PechaKucha

02/12/2024

Easy as Pie

“Never fry bacon naked, and never trust a topless pie, good advice for baking and for life.”

Greg Jonuk takes us on a heartfelt and humorous journey through the magic of pie-making, sharing wisdom from his grandfather, his passion for baking, and a lifetime of kitchen experiments. From sourcing the perfect berries to crafting a flaky crust, Greg proves that pie isn’t just food, it’s a love letter to tradition, creativity, and community. Get ready to be inspired to roll up your sleeves, grab some flour, and make your kitchen (and your heart) sing with pie.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/easy-as-pie

25/11/2024

Folding the Future: Kinetic Origami in Architecture

“What fascinates me is how subtle internal forces, rather than external manipulation, can transform a static form into a dynamic system.”

Daniel Vrana brings the art of origami into the realm of architecture, exploring how kinetic folding geometries can redefine complex curvature. By manipulating internal forces within modular units, his research reveals how small shifts can generate fluid, adaptable forms that push the boundaries of design and fabrication. With a blend of digital simulations, hands-on experimentation, and innovative thinking, he envisions a world where architecture is as dynamic and versatile as its materials.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/out-of-plane-2

22/11/2024

The Art of Armor in the Renaissance

“The craftsmen of Renaissance armor were not just metalworkers; they were the unsung artists of their time, blending protection with beauty.”

Evan Van Orsow delves into the extraordinary art of Renaissance armor, where metalwork became a blend of innovation, artistry, and status. From chainmail to intricately designed plate armor, he explores the techniques and craftsmanship that turned battlefield necessities into symbols of wealth and power. With riveting tales of embossing, gilding, and etching, his talk unveils how the armorers of the Renaissance were not just artisans but master storytellers in steel.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/the-art-of-armor-in-the-renaissance

20/11/2024

Wine a Little, Laugh A Lot!

“Once the juice starts to flow, you can’t stop. You feel like you’ll be disappointed with yourself if you don’t process every piece of fruit within a 12-kilometer radius.”

Kathleen Angelski humorously chronicles her journey of transforming an unruly pear tree’s inedible fruit into delightful pear wine. From trimming and crushing to the sweet nectar of success, she takes the audience through her hands-on, trial-and-error approach to winemaking. Equal parts crafting, chaos, and community, her story reminds us that perseverance and a little booze can turn any challenge into a toast-worthy triumph.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/wine-a-little-laugh-a-lot

15/11/2024

Return of the Master Builder

“As I evolve, I wish to wear one hat, that of the Master Builder.”
Matthew Hume, an architect and builder with a passion for merging design and construction, takes the audience on a journey into the revival of the "Master Builder." Drawing inspiration from history and his own hands-on experience, he delves into projects that blur the lines between vision and ex*****on. By bridging the gap between architects and builders, Hume reveals a future where creativity and craftsmanship are inseparable.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/return-of-the-master-builder

13/11/2024

What if the Horse Actually Knows The Way?

"Think of the future commute: no more honking or lane changes, just you, a good podcast, and maybe a nap on the way to work!"

Cecil Bothwell explores the revolution of autonomous vehicles and the impact it will have on our cities, jobs, and daily lives. With a mix of wit and insight, he discusses the challenges and opportunities of a driverless world, where cars park themselves, traffic lights disappear, and our urban landscape is forever altered, all while questioning if humans were ever meant to be behind the wheel in the first place.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/what-if-the-horse-actually-knows-the-way

11/11/2024

"Life Afloat in Seattle's Floating Home Community."

Dive into the world of Seattle's floating homes. Taylor O'Neal shares their journey from Kansas dreamer to the proud resident of a bright yellow house on the West Lake. From festive Fourth of July celebrations to unexpected winter snow, Taylor paints a vivid picture of a close-knit community where every ripple and quack creates a sense of belonging.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/floating-home-life

07/11/2024

"The spaces we live in do more than shelter us; they hold our aspirations, our struggles, and our connections."

What defines "home"? Joyce Lam's presentation invites the audience to reconsider the concept of home as she intertwines her personal experiences with broader reflections on identity. Traveling from her birthplace in Hong Kong to her current life in Japan, she explores how various places shape our understanding of belonging. Joyce illustrates how our physical environments are not just backdrops but active participants in our life's journey, influencing who we are and who we aspire to be.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/thinking-about-places

31/10/2024

Happy Halloween from PechaKucha!

