Helen Hunt Goes Makeup-Free at LAX—See the Pic!

 GVK/bauergriffinonline.com

While some stars make a point of traveling in style, it appears Helen Hunt is more concerned with traveling in comfort.

Case in point, the actress rocked a seriously laid-back look when she recently landed at Los Angeles International Airport.

Sporting a fleece zip-up, layered tees, loose-fitting khaki pants and comfortable sneakers, the actress proved she's pretty low-maintenance during her time off the red carpet.

Her relaxed travel look also meant she went makeup-free, opting to conceal her face with a baseball cap rather than, say, foundation.

NEWS: Selena Gomez & Uma Thurman also went makeup-free recently

But the 50-year-old nevertheless looked refreshingly fresh-faced as she made her way through the airport.

And while we're all for beautifying before boarding a plane, we're also fans of Hunt's sensible, fuss-free look, which is probably a little easier to deal with when picking up baggage or running from terminal to terminal!

And during this busy holiday travel season when airports are packed and flights are delayed, we can't say we blame Hunt for simplifying things with a casual cozy style.

Do you prefer a laid-back look when traveling? Tell us in the comments!

PHOTOS: Check out more stars without makeup

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Jennifer Lawrence's Pixie, Kim Kardashian's Blond Color and More Shocking Hair Changes of 2013

 Getty Images

It seemed like every month this year a star got a haircut or new hair color. Not small changes either. When celebs visited salons in 2013—they went all out!

The first real jaw-dropper came from Anne Hathaway who hit the Met Gala red carpet with a new platinum hue. While the Oscar winner's lighter shade didn't last long—just three weeks—but here was another newly blond star who did end up keeping her golden locks: Kim Kardashian. The E! star debuted her new mom hair hue in September and is still rocking the look today.

Of course, color is surprising but dramatic haircuts can be downright shocking. So what were some of the most unanticipated crops?

Beyoncé, Jennifer Lawrence, and Jennifer Aniston. The singer and J.Law tie for most buzzed about pixie while the former Friends star wins the bob category.

PHOTOS: More of the most shocking hair changes of 2013

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J. Crew's Jenna Lyons Is Guest Starring in Girls—Watch Her Snidely Judge Hannah in Latest Trailer!

Looks like HBO's Girls is about to get way more stylish.

J. Crew creative director Jenna Lyons is guest starring on the hit series' upcoming third season, and if the trailer is any indication, the stylemaker is definitely bringing her keen fashion sense to the small screen.

Rocking her signature black-rimmed glasses, sleek hair and a J. Crew-catalog-worthy embellished sweater paired with a crisp oxford shirt, the lovely Lyons appears to have had say in what she wears on the show.

However, unlike the style icon, who is always gracious on the red carpet, it appears her fictional alter ego has a bit of an attitude.

VIDEO: Jenna Lyons talks meeting FLOTUS

All signs seem to point to Lyons playing a newly employed Hannah Horvath's (Lena Dunham) new boss.

And in a Devil Wears Prada-esque move, Hannah's new boss lady doesn't seem all too pleased with her hire's love of the company's well-stocked kitchen.

"I see you found the snack room as well," Lyon's character snidely comments as she looks Hannah up and down.

Ouch!

Even if she does play a mean girl, we're sure the always impeccably dressed Lyons will look good while doing so.

And perhaps her style will rub off on the romper-loving Hannah, who seems to have expanded her wardrobe to include a few office-appropriate numbers.

Are you excited about Jenna Lyons' role on Girls?

PHOTOS: Check out Jenna Lyons and more stylemakers of 2013

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Gisele Bündchen Is Pantene's Newest Ambassador—Watch the Video!

 Pantene

Despite having the most envied tresses in the world, Gisele Bündchen has yet to be a spokesmodel for a hair care brand…until now.

Yes, in news that makes perfect sense, the woman who has locks even Jennifer Aniston is jealous of will be Pantene's newest ambassador.

"I feel my hair has been through it all– from being styled more than ten times in one day to enjoying the sun and surf with my children – and Pantene has helped to keep it healthy with every wash, no matter what the day may bring," Gisele shared. "I love that Pantene not only stands for healthy, strong hair, but also encourages women to give back specifically through a program like Pantene Beautiful Lengths."

PHOTOS: Gisele and Vivian's cutest pics

No doubt the deal added at least a few million to Tom Brady's wife bank account—considering she is the world's highest paid supermodel and her last beauty contract with Chanel was reportedly worth $4 million. Whatever the price, clearly she's worth it. After all, this is a woman who as far as we can tell has never had a bad hair day.  

Queen Latifiah, Zooey Deschanel and Eva Mendes are also current spokesmodels for the hair care brand. It was already quite an impressive lineup, but let's be honest now they've got their star player.

For more video from Gisele's Pantene campaign tune in to E! News at 7 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.

PHOTOS: Best of 2013: Most shocking hair changes

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Candice Swanepoel Poses Completely Nude for Vogue Brazil—See the Sexy Pic!

 Zee Nunes/Vogue Brazil

Candice Swanepoel is famous for modeling Victoria Secret's itty-bitty swimwear and lingerie—including the $10 million fantasy bra—so it's no surprise that she seems completely comfortable posing completely nude in the January issue of Vogue Brazil.

Wearing only bangle bracelets, oversize hoop earrings and a colorful hair wrap, the model still manages to cover up somewhat thanks to her very strategic pose of crossing her arms and legs just so. Still the photo—which we'd still label as NSFW—is sure to send a quite a few jaws slamming into the floor.

PHOTOS: Miranda Kerr gets naked. Again.

And this isn't the first time she's been photographed in her birthday suit. Just last month the model stripped down for a very racy shoot with i-D magazine. If she keeps this up, Miranda Kerr's going to have some serious competition.

PHOTOS: Victoria's Secret fantasy bras

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Naya Rivera Gets Diamond Necklace From Fiancé Big Sean for Christmas—See the Pic!

 Jason Merritt/Getty Images; Instagram

We think it's fair to say Naya Rivera's Christmas was both merry and bright.

Yesterday the Glee star posted a close-up picture of what her fiancé Big Sean surprised her with on the holiday: a simple yet stunning diamond necklace. Surely, her rapper beau knew her large diamond engagement ring (which also made an appearance in the snapshot) would match perfectly with her latest sparkler.

And considering the duo is now planning their upcoming nuptials, we're almost positive the bride-to-be will be wearing the holiday gift down the aisle next year.

Meanwhile, we don't think the groom's Christmas gift, a Pac-Man arcade game, will make it to their ceremony. But who's to say there won't be games at the reception?

PHOTOS: Best celeb engagement rings of 2013

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Trendsetters at Work: Bond No. 9

 Jennifer Cooper, E!

For Bond No. 9 fragrance company founder and president Laurice Rahme the smell of success may be sweeter than it is for others.

That's because as part of her job, Rahme literally blends and creates scents at her desk.

So, how does one nab such an enviable gig, and how else does the power woman spend her nine-to-five?

Read on to find out what Rahme revealed about her job:

How did you get started in your career?
Originally, I studied art history in Paris and worked for a well-known antiques dealer—this background of art and authentic heritage informs what we do at Bond No. 9 to this day. After a few years, my passion for beauty and art took me into the heart of the beauty industry: to L'Oreal and from there into the world of perfumes working with some of the greatest names in the fragrance universe. In fact, I came to the United States almost 30 years ago with the famous perfume creator Annick Goutal to introduce her brand and creations to the US market. The time with Annick, her passion about perfume creation and what I have learned from her remain one of my strongest sources of inspiration until today.

What is a typical day like for you?
The perfect day for me begins with 20 minutes of meditation to get centered, followed by an hour of yoga to breathe flexibility into my body and mind. Then I am at my offices on Bond Street from 10 a.m. until about 8 p.m. with different topics to manage and various meetings to attend—for example, calls or meetings regarding sales, accounting, creation, media, and production. Having time for myself in the mornings and then looking to a day full of varied meetings and seeing the business progress is a perfect day for me.

Tell us about your office décor or creative inspiration.
I have been a New Yorker for over 30 years and get inspired every day by life in this city and by its incredible energy. It is always fresh and new and all of us who live here feel that constant renewing fast-paced forward-motion that sparks creativity everywhere. It informs everything we do.

NEWS: Beyoncé to launch third fragrance—all the details!

Jennifer Cooper, E!

Describe your office style.
What do you typically wear to work? I am a very classic dresser and typically wear all black to work. I wear heels every day and have jackets at both of my offices to put on over what I am wearing so that I am always meeting-ready! I wear classic clothing with an uptown flair of accessories. I always come in to work with fragrance-free skin so I can test new fragrances on my arms. This is very important to me because I am constantly creating.

Where do you shop for work clothes?
I like to find unique boutiques from the different New York City neighborhoods. New York has so much to offer I don't like to shop at the same places for my wardrobe. I'm constantly visiting new neighborhoods and getting inspired by the various styles. Sag Harbor has a lot of wonderful boutiques that I enjoy shopping in.

What are your favorite brands of accessories?
I love finding vintage jewelry.  My favorite vintage pieces are my YSL earrings.

My favorite thing on my desk is:
My favorite things on my desk are my lab samples. I have many different lab samples on my desk and I love to test and blend scents. I'm constantly creating.

NEWS: Trendsetters at work: Eva Chen of Lucky magazine

Jennifer Cooper, E!

The best part of my job is…
Creating! The best part of my job is being able to be immersed in my passion for both art and fragrance, having the ability to act on the inspirations I gain from living and working in New York and then inspiring my team to create the next easy-to-wear chic scent.

I never leave home without…
I never leave home without my Blackberry. I am always available for my team and we are in constant contact.

What is your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasures are petite, bite-sized sweets. On occasion, I love to indulge in dark chocolate as well as macaroons.

What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Very early in my career, Robert Salmon at L'Oreal, told me something that has always been most important to me. It is very simple but very powerful. He told me, "Always focus on creativity, all the rest will follow." And it is true! If the product is amazing, unique and created with passion and pride, all the rest will fall into place.

NEWS: Trendsetters at Work: Seventeen Magazine

Jennifer Cooper, E!

What are your travel must-haves?
Whether I am traveling for business or pleasure I always have my iPad and a copy of the New York Times.

