Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 64

Quantum Technology Advancements in Asia-Pacific: A Regional Powerhouse Emerges

The Asia-Pacific region is rapidly becoming a global hub for quantum technology research and development, with countries across the area making significant strides in this cutting-edge field. A recent report by the Japan Science and Technology Agency’s Asia and Pacific Research Center (APRC) sheds light on the remarkable progress being made in quantum computing, communication, and sensing throughout the region.

Japan stands at the forefront of this quantum revolution, driven by robust government initiatives such as the “Quantum Technology and Innovation Strategy.” The country’s commitment to quantum research is evident in its impressive output of over 13,000 quantum technology papers between 1990 and 2021. Leading institutions like RIKEN, AIST, the University of Tokyo, and Osaka University are spearheading quantum research efforts, while quantum technology innovation hubs foster crucial collaboration between academia and industry.

China has emerged as a dominant force in the quantum landscape, publishing an astounding 27,000 quantum technology papers in the same period. The nation’s comprehensive national strategies, including the 14th Five-Year Plan and the Scientific and Technological Innovation Plan, have positioned China as a key player in the global quantum research arena. The APRC report highlights China’s substantial investment in quantum technologies as a critical factor in its rise to prominence.

India, with approximately 6,000 quantum technology papers published between 1990 and 2021, is making significant strides through its National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications. The country is committed to advancing both basic and applied research in this field, demonstrating its dedication to staying competitive in the quantum race.

Australia, South Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan are also making notable contributions to quantum research and development. Australia has published over 4,000 papers and is investing heavily in quantum fundamentals. South Korea, with 3,443 published papers, has set an ambitious goal of developing a 50-qubit quantum computer by 2024 as part of its Quantum Computing Technology Development Project. Singapore and Taiwan, with 2,399 and 2,116 published papers respectively, are enhancing their quantum research capabilities through government-supported programs and strategic collaborations.

The APRC report emphasizes the crucial role of international collaboration in advancing quantum technologies. Countries in the Asia-Pacific region are actively engaging in joint research initiatives, fostering a collaborative ecosystem that transcends borders. Notable examples include China’s quantum teleportation experiments with the University of Vienna, Australia’s governmental collaborations with the USA and the UK, and Singapore’s partnerships with the UK government and institutes in France and Australia.

As the quantum technology landscape continues to evolve, the Asia-Pacific region is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this transformative field. Through strategic investments, collaborative efforts, and a growing number of key players, the region is well-positioned to lead the global quantum competition in the coming decades. The advancements being made across the Asia-Pacific in quantum computing, communication, and sensing are not only pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge but also paving the way for groundbreaking applications that could revolutionize industries and societies worldwide.

Toots Zynsky: A Journey Through Time in Glass

Heller Gallery proudly presents “Past/Present,” a captivating solo exhibition featuring the extraordinary work of award-winning artist Toots Zynsky. This remarkable showcase, the gallery’s second solo exhibition of Zynsky’s creations, offers a unique glimpse into the artist’s evolution over the decades.

Zynsky’s distinctive style is characterized by her innovative Filet de Verre technique, a process that involves fusing thousands of hair-thin glass filaments to create sculptural vessel forms. These pieces are then meticulously hand-shaped while still hot in her kiln, resulting in undulating forms that are both visually striking and technically impressive.

The exhibition “Past/Present” brings together a carefully curated selection of Zynsky’s works, spanning from the 1980s to her most recent creations. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore 11 pieces from the artist’s archive alongside eight of her latest works, offering a comprehensive view of her artistic journey.

Cardinalis cardinalis 2024, from the Endangered Species series. 18.5″ H x 30″ W.

Zynsky’s relationship with color is profound and deeply personal. As a young artist, she experienced synesthesia, a neurological condition that caused her to perceive music as color. This unique gift has significantly influenced her work, resulting in pieces that are not only visually stunning but also imbued with a sense of musicality and rhythm.

Throughout her five-decade career, Toots Zynsky has established herself as a pioneer in the Studio Glass movement. Her innovative approach and distinctive style have earned her a place in over one hundred international museum and public collections, including prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs du Louvre.

Zynsky’s work has been praised by critics and curators alike for its ability to merge seductive beauty with meaningful references to environmental issues and personal experiences. Arthur C. Danto, the renowned art critic, once described her pieces as possessing a “convulsive beauty,” noting the intense interplay of color, texture, and light in her creations.

