Showing posts with label finger lakes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label finger lakes. Show all posts

Friday, February 17, 2023

Watkins Glen

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


 
Watkins Glen
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201801013
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your home, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/232334744/watkins-glen-original-acrylic-painting-8

The birds and chipmunks scurry through the leaves as we climb up the gorge.  Not too far away is the gentle crashing of a waterfall.  Step-by-step, our feet press forward as we make our way up the stairs and down the paths.  As we take a short break, we comment on how the rocks are stacked like books waiting to be placed back on the shelves.  After a little more walking, you can really take it all in at Point Lookout.

It's amazing how far we've gone.  What were you doing a year ago?  What about 5 years ago?  Now think about 10 years ago.  Time passes quickly.  So we have to remember to appreciate it.

This painting would look best in a space that is red, yellow, orange, dark green, dark blue, purple, black, white, gray, beige. or wood


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 Center, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Lurie Children's 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 thousands 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:


Friday, February 10, 2023

Honeoye Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Honeoye Lake
acrylic paint on canvas board
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm)
201806084
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your home or cottage, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/622648587/honeoye-lake-original-acrylic-painting-8

The shallow waters of Honeoye Lake felt warm for such a brisk morning.  My boat lazily bobbing on the gentle waves.  I watch the sun gradually rise in the sky only interrupted by the occasional perch, bass, or walleye tugging on the fishing line.  At noon, I haul my boat ashore to fry my catch-of-the-day.  If this isn't nice, what is?

How do you connect with nature?  What did you enjoy doing outside during your youth?  Do you still enjoy it and why?

This painting would look best in an average space that is red, yellow, orange, green, dark blue, white, black, grey, beige, or wood.


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 Center, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Lurie Children's 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 thousands 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:

Friday, September 9, 2022

End of Rob's Trail At Hemlock Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


End of Rob's Trail At Hemlock Lake
acrylic paint on canvas board
202209046
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

Hiking down the 1.5 mile (2.4 km) trail is easy. The switchbacks bounce between cascading waterfall creeks. A strong scent of pine as we startle unsuspecting deer around the bend. On the stony beach we enjoy a picnic of bacon bread, cheese, crackers, and chocolate. The fish jump as we soak our feet in the water. The hill isn't the only reason it's a difficult hike back.

Over 100 homes and 5 hotels use to ring Hemlock Lake connected by 5 large ships. The pollution began to poison the waters. In 1852, the City of Rochester began to process of improving water quality after contamination lead to a massive disease outbreak. Over 5,000 acres were purchased and all buildings demolished to improve the water's purity. Today, it's the prime example of how to live with these sacred lakes.

This piece would best in a small-to-medium space that is red, orange, yellow, dark green, dark blue, purple, black, white, grey, or wood.


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 thousands 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:

Monday, July 11, 2022

Rachel and Ben's Canandaigua Sunflowers

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 


Rachel and Ben's Canandaigua Sunflowers
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
202106046
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

The warm breeze rushes through the car as we drive down country roads with our windows down.  Every bend reveals new sights.  Every hill a new perspective on the panorama.  It's a yearly ritual for us to visit sunflower fields as they bloom.  A day full of hiking and picnics among the waves of petals.  It's the little things in life that make us grateful.

Let's start being kinder to others and ourselves with the Kindness Challenge at: https://www.kindspring.org/challenge/?op=nletter&cid=2153&id=59060

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 thousands 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:

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Summer Excitement!

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


WELCOME TO SUMMER!

It's those glorious days under the hot summer sun.  The cool breeze racing off the water as we hike to our favorite beach.  The birds diving and the fish jumping causing the water to splash.  The smell of food on the grill is the only thing preventing us from taking a nap.  It returns me to my youth.

What do you do to enjoy summer?  Is it relaxing with the AC in your home office and brisk walks at night?  Perhaps it's puttering in your garden watching your fruits and vegetables grow and flowers bloom?  Maybe it's taking a refreshing beverage to your favorite vantage point to watch the sunset?  

These are the days to remember.  


Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com


PS - Looking to spoil yourself?  Try S'more cake.  It's everything you love about cooking at the fire pit, but can be kept cool and invigorating in the fridge.  Recipe at: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10226250314979982&set=gm.398884775592831


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 thousands 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:

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Otisco Lake

 Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Otisco Lake
acrylic paint on canvas board
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm)
201708087
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc

What are the benefits of buying original art?  There are countless advantages to owning original artwork.  Generally, most reasons fall into one of the categories of Style, Originality, Texture/Depth, History, Emotional, Investment and Fun.

Originality -  How many times have you walked up to a car in the grocery lot parking lot only to discover that someone else has the same exact car as you?  Do you remember a time visiting a friend's house and seeing the same big box store artwork and furniture that you have in your home?  A one-of-a-kind artwork will make your space uniquely you.  Even better, commission an artist to make a piece specifically for you that will compliment your decor.  An original piece of art greatly increases the status and charm of a living space.

Please visit: http://mikekraus.blogspot.com/p/art-investing.html for some advice to consider in purchasing original artwork.

This painting would look best in a space that is red, green, dark yellow, orange, blue, purple, black, white, gray, beige, or wood.

