Showing posts with label custom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label custom. Show all posts

Friday, January 10, 2020

Our New York City

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty



Our New York City
acrylic paint on canvas board
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm) 
201912114
© copyright Mike Kraus
For more information, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/186507940/custom-commission-original-artwork-by

It's not everyday that someone special has their Bat Mitzvah.  They had a vision of the perfect gift for the young art lover.  After researching many, many artists, they found a few pieces of my work that was similar to their vision of the perfect gift.  With a phone call and inspiration, a few sketches were created (below).  We refined the idea by moving the subject near their Upper West Side neighborhood.  Some more sky and depth was added with the buildings.  A bit of greenery and more details of symbolic importance.  Once the vision was sketched, I created the painting.  I regularly updated them on my progress and we made minor changes to buildings, graffiti, and other features along the way.  We met our deadline and the finished piece arrived quickly in NYC with some time to spare.  This piece is full of love.  Every square inch and detail is about affection and friendship.  It was a very special project and I'm so grateful to have been included in its creation.











Whitman Works
gallery is closing...

But, you won't find better deals on original. Get 25% OFF everything in the gallery. Also, January 18th is a special open house sale with more in-house incentives and giveaways. Come and join us as we celebrate 3+ years of working with area artists.

More information at:

https://www.facebook.com/events/2936079256454188/


Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Monday, January 6, 2020

Relaxing on Canandaigua Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Relaxing on Canandaigua Lake
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201911109
© copyright Mike Kraus

As I walk to the dock, a cool brisk breeze comes off the calm waters of Canandaigua Lake.  The steam rises from my cocoa thermos mug as I open it for every sip.  My every step is the crunching of dried autumn leaves.  We're very fortunate and grateful to live in a place like this.  And the Adirondack chairs are lined up to see the finale of this autumn sunset.

More About Mike Kraus Art
My NPR Marketplace Business News interview about art as an alternative investment

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM

Boston Voyager Magazine interview at:

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Friday, January 3, 2020

Aunt's Texas House

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 



Aunt's Texas House
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201911104
© copyright Michael Kraus

Finding the perfect gift is always difficult.  But what do you get someone who's moving to a new home?  Well, she had a great idea for her family, which was also appropriate since she's an architect.  Her vision was to create paintings of their homes that were true to life; but dreamlike.  To capture their essence and memories.  If it's "the thought that counts" in gift giving, she won Christmas this year.  And, I'm honored to have been a small part of it.


More About Mike Kraus Art
My NPR Marketplace Business News interview about art as an alternative investment

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM

Boston Voyager Magazine interview at:



Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
at No comments:

Friday, December 6, 2019

Great-Grandfather's Church

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Great-Grandfather's Church #344
gouache paint and ink on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
201912112
© copyright Mike Kraus
To purchase, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MikeKrausArt?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&section_id=1

 IT'S CYBER WEEK!  Get up to 40% OFF now!

He was a toddler when he arrived in America as refugee of the Irish Potato Famine.  Centuries of oppression left his family uneducated, poor, and starving in their own country.  Growing up in the tenements and prejudice of New York City left him wanting more as a young man.  And when he saw a flyer offering him work in Nebraska on the Transcontinental Railroad he took his opportunity.  After several years of living in tents and backbreaking work, he ended up in a southern Omaha tenement built on an "uninviting floodplain."  He still wanted more.  With hard work and shrewd dealing, he was able to obtain a farm.  Soon after, he was married and had several children that added to the success of that farm.  Looking back on his life, he saw himself as being fortunate to escape the peasant life of the privileged monarchy, the toil of being an immigrant, and to raise a family on his own land.  To show his gratitude, he joined with other nearby farmers in 1883 to construct this humble church.  Sacred ground to the American experience and a reminder of who we are as a nation.

More About Mike Kraus Art
My NPR Marketplace Business News interview about art as an alternative investment

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM

Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
at No comments:

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Dad's House

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Dad's House #345
gouache paint and ink on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
201912113
© copyright Mike Kraus
For more information, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MikeKrausArt?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&section_id=15998928

IT'S CYBER WEEK!  Get up to 40% OFF now!

This time of year always brings a bit of nostalgia.  Visiting dad on the holidays.  My brother tinkering with the neglected grill when my sister rolled up on her bike; smirking.  That house is special to our family.  Special because of the people that are in it.