What is your go-to lunch? Favorite snack? Morning beverage?
I like to start my day with a cappuccino, extra dry.  My go-to lunch is a kale salad with avocado from The Smile on Bond Street.  I'm a vegetarian and I know I can always depend on The Smile to be quick and fresh.  Throughout the day, I enjoy snacking on almonds.

If I wasn't doing this job, I would be…
An architect!

Can you share some advice for aspiring career girls?
Another piece of advice that I learned early in my career from Robert Salmon at L'Oreal that I would like to share with aspiring career girls is to not be afraid to be different.  He always reminded me that it is important to be myself, not to follow, not to look at what others are doing but to find the path that is right for me.

PHOTOS: Celebrity fragrances

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Curtis Stone's Wish List for Foodies

by Emily Popp Fri., Dec. 20, 2013 1:37 PM PST

Sam Ruttyn/Newspix/Getty Images

If you're looking for the perfect gift for your favorite foodie, then kick up your feet and stay awhile because you've come to the right place. We asked celebrity chef, author and all around good-natured Aussie Curtis Stone to dish on his favorite foodie gifts for the holiday season.

The What's for Dinner? author and Top Chef Masters host hand-selected the cookbooks, kitchen tools and tasty treats that are inspiring him the most right now. From pasta makers to scrumptious peppermint candy, he's got some truly fantastic gourmet goods on his wish list.

So if you still need to find something for the home chef in your life (and you're kinda clueless in the kitchen), then thank Curtis Stone because he did the hard work for you and found a whole selection of goodies that will satisfy every last epicurean on your list. 

PHOTOS: Curtis Stone's Wish List for Foodies 

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Anna Camp's 3 Rules for Holiday Entertaining

by Bobby Schuessler Tue., Dec. 24, 2013 1:45 PM PST

Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images

The most wonderful time of year is here. So, you know what that means. Bring on the trees, tinsel and loads of presents. But, what's a holiday without a really good party to celebrate? Seriously. There's no better way to ring in the joyous season with loved ones than with a really fun and joyous soiree. Are we right?

But, how do you have the ultimate festive fete? You know, one your guests talk about the entire next year? Don't worry, we're not going to make you think. We went straight to one of Hollywood's brightest stars, Anna Camp, to get the scoop

When she's not on set (whether that's on True Blood, The Mindy Project or Pitch Perfect), this beauty is relaxing and hanging out with her family—which she's especially excited to do this holiday season. So, what exactly will she be doing with her fam? We caught up with the actress at the Club Monaco flagship store opening in New York City to get her three rules for holiday entertaining.

PHOTOS: Gift ideas for hostesses

Here's what she shared:

1. Get Really Good Alcohol: "Make sure you have a great holiday themed drink at any holiday party," she says. Whether you're into spiked eggnog or maybe something fancier like a special holiday-themed martini, giving your guests a fun cocktail upon arrival will start the night out right.

PHOTOS: Stocking stuffers

2. Wear Something Sparkly: "You have to wear something sparkly," she says. If you're the host, looking great is a must—all eyes will be on you! Our suggestion? Try a gold glitzy blouse with an embroidered skirt, fun stacking bracelets and chic (yet comfy) heels. Not a glitter kind of girl? That's okay, you can still pack major sparkle punch with simple accessories like necklaces and earrings, too.

3. Whip Out a Game:  The ultimate way to ensure your guests have fun? Play an old-school game "Always have a great party game," she says. "I'm thinking Twister this year!"

Great entertaining advice, Anna!

PHOTOS: Stars share their entertaining tips

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Jessica Seinfeld Gets a Pixie Haircut—Take a Look!

 Instagram

According to Jessica Seinfeld's Instagram, she's been rocking a pixie cut since December 9, but in case you didn't click on her video back then, she gave fans a better look at her shorter hairstyle in a sweet selfie with husband Jerry Seinfeld yesterday.

"Merry Christmas, from these two Jews. Married 14 years ago today." She captioned the adorable photo, which features the couple hugging in the snow. We definitely went "awww" when we first saw the image but then quickly followed up with an "Ooh!" when we saw her new 'do—in a good way, of course.

PHOTOS: Stars with pixie cuts

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images; Instagram

While Jessica's pixie cut could be the last celebrity cut of the year—we've only got five days left!—we're pretty sure the short hair trend won't stop when the ball drops.

So the real question is: Which celeb will be first to chop it all off in 2014?

PHOTOS:  Best of 2013: Most shocking hair changes

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Kylie Jenner Takes Us Behind-the-Scenes of Her Seventeen Prom Shoot—Watch Now!

While most of us our still deciding what we're going to wear on New Year's Eve, Kylie Jenner is already thinking about prom dresses.

That's because the 16-year-old recently modeled one glitzy prom gown after another for a stunning Seventeen magazine shoot.

We may have already seen her cover for the publication's annual prom issue, but now Jenner is giving us a sneak peek at what we'll see in the glossy's pages with a behind-the-scenes vlog.

"We did kind of the old Hollywood look," said Jenner, who rocked a red lip and retro glam curls for the shoot.

NEWS: Kylie Jenner says she's single, would go to prom with "best guy griend" Jaden Smith

From sparkly embellished floor-length gowns to fun and flirty fit-and-flare dresses, it appears the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star shows off styles to suit just about every trendy teen. Plus, cute final touches like a bow-shaped necklace and hard-to-miss nail art, prove Jenner and the Seventeen team definitely didn't forgotten about the little details that pull a prom look together.

So, which look did Jenner prefer? Her answer might surprise you.

"My favorite part was probably the pink Lincoln—it's amazing," she said of the girly car she posed alongside for one particular shot. "I want it, they're laughing."

Hey, makes sense to us. A stylish gal needs an equally stylish set of wheels, after all!

PHOTOS: Check out Kylie Jenner's sweet 16 pics

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Elle Macpherson Shows Us How to Style Two Chic Snow-Friendly Outfits—See the Pics!

 AKM-GSI

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Elle Macpherson recently showed off her snow-ready style while out and about in Aspen.

The leggy lady made a chic statement on the slopes, adding a little flair to her practical black ski pants and orange zip-up by reaching for a cool heather gray sweater and topping her look off with a fun pom pom hat. As for accessories, the amazing-looking Aussie sported a vibrant pair of red-framed sunnies—and her ski pass, of course.

NEWS: Katy Perry and Rihanna get ready for Christmas with fun nails

AKM-GSI

But if you're more a snow bunny than a skier, you can still find style inspiration from Macpherson, who took a break from the slopes to do a little shopping in another super-cute cold weather look.

This time around, the 49-year-old added a festive touch to her on-trend plaid shirt, by throwing on an adorable Christmas sweater over her button-down.

Who knew Christmas sweaters could be fashion forward?

For an added dose of fun, the star wore her hair in two braids, which she wore under a fabulously furry hat that she coordinated perfectly with her fur-trimmed boots.

All in all, Macpherson shows us the perfect way to build a cool holiday outfit around a basic pair of black tights that most women own.

Now if only we could figure out how to get her gorgeous gams…

PHOTOS: Celebrity Christmas cards

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Heidi Klum Slathers On Mud Mask for Post-Christmas Beauty Treatment—See the Pic!

 Instagram

There's no doubt plenty of women would love to know how Heidi Klum keeps her skin looking so stunning at 40 years of age.

Lucky for them, the Project Runway host recently revealed one of her beauty secrets.

Turns out the leggy lady is a fan of facials, specifically mud treatments which are known to combat oily skin and deep clean pores.

"Facial time," the mother of four captioned an Instagram selfie, which shows her face covered in a beige-colored mask.

NEWS: Helen Hunt goes makeup-free at LAX—see the pic!

We'd say the German beauty probably needed a little "me time" after prepping a holiday celebration for her brood—Leni, 9, Henry, 8, Johan, 7, and 4-year-old Lou—but it seems she was prepared for Christmas long before December

"I start in the summer!" Klum recently told E! News about getting a jump on Christmas shopping. "I start everything early. I'm a planner. You have to be organized. I have lists—pages and pages of lists."

Given the time and care she dedicates to finding the perfect present for friends and family, it's nice to see the supermodel also took time to treat herself to a little something this holiday season!

PHOTOS: Check out more celebrity selfies

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Best and Worst Magazine Covers of 2013: Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lawrence & More High-Selling Stars

 US Weekly

When it comes to selling out tabloids, one family reigns supreme: The Kardashians. According to AdWeek, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, and even matriarch Kris Jenner dominated weekly magazine sales in 2013.

Coming in close second was another very famous clan: the royals. Thanks to the birth of Prince George, the future king and his parents Prince William and Kate Middleton also caused glossy periodicals to fly off the shelves.

Meanwhile, monthly magazines were a completely different story. A-listers such as Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore and Beyoncé continued to performed well while others—Jennifer Lopez(Harper's Bazaar), Jessica Biel (Elle), and Katy Perry (Vogue)—seemed to drop significantly in popularity.

PHOTOS:  Best of 2013: The royals

Vogue

Jennifer Lawrence, continued to have her best year ever, and helped boost sales of any publication she appeared (á la Vogue). The same can also be said of Lauren Conrad, who helped give Marie Claire and Lucky their second highest-selling issues.

PHOTOS: 2013 September issue cover stars

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Best of 2013: Watch Our Most Fabulous Tips for Updating Your Wardrobe, Hair & More

This year, we strove to bring you expert advice on leading the most fabulous life possible.

And now that the year is drawing to a close, we thought we'd revisit some of the most helpful lifestyle tips we presented in 2013. After all, resolutions for self-improvement abound during this time! So, whether you're looking to makeover your wardrobe or a neglected room, we're here to coach you on making 2014 one of your most stylish years yet!

First things first: Every gal wants an amazing outfit on New Year's Eve. And though some of us might resolve to be a little more frugal in 2014, that doesn't mean we have to be any less fabulous. For the babe on a budget, we clue you in on how to find expensive-looking threads on the cheap!

PHOTOS: Most shocking hair changes of 2013

If you've found a pair of matching killer heels are just that—killer!—we have a few suggestions to help keep you dancing long after midnight. Prevent tearing up your tooties with a pair of stability-boosting wedges or platform stilettos. Plus, watch the video for the secret to taking the pressure off the balls of your feet without giving up your stylish sky-high shoes!

PHOTOS: Biggest weddings of 2013

Eek! Didn't have time to book an appointment with your stylist before your big night out? For a fast and fierce update to your ‘do, check out these tips for creating the perfect face-framing bangs at home!

PHOTOS: Baby bumps of 2013

OK, so we have your outfit, shoes and hair covered, but what if its your surroundings that need a style boost? If you're a workaholic like us, then you end up spending a lot of your time at the office. So, why not spruce it up? Giuliana Rancic's interior designer Lonni Paul gives us a peek at the star's personal work space and shows us how she tackled such issues as hiding unsightly wires and creating chic yet effective lumbar support.

PHOTOS: Celeb engagement rings

And since we definitely want a healthy balance between our work and personal life in the New Year, we'll also make sure to practice some of these style tips that will take our look from the office to happy hour with the simple addition of a few key accessories.

PHOTOS: Best red carpet moments of 2013

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The Hunger Games:Catching Fire's Jena Malone Covers Foam Magazine

 FOAM Magazine

Jena Malone dropped F-bombs and stripped naked while playing Johanna Mason in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, but off screen she has a hobby that taps into her quieter side: photography.

"Basically, it's just about control," she says in the February issue of Foam magazine. "When I'm acting, I'm just one of the variables, but [with photography] I get to figure out everything: the props, the setting, the tone, the texture."

Having artistic outlets is important to the star who also shared: "I can't really control my creative impulses; I just have to follow and respect them."

VIDEO: Jena Malone talks awkward Catching Fire elevator striptease

One thing she does control? Her life inside the Hollywood bubble—something she's been dealing with since she was very young. But unlike many child stars she says she avoided a lot of the celebrity pitfalls thanks to her strong will. "I never let anyone tell me what I should be doing," she says. "I think that was the thing that kept me normal."

The February issue of the mag hits newsstands Jan. 14.

PHOTOS: Hunger Games: Catching Fire Premiere looks

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Kate Middleton Switches Outfits on Christmas Day—See Both of the Duchess' Festive Looks

 Chris Jackson/Getty Images

While many of us stayed in our PJ's all day yesterday, Kate Middleton celebrated Christmas in not one but two outfits.

She started off the holiday in a cream coat and large red tartan print scarf, which she paired with her suede boots and matching black gloves. It was in this outfit that she attended a private service with her husband Prince William and Queen Elizabeth II.

Then later that day, the entire royal family—including a very bearded Prince Harry—joined together for the official annual church service at St. Mary Magdalene Church. For this ceremony, Kate was seen in another tartan look—a green and blue Alexander McQueen coat dress with Gina Foster hat. Her gloves and boots stayed the same.

NEWS: Prince George enjoyed a "lovely" first Christmas

Chris Jackson/Getty Images

In typical Kate style, the second look was a fashion repeat.  The Duchess of Cambridge previously wore the outfit when she played hockey while visiting her old school St. Andrews last November.  

Which of Kate's Christmas looks did you like better?

PHOTOS: Kate Middleton's post-pregnancy style

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Best of 2013: Biggest Celeb Weddings of the Year

 X17, Koby & Terilyn Brown, Archetype Studio Inc., FameFlynet

Love was in the air in 2013!

We heard wedding bells ringing throughout the year as many a celeb tied the knot to that special someone.

But just as every romance is unique, so too is every twosome's wedding day.

And while some famous couples made the most of their whopping budgets, others opted for low-key yet lovely nuptials.

Take Aaron Paul and his gorgeous bride Lauren Parsekian who said "I do" with an elaborate carnival-themed Malibu affair that included a performance by John Mayer and indie band Foster the People!

NEWS: Best celeb baby bumps of 2013: Kate Middleton & More

Kelly Clarkson and now hubby Brandon Blackstock, on the other hand, skipped a big bash in favor of an intimate affair that took place at a picturesque farm in Walland, Tenn.

"It's just gonna be literally, seriously small," the singer told E! News prior to saying "I do."

But perhaps no celebrity wedding was quite as laidback as Keira Knightley and James Righton's casual ceremony.

 The bride wore a recycled dress paired with no-nonsense flats, and the couple exchanged vows among 10 guests at a town hall in the South of France.

PHOTOS: Check out more of the best celeb weddings of 2013

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2013 Celeb Slimdowns: Christina Aguilera's Fab New Figure, Kim Kardashian's Fit Post-Baby Body & More

 Jason Merritt/Getty Images

If losing weight is one of your resolutions for the New Year, you may want to look to some of our fave celebs for a little inspiration!

Proving that it is indeed possible to win the battle of the bulge, stars took to the red carpet and even Twitter to show off newly slimmed down figures.

And though they had varying reasons for shedding the weight, the result was the same across the board: a fab physique!

Take Christina Aguilera who looked significantly thinner walking the red carpet at the 2013 American Music Awards than she did at the 2012 show. Looking slender and sleek in a body-hugging white gown, the stunning singer shows us what a difference a year makes!

NEWS: Best celebrity baby bumps of 2013

And then there were those A-listers who took just a few months after giving birth to bounce back to their pre-baby bodies. Kate Middleton and Kim Kardashian, we're looking at you!

Of course, some celebs, like Chris Pratt, who wowed us with his washboard abs, had a little incentive for transforming their body. The Parks And Recreation star picked up the six-pack for his role in role in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy.

Not a bad job perk if you ask us!

PHOTOS: Check out more celebs who slimmed down in 2013

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Isabella Cruise Shaves Off Pixie, Debuts Red Buzz Cut on Her 21st Birthday

 Instagram

Well, there's officially one celebrity that's over the pixie haircut: Isabella Cruise. Tom Cruise's daughter celebrated her 21st birthday by debuting a bright red buzz cut while at Disney World with her brother, Connor Cruise.

It has been quite a colorful year in hair for the Mission Impossible actor's daughter. She started out 2013 with as a readhead with a chin-length style—a similar hue to mother Nicole Kidman's natural tint—but by February she was rocking what would become the year's most popular cut: the pixie. Her short crop was in a lavender shade until March when she debuted the bold blue-green mix. In October, she changed to a platinum blond color, and now she is finishing the year with a scarlet shade.

PHOTOS: Celebrity hair color changes

With all the quick changes to her 'do it seems like she is becoming quite the hair chameleon—almost on Rihanna's level! We're curious to see what colors and cuts Isabella will try in 2014.

PHOTOS: Best of 2013: Most shocking hair changes

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Mouth of the Thames

Steve Kurtz, Critical Art Ensemble, YoHa

Talk:

TAP - Temporary Arts Projects

The Old Waterworks
North Road
Southend on Sea
SS0 7AB

Workshop:

Coal Hole
Old Leigh
Leigh-on-Sea 

27/09/2013 – 28/09/2013
7pm

YoHa, Critical Art Ensemble and The Arts Catalyst are beginning some exploratory work around how the logics of the Thames Estuary gets built and what this might mean for those who iive there. The Thames estuary is a complex collection of objects, atmospheres and flows that cannot readily be reduced to scientific methods and models. The estuary is changing beyond the flows of creeks, the largest container port in the UK is quietly being built on the site of an old oil refinery at Coryton, Essex, dredging a channel 100km east out to sea. London needs a new airport, a new Thames barrier, wind farms. The estuary is changing beyond the flows of creeks, the largest container port in the UK is quietly being built on the site of an old oil refinery at Coryton, Essex, dredging a channel 100km east out to sea. London needs a new airport, a new Thames barrier, wind farms. 

We are holding a workshop in the Coal Hole, Leigh-on-Sea, on the afternoon of Saturday 28 September 2013. As an appetiser we have invited Steve Kurtz from Critical Art Ensemble to talk about how they approach their work on Friday 27 September 2013 at 7pm at TAP - Temporary Arts Projects in Southend on Sea. Book free ticket by email info(at)t-a-p.org.uk

Steve Kurtz is a founding member of Critical Art Ensemble, a collective of tactical media practitioners of various specializations including computer graphics and web design, film/video, photography, text art, book art, and performance. Formed in 1987, Critical Art Ensemble's focus has been on the exploration of the intersections between art, critical theory, technology, and political activism. The group has exhibited and performed at diverse venues internationally, ranging from the street, to the museum, to the internet. Museum exhibitions include the Whitney Museum and The New Museum in NYC; The Corcoran Museum in Washington D.C.; The ICA, London; The MCA, Chicago; Schirn Kunsthalle, Frankfurt; Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris; and The London Museum of Natural History. The collective has written 6 books.

Local artists Graham Harwood and Matsuko Yokokoji (YoHa English translation 'aftermath') have lived and worked together since 1994.   YoHa's graphic vision, technical tinkering, has powered several celebrated collaborations establishing an international reputation for pioneering critical arts projects. Harwood and Yokokoji's co founded the artists group Mongrel (1996-2007)and established the MediaShed a free-media lab (2005-2008). In 2008 theyjoined Richard Wright to produce Tantalum Memorial shown in 9 countries and15 cities over 4 years. In 2010 YoHa produced Coal Fired Computers before embarking on a series of works about the lived logics of database machinery including Invisible Airs in 2011 and Endless War 2012.

www.critical-art.net/
yoha.co.uk/cfc
www.t-a-p.org.uk/events.html

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SEFT-1 / Los Ferronautas

Andrés Padilla Domene, Iván Puig Domene, Los Ferronautas

Blackburn and NW England

FACT
Wood Street
Liverpool
L1 4DQ

10/09/2013 – 05/10/2013

The spectacular SEFT-1 is a road and rail vehicle created by Mexican artists – and brothers – Iván Puig and Andrés Padilla Domene, known together as Los Ferronautas.  The vehicle’s premiere UK expedition began in September with a month-long residency with Abandon Normal Devices (AND Festival)

AND Festival opening - Thursday 3 October, 6.30pm, Ropewalks Square, Liverpool more

The Future of Transport - talk by Los Ferronautas, Saturday 5 October, 4-5pm, AND Festival Hub, Liverpool more

SEFT is an acronym for the Spanish Sonda de Exploración Ferroviaria Tripulada (Manned Railway Exploration Probe). Designed to hijack tracks and traverse natural landscapes, the vehicle functions as a research device searching for otherworldly pasts and infrastructural histories. Its early adventures include journeys along the abandoned railways of Mexico and Ecuador.

