Unusual Post: What is Rippln?

This is an unusual post for me and for an art/photo blog, but it's something I wanted to share. The buzz is building about a new company and web platform called Rippln. They are in invitation-only stage right now, with a projected public launch within the next 60 days. So, what is Rippln?

The premise for this new platform is that the ordinary people who grow massive companies like Facebook, Twitter, and the like should be compensated for making those companies successful. I like that idea, but how does it work? I don't know yet, as they have not yet implemented the eco-system. A friend I trust and respect sent me an invitation and when I went to the web site I was a bit skeptical. There is an introductory video and after watching I decided to join. It doesn't cost anything but a few minutes of my time so why not give it a shot?

Another video presentation appears after you join and sign a non-disclosure agreement. You also get the opportunity to invite 5 people to join you and start building your "ripples." The platform focuses on the ripple effect we have when we talk about things we like. Our recommendations often travel far beyond the people we know, creating a wave of interest that ripples out across the world.

Is Rippln legitimate? According to several web sites that specialize in detecting and reporting scams, yes, Rippln is legitimate. I saw a very long comment by one of the founders on a blog post that expressed just how much has been put into this project, including an in-house legal team, to insure everything is done correctly. 180,000 people joined Rippln in the first 9 days, and at least a few of them are very successful and highly respected entrepreneurs.

If you'd like to take a look at Rippln I can send you an invitation. Just email me at rippleinvitation@gmail.com . All that is required to receive an invitation is your first and last name and email address. Don't worry, you won't be added to any email list. I don't have one. The only email you will receive from me is the one with the invitation code. Whether you join or not is your choice.

Spring Green Tree Fractal Art

Creating fractal art is so much fun because the creative process can put us in touch with the ever-renewing processes of nature. I love spring time, with all the new growth, rich colors, and the opportunity to watch something new unfold. All the trees here started budding last month and now some of those buds are opening to reveal bright green leaves. I know the wildflowers are not far behind. Even though I've seen it happen for 50 years it still delights me to watch the annual unfolding of vibrant new life.

This fractal art piece expresses that natural process, with a tree covered with emerging leaves and the bright green of spring's new life.

Fascinated with the Harmony of Forms

I'm fascinated by forms and contrasting shapes. This object is a small fountain that sits on my kitchen counter but one evening the light was hitting it in such a way that the lines really stood out. I noticed the lovely way a circle is balanced on top of a square, and the contrast between sharp, clean edges and the rough textures within the circle. A sense of harmony filled me as I simply observed the interplay of forms.

I apologize for the blurry image. My camera is having issues and as a discontinued model I have had difficulty finding someone to open it up. If you know how to check, clean, or replace parts in a Kodak Z740 camera, please share in a comment. 

Magenta Majesty Fractal Art

When I hear the word "majesty" I think of either a beautiful mountain range or a regal palace full of elegant things in rich colors. Well, I don't have a mountain range photo so we'll go with the palace idea today. I haven't actually been inside a real palace, but I've seen photos and movies that portray the magnificent structures with intricate detail. Could this be the back of a throne, or maybe a tapestry hung on a gallery wall? I wonder what it would be like to actually live in a place where opulence fills every room. I wonder if people who do ever long for the simplicity I enjoy in my humble desert home. I think I'll print this fractal art piece and hang a little palace majesty on the wall. :)

Water Tower Sunset Silhouette

The old water tower at the end of our neighborhood has been there for more than 50 years. I love the old design, especially as seen against a stormy sky or at sunset. Beyond the tower the Sonoran Desert stretches out for miles. Our desert is not barren, populated with Mesquite and Palo Verde trees, sage brush, tumbleweed, coyotes, snakes, quail, cottontail rabbits, and jackrabbits. Still, without man-made water supplies it would be a foreboding place. Somehow, when nature paints the sky above it soft clouds in pretty colors it seems a little gentler, a little friendlier.