The “Past/Present” exhibition not only celebrates Zynsky’s artistic achievements but also marks a new chapter for Heller Gallery. This showcase inaugurates The Curator Lab at 529 West 20th Street, following the gallery’s departure from their Chelsea space in June 2024.

In Zynsky’s own words, “The complexity of life and the complexity of glass are very much alike, sometimes murky, harsh and unworkable, and sometimes serenely beautiful.” This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience the full spectrum of her artistry, from past to present.

“Past/Present” will be on view from January 23 to February 15, 2025, inviting art enthusiasts and glass aficionados to immerse themselves in the luminous world of Toots Zynsky’s extraordinary creations.

Old Egypt 1992. 6.5”H x 11.25”D.

Danish-Italian Artist Sara Lina Unveils Noir-Pop Single “Only Say Yes”

Sara Lina, the Danish-Italian artist, has stepped into 2025 with a bold statement in the form of her latest single, “Only Say Yes”. This flamboyant noir-pop track marks the arrival of a fearless, independent diva poised to captivate listeners with her unique sound and artistic vision.

“Only Say Yes” is a melodic journey that begins with piano tones reminiscent of raindrops on a window pane. The song’s dreamy and sensual atmosphere evokes images of candlelit rooms and solitary dances, creating a world that is both seductive and free. Despite its melancholic undertones, the track celebrates the freedom of spontaneity and embracing life’s experiences, even those that may leave scars.

Only Say Yes

Sara Lina describes the song as a snapshot of carefree living, allowing oneself the liberty to follow immediate impulses and be generous with time and self. The artist reflects on the track’s significance, stating, “It also describes what became the beginning of a four-year journey, where I lived curiously and boundary-pushing, following my own freedom to try everything.”

The genesis of “Only Say Yes” can be traced back to Sara Lina’s transformative experience in Australia. Initially drawn by dreams of sun and surf, she found herself immersed in Melbourne’s gloom, embarking on an unexpected journey into an unknown underworld. This single portrays the young woman who left Denmark, now seen through the lens of the artist who returned, changed by her experiences.

A graduate of Melbourne College of Arts, Sara Lina brings a rich tapestry of influences to her music. Her captivating diva persona and flamboyant noir-pop style set the stage for a narrative that is only beginning to unfold. With “Only Say Yes”, she invites listeners into a world where freedom and self-discovery intertwine, promising an exciting musical journey ahead.

Music enthusiasts and fans of innovative pop can experience Sara Lina’s “Only Say Yes” as it releases today, January 17th, marking a promising start to the artist’s musical endeavors in 2025.

Hubble Unveils Stellar Nursery: Young Stars Reshape Orion Nebula

In a stunning revelation, the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has peered into the cosmic cradle of star formation, capturing an extraordinary view of young stars dramatically altering their celestial environments. This groundbreaking observation focuses on the Orion Nebula, a colossal star-forming region merely 1,500 light-years from Earth, visible to the naked eye as a fuzzy patch below Orion’s belt.

At the heart of this cosmic spectacle lie two fascinating protostars: HOPS 150 and HOPS 153. These celestial infants, identified through the Herschel Orion Protostar Survey, are offering astronomers an unprecedented glimpse into the tumultuous early stages of stellar evolution.

HOPS 150, a binary star system visible in the upper-right corner of Hubble’s image, showcases two young protostars locked in a celestial dance. Each protostar is surrounded by a diminutive, dusty disk from which it voraciously accretes material, steadily growing in mass and energy. A dark, striking feature bisects the luminous glow of these protostars – a massive cloud of gas and dust, over 2,000 times wider than the Earth-Sun distance, slowly collapsing onto the binary system. The infrared signature of HOPS 150 suggests these protostars are midway through their journey to stellar maturity.

In stark contrast, HOPS 153 remains shrouded in mystery, concealed within a dense cocoon of frigid gas. While Hubble’s keen eye cannot penetrate this veil, the protostar’s presence is dramatically announced by a narrow, colorful jet extending across the left side of the image. This energetic outflow, characteristic of very young protostars, carves through the surrounding nebula, heating and dispersing gas in its path.

The juxtaposition of HOPS 150 and HOPS 153 provides astronomers with a unique opportunity to study different stages of stellar evolution within a single frame. As HOPS 153 continues its turbulent infancy, it’s actively reshaping its environment. The protostar’s powerful jets inject energy into the interstellar medium, potentially regulating the formation of nearby stars and even slowing its own growth through this energetic feedback mechanism.

These Hubble observations are revolutionizing our understanding of stellar nurseries. By witnessing firsthand how young stars interact with and modify their surroundings, astronomers are gaining crucial insights into the complex processes that govern star formation. The Orion Nebula, our cosmic neighbor, continues to serve as an invaluable laboratory for unraveling the mysteries of stellar birth and evolution.

As we gaze upon this celestial tableau, we’re reminded of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our universe. From the fiery jets of newborn stars to the delicate interplay of gas and dust, the Orion Nebula tells a story of cosmic creation that has been unfolding for millions of years. Thanks to the unparalleled capabilities of the Hubble Space Telescope, we can now witness these astronomical wonders, expanding our knowledge of the universe and our place within it.

Credit: NASA

Igshaan Adams Brings “Weerhoud” to ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

The ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is set to unveil “Weerhoud,” the first major solo exhibition in the Nordic region by South African artist Igshaan Adams. This groundbreaking showcase promises to immerse visitors in a world where delicate tapestries intertwine with sculptural dust clouds, creating a mesmerizing exploration of trauma, healing, and human resilience.

At the heart of the exhibition lies the titular installation “Weerhoud,” an Afrikaans word meaning “withheld.” This piece, one of Adams’ largest to date, serves as a centerpiece that encapsulates the artist’s profound investigation into the impact of trauma on the human psyche and the transformative power of movement. Adams’ work delves deep into the healing potential of dance, particularly focusing on its ability to fortify human resilience and agency.

Visitors to “Weerhoud” will encounter a rich tapestry of Adams’ artistic vision, including five new works created specifically for this exhibition. Among these is a stunning 6.5 metre-long tapestry, a collaborative piece born from Adams’ work with the South African dance group Garage Dance Ensemble. This monumental work not only showcases Adams’ technical prowess but also embodies his exploration of movement as a catalyst for healing and empowerment.

The exhibition thoughtfully combines Adams’ contemporary creations with carefully selected historical loans, offering a comprehensive view of the artist’s evolving practice and its place within a broader artistic context. Through this juxtaposition, “Weerhoud” invites viewers to contemplate the intricate relationships between past and present, trauma and healing, stillness and motion.

Igshaan Adams, known for his innovative use of materials and his ability to weave complex narratives into his work, has gained international recognition for his unique artistic voice. This exhibition at ARoS Aarhus Art Museum marks a significant milestone in Adams’ career, bringing his thought-provoking and visually stunning work to a new audience in the Nordic region.

“Weerhoud” is the result of a collaborative effort between ARoS Aarhus Art Museum and The Hepworth Wakefield, where the exhibition was first presented in 2024. This partnership underscores the global appeal and significance of Adams’ work, bridging continents and cultures through the universal language of art.

Art enthusiasts and curious minds alike are invited to experience the captivating world of Igshaan Adams’ “Weerhoud” at ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, opening Saturday, 18 January 2025.

Netflix’s “Back in Action”: Cameron Diaz’s Comeback Falls Flat in Formulaic Action Comedy

“Back in Action” is a Netflix movie starring Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx with Glenn Close, Kyle Chandler, McKenna Roberts, and Rylan Jackson.

Cameron Diaz’s much-anticipated return to the screen in Netflix’s “Back in Action” alongside Jamie Foxx proves that star power alone can’t salvage a tepid script. This action-comedy, reminiscent of the “Spy Kids” franchise, attempts to blend family dynamics with espionage thrills but ultimately fails to ignite the screen with any real spark.

The plot revolves around Emily and Matt, former CIA agents turned suburban parents, who find themselves thrust back into the world of espionage. It’s a premise we’ve seen countless times before, and unfortunately, “Back in Action” does little to freshen up the formula. The film’s adherence to well-worn tropes and predictable plot points makes it feel like a relic from a bygone era of Hollywood, rather than a fresh entry in Netflix’s catalog.

