Whitman Works
It was a sunny afternoon when my wife and I were taking the dog for a walk around the neighborhood. The historic Masonic Temple was recently sold and there was lots of activity. A new sign stated "art gallery opening soon." We peeked in the windows and saw the salmon pink walls of the previous business coming down surrounded with boxes of new flooring and power tools. When I returned home, I sent them a "welcome to the neighborhood" message. Once the front gallery was nearly finished, Derek invited me over to look at the space. He had so much excitement as he explained the construction and plans for the gallery. When he asked if I'd join his venture, I did so without hesitation.
I met Derek's wife, Carol, at the opening group show. It was a whirlwind and it instantly became clear that they were building a community. The artists came together as partners and friends supporting each other. Over wine and cheese, we'd admire each other's work, ask patrons their thoughts on pieces, and just have a good time. The gallery was always mutating as purchased items left and the latest creations would arrive. Derek and Carol would thoughtfully curate the entire space to accommodate the rotating collection. It was invigorating discussing their decisions about complimentary colors, contrasting subjects, and their next pursuit.
When we were told that Whitman Works would be closing, a sadness became palpable. Derek and Carol were more than just entrepreneurs taking a risk; they were creators living out their passion. It's was an act of courage to support several dozen eccentric artists and share their artwork with a thoughtful public wanting more beauty in their lives. Yes, the business is closing. But, the community will carry on. The bonds formed because of Whitman Works were based on a higher virtue. And to Derek and Carol, I say "I am beyond grateful for your support and friendship. This is not the end, but an evolution into your next adventure. And the Whitman Works legacy will continue through the success of the many, many artists you've launched."
I met Derek's wife, Carol, at the opening group show. It was a whirlwind and it instantly became clear that they were building a community. The artists came together as partners and friends supporting each other. Over wine and cheese, we'd admire each other's work, ask patrons their thoughts on pieces, and just have a good time. The gallery was always mutating as purchased items left and the latest creations would arrive. Derek and Carol would thoughtfully curate the entire space to accommodate the rotating collection. It was invigorating discussing their decisions about complimentary colors, contrasting subjects, and their next pursuit.
When we were told that Whitman Works would be closing, a sadness became palpable. Derek and Carol were more than just entrepreneurs taking a risk; they were creators living out their passion. It's was an act of courage to support several dozen eccentric artists and share their artwork with a thoughtful public wanting more beauty in their lives. Yes, the business is closing. But, the community will carry on. The bonds formed because of Whitman Works were based on a higher virtue. And to Derek and Carol, I say "I am beyond grateful for your support and friendship. This is not the end, but an evolution into your next adventure. And the Whitman Works legacy will continue through the success of the many, many artists you've launched."
THANK YOU!
Your Friend,
Your Friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com
All pieces 25% OFF at Whitman Works Gallery until everything is gone and the doors are closed. You won't find better prices on original art than this. And join us on Saturday, January 18th from 11am -7pm for a closing party with in-house incentives and giveaways: info at: https://www.facebook.com/events/2936079256454188/. To see available pieces, please visit:
Whitman Works Gallery
1826 Penfield Road
Penfield, New York
(585) 420-8654
https://www.whitmanworks.com
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com
All pieces 25% OFF at Whitman Works Gallery until everything is gone and the doors are closed. You won't find better prices on original art than this. And join us on Saturday, January 18th from 11am -7pm for a closing party with in-house incentives and giveaways: info at: https://www.facebook.com/events/2936079256454188/. To see available pieces, please visit:
Whitman Works Gallery
1826 Penfield Road
Penfield, New York
(585) 420-8654
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:
Store: MikeKrausArt.etsy.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mkraus
