Showing posts with label home. Show all posts
Showing posts with label home. Show all posts

Friday, October 9, 2020

Autumn Forest

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Autumn Forest
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
202010090
© copyright Mike Kraus
There's a crispness to the fall air walking through the forest.  The sunlight makes the yellows, oranges, and reds explode in vibrancy.  It's an easy hike to the small river.  That's where we'll see the salmon trying to make their run.  The perfect place to social distance.

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

Having Fun During Coronavirus
Have Some Theme Spirit:
Working For the Weekend:

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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Tuesday, August 4, 2020

Building A Fire Pit: Having Fun During Coronavirus

Building A Fire Pit: Having Fun During Coronavirus
With all the concerns and anxiety about Coronavirus (COVID-19), we need to find ways to slow down, relax, and enjoy the time we have to ourselves.  To stay safe if we have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.  Take a break from the numbers about infections, hospitalizations, and deaths.  

Staying healthy also means time for relaxation.  The benefits of unwinding are: slowing heart rate, lowering blood pressure, slowing your breathing rate, improving digestion, maintaining normal blood sugar levels, reducing activity of stress hormones, increasing blood flow to major muscles, reducing muscle tension and chronic pain, improving concentration and mood, improving sleep quality, lowering fatigue, reducing anger and frustration, boosting confidence to handle problems (Mayo Clinic Stress Management).  And what can be more relaxing than a night talking by the fire?


 1) Dig a hole the size you'd like for a fire pit.  This is about 40 inches x 40 inches with a depth of about 9 inches.  (Call 811 or your local utility provider before digging)


 2) Once dug out, tamp or pack the soil tight and level (Not really seen in this photo).


 3) Lay out the cinder blocks in a level square.  Fill in with some of the soil that you've dug out.


 4) Next, lay some decorative bricks on top.  Once in place, dump soil or sand on top of the bricks and try to rub it into the seams.


 

Remember to follow local and state guidelines before burning.  And just so we don't add unnecessary stress, here's a link for building a fire: https://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Fire.  Once completed, you'll have a simple, cheap fire pit that is easy to maintain, quick to fix, and simple to remove.  

DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN!
And, please feel free to contact if you have any questions or suggestions!


 Health and Safety Considerations for gathering:
1) No indoor activities
2) No sharing bathrooms
3) Wash hands before and after gathering.  Don't touch your face.
4) Bring your own food, snacks, drinks, and utensils.
5) Do not attend if you have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.
6) Do not attend if you have or have had Coronavirus or showing symptoms (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
8) Limit attendance.  Check local health department for guidelines and restrictions.
9) Talk with everyone about comfort levels.  Expect and allow non-participation and last minute cancellations.

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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Monday, May 4, 2020

Having a Fun Mother's Day

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


It's a good feeling to know that love connects a mother and child no matter how great the distance.  While we won't get to celebrate Mother's Day together, our temporary physical separation will overwhelm our timeless affection for each other.  This will be the start of new traditions: watching movies together (Netflix Party), decorate mom's front door/yard, or magical travel using Zoom virtual backgrounds.  Be creative!  Have a great Mother’s Day. AND REMEMBER TO HAVE FUN!

Stay Safe and Wash Your Hands,
Mike Kraus


PS - Tips For Working At Home


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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Thursday, March 12, 2020

Erin's Peonies

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Erin's Peonies
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201912121
© copyright Mike Kraus
To purchase image, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/610898708/erins-peonies-original-instant-download
or for accessories and home decor, please visit: https://society6.com/product/erins-peonies-by-mike-kraus-art-peony-flowers-gardens-flora-pink-grey-yellow-blue-beautiful-still_print?sku=s6-13521825p4a1v45

In the summer, she'd play in the garden while her grandmother pruned and weeded.  The vegetable patch would provide some extras for dinner.  The small orchard would have some sweet fruits.  And the herb garden would give everything a bit more flavor.  But, it was the beauty of the peonies she fell in love with.  Now, with a home and garden of her own, it's a little reminder of summer's with her grandma.

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

For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Mom's Texas House

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 



Mom's Texas House
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201911102
© copyright Mike 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:

Monday, February 24, 2020

Fields of Lavender

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Fields of Lavender
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm) in a frame
© copyright Mike Kraus

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 dark red, yellow, orange, green, blue, light 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.



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

Monday, January 20, 2020

Mom's Alabama House

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 



Mom's Alabama House
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201911103
© 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.




Whitman Works
gallery is closing...

But, you won't find better deals on original. Get 25% OFF everything in the gallery. Come and join us as we celebrate 3+ years of working with area artists.

More information at:

https://www.whitmanworks.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 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, January 13, 2020

Aunt's Alabama House

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 



Aunt's Alabama House
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201911105
© 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:





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/



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, 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:

Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Autumn Forest

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


 Autumn Forest
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm) 
© copyright Mike Kraus 

There's a crispness to the fall air walking through the forest.  The sunlight can't penetrate the ground, but it explodes through the red, orange, and yellow leaves.  The sand dunes appear to smolder.  It's an easy hike to the small river.  That's where we'll see the salmon trying to make their run.

This painting would look best in a space that is green, red, light yellow, navy blue, violet, purple, brown,  beige, black, white, or on wood.

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:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mkraus


Jakelin was a 7-year-old fleeing gang infested Guatemala.  
Felipe Gómez Alonzo died of an infection and the flu at 8-years-old
Juan de León Gutiérrez was 16-years-old when he died from an infection.
A 2-year-old died of pneumonia.

These are just a few of the 15,000 children imprisoned by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and other United States Government Agencies and their for-profit contractors.  They are being kept in concrete cells, deprived of basic necessities, and starving from hunger.  The filth they are forced to live in has led to flu, lice, and respiratory outbreaks, that are purposefully being neglected.  And guards punish these children for minor offences by taking away their blankets, mats, and forcing them to sleep directly on the concrete floor (Southern Poverty Law Center)

I am extremely disturbed that a country that has shown me and my family such kindness is so cruel to others. This is not about politics. This is about justice, kindness, and truth. These children and parents are fleeing Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala because government-supported gangs are violently attacking them (United Nations). After a dangerous journey, we deny them their rights to asylum (Amnesty International), we kidnap and lose their children (American Civil Liberties Union), cage and sexually assault kids (New York Times), and deny them due process and indefinite imprisonment at detention/internment/concentration camps (Los Angeles Times).  We're allowing them to die in these terrible conditions (NBC News).  And we arrest and try to imprison good, Christians who provide food and water to those in need (The Guardian).

I don't care about politics and find involvement in them to be humiliating.  I do care about honesty, fairness, and respect.  I ask that you remember your family roots, that you search your heart, and confront cruelty in all its forms.

For ways to help, please visit:


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