More About Mike Kraus Art
My NPR Marketplace Business News interview about art as an alternative investment

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM

Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
at No comments:

Friday, November 15, 2019

Elephants in Tanzania

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 




Elephants of Tanzania
acrylic paint on canvas board
12" x 12" (30.5 cm x 30.5 cm)
201910100
© copyright Michael Kraus

It was a flash of inspiration.  Her niece's birthday was soon and she loves elephants.  We worked on the piece and had it gift wrapped.  After a loquacious dinner and heavenly cake, it was time to open gifts.  At first, she looked a bit confused by the yellow and brown pattern she saw.  As she pulled off more paper, she saw the first elephant and became very excited.  This original painting is now a symbol of their unique and beautiful relationship.

More About Mike Kraus Art
My NPR Marketplace Business News interview about art as an alternative investment

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM

Boston Voyager Magazine interview at:

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
at No comments:

Monday, September 16, 2019

Summer's Delivery Service

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Summer's Delivery Service
acrylic paint on canvas board
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm) 
201908074
© copyright Mike Kraus
For more information, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/186507940/custom-commission-original-artwork-by

He has lots of wonderful memories and people in his life.  And he wanted something to symbolize that in his home.  After some thought, he was inspired.  He and his girlfriend shared a favorite childhood movie.  What if he had a painting made with his girlfriend as the main character?  And their cat could be added as well!  It's a fun piece that turns a house into a home.


Please visit my Brightscapes art show at Mendon 64. Along with my artwork, there's pieces by Kim Lester, guest chef Chris Hobaica , music by: Jaunt UPstate MA'AM, D.B. Rielly, Nick LeDuc, Ryan Barski, Tuesday extended happy hours, Wednesday $1 oysters, Thursday no corkage, and so much more.

1369 Pittsford Mendon Rd
Mendon, New York 14506
(585) 433-9464
dining@mendon64.com

For up to date information, please visit:
Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

at No comments:

Monday, September 9, 2019

Summer by the Pool

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Summer by the Pool
acrylic paint on canvas board
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm) 
201908071
© copyright Mike Kraus
For more information, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/186507940/custom-commission-original-artwork-by

They've been such generous friends.  When her son moved to Florida, they gave him some of their furniture for his spartan apartment.  When Hurricane Dorian threatened his apartment, they offered him a spare bedroom for safe shelter.  How do you thank someone for such kindness.  She thought about it a long time.  What do they love most?  After much contemplation, she saw how much they cherish their home.  Particularly, the well-manicured backyard with a pool.  Spending hot days cooling off with their five beloved pups.  Sounds like heaven.


SEE YOU TOMORROW for Kim Lester's art opening and extended Happy Hours!

Please visit my Brightscapes art show at Mendon 64.  Along with seeing my new works of the Finger Lakes, other activities include art by Nora Gelb Designs, Ann Dauphin, David Tay, guest chef Chris Hobaica , music by: Nick LeDuc, Ryan Barski, Wednesday $1 oysters, Thursday no corkage, and so much more.

1369 Pittsford Mendon Rd
Mendon, New York 14506
(585) 433-9464


For up to date information, please visit:  
To see more of Mike Kraus' artwork, please visit: MikeKrausArt.etsy.com  

See me at 
KettleFest 2019
More information at:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1074229096115301/

Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine
Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State
University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago
Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies,
Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he
worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus
became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of
paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in
Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

at No comments:

Friday, July 19, 2019

Kent Hall at the University of Chicago

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Kent Hall at University of Chicago
acrylic paint on canvas board
16" x 20" (cm x cm)
201907062
© copyright Mike Kraus
For more information, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/186507940/custom-commission-original-artwork-by
Many days and nights were spent at Kent Hall on the University of Chicago campus (https://www.uchicago.edu/).  He's passionate about "organic chemistry total synthesis" and just received his Masters Degree.  A devotion that will continue at Scripps Research Institute (https://www.scripps.edu/campuses/florida/) working toward his Ph.D.  While on a journey it's important to commemorate milestones and the friends, colleagues, and mentors we've made on the way.  To remember where we came from when we eventually find our success.



More About Mike Kraus Art
My NPR Marketplace Business News interview about art as an alternative investment

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM

Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

at No comments:

Friday, June 28, 2019

Elephants of Tanzania

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Elephants of Tanzania
acrylic paint on canvas
12" x 12" (30.5 cm x 30.5 cm)
201906055
© copyright Mike Kraus
To purchase, please visit: https://society6.com/product/elephants-of-tanzania_print?sku=s6-9012384p4a1v45

For years, she's been planning to turn this room into a library.  There's been lots of discussions and ideas.  Shelves have been built.  Molding has been added.  There's been a lot of carpentry and even a new chair to be cozy in while reading.  But, there was a spot that just seemed to be missing something.  And she created something perfect for that space by commissioning the Elephant of Tanzania.



Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.


at No comments:
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