Diversity of Regional Middle Eastern Cuisine

Diversity of Regional Middle Eastern Cuisine How Different are Middle Eastern Recipes in the Region? ChaptersWhat is the Middle East?History of the Food in the RegionRegional Differences Seen Through FoodTypical Dishes and Recipes from the Middle EastWhile shish kebab, yogurt sauce and pistachios are pretty standard fare throughout the Middle East, there are a vast array of differences that have arisen even with a shared, Levantine history. From basmati rice to cardamom, each country within the region has developed their own unique tastes - discover how in this guide.Pitta chips, or pita chips, make for a great, easy Middle Eastern snack GiovanniCooking Teacher 4.83 (12) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors HalimaCooking Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors HakimCooking Teacher 5.00 (5) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors VincenzoCooking Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors GinellaCooking Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ArronCooking Teacher 5.00 (2) £9/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors JoshuaCookin g Teacher 5.00 (5) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors FlickCooking Teacher 5.00 (1) £50/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhat is the Middle East?Unpacking a topic as broad and complex as defining the Middle East would require explanations of textbook proportions. However, there are a couple of generalizations we can draw from this region’s shared history, culture and, of course, food.While many people think only of the rich olive oil or intense cheese from Greece and Italy when thinking of Mediterranean food, this term is actually much more inclusive. The Middle East is distinct from many regions on earth because of the fact that it was, and to many extents still is, a crossroads for many different cultures.From the Phoenicians, Rome, the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, the Middle East is home to some of the world’s oldest countries â€" including Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Jordan and Israel.While tracing a straight line through the narrative of the Middle East can seem easier in the historical and cultural contexts described, it’s also important to keep in mind that it is impossible capture the truth of people’s identities based on broad terms like the Middle Eastern region, the Mediterranean basin, or the Mediterranean.History of the Food in the RegionWith common terms like baba and halal, or popular grocery store products like bulgur and tahini sauce, we might think we already know a lot about the Middle Eastern diet. However, there is a lot more to the Mediterranean diet than baklava and Turkish coffee.In fact, many of the Middle East’s shared staple ingredients such as pine nuts, flatbreads, veggies and grains come from a shared history in religion, politics and, of course, economy. From Moroccan tagine to Saudi Arabia’s dates, much of the regions dishes have evolved together because of their shared history.Regional Differences Seen Through FoodWhile we’ve focused on how the historical evolution of Middle Eastern food has led to many shared, staple ingredients and dishes, anyone from the Middle East will tell you there are are many differences between the countries within the region.From differing politics and dialects to distinct resources and climates, Middle Eastern countries are all unique and require historical and cultural explanations of their own. Here is a beginner's guide to get you started on understanding the different, regional dishes and favourite recipes from the region that first led historian Fernand Braudel to declare it as “a thousand things in one.”YemenLocated on the Arabian Peninsula and home to many islands, Yemen has also unfortunately been declared by the UN as the country whose population is the most in need of humanitarian aid in the world. Political instability has resulted in a famine that as of 2017 has affected 17 million people.While it’s more recent history has been filled with strife, it is important to highlight the beauty of this country’s culture, which can ofte n be appreciated through food. Saltah, often compared to tagine, is a stew made of a meat called maraq, chilies and vegetables. Served with flatbread, it’s a dish often eaten in the north.PalestinePalestine means different things to different people, countries and organizations. While often only focused on because of the Arab-Israeli conflict, it’s also home to a beautiful culture and history of food.One popular sweet snack is Knafa, also known as Kanafeh. As with many Middle Eastern desserts, its ingredients include semolina and syrup. What makes Knafa unique is that it is a cheese based pastry and is often eaten in the city of Nablus.If you’re looking for something savoury, Maqlouba is the typical, everything but the kitchen sink dish. Translating into “upside down” from Arabic, it’s made of fried vegetables like eggplant and cauliflower, meat and rice.Variations of the kebab include chicken kebab, beef and lambEgyptEgypt is located on the African continent, where it b oasts one of the oldest histories of civilization. Because of its flourishing culture and technology, Egyptian influence can still be seen today throughout the Mediterranean. Part of that influence can be traced through its food.If you’re interested in a classic Egyptian breakfast, look towards Ful. Made of fava beans, this dish requires only a bit of oil and salt and are commonly served with pita bread, cheese or eggs.Koshari is a typical Egyptian, chickpea dish made of rice, lentils and macaroni. Topped with spices, herbs and sauce, this dish is a flavour bomb.Find more about it with the best cooking courses London on Superprof.LebanonLocated West of Syria and North of Israel, Lebanon is a country whose history dates back more than seven thousand years. While this makes for a nearly endless selection of delectable dishes, you’ve probably already tried one of its most popular savoury treats: tabbouleh.While this dish, as with most, has it’s variations across the Middle East, it is a staple in Lebanese cuisine. Tabbouleh, or tabouleh, is typically thought of as a bulgur salad, mixed with fresh vegetables like tomato and cucumber. However, traditional Lebanese tabbouleh is actually made up of parsley, with a lot smaller quantities of bulgur, tomato and mint.Manakeesh, or manakish, is a variation of flatbread that is covered with toppings such as sesame seeds, pine nuts, olive oil and zaatar, or za atar. Zaatar is a mixture of spices and herbs containing