Diaz and Foxx, both accomplished comedic actors, struggle to elevate the material they’re given. Their on-screen chemistry, which has shone in previous collaborations, feels muted here, hampered by dialogue that often falls flat and situations that strain credibility even for the genre. The film’s attempts at humor often miss the mark, relying too heavily on tired gags and setups that feel recycled from better movies.

Back in Action

What’s particularly disappointing is the film’s lack of ambition. In an era where audiences crave originality and are more discerning than ever, “Back in Action” plays it frustratingly safe. The action sequences, while competently executed, lack the inventiveness or excitement needed to stand out in a crowded field. Similarly, the family dynamics at the heart of the story feel underdeveloped, missing opportunities to explore the genuine tensions that might arise when parents lead double lives.

The movie’s generic nature is perhaps its biggest downfall. In trying to appeal to everyone, it risks satisfying no one. Families looking for wholesome entertainment might find the action too intense, while action fans could be left wanting more. This middle-of-the-road approach results in a film that’s not memorably bad, but worse – forgettable.

“Back in Action” serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Hollywood today. As the industry grapples with changing viewer habits and the rise of streaming platforms, simply reuniting beloved stars isn’t enough. Audiences crave stories that push boundaries, characters that resonate, and experiences that justify choosing the cinema over the comfort of their couch.

In the end, “Back in Action” feels like a missed opportunity. With talents like Diaz and Foxx at the helm, supported by Netflix’s resources, one can’t help but wonder what could have been achieved with a bolder vision and a willingness to take risks. As it stands, the film is likely to become just another title in the vast sea of Netflix content, briefly trending before fading into obscurity.

For fans of Diaz and Foxx, “Back in Action” might offer a nostalgic glimpse of their on-screen charm. For everyone else, it’s a reminder that in today’s competitive entertainment landscape, playing it safe is perhaps the riskiest move of all.

Where to Watch “Back in Action”

Netflix

The Cast

Cameron DiazJamie Foxx

McKenna Roberts
Rylan Jackson
Glenn Close
Kyle Chandler
Andrew Scott
Jamie Demetriou
Fola Evans-Akingbola

CocoRosie Announces Eighth Studio Album and Releases New Single

Sister duo CocoRosie, comprised of Bianca and Sierra Casady, is set to release their eighth studio album, “Little Death Wishes,” on March 28th through Joyful Noise Recordings. The announcement comes alongside the release of their second single and music video, “Cut Stitch Scar,” offering fans a glimpse into the band’s latest artistic evolution.

“Cut Stitch Scar” delves into the depths of existentialism, mirroring the tumultuous journey through grief and new beginnings. The song’s structure, alternating between sparse and dense arrangements, reflects the unpredictable nature of emotional healing. Bianca Casady’s distinctive quavering vocals deliver poignant lyrics like, “Take a leap of faith, there may not be a plan for you,” encapsulating the song’s theme of embracing uncertainty.

The Casady sisters describe “Cut Stitch Scar” as a piece that “touches the very core of our universal waywardness and the precarious and precious nature of being human.” This sentiment echoes throughout “Little Death Wishes,” an album that promises to be CocoRosie’s most open and tenderhearted work to date.

CocoRosie. Photo: Ginger Dunnill

“Little Death Wishes” continues CocoRosie’s tradition of pushing musical boundaries while addressing profound themes. The album explores generational hardships faced by women, the fragility of human existence, and the aftermath of heartbreak, all woven into a tapestry of avant-garde soundscapes. CocoRosie’s unique ability to transform pain into knowledge and kitsch into fresh truths remains at the forefront of their artistic expression.

For over two decades, Bianca and Sierra Casady have been at the vanguard of experimental music, influencing countless artists and creating a refuge for marginalized voices. Their work extends beyond music, with Bianca pursuing visual art and experimental theater, while Sierra has collaborated with symphony orchestras worldwide.

CocoRosie’s discography spans seven studio albums, each a testament to their evolving artistry. From their 2004 debut “La maison de mon rêve” to 2020’s “Put The Shine On,” the duo has consistently challenged musical norms and listener expectations. Their collaborative spirit has led to projects with renowned director Robert Wilson and the Kronos Quartet, further cementing their place in the avant-garde art world.

As CocoRosie prepares to embark on a European tour in support of “Little Death Wishes,” fans can anticipate a live experience that showcases the sisters’ multifaceted talents. The tour promises to be a celebration of their enduring artistic partnership and a platform for their latest musical explorations.