The vehicle’s premiere UK expedition will begin in September 2013 with a month-long residency. Its base will be a canalside atelier in Blackburn where Los Ferronautas will experiment with how to make the vehicle buoyant for future expeditions on canals and waterways. From Blackburn they will make a series of forays across the Northwest of England, presenting a programme of talks, film screenings and pop-up events as they wend their way to AND in Liverpool.

On its expeditions, SEFT-1 will survey the landscape and infrastructure along selected routes, documenting its encounters with interviews, photography, video, audio and text. This activity will be transmitted online, making it possible to monitor the status of the probe, trace its location and view details of what it discovers en route.

SEFT-1 is presented in partnership with Abandon Normal Devices

Andrés was born in 1986 in Guadalajara, Mexico, and was educated there in Media Arts. He has exhibited his work in various festivals and exhibitions among which are: ISEA 2012 Main Exhibition (Albuquerque, New Mexico), The Dreams of a Nation, a year later, at The National Museum of Art MUNAL (Mexico City, 2011), 04 Transitio_MX (Mexico, 2011), What’s on your mind, Narratives of the counterfeit personae, World Bank Headquarters (Washington DC, 2011), Project Zocalo, Mexico City Museum (Mexico City, 2010) and EFRC, Centro de Arte Contemporáneo (Qutio, Ecuador, 2012). His video work as director and producer with Camper Media (http://www.campermedia.com) includes documentaries, fiction films and TV shows. In 2008 he was a Fellow of the State Fund for Culture and Arts of Jalisco with the project Ferroproyección. From 2007 he has developed along with Iván Puig the project SEFT-1.

Iván Puig Domene was born in 1977 in Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico. He spent his first years between the streets of Guadalajara, the tropical jungle of Comala and the car junks of Tijuana, circumstances that where important for his later art production. He did studies in electronics in Guadalajara and Fine Arts in Guanajuato.

The techniques that Puig uses are not what determines his work since he jumps from one to another. The line that connects it all is the critical perspective and the humour present in his observations of the social environment. Indignation has been an important trigger for the subjects he approaches, and one of his concerns is the time consuming collateral activity related to the professionalisation of art, such as writing biographies in third person. For 7 years he has been working on the project SEFT-1 with his brother Andrés Padilla Domene. His award winning work has been shown in Mexico and abroad.  www.ivanpuig.net

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Ice Lab: New Architecture and Science in Antarctica

Ice Lab will present some of the most innovative and progressive examples of contemporary architecture in Antarctica.  The first exhibition of its kind, it will draw together projects that not only utilise cutting-edge technology and engineering, but have equally considered aesthetics, sustainability and human needs in their ground-breaking designs for research stations.

Initiated by the British Council and curated by The Arts Catalyst, Ice Lab will feature four international projects: Halley VI, UK (Hugh Brougton Architects) Princess Elizabeth, Belgium (International Polar Foundation), Bharati, India (bof architekten/IMS), Jang Bogo, South Korea (Space Group), and the Iceberg Living Station (MAP Architects) – a speculative design for a future research station to be entirely made from compacted snow.

The visually rich exhibition will also highlight the diverse science that takes place on the frozen continent – from collecting 4.5 billion year old meteorites that illuminate how the solar system was formed to drilling ice cores whose bubbles of ancient air reveal the earth’s climate history; from cutting edge astronomy peering into the world’s clearest skies to studying its Dry Valleys, the closest thing to ‘Mars on Earth’.

Torsten Lauschmann has made two a new audio and light works, 'Whistler' and 'Ice Diamond', in response to a commission from The Arts Catalyst especially for the exhibition.  The Glasgow-based artist will create this work in collaboration with ‘We Made That’, the exhibition’s designers.

Drawing on a number of archives and collections Ice Lab will include original drawings, models, photographs, films, ephemera and sources of inspiration for these highly specialised, sci-fi looking infrastructures – the closest thing to future space stations on the Moon and on Mars.

The featured projects are:

British Antarctic Survey’s Halley VI The first fully relocatable polar research station in the world became fully operational in February 2013 and signals a new dawn for 21st Century polar research. Opening 100 years after Captain Scott’s famed Antarctic expeditions, this new state of the art facility, designed by Hugh Broughton Architects and engineered by AECOM (UK) fulfils the UK’s ambition to remain at the forefront of scientific endeavour. Located 10,000 miles from the UK on a floating ice shelf, the new station is designed to be self-sufficient, able to withstand freezing winter temperatures of minus 55ºC, have minimal impact on Antarctica’s pristine environment, and be an aesthetically stimulating place to live and work.

Princess Elisabeth Antarctica Conceived, designed, constructed and operated by the International Polar Foundation (Belgium), Princess Elisabeth is Antarctica's first zero-emission station. Perched on a nunatuk, 200km from the coast, at an altitude of 1400m, the aerodynamic stainless steel structure can withstand strong Antarctic wind, and is layered so that no form of interior heating is needed. The station seamlessly integrates renewable wind and solar energy, water treatment facilities, passive building technologies and a smart grid for maximising energy efficiency.

Bharati Research Station India’s third Antarctic research station by bof Architekten / IMS (Germany) is a striking modernist structure made from 134 prefabricated shipping containers. Wrapped in a special aluminium case its extensive glazing offers magnificent panoramic views whilst withstanding powerful winds, below 40 degree Celsius temperatures, blizzards and unfathomable loads.

Jang Bogo Korea is becoming a significant player in Antarctic research and Jang Bogo, by Space Group (South Korea), will be one of the largest year-round bases on the continent when it opens in 2014. The station’s aerodynamic triple-arm design will provide resistance to the elements and accommodate up to 60 personnel during the busy summer season.

Iceberg Living Station A speculative design by David Garcia / MAP Architects (Denmark) for a future research station made entirely from ice, Iceberg Living Station negates the need to transport foreign materials to Antarctica. The station will be holed out of a large iceberg, using caterpillar excavators that are traditionally used to clear snow. It will eventually melt, resolving the issue of removing it at the end of its life course.

Architecture and Design Scotland is presenting a varied events programme of film screenings, talks and workshops in architecture, design and science. 
For bookings and further information please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Ice Lab Pecha Kucha
6pm 2 Oct 2013
Tickets £6/£3
An evening exploration of extreme architecture, science and sustainability featuring an entertaining mix of architects, filmmakers, climate change scientists and designers.

MOSI is presenting a series of Ice Lab related events during Manchester Science Festival.  Details and booking information www.manchestersciencefestival.com

Polar research stations: Meeting the challenge of isolated living
Fri 25 Oct 2013 6.30pm, doors open 6pm
Hugh Broughton, architect of a US observatory on the Greenland ice cap and two Antarctic Research Stations, discusses the design of his polar projects and examines the ways in which the technologies and design principles employed in Polar Regions can be used to ensure environmentally responsible and resilient development elsewhere on the planet for generations to come.
Book online

Architecture in the extreme environments
Fri 1 Nov 2013 6.30pm, doors open 6pm
Architect David A Garcia travels from pole to pole, through a series of speculative and pragmatic projects, to discuss a new language and approach to architecture in extreme environments.
Book online

Accompanying the exhibition there is a publication with essays written by Dr David Walton (British Antarctic Survey and author of the recent ‘Antarctica: Global Science from a Frozen Continent’) and Sam Jacob (co-founder of FAT architects, lecturer and writer).  This is available in electronic book and print format. 

Commissioned and organised by the British Council and curated by The Arts Catalyst

The Lighthouse

A+DS - Architecture and Design Scotland

MOSI - Museum of Science and Industry

Torsten Lauschmann

We Made That

View the original article here

Nuclear Culture

The nose of a UK Astute class nuclear submarine rolls through the streets of Barrow-In-Furness. Image from BBC Technology.

A curatorial research project led by Ele Carpenter, in partnership with the Arts Catalyst and Goldsmiths College, University of London. Supported through an AHRC early career research fellowship.

Nuclear Culture is curatorial exploration of the conceptual and cultural challenges of dismantling nuclear submarines in the UK. The problem of dismantling is a current political issue and high-risk environmental challenge. From a military perspective the issue is viewed as a technical problem that can be resolved by engineering and technology.

Inviting artists to consider the aesthetic, conceptual, ethical and cultural concerns of nuclear submarines in conjunction with experts in the field, the research will investigate complex issues of power, visibility, and political representation, as well as having a keen material and conceptual interest in the socio-political history, and conceptual nature of nuclear weapons. The project aims to bring together scientists, engineers and community activists with artists and ethicists to develop new opportunities for creative practice investigating nuclear culture. Whilst there is much research into nuclear technologies, there is little analysis of the cultural and conceptual questions of nuclear materials within the language of visual art.

The Nuclear Culture website is currently in progress. The site will publish ongoing research articles, interviews and information about the Nuclear Culture research project including events such as the Nuclear Symposium and Film Programme in April.   http://nuclear.artscatalyst.org/

Both talks are open to the public and everyone is welcome.What nuclear culture in 21st Century? Can artists broaden the language of nuclear discourse? How are artists engaging with nuclear questions and concepts? Should art play a role in communicating radioactive sites for the future? How do we perceive risk? What kind of dialogue do we need to take place?  What kind of legacy do we want to leave for the future? What kind of nuclear folklores will emerge?

Ele Carpenter is researching these questions to create a context for commissioning artists and curating exhibitions to reveal how nuclear knowledge and experience changes the way in which we see and understand the world. Internationally, artists are making work in direct response to nuclear weapons, power and waste. Their practices contribute to a conceptual enquiry into the characteristics of radioactive materials across time, including aesthetic, material and social-political concerns.

The term ‘Nuclear Culture’ can be used to identify the way in which nuclear concerns are explored in cultural forms, ie art, music, film. But it can also be used to think about the nuclear industry in terms of cultural behavior; this includes decision-making structures, and the way in which society accepts or resists nuclear energy, weapons, waste storage and the variability of perceived risk. Through cultural and aesthetic analysis we can use theoretical frameworks to understand and articulate our contemporary experience of the nuclear, and to develop new forms of nuclear critique.

Nuclear Culture in Japan: An Introduction to the research residency with S-AIR.
Field Note 1: Sapporo: Art and Nuclear Culture from the perspective of Sapporo.
Transforming the Water Cycle: Review of Niwa Yoshinori's artwork at the 500m Gallery.