oregano, basil thyme, and savoury. Eaten at breakfast or lunch, there are many bakeries that specialize in makingJordanLocated on the Arabian Peninsula, in between Saudi Arabia and Israel, Jordan is the 11th most populated Arab country. Boasting the famous archaeological city of Petra, as well as the earth’s lowest elevation point at the Dead Sea, Jordan is one the Middle East’s most visted countries.If you’re looking to experience Jordan through food, Mansaf is a great dish to begin with. Part of ma ny celebrations and festivals, Mansaf is a lamb based dish that is cooked in yogurt, spiced with saffron and cardamom, and eaten with pitta bread, or pita bread.IraqWhile the country’s name was created before the 6th century, the area of Iraq has actually been inhabited since before the pre-Neolithic era. While Iraq is often in the news because of the destruction of ISIL, the country is home to a rich cultural heritage and artistry â€" infamous for their poetry, sculptures and paintings.While kebab, or kabob, is one of those dishes whose origins in the Middle East are often contested, the Iraqui kebab is distinct from the other kebabs in the region and can be prepared from lamb, mutton and other meats.One classic Iraqi dish is shorba, or shorbat, which is a lentil soup made of lentils, parsley and spices. Making use of red lentils and, while vegetarian, can also be made with chicken or lamb.Middle Eastern salads can be topped with raisins, spice and herbsTypical Dishes and Recipes from the Middle EastAs we’ve already seen, there’s a lot of crossover between the countries that partake in Middle Eastern Cuisine. So much so, in fact, that the culinary culture and dishes have influenced other cuisines around the world. However, there are, as with all regions of the world, some dishes whose origins are and always will be disputed but can be found all over the middle east.HummusAlso known as hummus, this chickpea based sauce literally translates into chickpeas or chickpeas and tahini. While different countries in the region tend to top it with different spices, it is typically eaten with pitta chips, or pita chips and other flatbread. Some regional variations make hummus ful or served with hard-boiled eggs.Grape leavesStuffed grape leaves are an appetizer that can be found in countries like Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Turkey and Greece. Typically known as dolma or warak enab, this dish consists of rolling up spiced rice, sometimes with meat inside, into grape vine l eaves.FalafelFalafel is deep fried happiness, whose ingredients include a mix of spices and flour made of chickpeas and/or fava beans. While falafel can be eaten on its own, they’re often part of Meze â€" which is a selection of appetizers common to the Middle East.ShawarmaBased on Turkey’s doner kebab, shawarma is typically made as skewered meat, spices and vegetables served inside of flatbread. While some countries typically prepare it with lamb, Israel is known for its variation using turkey.Baba ghanoushBaba ghanoush, like the above mentioned dishes, is highly popular outside Middle Eastern countries. Made out of roasted aubergines, or eggplant, and tahini, this dish can be made in endless combinations. One example can be found in Libyan Mtabal, which is made by dicing the aubergine rather than pureeing it.

The Best Places in Africa for Landscape Photography.

The Best Places in Africa for Landscape Photography. Africa’s Greatest Landscapes â€" for Landscape Photographers. ChaptersWhat is Landscape Photography?What You’ll Need to Take Excellent Landscape Photographs.Some Top Spots in Africa for Taking Landscape Pictures.In the ‘West’, we suffer from a little problem of imagination. One particular image dominates our visions of places and, even when confronted by the reality, this image doesn’t budge an inch.So, when we think of China, we don’t think much beyond the Great Wall. An inspiring landscape, sure, but a bit like imagining the UK as only Hadrian’s Wall. When we think of Latin America, we stop at Machu Picchu. And when we think of, say, Russia, we think mainly of vodka and snow.Maybe this is natural. Yet, it remains a little ridiculous. And there’s nothing more ridiculous than the way we imagine Africa.We’re willing to bet that ‘Africa’, for most people, signifies one thing. That’s the savanna â€" a beautiful landscape â€" with its acacia trees, its giraffes and elephants, wildebeest and vultures. But that’s pretty much i t.However, it’s worth remembering in all this, that Africa is, in fact, a continent. A continent three times the size of Europe. And if we think that Europe is a geographically diverse place, we should probably recognise that of our southern neighbours.And it shouldn’t be a surprise â€" although it may well be â€" that Africa has some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth. From the famous coastlines of South Africa and Mozambique to the deserts of Morocco and Chad, from the mountains of Uganda to the canyons of Namibia â€" Africa has it all. And yes, there’s always the Serengeti at sunset to be taking photos of too.But let’s open our eyes â€" and camera lens â€" to the beauty and diversity of the African continent. And let’s learn a little about its geography whilst we search for the best locations for landscape photography.Check out the best spots for landscape photography in the rest of the world. The Sahara is, apparently, the size of China. AllanPhotography Teacher 5.00 (2) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NatashaPhotography Teacher 5.00 (7) £55/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors TimothyPhotography Teacher 5.00 (5) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Anosh nadeemPhotography Teacher 5.00 (2) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ZangmoPhotography Teacher 5.00 (6) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RosiePhotography Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MattPhotography Teacher £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AndyPhotography Teacher £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhat is Landscape Photography?But first, let’s start with thinking about what landscape photography actually is and about what a landscape photographer might actually do. Because whilst we might consider this to be one of the most self-explanatory types of photography â€" you just take pictures of landscapes â€" it isn’ t, really.What is a Landscape?And the difficulty of all this starts with the definition of landscape â€" a term that has come to mean mountain peaks and remote locations, areas of the world that remain untouched, or at least