“Little Death Wishes” is slated for release on March 28th, marking a new chapter in CocoRosie’s illustrious career and offering listeners another opportunity to immerse themselves in the duo’s uniquely crafted sonic universe.

Louisa Gagliardi’s “Many Moons” Debuts at MASI Lugano

Swiss artist Louisa Gagliardi is set to unveil her first institutional solo exhibition in her native Switzerland at the Museo d’arte della Svizzera italiana (MASI) in Lugano. Titled “Many Moons,” the exhibition showcases Gagliardi’s unique artistic vision, blending digital technology with traditional painting techniques to create a fascinating imaginary world.

Born in Sion in 1989, Gagliardi has developed a distinctive style that draws inspiration from various artistic movements, including surrealism, metaphysics, and magical realism. Her work serves as a generational expression of the profound changes taking place in the post-internet era, exploring themes such as the relationship between nature and urban spaces, as well as our perceptions of the domestic sphere and interpersonal relationships.

For this exhibition, Gagliardi will present a new series of paintings and sculptures in a site-specific installation curated for the lower ground floor of the LAC building. Her compositions are known for their unexpected details, mixing the familiar with the unknown, and evoking contrasting emotions. Visitors can expect to be immersed in Gagliardi’s rich visual language, where art history, cinema, advertising, and personal experiences converge to create thought-provoking pieces.

“Many Moons” not only marks a significant milestone in Gagliardi’s career but also offers art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to experience the work of one of Switzerland’s rising contemporary artists. The exhibition will run from February 16 to July 20, 2025, with an opening reception on February 15 at 6 pm.

HBO Unveils New C.B. STRIKE Limited Series

HBO announces the upcoming debut of its latest original limited series, “C.B. STRIKE: THE INK BLACK HEART,” scheduled to premiere this January. The four-episode crime drama will air on HBO and be available for streaming on Max, marking the sixth installment in the C.B. Strike series.

Based on J.K. Rowling’s best-selling crime novels written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, “THE INK BLACK HEART” follows private detectives Strike and Robin as they navigate a complex case involving a murdered creator of a cult TV cartoon and an elusive online troll known as “Anomie.” The investigation plunges the duo into a labyrinth of online aliases, conflicting business interests, and family disputes, pushing them to their limits as they confront the ever-present threat of a mysterious killer.

The series stars Tom Burke and Holliday Grainger, reprising their roles as the intrepid detective duo. They are joined by a talented ensemble cast including David Westhead, Christian McKay, Emma Fielding, Tupele Dorgu, James Nelson-Joyce, Ruth Sheen, Jack Greenlees, Natasha O’Keeffe, and Caitlin Innes Edwards.

“C.B. STRIKE: THE INK BLACK HEART” is adapted for the screen by writer and executive producer Tom Edge, with Sue Tully directing. The series boasts an impressive lineup of executive producers, including J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts, alongside the BBC’s Nick Lambon.

This gripping new chapter in the C.B. Strike saga promises to deliver a thrilling blend of mystery, suspense, and character-driven drama, continuing the series’ tradition of bringing Rowling’s intricate plots and compelling characters to life on screen.

“YOUR MONSTER” Arrives on Max This January

Max subscribers are in for a treat this January as Vertical’s “YOUR MONSTER” makes its global streaming debut exclusively on the platform. HBO viewers can catch the film shortly after its Max premiere.

“YOUR MONSTER” tells the story of Laura Franco, a soft-spoken actor portrayed by Melissa Barrera. After a painful breakup and surgery recovery, Laura retreats to her childhood home, feeling lost and defeated. Adding insult to injury, she discovers her ex-boyfriend is staging a musical they developed together. However, from these challenging life changes emerges an unexpected connection – a monster, played by Tommy Dewey, who encourages Laura to embrace her dreams and inner rage.

This unique tale of self-discovery and unconventional romance features a talented cast including Melissa Barrera, Tommy Dewey, Edmund Donovan, Kayla Foster, and Meghann Fahy. Written and directed by Caroline Lindy, “YOUR MONSTER” is produced by Kayla Foster, Lindy herself, Kira Carstensen, Melanie Donkers, and Shannon Reilly.

Don’t miss this intriguing blend of humor, heart, and a touch of the supernatural as “YOUR MONSTER” finds its new home on Max this January.