19354 research outputs found
Sort by
Ex-Voto with Saints Technical Study and Conservation of an 18th Century Ex-voto Panel Painting with Saints from Caracas, Venezuela
A technical analysis and conservation treatment were conducted on the Ex-voto with Saints, an oil painting on wood panel, dated 1752 and crafted by an unknown artist. Originating from the Spanish colonial period in Caracas, Venezuela, the artwork is part of the Art of the Spanish Americas collection curated by the Carl & Marilynn Thomas Foundation. The project\u27s primary objectives were to identify the artist\u27s materials and techniques, establish the most suitable treatment protocol, and conduct treatment on the painting. The study was complicated by a few factors, including that the panel had previously undergone several invasive conservation campaigns, and there is limited information on the materials and painting techniques employed by artists in Caracas, Venezuela, during the Spanish colonial period. Ex-voto with Saints underwent multimodal imaging including ultraviolet-induced visible fluorescence, reflected ultraviolet, reflected infrared, infrared luminescence and x-radiography. Materials analysis was executed with several analytical techniques, including microscope transmission Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, cross-sectional analysis, and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The results of the technical analysis provided a better understanding of the painting’s materials and history. The confirmed palette used in Ex-voto with Saints includes vermilion, orpiment, Prussian blue, lead carbonate (lead white or cerussite), hematite along with other earthen pigments. Aesthetic and structural treatments were conducted, including varnish and overpaint removal, adjustments to the fills, varnishing and inpainting, as well as addressing the separated frame fragment. The treatment was successful and the painting is in exhibitable condition
Equipping Project Managers with a Creative Problem-Solving Framework: A Leadership Development Approach
This project explores how standardized processes can foster a change in mindset within accounting and finance functions at a large banking organization. It introduces a Creative Problem-Solving Leadership Framework (CPS-LF) that integrates Agile, Design Thinking, Lean Six Sigma, and Sprint methodologies within the FourSight CPS model. The framework was developed as an interactive digital tool and delivered through a four-part training series, guiding project managers through CPS stages (Clarify, Ideate, Develop, Implement) to identify challenges and apply appropriate methodologies. This project aims to strengthen problem-solving, innovation, and efficiency in highly regulated environments by enhancing creative leadership skills and promoting a balance between standardization and adaptability
The Mighty C: A Fractal Model for Modern Creativity
The persistent ambiguity surrounding the definition of creativity has hindered its advancement across academic, educational, and professional settings. In response, this paper proposes an updated framework—The Mighty C—which defines creativity as the intrinsic human activity of generating meaningful, novel, and useful outcomes through deliberate process. This model addresses critical gaps in conventional definitions, particularly the frequent omission of meaningfulness, intentionality, and the uniquely human nature of creativity. It further emphasizes the recursive nature of these aspects across different levels of creative activity, represented through the structure of fractals. Drawing from scholarly models such as Rhodes’ 4Ps and Kaufman and Beghetto’s 4C framework, The Mighty C offers a unifying perspective grounded in both theory and lived experience. The paper also outlines a workshop series tailored for IT entrepreneurs, demonstrating how the model supports the deliberate cultivation of creativity in real-world contexts
Developing Standard Operating Procedures for the DeWitt Town Clerk’s Office
ABSTRACT OF PROJECT
Developing Standard Operating Procedures for the DeWitt Town Clerk’s Office
This project addresses the operational inconsistencies in the DeWitt Town Clerk’s Office in Syracuse, NY, by creating a structured Standard Operating Procedures (SOP\u27s) manual. The focus is on six high-impact processes: tax collection, water bill payments, dog licensing (new and renewals), marriage license transcript requests, and handicap parking permit issuance and renewal. Each SOP includes visual info-graphics to enhance accessibility and minimize errors. The final product is designed to improve on-boarding, reduce staff reliance on memory, increase efficiency, and align with creativity and change leadership principles
Field Note, January 2025
Bob Gallagher\u27s reflections on educational beliefs, inspired by the book The Teacher You Want to Be, offer a profound critique and vision for what schools could be. Here\u27s a detailed breakdown based on the themes and beliefs discusse
Field Notes in Professional Development: Science of Reading (SoR)
In this Field Notes, Bob Gallagher—a seasoned educator whose journey spans classroom teaching in Buffalo Public Schools, shaping professional growth at Sweet Home Schools, steering curriculum as Assistant Superintendent at Niagara Wheatfield Schools, and now mentoring future teachers at Buffalo State University—casts a seasoned eye on the Science of Reading (SoR). Likening its hype to a library book or movie trailer that overpromises and underdelivers, he questions the SoR’s claim that phonics-first unlocks reading for all. Teachers, he finds, are split: some cheer progress, others hesitate, untrained or unconvinced. Reviewing *Fact-Checking the Science of Reading* (2024) by Tierney and Pearson, Gallagher highlights their pushback against SoR’s “settled science” badge. From phonics’ limits to the Simple View’s oversimplification, they insist science dances forward, not dictating but dreaming. Gallagher nudges educators to sift SoR’s bold pitch through the rich, tangled reality of teaching kids to read
FTT150
Focuses on macro environmental factors surrounding the fashion business and fashion consumers. Analysis on apparel statistics and market data to develop insight into business trends and consumer behavior in the fashion industry. Emphasis on fashion merchandising principles and ethical and sustainable business practices in the fashion industry
FTT358
Study of fashion trend forecasting; diffusion of innovation; long-term forecasting and macro trends; short-term seasonal forecasting; fashion trend research; color, textile, and style trend forecasting; and presentation of the forecast
Hope after grief and loss: A needs assessment of peer-led, non-denominational bereavement support services at Laurel’s Grief Center
This needs assessment examines the grief support services provided by Laurel’s Grief Center (LGC), a nonprofit organization in Buffalo, New York, and identifies opportunities to expand tailored services for grieving adults in Western New York. Using a convergent mixed-methods design, this study collected data through semi-structured interviews with LGC board members and surveys with clients and peer volunteers. Key findings highlight the importance of peer-led, non-denominational grief support and creative approaches, such as art therapy, while identifying barriers, such as stigma, limited awareness, and fragmented regional services.
Based on these findings, this study recommends expanding healing arts programs, enhancing outreach to underserved populations, developing tailored programs for specific groups, strengthening the peer support model, and fostering collaboration among regional human service providers. Although limited by a small sample size, this assessment offers valuable insights for guiding LGC’s future programs and outreach efforts. Further research with larger and more diverse samples is needed to fully capture the grief support needs of the Western New Yor