undirtied, by any man-made element.Landscape, to us, is this â€" it is usually a natural landscape, and we want it to be an amazing landscape. We want it to take our breath away with its relief or beauty, and we want to feel as though we are the only people there.And this is the thing with landscape as an idea. It is detached and frozen in time â€" available to be looked at but not engaged with.This is what we like doing with images of Africa in particular. ‘Oh, a giraffe!’, we say, looking at a picture of the Serengeti. We appreciate the beauty of the giraffe in the landscape, but forget about Africa as a continent with people in it.It’s a danger of landscape photography that this happens. But this is an unfortunate historical development â€" rather than the way that this needs to be.See the best places for landscape photographers in Asia.Changing the Picture of Landscape.Landscape, as a word, has actually engaged with the integration of a human element with nature from the very beginning. Land and scape are the two roots of this English term â€" and both pay heed to this mixture.Land is not just a place â€" but originally it meant where someone belongs, as France is the land of the French. Scape, meanwhile, means to shape â€" to transform, work on, and sculpt the land.Thought of like this, landscape no longer refers to this nice distant a-human space. Rather, it pays heed to the messiness of landscape â€" and suggests that landscape can be all sorts of different environments.Just as an image of Kilimanjaro inspires so many landscape photos, so should a cityscape or seascape. Street photography, with its depiction of urban landscape, is also a landscape photography â€" as much as nature photography, wildlife photography, and travel photography.The streets of Cape Town or Nairobi are as much a landscape image as the deserts of Morocco â€" and it is important to remember this for your own art.Find Europe's best places for photographing landscapes. Drive in one of the most beautiful landscapes on EarthWhat You’ll Need to Take Excellent Landscape Photographs.But if landscape images can be of anything from streets to mountain valleys, what makes a good landscape photograph?This, in some way, is in the photographic eye of the beholder. However, it is also a question of photography techniques and photography skills. How come one person can take great photos of the Nile, say, but my landscape shot is just average?For great pictures â€" truly beautiful images â€" point and shoot is not enough. And as you work on your own craft, you’ll need to learn a few things. We’re talking shutter speed, depth of field, and white balance. You’ll need to figure out if you want a long exposure or a wide angle lens.And you’ll need to work on your photography composition, get familiar with your camera gear, and practice scouting and waiting in the right places.Good photography really is all about the patience to find the best image you can g et.Go to South America and take landscape photographs!Some Top Spots in Africa for Taking Landscape Pictures.But ultimately, the best way to learn how to shoot is to get out into the world and do it.And to get you inspired, here are some of the best places in Africa to find inspiring and awesome landscapes to photograph.We can’t cover them all â€" because it’s a continent after all. Yet, you’ll find some tips here to get you started. Just remember though, the world has plenty of shots of the savanna.Say something interesting â€" and make something beautiful and new.Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda.The Rwenzori Range in Uganda is one of the largest mountain ranges on the continent. And to remind you that Africa isn’t all heat and dryness, in the Rwenzori there are plenty of glaciers.Alongside this, it is a gorgeous â€" and largely unvisited â€" landscape. And it will give you some of the most beautiful landscape photos you have.Serengeti, Tanzania.Ah, here it is. The famous Serenge ti.  This is where you’ll find your acacia trees and wildebeest.It goes without saying that this is one of the most distinctive and wonderful places on Earth â€" as you’ll know from all of your photos of Africa.Check out the Olduvai Gorge whilst your there â€" both a beautiful place and perhaps where humanity was born.Sahara and the Ergs.Where do you go to get some of the most gorgeous pictures of the Sahara? Given that this desert is the size of China, there are plenty of options.A decent place to start would be the Ergs of southern Morocco. Whilst these aren’t technically in the Sahara, they are massive hills of sand that comes from the desert nearby.Namibia’s Fish River Canyon.Imagine that red, rocky landscape of Arizona or Utah. And then remember that you are in Namibia.The Fish River here has cut a massive trench through the Earth. And whilst the gorge itself is mesmerising, the landscape around is really quite special too.Atlas Mountains.In the Maghreb, through Morocco , Algeria, and Tunisia, you’ll find a range of mountains stretching for two and a half thousand miles â€" and dividing the coastal areas of north Africa from the Sahara.Here you’ll find snow, lush green valleys, and unique wildlife. It’s a great place to come if you’re looking for a part of the old often overlooked.South Africa’s Garden Route.At the southern tip of Africa, you’ll find, funnily enough, South Africa. And on its south-western tip, you’ll find the Garden Route, a stretch of coast known for its verdant greenness.Here, the Tsitsikamma Mountains fall down into the sea, making for a breath-taking landscape. Treat your camera to something beautiful.Simien Mountains, Ethiopia.In amongst the greenness of Ethiopia, you’ll find the towering Simien Mountains. With rugged and ambling peaks alongside jagged spikes of rock, this range makes for wonderful views.For the wildlife hunters among you, there are also the gelada â€" a species of monkey unique to this area.Co astal Mozambique.It’s currently recovering from one of the worst cyclones it experienced in decades. Yet, this tragedy has shone a light on the beauty of Mozambique.With its lagoons, dispersed islands, and gorgeous beaches, it is a unique and paradisiacal place. Try, for example, Bazaruto Island. The beaches of Mozambique are famously gorgeous.Chad.Chad is one of the poorest countries in the world, landlocked, as it is, in the middle of the Sahara.Yet, whilst it is devastatingly poor, it is also an exceptionally beautiful place. Travel from the Tibesti Mountains in the north to the Manda National Park in the south, and you’ll see some of the most amazing landscapes you’ll ever see.See the USA's beautiful landscapes.