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 thousands 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:

Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Canandaigua Lake

 Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Canandaigua Lake
acrylic paint on canvas
36" x 48" (91.4 cm x 121.9 cm)
201708083
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/247433935/canandaigua-lake-original-acrylic

Why Invest In Original Art?  A great way to add your personality to a room is by decorating the walls with artwork.  Big box stores offer a lot of cheap options with prints, posters, and other mass produced options.  But, they lose their value immediately and rarely earn more than a few bucks years later in a garage sale.  So, if you're trying to freshen up a tired space, redecorating, or a new home-owner, you may want to consider investing in original artwork.

Can you tell me what "original art" is?  "Original art" is an unique one of a kind piece, like Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night painting hanging in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.  A "reproduction" is a photographic copy of the painting that has it's image placed on posters, mouse pads, coffee mugs, t-shirts, and anything else you can imagine.  Somewhere between the two are "limited edition" prints made by photographers, screen printers, etchers, and other graphic artists that promise to limit the quantity of their copies usually to less than 200 replications.

Please visit: http://mikekraus.blogspot.com/p/art-investing.html for some advice to consider in purchasing original artwork.

This painting would look best in a large space, over a fire place or couch.  It would work best with the colors red, green, yellow, orange, dark blue, purple, black, white, gray, beige, or wood.


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 thousands 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:


Friday, April 29, 2022

Cayuga Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Cayuga Lake
acrylic paint on canvas
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm)
202204013
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

A lazy day along Cayuga Lake hiking between Seneca Falls and Ithaca.  Well worn paths through gorges and woods that open up to vineyards.  A tractor path leads us down to the calm lake where we take a snack break.  It's easy to be grateful with places like this.

Have you been to Cayuga Lake?  What was your time like there?  Or is there another place you go to embrace nature?  Tell us your favorite memories.

This piece would work best in a space that is light red, orange, yellow, dark green, navy blue, purple, white, black, beige, or wood

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 thousands 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:

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

Watkins Glen

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Watkins Glen
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201711124
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

The birds and chipmunks scurry through the leaves as we climb up the gorge.  Not too far away is the gentle crashing of a waterfall.  Step-by-step, our feet press forward as we make our way up the stairs and down the paths.  As we take a short break, we comment on how the rocks are stacked like books waiting to be placed back on the shelves.  After a little more walking, you can really take it all in at Point Lookout.

This piece would look best in a space that is red, orange, yellow, light green, dark blue, purple, brown, beige, black, white, grey, or wood


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 thousands 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:

Friday, December 17, 2021

Canadice Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Canadice Lake
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
202112112
© copyright Mike Kraus

HEY UPSTATE, NEW YORK!  Are shipping delays and empty shelves at big box stores making it impossible to find gifts before the festivities begin?  Your local artists have lots of gifts ready for immediate purchase, delivery, and pick-up.  We're here to make sure the holidays are joyful!  Join us at: https://www.facebook.com/events/702712117374074/ 

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 thousands 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:

Friday, August 13, 2021

Canandaigua Sunflowers

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Canandaigua Sunflowers
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
202108068
© copyright Mike Kraus
To purchase, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/642169863/canadaigua-sunflowers-original-acrylic

The warm breeze rushes through the car as we drive down country roads with our windows down.  Every bend reveals new sights.  Every hill a new perspective on the panorama.  It's a yearly ritual for us to visit sunflower fields as they bloom.  A day full of hiking and picnics among the waves of petals.  It's the little things in life that make us grateful.


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 thousands 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.

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Keep It Simple. These Pieces Make It Easy.

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Do you have a space that just isn't right?  Simply add a touch of luxe interior design with original artwork.  The Lavender Farm is a highly coveted piece that is endlessly versatile - perfect for a large space or above a fireplace, compliments a wide range of colors, and provides bold colors while still being calming.


Staycations have reminded us that we have a lot to be grateful for near our home.  Hiking dusty roads that gently slope to the lake.  Summer memories that work in just about any space with it's medium size and neutral colors.


Attitude and refinement - this piece will add "pop" to any space that needs it.  You can turn a drab wall into something inspiring.  It's just that simple.  

Your Friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - Lots of affordable decor, accessories, and fashions also available at: https://society6.com/mikekraus/prints


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 thousands 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.

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

What An Exciting Summer!

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


YAY FOR SUMMER! 
I hope that you're spending sunny days by the water, grilling up delicious meals, and soaking in the rays.  

Summer is a time of appreciation.  A moment to slow down and remember where were last year.  To focus on how fortunate we are.  We are constantly receiving small gifts like a cool breeze on a warm day or sharing a vibrant sunset with someone we love.  What are you thankful for?

Savor the warm, radiant days of summer while they are here.  The inspiration can last a lifetime.


Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com


PS - What am I grateful for?  You and your kind support over the years.  Support that has allowed me to surpass selling over 1,000 pieces of art.  A milestone made possible by you.  THANKS!


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 thousands 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.

Friday, April 16, 2021

Skaneateles Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Skaneateles Lake
acrylic painting on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
202104026
© copyright Mike Kraus

Pacing along Skaneateles Lake's shore, the water barely makes a noise in the crisp breeze.  We find a comfortable spot to relax, snack on trail mix, and enjoy a Riesling grown and bottled a few minutes away from this spot.  Our conversation drifts in and out of seriousness.  We scan the opposite shores, near and far, trying to absorb nature's relaxation.  The perfect place to social distance.  

This painting would look best in a medium-to-large space that is dark red, orange, yellow, green, dark blue, dark purple, black, white, grey, beige, or wood. 


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.

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