Is there a word for the phenomenon of finding faces in abstract shapes or patterns? (more inside) [more inside]
posted by Kensational on Dec 5, 2009 - 4 answers

Help me articulate the concept of how unfamiliarity and familiarity alter perception. [more inside]
posted by DeltaForce on Nov 15, 2009 - 16 answers

What should an extended abstract (in the humanities) look like? This is for philosophy in particular, though I assume it might be a similar style for other disciplines. [more inside]
posted by JoshSmith on Sep 20, 2009 - 2 answers

I am 39 years old, 22 weeks pregnant with my first baby (a son) and I don't feel very maternal, for lack of a better word. It all feels very abstract and I find very little interest in baby-related things, learning about childbirth/child-rearing, etc. When does the baby excitement kick in for someone who has not historically been baby/kid crazy? [more inside]
posted by murrey on May 1, 2009 - 41 answers

I'm looking for film recommendations. Films (of any length) that use approach their subject matter in abstract or otherwise unusual ways. Some of my favorites in that vein are Koyaanisqatsi and Baraka, Outside In, Powers of 10, Gantz Graf, Der Lauf Der Dinge, C'etait un Rendezvous, Fast, Cheap, and out of Control, and The Fourth Dimension. Things like this that, in their own weird way, impart some understanding. Bonus points for no dialog.
posted by phrontist on Feb 7, 2009 - 24 answers

I have just realized that I am appallingly bad at abstract thought. Anytime I need to solve a problem that requires higher-level abstract thinking, I am unable to do so. So, for example, if I see an argument spelled out in symbols, I have to translate those symbols into real-world terms for me to understand them. What can I do to gradually improve my ability to handle abstract thoughts and ideas in my brain. [more inside]
posted by leybman on Dec 17, 2008 - 9 answers

Are these done in Flash or something else? (click the cover to preview the videos) One Two And how about these? Three Four
posted by SampleSize on Aug 23, 2008 - 7 answers

I am seeking recommendations for an original artwork with several specific qualities for a certain spot in my house; or for an artist who might produce such work. [more inside]
posted by worstkidever on May 30, 2008 - 5 answers

I could paint that. Couldn't I? [more inside]
posted by LoriFLA on Oct 17, 2007 - 40 answers

I've come across this kind of very large¹, detailed, abstract illustrations, which are great for backgrounds or extracting small parts to use in your own projects. I thought they were called "macros", but have been unable to find any references or collections by that name. Is there a generic name for this kind of thing, what is it and where could I find more to download?
¹ The original image is 10 times larger.
posted by signal on Mar 16, 2004 - 13 answers