💚 I LOVE YOU&nbsp;💚

https://www.marketplace.org/2023/12/19/alternative-investments-went-on-a-wild-ride-during-the-pandemic/

Monday, February 5, 2024

💚 WHO DO YOU LOVE? 💚

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

WHO DO YOU LOVE?

Valentine's Day is about friendship. It is a moment to appreciate the deep connections we have with each other. Our kind gestures, really listening, and so many inside jokes.

Love is so much more than romance. It's something we need to ease our stress and loneliness. It bonds us to our parents, friends, neighbors, and so many others. We are love and it's something we must share.

I appreciate you so much. You make the world a more beautiful place to be.

Your Friend,

Mike Kraus

MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

Listen to my interview on NPR's Marketplace at

For more information or custom order, please visit:

Monday, January 1, 2024

🍾🥂 Let's Make 2024 a Beautiful Year! 🥂🍾

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

Let's Make 2024 a Beautiful Year!

Together, we will reject ugliness.
To address our anxieties and fulfill our needs. To be the best versions of ourselves. To face what is hidden.

What is ugly to you? Does something cause you to worry? Are you a part of a community and who are they really? What do you stay away from? And who do you want to be by 2025?

Your friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

📻 Listen to my interview on NPR's Marketplace at 📻: https://www.marketplace.org/2023/12/19/alternative-investments-went-on-a-wild-ride-during-the-pandemic/

For more information or custom order, please visit:

Monday, December 18, 2023

❄⛄❄ HAPPY HOLIDAYS! ❄⛄❄

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

With appreciation, I wish you a joyful holiday season filled with peace and prosperity. Your collaboration and support is so cherished. And I hope you have many happy days ahead.

Your friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

❄☃ WHO WANTS TO HAVE A LOT OF FUN?!?! ☃❄

You're invited to the LAST MINUTE HOLIDAY ART FESTIVAL. It's the place to find and buy amazing art from local artists. 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!

We're going to have a good time at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1934458910278595

UPSTATE NEW YORKERS! Did you forget someone and need a gift now? See what local artisans have to offer at the Upstate New York (NY) Holiday Art Festival: https://www.facebook.com/events/326606876456686

For more information or custom order, please visit:

Monday, February 6, 2023

💚 I LOVE YOU! 💚

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

💚 I LOVE YOU 💚

Love isn't just for romantic couples. It's for all of us: friends, neighbors, cousins, parents, etc. Recently, I joined a Kindness Challenge and it taught me so much. That love is a skill and capacity we can improve. And our endearment must come before careers, status, and wealth. Only through love can we fill the void of anxiety and loneliness.

Valentine's Day is all about friendship. The bond of kindness, respect, and sharing a good laugh with each other.

I'm so fortunate for your support. Side-by-side; anything is possible.

Your Friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - Try the Kindness Challenge at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/gratefulworkshop/permalink/556554496492524

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

For more information or custom order, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/gratefulworkshop

Sunday, January 1, 2023

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

HAPPY NEW YEAR

We've accomplished so much together in 2022. And that's a great reason to celebrate. It's good to acknowledge all we've learned from our obstacles too. These stumbling blocks are opportunities for growth in 2023. I expect it to be a great adventure for us.

Thank you for being you. I'm so grateful to have you in my life.

Your Friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - Join us for HELLO 2023! A 21-Day Happiness Challenge. We'll start by saying "hi" to each other, tell stories, build relationships, and (most of all) have fun.

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, December 21, 2022

❄⛄❄ Season's Greetings! ❄⛄❄

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

💻💾 Print your last minute gift of art now using instant digital downloads: 📀🖥
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MikeKrausArt?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&section_id=16654398

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, December 5, 2022

❄⛄❄ HAPPY HOLIDAYS! ❄⛄❄

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Are you really busy too? Overwhelmed with how much there is to do and so little time to do anything? It's okay (and necessary) to slow down and take care of yourself. This time of year is for relaxing and enjoying all that you've accomplished in 2022.

This season makes me think about you too. How people like us are fortunate to have found each other. To work together to find ways to replace ugliness with beauty. To help each other during struggles. And to celebrate each other's successes.

THANK YOU and may you and your loved ones have a joyful holiday season.

Your Friend,

Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - The WINTER HOLIDAY ART FESTIVAL
STARTS TODAY!!!
Get holiday deals on gifts for everyone on your list at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1934458910278595

The last day to ship before:
Hanukkah is December 10th
Christmas is December 17th
Kwanzaa is December 18th
*shipping delays may be experienced

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, November 23, 2022

🍂🍁 HAPPY THANKSGIVING! 🍁🍂

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

It's the little ordinary things where we find gratitude. Did you receive a compliment, a fun item, or other kind gesture recently? What have you offered someone to help them or cheer them up? And what difficulties are you fortunate enough to have overcome? A lot has changed since last Thanksgiving.