Vincent van Gogh

Vincent van Gogh Vincent van Gogh, the Quintessential Tortured Artist ChaptersBiographyPainting StyleThe Question of SanityLegacyOf all of the artists past and present who have made our world more beautiful through their renderings, few are better known than this Dutch post-impressionist painter.So renown is he that there have been numerous books and songs written about him. And films! No fewer than 17 oeuvres to depict his life, his genius and his madness, his final days...Have you seen Loving Vincent? It is a Polish-English experimental film detailing the circumstances of his death, highlighting the possibility that his death was not necessarily by his own hand.Most remarkably, the entire film consists of oil on canvas, painted in the style of the master himself.It uses his most famous paintings: Sunflowers, Water Lilies, portraiture of various people in his life and, of course, Starry Night, seamlessly threaded together to form the narrative’s backdrop.So well-known is Vincent van Gogh that entire web pages have been created to list all of his ‘ public appearances’. He did not enjoy such treatment in his lifetime, though.Alternatively decried as a dangerous madman and a tragic figure, Vincent van Gogh represents the epitome of the tortured artist.Perpetually plagued by visions he could not make others see, he spent his entire life trying to gain acceptance for himself and for his art.In this article, we look at selected aspects of his life and work. FernandoPainting Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EmmaPainting Teacher 5.00 (5) £75/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DavidPainting Teacher 4.75 (4) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NatashaPainting Teacher 5.00 (7) £37/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors StefaniaPainting Teacher 5.00 (4) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SakinaPainting Teacher 5.00 (1) £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LorrenPainting Teacher 5.00 (2) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Off2themoonholliePainting Te acher £8/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsBiography Can you see in these eyes the pain of rejection? Image by curiousgeorge77 from PixabayBorn on March 30th, 1853, he was the second Vincent in his immediate family, the first having been stillborn exactly a year before his arrival.There is some speculation that being an ersatz-Vincent affected him deeply; some think that his mother, still grieving for the child she had lost, had neither time nor inclination for the new baby.Still, being named Vincent meant something to the family; his grandfather and an uncle also bore that name.Growing up, Vincent seemed a thoughtful and quiet child who didn’t display an overt aptitude towards art even though he did enjoy drawing and sketching.He enjoyed a special closeness with his brother Theo and, to a lesser extent, his sister Willemina. His other two sisters and brother appear to have not made much of an impact on him; those relationships hardly feature in his later life.When he was seven years old, he was sent to the town school and, when he w as nearly ten, was enrolled in a boarding school a ways from home.Being sent away had a profound effect on young Vincent.  His mother had always been emotionally distant but, paradoxically, had taught her children that family bonds were paramount. What was Vincent to think when he was sent away from the family by the very woman whose demonstrations of affection he had perhaps desperately craved?Fortunately, he did not stay away for long; arduous pleading soon returned him to the family fold. He continued his education at a school relatively close to home; still, he was deeply unhappy.While he had merely amused himself by drawing when he was younger â€" an activity encouraged by his mother, his love of art really took root at this school.Constant Cornelis Huijsmans happened to be the art teacher the year that Vincent attended and he had quite an art pedigree himself.Descended from Cornelis Huysmans, whose works are on display at the Louvre and the National Gallery of Scotland, Consta nt Cornelis studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts at Antwerp as well as the Academy of Fine Arts in Paris.In spite of a promising career as an artist, he returned home to care for his ailing father, taking it upon himself to support the entire family. To do so, he accepted a teaching position at a new school that was opening nearby, putting him squarely in the path of one young Vincent.What do van Gogh and Henri Matisse have in common?Painting StyleVincent’s art teacher was unusual in that he refrained from teaching any painting techniques, instead urging his students to illustrate the impression of their chosen subject rather than its likeness.