Showing posts with label halloween. Show all posts
Showing posts with label halloween. Show all posts

Monday, January 5, 2026

❤️💀 If Love Stripped Everything Away, What Would Still Be Left? 💀❤️

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


I stand proud. Even if I'm stripped down to bone I still remember how it feels to be seen with warmth instead of judgment, the air around me humming with quiet laughter and the soft pulse of affection that does not ask for perfection. I have learned that love is not about what is filled in or missing, but about presence, humor, and the courage to take up space exactly as you are, even when the world feels sharp or loud. There is a playful ease in this moment, a gentle reminder that tenderness can survive time, loss, and change, and that kindness can still glow bright and familiar like a shared smile across a room.

When you think about love in your own life, who makes you feel most comfortable standing exactly as you are, and how often do you let yourself stay there?

❤️💀 Pin-Up Skeleton #606 💀❤️
pen, ink, and colored pencil on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202512077
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your collection, please visit:

I’m Mike Kraus, a lifelong artist who believes color, movement, and curiosity can quietly change how a space and a day feel. [More about me]

Monday, October 20, 2025

🍂 A Gentle Start to the Season 🍂

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Are you ready for sweater weather?

The air has that soft edge again. The one that whispers change without saying a word. The trees turn from their summer greens into shades of honey, amber, and russet, and suddenly the light feels warmer, even as the days grow cooler. Autumn arrives quietly but confidently, reminding us to slow down and look around.

Lately, I’ve noticed how the shift into fall feels like a tug between two moods. Part of us wants to keep the ease of summer: bare feet, open windows, long sunsets. And the other part starts to plan. Holidays. Gatherings. Gifts. To-do lists. The cozy side of the season can get tangled with the pressure to get it “right.”

So here’s a small idea for this in-between time: take a pause before the rush. Find one simple ritual that feels like autumn to you. Maybe it’s a walk through crunchy leaves with a mug of something warm. Maybe it’s lighting a candle that smells like cinnamon or baking a batch of cookies just because. Let that tiny moment be your anchor before the season sweeps you along.

What I’ve learned from painting and from life is that slowing down is not the same as falling behind. It’s the moment you notice the texture in the details: the brushstrokes in a leaf, the way light hits the corner of your kitchen, the sound of laughter when everyone’s finally together again. Those small things are what make the holidays meaningful when they do arrive.

So here’s your gentle step for today: before you start planning, do something that makes you feel rooted in this very moment. Breathe it in. Let it fill you up. The rest can wait.

Here’s to a season of connection, calm, and color: where we remember that life, like art, is about savoring the layers.

Questions! 

Your Friend,

P.S. I’d love for you to join me at the 🍂 Fabulous Fall Art Festival 🍂 online starting November 3. It is one of my favorite ways to welcome the season and connect with friends who love creativity and color as much as I do. Imagine curling up with your favorite drink, discovering new art, chatting with makers, and filling your home with pieces that make you smile; all without having to leave your cozy spot. Come be part of the fun and warmth.

RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1418446459249700


🍁 Autumn Forest 🍁
202010096
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your home, please visit: 


My Story
Hi, I’m Mike the artist of Mike Kraus Art Inc.

I’ve been making art since I could hold a crayon. As a kid, I’d fill every notebook, homework margin, and scrap of paper with doodles. I sold my first artwork in junior high, sketching in class and handing off pieces between periods. That early love for making things never faded. I followed it all the way to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and eventually, I decided to stop treating art as a side hustle and make it my life’s work.

My paintings are full of energy, motion, and saturated color. I’m drawn to bold shapes and organic lines—forms that feel alive. I create with the hope that my work brings something beautiful and uplifting into someone’s day. Whether it’s a spark of joy, a moment of calm, or just a splash of color that makes you pause—I want my art to connect with something real.

Now, I’m lucky enough to paint full-time, with collectors across the U.S. and in dozens of countries around the world. But more than anything, I still feel like that kid with a crayon, excited to create. I’m grateful to share this journey with you—and I hope you find something in my work that makes your world a little brighter.

For more information or custom order, please visit:

Thursday, October 16, 2025

🎀 A Beautiful Blend of Creativity and Heart 🎀


🎀 White Lace Baby Bow Headband 🎀
Bow size approximately 3 1/2" x 2 1/2" (8.89 cm x 6.35 cm)
To purchase for a special baby, please visit:

There is something truly special about a creative partnership built on love, artistry, and shared vision — and that spirit shines through in Ever Iris Designs, the mother-daughter shop created by Karla and Emily. Since opening their Etsy store in 2016, this talented duo has been handcrafting beautiful bows using premium designer fabrics. Each piece carries its own unique personality, reflecting the care and joy that go into every stitch.

What makes Ever Iris Designs stand out is the warmth behind their work. Every bow tells a story — one of connection, family, and creativity passed between generations. They hope that each piece brings as much happiness to your family as they feel in making them. From everyday wear to special moments, their handmade bows add a touch of beauty and meaning that mass-produced accessories simply cannot.

In a world that often rushes by, Karla and Emily remind us of the quiet joy of handmade things. Their work celebrates individuality and the beauty found in life’s smallest details. If you love supporting artists who put heart into their craft, take a moment to explore their shop and see why so many people adore Ever Iris Designs.

For more information, please visit: 

🍂✨ The Fabulous Fall Art Festival is coming! ✨🍂

Join us online starting November 3rd for a cozy celebration of creativity, color, and community! Meet amazing artists, explore handmade treasures, and fill your home with beauty all from the comfort of your couch.

Artists and art lovers, this is your space to connect, share, and be inspired. Come join the fun! 

Friday, June 20, 2025

🌜 Pulling an all-nighter? Enjoy your weekend! 🌛

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


🌞 Gathering 🌞
acrylic paint on canvas board
202405014
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your home, please visit: 

After a long day of hiking, we emerge from the forest into a rolling spinach farm to make our way home.  Undulating hills of leafy greens glowing in the setting sun.  As we crest another bank it reveals several forms in what seem to be cloaks.  What are they gathered around in such beautiful silence?  Our presence is unnoticed as we depart into another shallow valley.  Not knowing what we saw, it felt sacred.

This piece would look best in a space that is yellow, green, blue, black, white, beige, gray, or wood.

HEY ROCHESTER, NEW YORK!
You're invited to:
a WILD, WEIRD, and WOOLY art show
with Lorraine Staunch, Lori Mulligan, and myself!

NOW OPEN AT:
24 N Main St
Fairport, NY 14450

My Story
I’m Mike, the Artist of Mike Kraus Art Inc.

I’ve been making art since I was old enough to hold a crayon. I’d fill countless sketchbooks with drawings, cover school assignments with doodles, and publish magazines and print flyers for my friend’s bands. And then, I became an “adult…” The demands of food and rent seemed to require a “serious job.” For years, I languished in a cubicle performing meaningless tasks for a meager salary.

But, art was always my side hustle. I started selling my artwork in junior high between classes. I’d create original pieces during lectures and commissions instead of homework. Oddly enough, being a poor student is what got me into the prestigious School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Inspired by my past history, I quit my career and took another part-time job as a cashier of a big-box store because it had the least amount of responsibility. The rest of my time I spent painting. After several months, I had to quit this low-wage job too because it was getting in the way of my art.

I decided to be a full-time professional artist. I needed the time to paint, collaborate with my patrons and galleries, and maintain my studio. Since then, I’ve sold thousands of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. I’m very fortunate to have a career dedicated to adding more beauty to the world. And I hope to share that experience with you.

For more information or custom order, please visit:

Monday, October 28, 2024

🍂🍁 For Art Lovers Only 🍁🍂

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Please join us today at the 🍂🍁 5th Annual Fabulous Fall Art Festival 🍁🍂.  This is a celebration of an inspiring autumn.  There are hundreds of artisans sharing their works in ceramics, jewelry, glass, mixed media, photography, wood, leather, fiber, metal, wearable art, digital art, paintings, prints and so much more!  And you can see it all at: 

🍂🍁 The 5th Annual Fabulous Fall Art Festival 🍁🍂
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1934458910278595
NOW OPEN! Monday, October 28th - 30th

What we surround ourselves with says who we really are.  So, shouldn't it be special?  If we're unique, shouldn't we have one-of-a-kind items?  It should make us feel better that we're creating jobs, authenticity, and environmental sustainability.  And real communities are supported by small businesses.  We're so excited to see you!


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, October 25, 2024

🌻💜 Sunflowers and Lavender In Provence 💜🌻

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 


Sunflowers and Lavender In Provence
acrylic paint on canvas board
5" x 7" (12.7 cm x 17.8 cm)
202404007
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your home, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/236709609

Our bikes race up and down the gentle hills of Provence.  Everything has a distinct texture, the colors are vibrant, and the perfume in the air is intoxicating.  And every twisting road we turn down has countless rows of purple and blue lavender.  The heat of the Mediterranean sun presses against our backs as we pedal back to the village of Sault.  I'll never forget the fields of France.