I have so much to be thankful for. My loving and supportive wife remains on my side. So many happy and healthy family and friends. A silly mutt to keep me entertained. And I'm grateful for you. Your kindness has allowed my dreams to come true. THANK YOU for being you and have a wonderful holiday season!

Your Friend,

Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - The GRATEFUL ART FESTIVAL starts Monday!!! 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:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1934458910278595

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, October 24, 2022

🍂🍁 Come To the Fabulous Fall Art Festival! 🍁🍂

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

Let's embrace the season of change. It gives us hope as we let go of unnecessary habits. A time to relax at home taking slower and deeper breaths. Standing around the grill roasting the recently gathered harvest and treats. And valuing our time together even if it's just streaming a guilty pleasure.

We've let go of summer so we can experience the joys of autumn. Think about something you appreciate right now. It can be anything unique about this time of year, like a favorite sweatshirt or a seasonal brew. Knowing these little encounters can make everything more fulfilling.

Your Friend,

Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - Join us at the Fabulous Fall Art Show
starting TODAY Monday, October 24th at:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1934458910278595/
Gifts will be in short supply again this year. So make sure you have something for your loved ones! And, most of all,
HAVE FUN!

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, September 6, 2022

You're Invited To the Awesome Autumn Art Festival!

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

Every day, the sun sets a little earlier and the air gets a little bit cooler. Autumn has arrived and the trees are about to explode into a fireworks of yellows, oranges, and reds. Days outside enjoying the fresh harvest coming in. Nights next to the fireplace under a cozy blanket. The frantic pace of summer fades into memory and allows us to see how lucky we really are.

Please join us at the Online Awesome Autumn Art Show starting TODAY Tuesday, September 6th at:

https://www.facebook.com/events/594136385689883/?active_tab=discussion Join your friends buying and selling various arts, crafts, furniture, fashions, jewelry, and so much more! And, most of all, HAVE FUN!

Your Friend,

Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - Artist sign up for the Fabulous Fall Art Festival has begun at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1934458910278595/

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, June 17, 2022

This Land Is...

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

This Land Is...

acrylic paint on canvas board

8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
202206020

Find Understanding

We've all hurt people. And that hurts us. After causing that pain, it is our duty to correct that wrong. Our ego must not get in the way. Ignoring and rationalizing only hides our fear that we are weak. True strength comes from humility, kindness, and admitting our mistakes.

1) Express Regret: Talk directly with those you've wronged by expressly stating what you did. For example: "I'm sorry that I (wrongful action). It was not my intention to hurt you."

2) Very Short Explanation: Without excuses, let them know why the incident occurred in 1-2 sentences. For example: "I did (wrongful action) from thoughtless habit; not to attack you."

3) Take Responsibility: Say "I was wrong," "It's was my mistake," or other appropriate variation.

4) Offer Remorse: Let them know explicitly this will not happen again. For example: "I will not do (wrongful action) again because I don't want to cause you pain."

5) Fix or Compensate Error: If you broke something; replace it. If you took something; give it back (in better condition than you found it). Was it something emotional or unable to be restored? Find a way to make amends that is equal to or greater than the misdeed.

6) Ask To Be Forgiven: Be straightforward and say "Will you forgive me?"

Benefits:

1) Saying sorry makes it possible to have a good long term relationship with others.

2) You acknowledge bad behavior and can be trusted again

3) The victim gets their dignity returned.

4) It lets other know that you're still a good person who just made a mistake.

5) Reduces stress that impacts heart health.

This painting would look best in a space that is red, orange, yellow, light green, blue, purple, black, 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, December 31, 2021

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2021 was a year of kindness and support from friends like you. A time of reflection to search for understanding, honesty, and gratitude. And to have the courage to take care of ourselves and our community.

I'm glad to have you in my life. We have a lot to look forward to in 2022.

Your Friend,
Mike Kraus
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com

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:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mikekrausart
Twitter: http://twitter.com/MikeKrausBlog

Friday, December 24, 2021

Season's Greetings!

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

Peace on Earth. Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a new year filled with love and happiness.

Your friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - Thank you for adding more beauty to the world. People like us know that it's more than just putting color on a wall. It's about embracing the joy in our lives. And I'm grateful that we're on this journey together.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

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: