Category Archives: | PORTFOLIO

8.365/12 (folding paper)

Today I finally got around to learning how to “fold paper” (I mean really folding paper). The art of origami has been an interest of mine for a long time, especially how it relates to the world of architecture, nature and structural compositions. I recently started the book Folding Techniques for Designers from Sheet to Form: by Paul Jackson, a renowned expert and educator in the field of origami. The first fold of 16 linear divisions (lower right) took me by surprise, as if I knew how to do this already… I really didn’t. The basic lesson was learning to fold/crease the paper only once and not having to bend back any particular fold. The next (top left) is a 16 rotational division fold similar to the first in technique. The other 3 are symmetrical repeats with transformations and beginning to get difficult like the first time a student of architecture is asked to draw a ceiling plan (by laying down on the floor and looking up). I’m looking forward to learning more about this art form and incorporating a broader knowledge of folding geometry in my architectural designs.

folding paper

7.365/12 (ruiduarte.com goes mobile)

Today I launched a mobile device version of my website (blog) using WPtouch for phones and tablets. Next time you are online have a look and bookmark it on your device…

6.365/12 (guitar friday)

Today I introduced another 6-string to the family, made some adjustments and spent a few hours making sound.

5.365/12 (LineArtist Racing)

Today I made myself feel better by resting a cold and taking inventory of several thousand images acquired last year. A particular set of photographic quality images produced by the PS3 video game Gran Turismo 5 (GT5) has really stood out as a new interest of mine. The game is more of a simulator rather than an arcade style points collector, and throughout the 2011 year I have made plenty of friends on the track with online gaming. These images are from actual racing in the game that were saved as replays to review races. The replay mode offers a photograph mode that allows full control of camera options and the ability to pause the race on any lap to frame a photo. I’ve been interested in photography since high school and have maintained a good camera and a modest knowledge of photography since then. GT5 offers plenty of realistic racing and perhaps the best in-game photographic capability, here are some of my GT5 photos.

LineArtist Racing is an online racing league on the PS3 game: Gran Turismo 5
LineArtist Racing on Facebook
LineArtist Racing on Flickr
LineArtist Racing on YouTube

 

»crosslinked«

2.365/12 (Rebirth for iPad)

Today I made some noise using my new iPad with an old friend named Rebirth by Propellerhead Software. About 14 years ago I discovered Rebirth and was instantly addicted to making electronic music (never said I was good at it). ReBirth is a digital version of the “Roland TB-303 Bass synth and the Roland TR-808 and 909 drum machines” and is now re-issued as an iPad app. Over the years Propellerhead Software has emerged as a leading music production software company. I recently upgraded to Reason 6 and will be using it to record more conventional songs and my guitar playing with a full entourage of synths, drum machines and other interesting instruments.

010212 Rebirth.mp3 

Rebirth was amazing for 1997 in comparison to other “design software” of the time: intuitive, innovative and easy to use. Unlike cad back then (and even today), Rebirth was light years ahead in terms of functionality and user interface. I didn’t realize it back then but Rebirth made a strong impact on what design tools I picked up in the future.