As the leaves turn and shadows deepen, we invite you to a thrilling exploration of the monstrous and the mysterious! This Halloween, join us at as our weekly newsletter celebrates a ghastly gathering of presentations featuring everything from Japan's mischievous yokai to elusive cryptids and sanguine vampires. Prepare for a monstrous mix of tales that will enchant, terrify, and tickle your funny bone, as we delve into the eerie and extraordinary world of monsters!
https://pechakucha.activehosted.com/index.php?action=social&chash=a8c88a0055f636e4a163a5e3d16adab7.733&nosocial=1

31/10/2024

"In case of a kappa attack, remember: bow, throw cucumbers, or if all else fails, fart!"

Matt Alt introduces the mischievous yet deadly kappa, one of Japan's most iconic yokai, with humor and practical tips for "surviving" an encounter with this green, frog-like creature. From cucumbers to bowing, Alt dives into the folklore surrounding kappa, their quirky habits, and their place in Japanese culture as both terrifying monsters and beloved mascots.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/how-to-survive-a-kappa-attack

Happy Halloween from PechaKucha!

29/10/2024

"You can’t visit Point Pleasant without taking a selfie with a giant metal Mothman, it's basically a rite of passage!"

Ron Rollins takes a lighthearted dive into the curious world of the Mothman, a legendary creature that haunts the imagination of Point Pleasant, West Virginia. With campy charm and local pride, this small town has transformed sightings of a winged, red-eyed cryptid into a quirky tourist attraction, complete with statues, a museum, and even a festival. Rollins explores how folklore, nostalgia, and a bit of supernatural fun have breathed new life into a once-forgotten place.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/mothman-love

28/10/2024

Crafting Timelessness: The Art of BAPO Design

“Objects endure through time, gathering stories and meanings that transcend their original purpose.”

Joshua Shorey, the visionary behind BAPO Design in Knoxville, transforms the art of furniture making into a profound exploration of time, beauty, and human connection. Merging Medieval aesthetic principles with modern craftsmanship, he creates bespoke pieces that embody wholeness, harmony, and clarity, making each item not just a functional object, but a lasting heirloom filled with personal meaning.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/bapo-design-

24/10/2024

“It’s really important to slow down and let thoughts wander; that’s where imagination thrives.”

Morgan Robinson, a contemporary artist from Stillwater, Oklahoma, transforms wood and metal into organic, abstract sculptures that mirror the natural world. Drawing inspiration from cloud formations, ocean creatures, and anatomy, Morgan’s works explore the delicate balance between raw, natural forms and intricate craftsmanship.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/speaking-an-organic-language

18/10/2024

PechaKucha Press from San Diego!!

Photo collection by World Design Capital 2024

17/10/2024

"The purpose of this craft is to accentuate the beauty that lies within imperfection."

Devon Conrad introduces the ancient Japanese practice of Kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired using gold to emphasize, rather than hide, its cracks. This art form symbolizes resilience and healing. Kintsugi is not just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about honoring the journey and finding beauty in the imperfections.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/the-japanese-art-of-kintsugi

11/10/2024

"By connecting kids on Earth with astronauts in space, we're turning science fiction into science education, one story at a time."

Patricia Tribe blends her passion for space exploration and education in a groundbreaking initiative, "Story Time from Space." She shares how astronauts aboard the International Space Station read stories and conduct science experiments, captivating children's imaginations and bringing the wonders of space down to Earth.

"Space exploration and storytelling share a common goal: to push the boundaries of what we believe is possible."

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/story-time-from-space

09/10/2024

"When you’re miles away from help, your knowledge, preparation, and quick thinking become your most valuable tools."

Mike Schiller, a seasoned Wilderness EMT, shares his expertise in wilderness first aid, guiding you through life-saving techniques when you're miles away from help. From managing injuries and environmental hazards to staying safe in the great outdoors, he reveals how to turn potential disasters into survivable situations.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/wilderness-first-aid

04/10/2024

"Urban farming brings people together, turning underutilized spaces into thriving gardens that nourish both bodies and communities."

Michelle Hong and Angelica Klein explore how urban farming can reconnect people with their food, transform unused spaces into vibrant green havens, and foster stronger communities in bustling cities like Hong Kong. They share the powerful impact of growing food locally — from building social bonds to promoting environmental sustainability.

https://www.pechakucha.com/presentations/building-more-inclusive-and-healthier-communities-with-urban-farming