“Real painters do not paint things as they are... they paint them as they themselves feel them to be.” - Vincent van Gogh, in a letter to his brother.Judging by what he wrote to his brother, this teacher’s lessons took root in spite of Vincent’s being deeply unhappy at that time; a frame of mind clearly visible in his gloomy fir st artworks.He did not forsake art completely after finishing his schooling but went to work for a prominent art dealer headquartered in Paris. After he finished his training, he was sent to work in London.He was quite happy there, earning well and idling his time with drawing pencil sketches (and courting the landlady’s daughter) but ultimately became disenchanted with the fact that the firm he represented saw art as no more than a money-making enterprise.His own artistic sun had not yet risen; Vincent needed Theo’s encouragement to study art in earnest.After a short stint at a first-ranked art school, he went to study with his cousin Anton Mauve, who was also a painter. It was Mauve who introduced van Gogh to watercolours; his influence led to a general brightening of Vincent’s dark pencil and charcoal sketches.Whereas before working with Anton van Gogh’s focus was on drawing and sketching, after their brief time together, his medium was paint â€" usually oils but watercol ours too.Thanks to Theo’s constant financial support, Vincent was about to undergo an evolution of his artistic expression.Also learn about Leonardo da Vinci, the most famous among famous artists... Contrary to popular belief, cutting off his ear lobe was not van Gogh's first act of self-harm Image by Gerd Altmann from PixabayThe Question of Sanity“I dream my painting and I paint my dream” - Vincent van GoghThere can be no doubt that Vincent van Gogh was mentally unwell; the question is whether being a replacement for the child his mother really wanted (and being given the same name), feeling abandoned by his family at a young age and being rejected by nearly everyone exacerbated his illness.Many of his rash and aberrant actions seem to reflect his desperation for acceptance:proposing marriage to his landlady’s daughter in London (the reason his father and uncle arranged his transfer to the Paris office of the firm he worked for)eschewing work altogether to embrace religionprofessing love and proposing marriage to his newly-widowed cousin after just meeting herputting his hand to flame in an attempt to persuade her parents to let him see hercutting his ear as Gauguin was l eavingconsorting with the ‘lower ranks’ of societyaccusing Theo of sabotaging his career (when Theo reported none of Vincent’s work could sell)In contrast to the erraticism and uncertainty of his daily life, the composition and execution of his work reflected a serenity, organisation and assuredness that, by all accounts, were never experienced by the man himself.Perhaps his lack of social skills led the world to reject him, forcing him to pour all of his passion into his work.On the other hand, Paul Cezanne also dealt with a lot of rejection but he didn’t go mad...Maybe his family’s eternal hope that Vincent would make something of himself drove them to constantly bail him out of situations he had caused... or maybe it was their shame over his antics and how they reflected on the family’s religious reputation.Regardless of all of the whys and wherefores, we have to wonder: if the medicines prescribed today to manage the psychosis Mr van Gogh apparently suffered were ava ilable in his time, would he have become such a genius at depicting the scenes around him?  Would he have rendered such amazing works of art?Discover the influence van Gogh had on the works of Pablo Picasso. Has a bedchamber ever seemed lonelier than the one van Gogh occupied? Image by Anne Saturnino Miranda from PixabayLegacy“The only time I feel alive is when I paint” - Vincent van GoghFor an artist with virtually no formal training, Vincent van Gogh had a massive impact on the art world.He was late to embrace impressionism but, once he caught on, he could not paint fast enough. His use of bold colours and expressive brushstrokes, incorporating elements of pointillism helped lay the foundations of modern art.While his contemporaries â€" Pissarro, Toulouse-Lautrec and Renoir among others became famous painters, Vincent remained unrecognised in his lifetime; another rejection that surely weighed him down.Claude Monet, the French impressionist, also a contemporary of van Gogh, though well thought of by other French artists of his time, was not well-received by critics or society... perhaps the Parisian art scene was saturated at the time, or in flux - nobody knew what to like.The wor ld’s best-known Dutch painter, who never profited from his art, left behind a collection of masterpieces that, today, sell for millions of dollars each â€" some of the most expensive paintings in the history of art.In his self-portrait series and in his still lifes, indeed each landscape painting is a depiction of a vivid world that only he could see.It was incumbent upon him to translate the vibrancy and poetry he was certain fuelled the world into two-dimensional representations, lamenting all the while that nobody ‘got’ him or what he saw.Painted by van Gogh, everything from the workaday lives of everyman to the tired boots they wore became a piece of art history; unique brushwork that we’re privileged to look upon today with awe and perhaps a touch of pity.Misplaced pity, perhaps, because while his life was difficult and far too short, his inner landscape might have been far more beautiful than any of his canvases... had anyone besides his brother given him quarter.Now d iscover other famous works of art painted by some of the world’s most famous artists.

