Wednesday, January 22, 2020

Returning to Civilization

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 



Returning to Civilization
acrylic paint on canvas
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
202001002
© copyright Mike Kraus

After a couple of weeks in the forest, it's time to return to the daily grind.  We've packed our tent and equipment into our small car.  The last of the food has been cooked and the leftovers will be snacks on the long trek home.  A pot of coffee ready to perk us up for our early departure.  We drive at a leisurely pace as the deer and other creatures are actively beginning their day as well.  The birds playing in the wind that makes the trees dance.  And over one final hill, the road leads us out of the wilderness and back into civilization.

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



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:
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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:
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Friday, January 17, 2020

Canandaigua Trail

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Canandaigua Trail
acrylic paint and ink on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201911108
© copyright Mike Kraus
For information, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/186507940/custom-commission-original-artwork-by

A lot of expected of me when I'm in the city.  I wake up early, constantly checking my messages, taking meeting, and so much more.  And trying to reach those expectations can be exhausting.  But, I have a place where I escape to contemplate and just "be me,"  From here, there's not a problem in the world that can bother me.


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:
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Wednesday, January 15, 2020

An Ode To Whitman Works

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."  
THANK YOU!

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











 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 10, 2020

Our New York City

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty



Our New York City
acrylic paint on canvas board
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm) 
201912114
© copyright Mike Kraus
For more information, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/186507940/custom-commission-original-artwork-by

It's not everyday that someone special has their Bat Mitzvah.  They had a vision of the perfect gift for the young art lover.  After researching many, many artists, they found a few pieces of my work that was similar to their vision of the perfect gift.  With a phone call and inspiration, a few sketches were created (below).  We refined the idea by moving the subject near their Upper West Side neighborhood.  Some more sky and depth was added with the buildings.  A bit of greenery and more details of symbolic importance.  Once the vision was sketched, I created the painting.  I regularly updated them on my progress and we made minor changes to buildings, graffiti, and other features along the way.  We met our deadline and the finished piece arrived quickly in NYC with some time to spare.  This piece is full of love.  Every square inch and detail is about affection and friendship.  It was a very special project and I'm so grateful to have been included in its creation.











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/


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:
at No comments:

Wednesday, January 8, 2020

The Burrito

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

The Burrito #348
gouache paint on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202001001
© copyright Mike Kraus

Around 10,000 B.C., a corn tortilla food wrap became a common dinner in Mesoamerica.  For thousands of years and countless generations, the recipe was passed on and evolved.  The Pueblo Native American of southwestern United States and northern Mexico ate it as a staple meal.  Cowboys roaming California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Texas, and Guanajuato found it to be an easy meal to eat while rounding up cattle.  There's a couple legends where the name "burrito" came from.  One says it's because a street vendor in Ciudad Juárez named Juan Méndez sold the meal while riding a donkey.  Another claims it came from a term of endearment used by a man selling lunches to poor school children.  Today, the burrito is served in an infinite amount of restaurants in a myriad of varieties.  Yet another example of how food shows we have more in common than we have in differences. 

Alrededor de 10.000 aC, una envoltura de tortilla de maíz se convirtió en una cena común en Mesoamérica. Durante miles de años e innumerables generaciones, la receta se transmitió y evolucionó. El pueblo nativo americano del suroeste de los Estados Unidos y el norte de México lo comió como una comida básica. Los vaqueros que vagaban por California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Nuevo México, Colorado, Texas y Guanajuato consideraron que era una comida fácil de comer mientras redondeaban el ganado. Hay un par de leyendas de donde vino el nombre "burrito". Uno dice que es porque un vendedor ambulante en Ciudad Juárez llamado Juan Méndez vendió la comida mientras montaba un burro. Otro afirma que proviene de un término de cariño usado por un hombre que vende almuerzos a niños de escuelas pobres. Hoy en día, el burrito se sirve en una cantidad infinita de restaurantes en una gran variedad de variedades. Otro ejemplo más de cómo la comida muestra que tenemos más en común que diferencias.



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/



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.

at No comments:
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