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

NOW OPEN!!!
🟥⬜🟦 ART FOR DEMOCRACY! 🟥⬜🟦
A celebration of everything we love about Freedom!

OPENING SOON!!!
🍂🍁 5th Annual Fabulous Fall Art Festival 🍁🍂
Do you believe that one-of-a-kind gifts make people feel special?  Then you're invited to find and buy amazing art. Browse unique, hand-crafted items in ceramics, jewelry, glass, mixed media, photography, wood, leather, fiber, metal, wearable art, digital art, paintings, prints and so much more!

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:

Monday, September 30, 2024

🍂🍁 The 5TH ANNUAL AWESOME AUTUMN ART FESTIVAL Is Finally OPEN!! 🍁🍂

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Come on in!
The
5TH ANNUAL
🍂🍁 AWESOME AUTUMN ART FESTIVAL 🍁🍂
IS FINALLY OPEN!
 

Do you believe that one-of-a-kind creations make people feel special?  Then you're invited to discover new amazing art. Browse unique, hand-crafted items in ceramics, jewelry, glass, mixed media, photography, wood, leather, fiber, metal, wearable art, digital art, paintings, prints and so much more!


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.




Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Decisions of Destiny

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 


Decisions of Destiny
acrylic paint on canvas board
5" x 7" (12.7 cm x 17.8 cm)
201909087
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your home, please visit: 
https://mikekrausart.etsy.com/listing/741169077

Do you see the ugliness?  He screams cruelty and cocoons them in lies.  The source of our anxieties in a time of need.  He is pitiful as he and his faithful followers have never known love.  There is so much good and beauty if we reject this menace.  We've seen the consequences already.  To choose him again will be our demise.

This painting would great in a small space that is red, orange, light yellow, 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.

Monday, October 2, 2023

🍂🍁 You're Invited To the FABULOUS FALL ART FESTIVAL! 🍁🍂

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


You're Invited
to the
FABULOUS FALL ART FESTIVAL! 

Is your autumn off to a good start?  Have you decorated your home and updated your wardrobe for the cozy season yet?  Join over a thousand artists as they share their unique creations.  You'll find ceramics, jewelry, glass, mixed media, photography, wood, leather, fiber, metal, wearable art, digital art, paintings, prints and so much more!  Are you happy with your collection?  
Now open at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1934458910278595

Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com


ARTS o’ MAGAZINE:
🐱 Working With Artists Is Like Herding Cats 🐱
https://medium.com/p/45a8078ba8b7


Sign up now for the Grateful Art Festival opening November 27th at:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1043451673463521


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:

Monday, February 13, 2023

Pin-Up Skeleton

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Pin-Up Skeleton #313
gouache paint and ink on bristol paper
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
201810119
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

💚 Where is the love and kindness?  It's for everyone; not just romantic relationships.  Who do you spend most of your time with?  What are they like?  If you became like them, how would you be different?  If this person is so important to you, what are you doing about it? 💚

More About Mike Kraus Art
Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM​ Rochester 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 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:

Monday, October 31, 2022

Wonky House

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Wonky House #501
color pencil pen on Bristol paper
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
202210067
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.


👍💀 HAPPY HALLOWEEN! 💀👍


The GRATEFUL ART FESTIVAL is coming!!!  Browse unique, hand-crafted items in ceramics, jewelry, glass, mixed media, photography, wood, leather, fiber, metal, wearable art, digital art, paintings, prints and so much more!  Join us 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 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, October 28, 2022

Dreams Nowhere Nothing

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Dreams Nowhere Nothing #500
gouache and pen on Bristol paper
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
202210066
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your collection, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/235534233/dreams-nowhere-nothing-500-artist


👍💀 HAPPY HALLOWEEN! 💀👍


The GRATEFUL ART FESTIVAL is coming!!!  Browse unique, hand-crafted items in ceramics, jewelry, glass, mixed media, photography, wood, leather, fiber, metal, wearable art, digital art, paintings, prints and so much more!  Join us 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 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, October 21, 2022

Skeleton Glow

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Skeleton Glow
acrylic paint on canvas board
5" x 7" (12.7 cm x 17.8 cm)
202210062
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
👍💀 HAPPY HALLOWEEN! 💀👍

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

The FABULOUS FALL ART FESTIVAL is coming!!!  Join us 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 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:

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