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HeHe, Fracking Futures

HeHe, Helen Evans, Heiko Hansen

FACT
Wood Street
Liverpool, L1 4DQ
UK

13/06/2013 – 15/09/2013
Weekdays and Sunday: 12 - 6pm, Saturday: 11am - 6pm

free

Fracking Futures - a new spectacular artwork and mini-disaster by the Paris-based artist duo Hehe, (Helen Evans and Heiko Hansen), who in collaboration with The Arts Catalyst, are turning FACT Liverpool’s main gallery into an industrial landscape in a playful and provocative commentary on crises of global economy, threats of environmental catastrophe and struggles of public institutions in times of austerity.

The Prix Ars Electronica award-winners warn the drilling could result in unquantifiable subterranean noise as tectonic plates shift, minor ground tremors are a possibility, and diluted chemicals used during the fracking process will be sprayed into the air as they mischievously turn FACT's Gallery 1 into a temporary, experimental drilling site for hydraulic fracturing on a micro scale.

HeHe use a language based on light, sound and image, their practice explores the relationship between the individual and their architectural, social and urban environment, often creating playful miniature representations of vehicles or intervening directly with light projections and large-scale visual interruptions. They make a provocative commentary on crises of global economy, threats of environmental catastrophes and struggles of public institutions in times of austerity.

They hope this multi-sensory installation will highlight the importance and current relevance of the debates surrounding the fracking process, which are not only significant environmentally, but also economically. The installation will refrain from making judgements for or against fracking, rather offering a platform on which discussion can begin.

Fracking Futures not only illustrates the potential dangers and disruptions of the process, but also considers fracking as an alternative source of energy and subsequent potential for commerce and growth. Whether this last point is genuine or tongue-in-cheek is for the visitor to decide….

Part of FACT’s 10th anniversary exhibition Turning FACT Inside Out until 15 September at FACT, Liverpool.

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Republic of the Moon - London

Agnes Meyer-Brandis, Leonid Tishkov, Katie Paterson, Liliane Lijn, WE COLONISED THE MOON, Hagen Betzwieser, Sue Corke, Joanna Griffin, Tomas Saraceno

Bargehouse
Oxo Tower Wharf
South Bank
London SE1 9PH
UK

10/01/2014 – 02/02/2014
11am-6pm daily, late opening 6.30-8.30pm Thursday 9 January and 6.30-10pm Thursday 16 January

Thursday 9 January, 6.30-8.30pm – Opening night and Manifesto launch

Friday 10 January, 5-6pm – Exhibition tour with curator Rob La Frenais and the artists

Saturday 11 January, 11am-1pm – Open think tank late breakfast with artists in residence WE COLONISED THE MOON

Sunday 12 January, 2–5pm – Make it to the Moon, drop in family workshops led by Helen Schell

Thursday 16 January, 7-10pm – Kosmica: Full Moon Party and late night exhibition opening book online

Sun 19 January, 2.30–4.30pm – Moon Stories, family workshop with Joanna Griffin bookingonline

Saturday 1 February, 2-5pm – Global Lunar Day book online

Space Policy blog

Wall Street Magazine

It's four decades since humans walked on the Moon, but it now seems likely that we will return there this century – whether to mine for its minerals, as a ‘stepping stone’ to Mars, or simply to do scientific research. In a provocative pre-emptive action, a group of artists are declaring a Republic of the Moon here on Earth, to re-examine our relationship with our planet’s only natural satellite.

After two decades working with space dreamers from the European Space Agency to anarchist autonomous astronauts, The Arts Catalyst will transform Bargehouse into an Earth-based embassy for a Republic of the Moon, filled with artists’ fantastical imaginings. Presenting international artists including Liliane Lijn, Leonid Tishkov, Katie Paterson, Agnes Meyer Brandis, and WE COLONISED THE MOON, the exhibition combines personal encounters, DIY space plans, imaginary expeditions and new myths for the next space age.

Marking the start of its twentieth anniversary year, The Arts Catalyst will animate the exhibition with performances, workshops, music, talks, a pop-up moon shop by super/collider and playful protests against lunar exploitation.  A manifesto declaring the Moon a temporary autonomous zone, with responses from artists and scientists to novelist Tony White’s call to “occupy the Moon!” will be published in print and e-Book formats to coincide with the exhibition.

The artists in Republic of the Moon regard the Moon not as a resource to be exploited but as a heavenly body that belongs to us all. The exhibition asks: Who will be the first colonisers of the Moon? Perhaps it should be the artists.

Agnes Meyer-Brandis’ poetic-scientific investigations weave together fact, imagination, storytelling and myth, from past, present and future. In Moon Goose Analogue: Lunar Migration Bird Facility, the artist develops an ongoing narrative based on the book The Man in the Moone, written by English bishop Francis Godwin in the 1630s, in which the protagonist flies to the Moon in a chariot towed by ‘moon geese’. Meyer-Brandis has actualised this concept by raising eleven moon geese from birth in Italy, giving them astronauts’ names, imprinting them on herself as goose-mother, training them to fly and taking them on expeditions. The artist has built a remote Moon analogue habitat for the geese, which will be operated from a control room within the gallery. (* Neil, Svetlana, Gonzales, Valentina, Friede, Juri, Buzz, Kaguya-Anousheh, Irena, Rakesh, Konstantin-Hermann).  Moon Goose Analogue: Luna Bird Migration Facility the documentary film of this project was Ars Electronica award of distinction winner 2012.

Katie Paterson Second Moon and Earth–Moon–Earth.  Second Moon is Paterson's current project tracking the cyclical journey of a small fragment of the Moon as it circles the Earth, via airfreight courier, on a man made commercial orbit.  Second Moon is making an anticlockwise journey; orbiting at approximately twice the speed of our Moon, it will orbit Earth about 30 times in one year.  The journey can also be followed on a free App. Earth–Moon–Earth (Moonlight Sonata Reflected from the Surface of the Moon) involved using a form of radio transmission whereby messages are sent in Morse code, from earth, reflected from the surface of the moon and then received back on earth. The moon reflects only part of the information back – some is absorbed in its shadows, ‘lost’ in its craters. For this work Paterson has translated Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata into Morse code and sent it to the moon via Earth-Moon-Earth (EME). Returning to earth fragmented by the moon's surface, it has been re-translated into a new score, the gaps and absences becoming intervals and rests. In the exhibition the moon–altered score is performed on a self-playing grand piano.

Liliane Lijn’s moonmeme explores the repeating cycle of the Moon’s phases, projecting the word 'SHE', an epithet for the Moon, onto the lunar surface so the letters slowly emerge and then disappear as it wanes. Since lunar projection is so challenging technically, Lijn has worked with an astronomer to present a real-time animation of the projection accompanied by a sound work and by quotations from sources including Pliny and the Talmud to illustrate the profound connections between the Moon and the feminine principal of transformation and renewal.  The Mayor of London will announce a decision on Lijn’s shortlisted proposal for London’s Fourth Plinth early in 2014.

Leonid Tishkov’s Private Moon tells the story of a man who met the Moon and stayed with her for the rest of his life. In a series of intimate photographs, the artist pairs images of his private moon with verse which describes how the Moon helps us to overcome our loneliness in the universe by uniting us around it. Tishkov and his illuminated moon have travelled the world for almost ten years. He has a dream to fly with her to the Moon.

WE COLONISED THE MOON (Sue Corke and Hagen Betzwieser) will be the Republic of the Moon’s artists in residence throughout the exhibition, creating work and running talks and workshops. Corke and Betzwieser’s graphic art and installation projects embody a child-like wonder at the universe. Employing a range of DIY production techniques, their partnership is rooted in absurdism and theatrical performance characterised by slogans and catchphrases. At the Bargehouse, they will be coordinating protests against the exploitation of the Moon and working with scientists to help us look afresh at our closest celestial neighbour.

Moon Vehicle (Joanna Griffin and ISRO scientist P Shreekumar) a presentation of a project devised by the students at Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology in Bangalore, India, with artist Joanna Griffin. Its focus was to reclaim a cultural connection with the Indian Chandrayaan space programme challenging the now-dominant scientific narrative of the Moon and reasserting other imaginaries inspired by Indian narratives of self-determination and agency.

Pop Rock Moon Shop designed by super/collider will be selling all manner of discerning lunar ephemera.

A Manifesto for the Republic of the Moon will be published to accompany the exhibition, edited by curator, Rob La Frenais and including Tony White's specially commissioned short fiction Occupy the Moon!, it will be available in print, .epub and .mobi formats.

http://www.blubblubb.net">Agnes Meyer-Brandis
Katie Paterson
Liliane Lijn
Leonid Tishkov
WE COLONISED THE MOON
super/collider

Republic of the Moon is a touring exhibition, commissioned by The Arts Catalyst with FACT. The first version of the exhibition was presented at FACT Liverpool in winter 2012. The exhibition and residency has been made possible with Grants for the Arts support from Arts Council England and Science & Technology Facilities Council.

Moon Goose Analogue: Lunar Migration Bird Facility links directly to Meyer-Brandis's, Moon Goose Colony, 2011, a project during her residency at Pollinaria, Italy, the site of the remote analogue habitat where the artist has raised and houses the colony of moon geese.

Second Moon has been commissioned by Locus+ in partnership with Newcastle University and Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums.  Supported by Arts Council England, Adelaide Festival and Newcastle City Council

Bargehouse is owned and managed by social enterprise, Coin Street Community Builders: www.coinstreet.org

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Torsten Lauschmann, Ice Diamond and Whistler

Torsten Laushmann

The Lighthouse
11 Mitchell Lane
Glasgow G1 3NU
Scotland

MOSI - Museum of Science & Industry
Liverpool Road
Manchester M3 4FP

26/07/2013 – 06/01/2014

New commissions by Torsten Lauschmann for Ice Lab exhibition

Alongside five imaginative designs for Antarctic research stations, The Arts Catalyst and British Council have commissioned artist Torsten Lauschmann to make new work for Ice Lab: New Architecture and Science in Antarctica an exhibition that will illustrate how innovative contemporary architecture is enabling scientists to live and work in one of the most extreme environments on our planet.

Torsten Lauschmann's artworks will envelope audiences in a bewitching immersive environment, playfully offering visitors sounds, sights and sensations evoking the disorientating Antarctic landscape. Taking as his inspiration the phenomena of 'whistlers', very low frequency electromagnetic waves recorded in Antarctica, Lauschmann introduces the startling sounds of the frozen continent into the gallery. He extends the experiential atmosphere with a simple yet mesmerising audiovisual journey, Ice Diamond, splicing footage from the British Atlantic Survey research ship James Clark Ross, a vessel that can steam at a steady two knots through sea ice one metre thick, to create a kaleidoscopic vision which he describes as eluding to “the incredible human ingenuity and difficulties in dealing with in this extreme environment.”

Born in Bad Soden, 1970 Lauschmann now lives and works in Glasgow. His idiosyncratic practice using photography, video, sound, drawing, performance and installation is both eccentric and eclectic. Lauschmann merrily experiments with the mathematical, technological and scientific fusing them with comic, fictional, sometimes absurd ideas revealing his boundless curiosity about the World and beyond. From his World Jump Day (2005) participatory performance leap proposed to shift the Earth's orbit, to the intergalactic visions of Father's Monocle and Coy Lover (2012), his art-making explores the real and illusory.

Ice Lab: New Architecture and Science in Antarctica is an international touring exhibition featuring work by Hugh Broughton Architects, bof Architekten, David Garcia, Space Group, International Polar Foundation. It will give visitors a unique view of the inspiration, ingenuity and creativity behind architecture in the coldest, windiest, driest and most isolated place on earth. It opens at Architecture and Design Scotland, The Lighthouse in Glasgow from 26 July-2 October 2013 before touring to Manchester Museum of Science & Industry (21 October-6 January 2014) as part of the Manchester Science Festival.

There will be an associated events programme of talks, workshops and film screenings at both The Lighthouse and at MOSI (TBC)

Accompanying the exhibition will be a publication with essays written by Dr David Walton (British Antarctic Survey and author of the recent ‘Antarctica: Global Science from a Frozen Continent’) and Sam Jab (co-founder of FAT architects, lecturer and writer).

Commissioned and organised by the British Council and curated by The Arts Catalyst

Torsten Lauschmann

The Lighthouse

Architecture and Design Scotland

Museum of Science and Industry

We Made That

View the original article here

Download the Ice Lab e-Book

Accompanying the Ice lab exhibition will be a publication with essays written by Dr David Walton (British Antarctic Survey and author of the recent ‘Antarctica: Global Science from a Frozen Continent’) and Sam Jacob (co-founder of FAT architects, lecturer and writer).and the print/.pdf version is fully illustrated throughout.

Please download our free eBook version of Ice Lab.  It has the identical content as the printed version of this publication.

You can also read the epub version on your desktop comptuer using various browser plugins or other applications.

Please note that the formatting has been optimised for reading in colour using the epub format. To download the file and start reading:

First install some eReader software. 

On iphones and ipads, ibooks is most commonly used and is free.  On android try the free FBReader or other app if you prefer.

Then visit the URL of the .epub file using your device.

Visit the URL of the .mobi file on your kindle.OR, save the file from the .mobi URL onto your desktop computer and follow the instructions here.

This eBook is DRM-free - you may copy and redistribute the eBook, in its entirety.

Other traditional books published by The Arts Catalyst are listed in our online Bookshop.

File formats and devices

http://www.artscatalyst.org/projects/detail/eBook_primate_cinema/See%20

Open Source eBook management and conversion for your desktop PC

http://calibre-ebook.com/

Open Source ePub authoring tool

http://code.google.com/p/sigil/

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Melanie Jackson, The Urpflanze (Part 2)

Melanie Jackson

Flat Time House
210 Bellenden Road
London SE15 4BW

28/03/2013 – 12/05/2013
Open Thursday-Sunday 12-6pm

A solo show of Melanie Jackson's commission first shown in Transformism at John Hansard Gallery in January 2013.

Melanie Jackson and Esther Leslie, who collaborated on the production of a text that has informed the work and a publication, THE UR-PHENOMENON, were 'in conversation' on Friday 26 April.  Their discussion elaborating upon Goethe's concept of the Urpflanze and how as a model for thinking it can transfigure across the social, political and artistic spectrum, acting as a narrative gateway to science fiction and folkloric myths.

An illustrated transcript of their talks can be downloaded here.

In a series of moving image works and ceramic sculptures, Melanie Jackson continues her ongoing investigation into mutability and transformation, which takes its lead from Goethe’s concept of an imaginary primal plant, the Urpflanze, that contained coiled up within it the potential to unfurl all possible future forms. Contemporary science likewise imagines the potential to grow or print any form we can envisage, by recasting physical, chemical and biological function as an engineering substrate that can be programmed into being. These emerging technologies present new possibilities for the instrumentalisation of life on a previously unimagined scale.

Jackson's multifaceted work will be installed throughout the ground floor of Flat Time House, the former home and studio of artist John Latham (1921-2006). Her exploration into the Urpflanze is closely aligned with Latham’s preoccupation with ‘the event’. Within his Flat Time Theory, Latham insisted on ‘the event’ as the smallest unit of existence. Therefore, all phenomena can be considered as 'event-structures' comprised of a continuous compound manifold of unrelenting change. Common to Latham’s works and Jackson’s The Urpflanze (Part 2) there is an opening of the boundaries through and between objects, bodies, non-human and human events, sentient and inert material.

In the eighteenth century, the development of sophisticated techniques of ceramic production signified a victory of chemistry, culture and capital over formlessness. It pushed the capacity of the material to accommodate highly detailed representations, to radiate colour and sheen, to perform. Like clay, liquid crystals also have a visceral biological and mineral morphology that can collapse into formlessness, whilst harbouring the potential to assume (or emit the image of) any form. The mastery of the material is played out in a desire for the real in high definition, and a longing for the appearance of unknown and fantastical forms.

Jackson’s exhibition extends fairytale themes of absurd disruptions in vegetal scale, from Zola's ‘revolutionary’ carrot to the fantasies of remediation that science may have in store for us. The work begins in the botanical garden and leads us to the laboratory, from the clay pits to the factory floor, from its own animated voxels to the interior of the screen, and the forms and processes of its own production.

Melanie Jackson has collaborated with writer Esther Leslie on the production of a text that has informed the work and a publication that will be distributed as part of the exhibition.

In her essay for the exhibition guide, Isobel Harbison describes: “Jackson’s is an expansive, ambitious and intuitive work not easily reducible to cursory description. Her attention to the illusory surface textures of protean forms is not solely attentive to liquid crystals but extends metaphorically to other social and scientific developments (a fictional Jack-and-the-Beanstalk becomes a modern genetic scientist, or crystals self-organise into a palace whose display function changes consumer society forever). Perhaps most interestingly, her work carries within it a reflection on the new nature and task of the contemporary artist.

Jackson’s real enquiry seems to be about the modified face of representative sculpture in the digital age, from Greek mythology’s morphology to natural biology, and from the produce of the clay factory floor to the process of 3d printing.
Significantly, her sculptural inquiry is brought forward in video in conjunction with three-dimensional form embodying both kinds of contemporary physical encounter, now as often on screen as in the flesh.”

Private view Wednesday 27 March, 6-8pm
Last Friday, 26 April until 8pm including kitchen salon with Melanie Jackson and Esther Leslie in conversation

Melanie Jackson inhabits different tropes of art making to interrogate possibilities of representation against the engaged practices of the world. She is interested in ways in which thought and affect is conducted through the material, and much of her work has explored this against the context of work, production and the flow of international capital.  She is currently investigating the relationships between nature and technology through a series of experiments with fauna and flora, and the technologies available to her. Melanie is a lecturer at Slade School of Fine Art, her solo exhibitions include The Urpflanze (Part 1), The Drawing Room, London (2010), Road Angel, Arnolfini, Bristol (2007), Made In China, Matt’s Gallery, London (2005).  She won the Jerwood Drawing Prize in 2007.

Melanie Jackson's commission has been supported by a Wellcome Trust Arts Award and the Slade School of Fine Art. The exhibition is supported by Arts Council England.

Melanie Jackson

Flat Time House

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Jon Adams, Konfirm

Jon Adams, 'no overall control', manipulated photograph, 3 May 2013. Photo: Jon Adams.Jon AdamsSimon Baron-Cohen

The Arts Catalyst
50-54 Clerkenwell Road
London EC!M 5PS

14/06/2013
6pm doors, 6.30pm performance followed by talks

A performance/talk during which Jon Adams will present the first artistic output from his residency at the Autism Research Centre.  Konfirm is a sound work prompted by systematic processes which will be presented in audio and visual metaphor.

Jon Adams' artwork explores sense and sensitivity through the 'hidden' and plays with perceptions of normal and the inaccessible. A geologist by training, Adams’ seeking of the concealed in his art often reveals his naturally systematic thinking: his inclination and ability to uncover systems within everyday interactions and landscapes.

In this residency and research project, Jon Adams sets out on a personal, artistic and scientific investigation of his own Asperger's Syndrome, through a series of conversations, observations and experiments, working in collaboration with Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, Director of the Autism Research Centre at the University of Cambridge.

Video documenting the project

Read Jon's research blog here

Rather than a specific pathology, Baron-Cohen sees autism as being on a continuum in the general population. He proposes that certain features of autistic people - ‘obsessions’ and repetitive behaviour - previously regarded as purposeless, are conversely highly purposive, intelligent (hyper-systemising), and a sign of a different way of thinking. He argues that high-functioning autism or Asperger's Syndrome need not just lead to disability, but can also lead to talent.

This collaborative research project has emerged from an initial meeting between Jon Adams and Simon Baron-Cohen at an Arts Catalyst/Shape project Alternative Ways of Thinking: Exploring the Autistic Mind at the Cheltenham Science Festival in 2011.

Jon Adams

Simon Baron Cohen

Wellcome Trust Arts Award

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Help With A Technical Evaluation Report

Hi everyone!

Can anyone help me with this please:

You are supposed write:
"a. A Technical Evaluation Report based on what you have studied during
the autumn. Therefore you need to prepare in advance of an imaginary
implementation and the requirements that you had to meet when you
installed it. An Evaluation Report only discusses things that HAVE
TAKEN PLACE already so you should use past tense and present tense
while you write as well as linking words. Check down below. Follow the
pattern found at page 20 exercise 7, page 26 exercise 4 as well as on page
28. Remember to add suitable subheadings and the correct sentences for
the introduction and the conclusion found at pages 1-6.
b. An Abstract consisting of six sentences, based on your report. Check page
26, exercise 5 and the Key which will give you a hint of what it should look
like."

I am not an english-speaking person so I do not fully understand this. I need to write about something that has to do with network, but this is really hard for me. Please help me..

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What should i do?

What should i do? Register Help Remember Me?   What's New Today's Posts Forum Actions Mark Forums Read Advanced Search Forum General General Certification What should i do? + Reply to Thread 

Hello everyone,

I'm fairly new to this forum, I'm about to start working as a Helpdesk Technician at a bank, and I've done Helpdesk before as an intern for two years. I'd like to grow beyond the Helpdesk position and do something challenging. What do you guys recommend me to do while i'm in helpdesk that will help me get exposed to more challenging tasks and add to my knowledge. Also what kind of certifications do you recommend?

Thank you

 

First question is what interests you? That is what certifications I would look at.
- Like Microsoft? Consider starting with the the Windows 7 exam, Server 2008/2012, SCCM, Hyper-V (if virtualization interests you).
- Cisco? Start with CCENT, Progress to CCNA, etc.
- Security ? - Start with Comptia Security +

As to getting exposed more. If it is slow ask if there is anything you can help with. Take interest in things others are doing that you find interesting? Example (I like networking) when I did helpdesk I would ask if I could go help them install switches (if I had no work) or do patch panel runs for them.

Is the glass half empty, half full, or twice as big as it needs to be?
2013 Goals: CCNP ROUTE [X]

Server admin? I would suggest the following in order, which will also improve your skills for the new HD role and may provide an opportunity to transfer to Desktop/Networks in your company:

A+, Windows 7, Network+, Server 2008/2012 (depend on when you get to this and what is in your environment)

WGU B.S. IT - Security Progress:
Transferred (WFV1:3 CUs) | Required (Too Many:116 CUs) | In Progress (EBV1,CLC1,TBP1:10 CUs) | Completed (EAV1:4 CUs)

Get acquainted with the server guys at your workplace. Be willing to help anyway you can. Let them know you want to learn more. Show your enthusiasm for doing the work. If you run into an issue that you may have to escalate to the server team, try to narrow down the issue as far as you can instead of just escalating a ticket because it's out of your realm.

I'd look into getting a Windows 7 and Windows Server certification. Most likely that's the operating system being used at the bank.

Visit my blog: http://rowell.dionicio.net - Member of Cisco Champions

Current goals [ ] CCNP SWITCH [ ] ROUTE [ ] TSHOOT Us Archive Privacy Statement Top TechExams.net ? 2002 - 2013 - All times are GMT. The time now is 04:12 AM. - CSS version TechExams.Net is not sponsored by, endorsed by or affiliated with Cisco Systems, Inc. Cisco®, Cisco Systems®, CCDA?, CCNA?, CCDP?, CCNP?, CCIE?, CCSI?; the Cisco Systems logo and the CCIE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. in the United States and certain other countries. All other trademarks, including those of Microsoft, CompTIA, Juniper ISC(2), and CWNP are trademarks of their respective owners.

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AWS & Linux

I recently started watching the AWS CBT Nuggets and I'm thoroughly impressed with Amazon Web Services. What stood out was the cost of running a Linux server versus Windows. It made me think how knowing Linux (LAMP) and having an AWS certiciation could open doors.

I brought it up because I see a lot of interest on this forum in Linux as a career. I can definitely see how having a Linux and AWS certification could be positive, especially in areas where startups are common. If you are interested in learning Linux and you lack the capability to set up a lab, consider AWS. They offer a free trial for a year and you can setup a fully operational Linux server. No charge. If you blow it up, you just reload the incident again.

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DBA certifications: where do I start?

So this is a bit of a continuation of my previous thread (certifications vs degree). So I have been trained in research design and stats from a public health perspective, but there aren't any jobs in research (lack of funding) at the moment and I have been recently laid off.... Since I am in my late 20s with a Masters degree, I figure it is not too late to do a career change, From my previous thread, everyone seem to agree that I should just grab a few certifications to become a DBA, and not goto WGU to grab a BS IT or a Masters focusing in Database technology.

With this post in certifications section, I am trying to find out where do I start? I have the SAS.SPSS and a little bit of SQL programming experience. So I understand the concepts of tables, recoding..etc. But I don't know where to go from there. What DBA certifications should I be getting to get my foot in the door for an entry-level DBA job, particuarly a data analyst postion? And what order should I do them in?

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Certification Kits note

Certification Kits note Register Help Remember Me?   What's New Today's Posts Forum Actions Mark Forums Read Advanced Search Forum General General Certification Certification Kits note + Reply to Thread  Results 1 to 8 of 8 Thread: Certification Kits note Thread Tools Show Printable Version Subscribe to this Thread…

So I was just reading the CertificationKits ASA lab guide/study guide and honestly, I like it. Its straight to the point and looks like a good supplement to your ASA studies. I have to assume that their other guides are of similar quality. For negatives, they use the locked ebooks, so i'm sure it wont be easy to use on multiple devices. But its something to consider.

BS-IT Security Completed courses:
DEV1/AXV1/CPV1/BAC1/BBC1/EWB2/TEV1/TTV1/TSV1

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Certifications GSEC,MCSE, MCSA:Messaging, Network+, Server+ 12-10-2013 06:49 PM #2

Are you referring to the Certification Kit site advertised on TE? (Cisco Certification Kits: CCNA, CCNP, CCIE, used and new router sand switches.) I always wondered what their content was like since im thinking of picking up their CCNA:security kit.

WGU B.S. IT - Security Progress:
Transferred (WFV1:3 CUs) | Required (Too Many:116 CUs) | In Progress (EBV1,CLC1,TBP1:10 CUs) | Completed (EAV1:4 CUs)

Disclaimer: I do have a slight affiliation with them via a project that we are both involved in. But there is a ton of good reading on that site. And you could definitely do worse buying prebuilt kits on eBay. Such as a few bundles my company has sold to clear out old equipment.

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@alan2308 - I agree that ebay can be a bit hit and miss. My previous company also offloaded some 'questionable' cisco gear on there and I would have hated to be the buyer. I'm sure it's worth a little extra $$ to not have to worry about the hassle of dealing with any problems and taking time away from the end goal....studying.

@SephStorm - thanks for the info about the study & lab guides. I will definitely need extra material when I get around to CCNA in WGU.

WGU B.S. IT - Security Progress:
Transferred (WFV1:3 CUs) | Required (Too Many:116 CUs) | In Progress (EBV1,CLC1,TBP1:10 CUs) | Completed (EAV1:4 CUs)

Yea, but it goes both ways on there. We had a buyer raise a dispute because the 2600 that she bought for $20 didn't come with any modules so it was non-functional. LOL

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Certifications A+, HDI:SCA, MTA:OS, MCTS:7 12-12-2013 01:35 AM #8

Google Calibre. A good application for E-book management. Would allow you to unlock them for moving to another device. Just be sure to delete them once your rental is over.

2013 Goals

Complete: MTA:OS, 70-680
Studying: 98-365
After: 70-640

Home Forum Rules Contact UsSupport Us Archive Privacy Statement Top TechExams.net ? 2002 - 2013 - All times are GMT. The time now is 04:12 AM. - CSS version TechExams.Net is not sponsored by, endorsed by or affiliated with Cisco Systems, Inc. Cisco®, Cisco Systems®, CCDA?, CCNA?, CCDP?, CCNP?, CCIE?, CCSI?; the Cisco Systems logo and the CCIE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. in the United States and certain other countries. All other trademarks, including those of Microsoft, CompTIA, Juniper ISC(2), and CWNP are trademarks of their respective owners.

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Web based exam?

Web based exam? Register Help Remember Me?   What's New Today's Posts Forum Actions Mark Forums Read Advanced Search Forum General General Certification Web based exam? + Reply to Thread  Results 1 to 10 of 10 Thread: Web based exam? Thread Tools Show Printable Version Subscribe to this Thread… HeatoN  Junior Member Registered Member  Join Date Dec 2013 Location Turkey Posts 2
Certifications VCP4-5 / VCP5-DT / VCP-Cloud / NCDA 12-07-2013 04:37 PM #1  Web based exam?

Hi,

VMware's VCA exams can be taken online via Pearsonvue. Are there any other similar exams from different vendors where you can take online right from your home? I think HP also offers some exams like this. Can you please let me know if there are others?

Thanks.

Help Desk Institute has online exams or they did when I got my SCA.

2013 Goals

Complete: MTA:OS, 70-680
Studying: 98-365
After: 70-640Certifications A+ 12-08-2013 01:44 AM #6

ITIL F is taken online via EXIN.

2013 Gorals: ITIL F
2014 Goals: CCNA
My journey into IT :  and HP3 exams form HP are web-based:
HP2 and HP3 are online, web-based exams. They offer the convenience of 24-hour access for exam administration. Keep in mind the exams are timed just as they would be in a test center and must be completed within 12 hours of purchase. HP Testing with Pearson VUE

Quote   gakowalski  Junior Member Privacy Statement Top TechExams.net ? 2002 - 2013 - All times are GMT. The time now is 04:12 AM. - CSS version TechExams.Net is not sponsored by, endorsed by or affiliated with Cisco Systems, Inc. Cisco®, Cisco Systems®, CCDA?, CCNA?, CCDP?, CCNP?, CCIE?, CCSI?; the Cisco Systems logo and the CCIE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. in the United States and certain other countries. All other trademarks, including those of Microsoft, CompTIA, Juniper ISC(2), and CWNP are trademarks of their respective owners.

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Anyone else stop taking exams due to proctor location?

Anyone else stop taking exams due to proctor location? Register Help Remember Me? What's New Today's Posts Forum Actions Mark Forums Read Advanced Search Forum General General Certification Anyone else stop taking exams due to proctor location? + Reply to Thread Results 1 to 13 of 13 Thread: Anyone else stop taking exams due to proctor location? Thread Tools Show Printable Version Subscribe to this Thread… PC509 Passion For IT Join Date Mar 2008 Location Boardman, OR Posts 318
Certifications MCTS, MCITP, MCP, A+, Server+, Security+, Project+, CCENT, CCNA 12-10-2013 04:27 PM #1 Anyone else stop taking exams due to proctor location?

I've taken a lot of Microsoft exams in the past, and the closest exam proctor was 2.5 hours away. They don't do it anymore, so now I have to drive 4 hours to get to the exam location. I've given up on Microsoft exams (Prometric only) due to this. Has anyone else just given up because of that single reason? Kind of sad, but I can't take off a full day from work for a single exam.

So, I've been focusing on Pearson Vue proctored exams. Cisco, CompTIA, etc.. They may not be as valuable in my current position, but I'm learning a lot and will eventually be using them (the skills are good, even though we do very little Cisco - we're Extreme stuff here).

I'd love to take more Microsoft exams, but the exam location is crap. Microsoft killed me with the Prometric only decision.

Dustin, PC509, Ur_Mom.... Man of many names!
A+ | Net+ | Server+ | Security+ | Project+ | MCTS: 70-620 | MCTS: 70-680 | MCITP: 70-623 | MCP: 70-290 | CIW 1D0-520 | CCENT | CCNA | Working on Microsoft Server 2008 and SBS 2011 MCTS | 50% done WGU in IT: Security

Quote  
Login/register to remove this advertisement. CoolAsAFan +EV Join Date Dec 2011 Location Indiana Posts 148
Certifications A+, Security+, Linux+, LPIC-1, Novell CLA/DCTS, CIW Database Design, CIW JavaScript, CIW Web Design, CIW Web Foundations 12-10-2013 04:45 PM #2

Can you not schedule Prometric exams on the weekend so you don't have to take off work? Granted still, 4 hours there and back would be a bit rough, but if a particular cert advances your career or gets you more money it would still absolutely be worth it IMO. Just my 2 cents...

IvyTech - AS CINS (Completed: May, 2013)
WGU Indiana - BS IT Security (Started: August 1st, 2013)
Transferred: AGC1 CDP1 BVC1 CLC1 CVV1 DHV1 DJV1 GAC1 CIC1 CDC1 UBT1 IWC1 IWT1 TCP1 TJP1 TJC1 EBV1 WFV1 EUP1 EUC1 CJC1 UBC1 TBP1
Completed: CUV1 BOV1 DRV1 DSV1 CTV1 CJV1
Required: COV1 TPV1 CQV1 CNV1 MGC1 TXC1 TXP1 BNC1 TYP1 TYC1 SBT1 RGT1

Quote   PC509 Passion For IT Join Date Mar 2008 Location Boardman, OR Posts 318
Certifications MCTS, MCITP, MCP, A+, Server+, Security+, Project+, CCENT, CCNA 12-10-2013 04:54 PM #3

Weekends aren't an option at these sites. I wish they were. I was thinking of studying my butt off and taking multiple exams at a time... I'd really like to take the exams, but the site locations make it very difficult. It sucks because that's the only thing that's limiting me. I work in IT, I work with Microsoft servers and I have the hands on, I have the study materials, I have the experience. I just need to take a day or two off to take the exams.

I'm just curious how wide spread the issue is with the site locations limiting people. I'm curious as to if Microsoft/Prometric would seek out more test centers, or if Microsoft would attempt to go with Pearson Vue again.


Originally Posted by CoolAsAFan Can you not schedule Prometric exams on the weekend so you don't have to take off work? Granted still, 4 hours there and back would be a bit rough, but if a particular cert advances your career or gets you more money it would still absolutely be worth it IMO. Just my 2 cents...

Dustin, PC509, Ur_Mom.... Man of many names!
A+ | Net+ | Server+ | Security+ | Project+ | MCTS: 70-620 | MCTS: 70-680 | MCITP: 70-623 | MCP: 70-290 | CIW 1D0-520 | CCENT | CCNA | Working on Microsoft Server 2008 and SBS 2011 MCTS | 50% done WGU in IT: Security

Quote   bermovick Senior Member Join Date Apr 2010 Location Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri Posts 670
Certifications CCENT, CCNA, CCNP, CCNA Security, JNCIA:Junos, Security+ 12-10-2013 05:39 PM #4

I had a similar(ish) situation with Pearson though. Where I live, the closest Pearson was an hour away, but they only scheduled exams on Fridays, so were typically booked up months in advance (despite me never seeing another exam taker there the few times I managed to get in).

If I wanted to schedule earlier (and I'm the type to do a "next day" when I feel ready), I'd have to drive 2.5 hours for either of the next-closest two.

It's not quite 4 hours, but it still takes pretty much an entire day. I still did it, since it was important enough to do -- and it wasn't like I had to do it THAT often even.

Quote   MrAgent Systems Engineer Join Date Oct 2010 Location Northern Virginia Posts 743
Certifications Sec+, MCP, MCSA 2003, MCTS, MCITP:VA, VCP5, MCSA 2012, MCSE Private Cloud, MCSE Server Infrastructure, C|EHv7, RHCSA 12-10-2013 05:46 PM #5

I've never had to drive more than 30 min to an exam center. I am lucky in the sense that I have 5+ centers I can choose to take an exam at, but of those, only 1 is open on the weekends.

2013 Goals:
CEH [X] RHCSA [X]
Continue working on Master of Science in Applied Information Technology from George Mason University.

Quote   4_lom Level 2 Helpdesk Join Date Nov 2011 Location At my desk. Posts 386
Certifications A+, Net+, Security+, CCENT, CCNA, MTA, MCTS: Config Windows 7, MCITP: EDST, AAS in Computer Networking, Axcient Certified Expert, 70-687, MCITP: EDA 12-10-2013 06:03 PM #6

...and I thought having to drive 1 hour was bad

Quote   --chris-- Senior Member Join Date Jul 2013 Posts 331
Certifications A+ 12-10-2013 06:20 PM #7

I am 30-45 minutes from two centers, one is in the ghetto but has a ton of open slots. The other is in a good part of town, with fewer open slots. I feel lucky to have 3 centers within an hour of me, yet I live in the sticks.

2013 Gorals: ITIL F
2014 Goals: CCNA
My journey into IT : http://chrisdoesit.com

Quote   PC509 Passion For IT Join Date Mar 2008 Location Boardman, OR Posts 318
Certifications MCTS, MCITP, MCP, A+, Server+, Security+, Project+, CCENT, CCNA 12-10-2013 07:55 PM #8

I do live in a rural area, but there are several colleges around and a few Pearson centers. Prometric has scaled back (there used to be one about an hour away, but it closed a few years back). Now, I have to drive to Spokane or Seattle area to take an exam.

Dustin, PC509, Ur_Mom.... Man of many names!
A+ | Net+ | Server+ | Security+ | Project+ | MCTS: 70-620 | MCTS: 70-680 | MCITP: 70-623 | MCP: 70-290 | CIW 1D0-520 | CCENT | CCNA | Working on Microsoft Server 2008 and SBS 2011 MCTS | 50% done WGU in IT: Security

Quote   techwizard Junior IT Security Guy Join Date Nov 2013 Location NoCal Posts 39
Certifications CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+ 12-10-2013 09:14 PM #9

I am in a similar situation as the OP. Pearsonvue is available at the local college, but Prometric is only available in a city about 4 to 5 hours away. For a time, the local college exam facility had shut down, so I was forced to travel another 3 hours away to get to nearest Pearsonvue facility. Then finally the college facility came back online, so I was able to take my Sec+ exam there. I am currently working on my Microsoft exams because I want to take advantage of the second shot offer from MS, which is avail till March I think. Unfortunately I will have to drive 4 to 5 hours to get to a Prometric site. I guess on the positive side, I do have friends in that area I can stay with overnight, so I could travel there a day or so early and study up to the night of the test or whatever. I will have to schedule the exams on a weekend however, because I am planning to get a job soon, and luckily the Prometric centers in my area do offer Saturday testing.

Quote   colemic Senior Member Join Date Apr 2010 Location Tejas, Baby! Posts 720
Certifications CISSP, CISA, GIAC 2700, MCSE:Security, CEH, CHFI, CCENT, Sec+, Net+, ITIL v3 Foundations 12-10-2013 11:48 PM #10

I had to drive 3.5 hours to take the ccent, but can schedule cissp-issmp locally. Go figure.

Quote   joehalford01 Senior Member Join Date Jun 2011 Location CA Central Valley Posts 316
Certifications A+, Network+, CIW SDA, MCTS:70-640 70-642 70-643, Security+ 12-10-2013 11:56 PM #11

Yikes, I was complaining about my 1.5 hour drive. One of the reasons I'm less interested in Microsoft exams as well. The closet pearson vue is about 45 min.

Working on: BIV1
Courses Completed at WGU: INC1, WFV1, CLC1, GAC1, AHV1, HHT1, DHV1, DEV1, CTV1, DFV1, AIV1, BHV1
Courses Required For Me To Graduate WGU with BS - IT: NDM: QBT1,CUV1,BOV1,CSV1,BNC1,TPV1,BIVI,SBT1, RCT1
Classes Transferred: AGC1,BBC1,LAE1,LUT1,AXV1,CPV1,INT1,CRV1,QLT1,IWC1, IWT1,CWV1,BVC1

Quote   Essendon Don't think, be! Join Date Sep 2007 Location Melbourne Posts 3,429
Certifications VCAP5-DCD/DCA, VCP 5, VTSP 5, MCSA:2008, MCITP: EA, MCTSx5, ITILv3, MCSA: Messaging, MS in Telecom Engineering 12-11-2013 12:21 AM #12

Jeez I'm very lucky with regards to the exam centre locations then. I have an exam centre less than 30 seconds from my office, and two others about 2 city blocks away. 4 hour drives would put me off too!

Got a blog going - http://virtualizati0n.wordpress.com/
2013 certification goals: [ ] MCSE: Private Cloud (70-246 now booked) || [x] VCAP5 - DCA (done) || [x] VCAP5 - DCD (done)

Quote   alan2308 Senior Member Join Date Apr 2010 Location Ann Arbor, MI Posts 1,599
Certifications CCNA, CCNA Sec, MCITP:SA 12-11-2013 02:10 AM #13

I saw the thread title and thought how bad can the testing center be? Didn't even think about the distance possibility.

Yea, I'd probably take some time off of exams if that was the case.

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