into extraordinary, sparking curiosity, reflection, and conversation.

Rock rhythms: Lithophones, stone instruments creating sound when struck, have been played for thousands of years. One from Sudan’s Fourth Cataract region, crafted during the Kerma period sometime between 2500 and 1500 B.C.E., offers insight into ancient ceremonies. This granite slab, marked by percussion zones and cup marks, was played by tapping or dropping stones, producing resonant tones. Positioned for gatherings, it reflects the cultural significance of music in rituals. The worn surfaces reveal their enduring use, connecting us to a time when sound, art, and community intertwined in powerful ways. These melodic stones remind us that even in ancient times, music brought people and communities together.

Justice fulfilled: A Brazilian woman devoted her life to seeking justice after her father’s tragic murder, transforming her grief into determination and action. Following an argument in a bar, her father was killed by a fugitive who evaded capture for decades, despite efforts to find him. Inspired by a promise to her family, she became a police officer, dedicating herself to tracking the man down and bringing him to justice. Her journey led her to a remote farm, where she finally apprehended the man responsible for the crime. The arrest brought long-awaited closure, symbolizing resilience and the power of commitment to family. Her story reminds us that justice, though delayed, can ultimately prevail.

Illusion artistry: British sculptor Alex Chinneck turns the ordinary into the extraordinary with his jaw-dropping illusions. From melting buildings to twisting objects, his playful works challenge reality and leave audiences amazed. Once a painter, he found his true calling in sculpture at Chelsea College of Arts, experimenting with materials like bricks and glass. His public art, like a building façade seemingly ripped apart or a warehouse of shattered windows, mixes whimsy with awe. Inspired by the history and character of places, Chinneck’s creations spark wonder everywhere they appear. With ambitious projects in the U.K. and abroad, his imagination knows no bounds.

Soundtrack surprise: Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs made history as the first film with an official soundtrack, yet none of its songs were nominated for an Oscar. Walt Disney did receive an Honourary Award in 1939 for his groundbreaking achievement.

Cocktail mystery: The Bloody Mary wasn’t always known by its famous name. Originally dubbed “Bucket of Blood,” it evolved through names like “Red Snapper” before becoming the Bloody Mary, possibly honouring Queen Mary I.

Shower sparks: Creativity often happens when the brain’s decision-making areas take a break, like in the shower. This allows other regions to become active, helping us think freely and come up with unique and exciting ideas.

Rabbit quirks: Rabbits’ teeth grow continuously, but they stay short from chewing grasses and vegetables. Their side-facing eyes give them nearly full-circle vision, helping them spot predators while hopping around.

Deodorant anthem: Alternative rock band Nirvana’s song “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” written by Kurt Cobain, got its name from a surprising source: a deodorant. A friend jokingly referenced the brand Teen Spirit, but Cobain misinterpreted it as a rebellious slogan.

What does a baby computer call its father? Data.

A cat ate cheese and waited for the mouse with baited breath.

Did you hear about the guy who invented the door knocker? He won the no-bell prize.

Will: “They say you are what you eat.” Bill: “Then let’s order something rich.”

Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Minneapolis. Minneapolis who? Minneapolis a day keeps many doctors away.