5 Tips for Figuring Out the Next Step in Your Career - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / 5 Tips for Figuring Out the Next Step in Your Career - Introvert Whisperer 5 Tips for Figuring Out the Next Step in Your Career Perhaps it’s how the stars have aligned, but recently I’ve had a number of people tell me that they needed to figure out what their next step is in their career. The good news in hearing this is that these people are giving some conscious thought to their career. It’s really easy to ignore it and just show up to work everyday giving no thought to the career. The tough thing is that figuring out your next step can be as complex as rocket science. There are just so many things to think through, like income, lifestyle, work content, responsibilities and retooling. To make it more complex, there are usually considerations for potential opportunities at your current place of business. How do you wade through all of this to gain any kind of clarity? Here are some tips for you to consider: Overarching Direction First, what general direction are you headed? Sounds simple, but it’s really important. Your choices can be: Moving up looking for promotion or more responsibility? Something different? Same level and work but a change in things like commute, travel or work pressure? By defining your general direction up front, you’ll be able to see the next few steps. Think of it like vacation planning. Do you want to go somewhere warm, culturally different, or historical? Each option poses highly different choices. The same is true for your career. There may be some slightly overlapping elements but the core direction dictates different steps. What Are Your Goals for the Next Step? Do you want to be making more money, or is job structure the driver? I know this sounds funny to hear, but making more money isn’t always the big driver. One of the people making this statement to me is very satisfied with their paycheck. They would like to maintain the income but kick back and stop working at such a break-neck pace. Sometimes you sacrifice work/life balance to get to a level and then you need to maintain the level to improve the “life” side. Sometimes you’re working to get to that level. Figure Out Your Timing Tolerance One of the things that happen to some people is they think if they wait long enough, the universe will present an opportunity. While I do think this happens occasionally, it’s also the stuff regrets are made of. Too many people wait for something to happen, only to wake up, look around and realize that all that time has passed and nothing happened. In fact, too much time passed and now they’re faced with a totally new set of considerations. There is a rhythm to careers. About every 2-3 years, substantial changes either do happen or should happen. If you are in the mid-point of this window, now is the time to figure it out. I estimate it usually takes about a year for all the planning and actions to culminate into a change. Immerse Yourself In One of the Options The problem with always standing back to think about things is that it doesn’t prompt a decision. When a decision is not forthcoming, you need to change your behavior. Pick one of your options and “try it on.” Speak to others doing the work you’re thinking of. Figure out what your path from here to there would be. Really drill down on the option as if you were pursuing it in earnest. Sometimes, this can really inspire you or makes you put the brakes on. Either way it ends up, you’re better off than you were when standing still. Be Change-Ready Change is not a comfortable state of being. Many people avoid that discomfort at all costs. The thing is, if you deliberately put yourself into changing situations, you will be more adept and open to making change. The reluctance to make change is often the reason for not moving forward. (Tweet this!) This is very toxic to great career management. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?   Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable.   Get your copy now and start your action plan today: CLICK HERE Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleash your professional potential. If you’re thinking about what your next career step should be, congratulations! Now, do more than just think about it. What will your next step be? Share in the comments! Image: Flickr

Photography Course in Liverpool

Photography Course in Liverpool Where Can You Take Photography Classes in Liverpool? ChaptersLearn from a Professional PhotographerPhotographic Societies in LiverpoolTake Photography Classes at the City of Liverpool CollegeLearn Photography Skills OnlineAs a native Liverpudlian, can you name three picture-worthy sites in and around our city? How about outside of city limits?In fact, The Pool has so much to capture on film or memory card that a tourists' typical week's stay would not be nearly enough to see and snap even the most popular sites!From the world famous Victorian Gardens to our gorgeous Cathedral, it is no wonder that tourists flock to our city â€" and it would be a sure bet that everyone brought their camera!Even those who come for the Merseyside derby take their fair share of snaps, if only to load them on social media.No matter why you wield your camera, the fundamental reason for seeing the world through a viewfinder is to capture noteworthy sights and memorable moments.If said sights and moments are indeed worth capturing, wouldn't it be worth your wh ile to learn how to do it well?Even if you have substantial experience behind the lens, as an advanced photographer, there is still much to learn... especially considering technological advances in the art of photography!Let us now find photography courses  in and around Liverpool, for commercial photography as well as for the sheer passion of it. Check out this blog for photography classes around the UKOr if you're in Scotland, our article on Glasgow photography courses may be of interest.Settling on a specialty before taking lessons will help you advance as a photographer Source: Pixabay Credit MeditationsYou can take extra online photography courses here. an event for every meeting save on holidays.Although there is no annual membership fee, there is a charge of £4 per meeting.That gives you the freedom to attend only those workshops and lectures that interest you without paying for sessions not targeted to your focus.What we love about this club is the flexibility it offers: in fees, scheduling and diversity of photographic learning material.We are not so keen on is the limited practical nights.Only three times per season are the cameras actually used: to photograph models, or commercial photography subjects â€" still life or a product.Find a photography course in Cardiff!Many photography clubs sponsor competitions: you could participate! Source: Pixabay Credit: rawpixelSouth Liverpool Photographic SocietyFounded sixty-five years ago, this fun faction of photographers have embraced digital imaging, but still welcome fans of film photography.Nearly forty years after their inception, they incorporated with The Pool's oldest, most venerated photographic society, thus embracing more than one hundred and sixty years of amateur and professional photographic excellence.They offer a year-round syllabus, including a summer programme to display your holiday snaps, which runs from July until September.On Sundays, they host The Improvers' Group workshops, where you c an exchange tips and ideas with other photo enthusiasts.What we really like about South Liverpool Photographic Society is its tradition and history, and a varied syllabus: a different activity for every meeting.What we don't like is the lack of transparency: the charter itself proclaims that fees are determined on a meeting or situational basis.While it is always a good idea to discuss your hobby/passion with those of similar interest, perhaps you would like to get a more formal education in the art of photography.To find photography clubs in Manchester, take a look at our article!Take Photography Classes at the City of Liverpool CollegeEstablished in 1992 from a consolidation of four separate campuses, the City of Liverpool College offers a Level 1 photography course to anyone who wishes to learn about:CompositionISO â€" the sensitivity of your camera's image sensorAperture and Shutter applicationIntroduction to PhotoshopDuring this ten-week engagement, you will learn everything ab out your compact or SLR camera, and will be called on to prove your knowledge by submitting a project as your final exam.The cost for these twice-weekly evening lessons is £220, not including course materials, and you must provide your own camera.If you haven't yet invested in a camera, you might borrow one, until you can learn more about what you want in a DSLR camera.And, until you have decided on a specialty!The commercial photographer uses different equipment â€" camera bodies, lenses and filters than, say, someone adept at night photography.Therefore, you may want to wait until you are more advanced in learning photography before spending any money on photographic equipment.In this course, your instructor will detail the pros and cons of various camera models and types, from compacts to ones with all of the bells and whistles, during your first lesson.You could always expand your knowledge about photography training by taking it to the next level in a more advanced course.Surp risingly, inexplicably!: formal photography programmes seem rather limited within Liverpool. However, you can obtain a Level 3 certificate or a BA Honors degree  online,  through distance learning.If you'd like to do the same in London, click here to read about photography courses in the capital.You too could master the art of digital photo editing online! Source: Pixabay Credit: hpv2011Learn Photography Skills OnlineUniversity for the Creative Arts offers a degree programme online, a path to professional photography that you can complete as quickly as you'd like.These courses operate under the premise that everyone is a novice at digital photography, and takes you from the camera basics, all the way through technical and analytical skills needed to compose and shoot subject matter.Their programme is modular, meaning a student could select, from among the vast series of learning units, which topics pique his creative and intellectual curiosity.As for specialising: the modular concep t permits mastering only of the type of photography you intend to pursue as a career.If you love travel photography, for example, you would select nature and wildlife photography study modules, and reject fashion or food photography.As you move closer to your degree, your tutor would more intently support you in creating challenging work, to reflect your advanced photography skills and mature eye for composition.As you progress in the art of photography, your instructor will help you develop your visual storytelling capabilities.University of Creative Arts is highly ranked by the Guardian University League tables, and for good reason!Its relatively low cost, coupled with student satisfaction â€" both with teaching methods and study materials, makes this online institute of higher learning a fine choice.Especially for those who do not have access to a photography study programme that is within commuter distance from their home.If you really prefer studying at home, you could always e ngage a Superprof tutor.Superprof has more than 700 qualified teachers of photography to instruct you through  online photography courses, via webcam, in the comfort of your own home.Are you a film photography fanatic who is hesitant about going pro with digital equipment?Conversely: were you spoon-fed on digital but now wish to master film photography and developing?Have you only ever played around with compact digital SLRs but are looking to trade up to a more complex model of camera?For all of these instances and more, Superprof has a tutor for you!With all of the tourists taking pictures around our fun city, with so much a photographer could capture â€" on film or memory card...With the knowledge that Liverpool, herself historic, has so many visual treats to offer: doesn't our city nearly beg you to take photography lessons?And now, you know where and who you can learn from!If Liverpool is too far away, reading about photography classes in Birmingham might be useful.

Should I Go To George Washington University

Should I Go To George Washington University The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teachtheyre sharing their college experiences as well. Alyson is a Miami tutor and 2012 graduate of George Washington University. She holds a Bachelors degree in psychology and tutors several subjects, including psychology tutoring, reading tutoring, and science tutoring. Check out what Alyson had to say about her time at George Washington University: Describe the campus setting and transportation options. Alyson: George Washington University is a great school for a balance between college and city life. The campus is located right in the heart of Washington, D.C., just blocks from the White House, Georgetown, and endless points of entertainment. Because of its proximity to such high profile locations, it is extremely safe. During the presidential inauguration, there was a Secret Service member standing at every corner (and being late to class because the presidential motorcade drove by is a valid excuse). The campus has its own metro stop, and Washington, D.C. public transportation cant be beat. If the metro or bus wont get you there, theres a $5.00 taxi waiting to be hailed. I lived there for four years, and never once needed a car. How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants at George Washington University? Alyson: I never had a problem meeting with my professors, TAs, or academic advisers. They were always available during office hours, and if that didnt work, then I could simply email them and find another time. How would you describe the dorm liferooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students? Alyson: The dorms at George Washington University are amazing. I lived in them all four years and loved it. George Washington University doesnt have a meal plan, so most of the dorms have kitchens and are pretty spacious. The freshman dorm Thurston Hall also has a cleaning service that will come and clean your room twice a week. Not bad! Which majors/programs are best represented and supported? Alyson: I would say that the best supported schools at George Washington University are the Elliott School of International Affairs, the School of Business, and the School of Media and Public Affairs. The liberal arts school is great as well, but since the majority of the student body goes that route, it means the advisers are not as helpful. Personally, I majored in psychology and never had a problem with support, though I would have liked better advisers, as it wasnt until my senior year that I realized I could have taken on another major or an extra semester abroad. How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life? Alyson: Making friends is easy if you get involved. George Washington University has chances year-round for students to join clubs, internships, and volunteer opportunities. I was personally involved in Greek life, and its a great way to make friends and have experiences you wouldnt otherwise have, but I wouldnt say its necessary to a good social life at George Washington University. The George Washington University crowd is definitely work hard, play hard, but if thats your thing, nowhere else can beat it. How helpful is the Career Center and other student support services at George Washington University? Alyson: The career center is great for helping students find work-study placements. They will also help you with free resume editing and interview prep. How are the various study areas such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges? Alyson: These areas are all great places to study. They only really get crowded around midterm and finals season, but George Washington University has an online booking system that allows you to reserve study rooms for however long you need during those weeks, so you always know you have a place to go. Describe the surrounding town at George Washington University. Alyson: There are few places in the world that beat going to school in Washington, D.C. You can feel the energy of the city all around you. Not only is everyone smart and informed, but its also incredibly tourist friendly, which means there is always something to do. Concerts, nightlife, restaurants, farmers markets, you name it. And when you need a break from the city, just hop on the metro, and venture into Virginia or Maryland to get your fix of the country. How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes? Alyson: For me, George Washington University was the perfect size. It is a medium sized school, so the student body is small enough that you recognize most faces, but large enough that you are able to meet someone new all the time. And if you need to make it smaller, joining a club or getting involved on campus is a great way to find your core group. Students at George Washington University tend to be very social. Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you regret the most. Alyson: One of the best classes I took was my Israeli Media class. The class was entirely in Hebrew, but we were able to have conversations and debates about politics in the Middle East, and to view Israeli media through many different lenses. It was a small class of maybe 10 people at best, so we really got to know each other and to dive deep into our opinions and feelings on the conflict in Israel. Check out Alysons tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

Overview of an Online Trigonometry Tutor

Overview of an Online Trigonometry Tutor 0SHARESShare Is trigonometry proving difficult to deal for you? Is looking at graphs of Sin, Cos and Tan feels like staring at death? In such cases, a personalized online trigonometry tutors can help you with everything, from the basics to complex numbers. The best thing about online tutors is that they are available at any time you want. There are many websites on the internet that provide specialized one-on-one trigonometry tuition over Skype and other video conferencing programmes. List of Trigonometry Topics Tutors on these websites are well-trained in their respective subjects. Furthermore, they have lots of experience teaching math online. You can see their profile, and choose anyone of them depending on your sill-level. These tutors can help you with any trigonometry question and concept from high school to college undergraduate level. Some of the topics taught by online tutors include: Basic Trigonometry functions Meaning of Sine, cosine, tangent General Trigonometric identities Pythagorean Theorem and Applications complex numbers Inversion of Trigonometric Functions Interpolation of Graph Personalized Specialized Trigonometry Tutoring These online tuition websites work on personalized instruction method. The procedure of hiring a tutor from these websites is as follows: Create an account on any online tutoring website. Scroll through the list of tutors available. Choose one of them, keeping your schedule and budget in mind. Talk with your chosen tutor and derive a study plan. Benefit of Online Tutoring for Trigonometry Online instructors assist students in understanding trigonometry theories thoroughly and thus get better marks. Around 80 per cent of those who take online tuition are able to complete their schoolwork on time and improve their grades. These websites work 24/7, therefore you can choose any schedule you want. Rates for online tutors are very low, and transactions on these websites are very secure. [starbox id=admin]

Helping Your Teen Capitalize on His or Her Strengths

Helping Your Teen Capitalize on His or Her Strengths Just as you may not want to pursue a career in science if your passion is writing, your teen may have certain activities and school subjects that capture his or her interest. Every student wants to feel successful, which is why many gravitate toward subjects where they are strongestand away from those where they are weak, says Eileen Huntington, co-founder of Huntington Learning Center. Its perfectly natural that by the time a student reaches high school, he or she may have discovered a passion for one or two subjects or hobbies. One of these areas may soon become your teens college major or even evolve into a career path one day, so in the high school years, parents should think about how to encourage their teens to make the most of what theyre good at. How can parents help their teen flourish by nurturing his or her strengths? Huntington offers the following tips: Start with a self-assessment. If your teen seems to feel and perform average at most things, help him or her explore what he or she is good at. Open-ended conversations about areas where your teen feels the most confident are a good place to start, but if your teen struggles to articulate his or her thoughts, try an assessment, such as the Gallup StrengthsFinder (the adult or youth version) or the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Personality traits can be parlayed into strengths. Your teen isnt a straight-A student, but is a social butterfly who loves organizing activities and rallying friends and family to get involved. Perhaps your teen has the skills to excel in a school leadership position, such as serving on student council. Or, does his or her high school offer any business management or leadership courses? Remind your teen that strengths can be useful, even if theyre not favorites. If your teen is great at math but doesnt love it, becoming a statistician will not likely become his or her future career. However, your teen could use this area of strength to his or her advantage. Your teens calculus teacher could serve as an excellent college reference and mentor if he or she nurtures the relationship. If your teen sees him or herself as a budding entrepreneur, having strong math and reasoning skills will definitely be valuable down the road. Let strengths guide passions. Encourage your teen to seek out opportunities to build upon (and get excited about) his or her areas of strength. Think of volunteer prospects, part-time jobs, school activities and extracurricular activities that will allow your teen to exercise his or her skills in new and different ways. A bookworm might enjoy reading to children at the local library, working in a book store or trying his or her own hand at writing stories. Huntington reminds parents that just as it is important to work on ones weaknesses, it is imperative that teens cultivate their strengths, too. Well-roundedness is valuable and will certainly help your teen perform well academically, but when it comes to identifying a college major and future career path, your teen would be wise to focus on his or her talents, says Huntington. Help your teen identify and develop these strengths and youll be setting him or her on the path to a fulfilling life.