Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Keep Your Distance

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Keep Your Distance #366
pen and ink on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202005030
© copyright Mike Kraus

Social Distancing doesn't mean we can't have fun.  Grab your hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and wine and join your friends for a Netflix watch party (https://www.netflixparty.com/).  You're saving lives by cancelling events you didn't want to attend anyway.  Social distancing is deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. Staying at least six feet (2 meters) away from other people lessens your chances of catching COVID-19.

Other examples of social distancing that allow you to avoid larger crowds or crowded spaces are:
1) Working from home instead of at the office
2) Closing schools or switching to online classes
3) Visiting loved ones by electronic devices instead of in person
4) Cancelling or postponing conferences and large meetings


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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Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Tips For Working At Home: Teaching Your Kids While You Work



Teaching Your Kids While You Work

Coronavirus (COVID-19) shut down your office and your kid's school along with everything else.  It's been chaos with 50 states having 50 different policies.  And over 13,000 school districts seemingly having 13,000+ different ideas for how to continue your child's education.  As if you weren't concerned about the stability of your job and the stress of working at your dining room table; you're being told to teach your kids at the same time.  

 Let's acknowledge a few things first.  Everyone's situation is different solutions will require infinite patience and incredible flexibility.  That our haphazard, uncoordinated patchwork of school districts have various plans (including complete closure) with a wide range of success and failure.  Finally, that this is causing anxiety for everyone involved.  So, let's try to find some solutions.
1) Sync Your Schedules - Homeschooling one-on-one tends to be quicker than classroom learning.  What takes 6 hours at school can only take 2-4 hours at home.  Review the requirements for your kid/kids learning.  Now, compare your mandatory tasks for working from home.

2) HELP PLEASE! - Divide the subjects and kids between you and your partner.  Ask for help from friends, family, and other parents.  Does your school district provide any tools?  Look for online resources.  Don't be afraid to ask for help.  We all need it.

3) Schedule and Routine - Find a schedule that works for you and your child.  Be flexible and patient your kids and yourself.  Is it possible to do some work a little earlier in the morning while your kids are asleep?  Math and science can be taught anytime after 3pm until bedtime as well.  Weekends can also be opportunities for learning.  This may be necessary for using limited resources like computers.

Make a schedule, write it down, and display it someone prominently.  This will help provide work time for your and your child.  Here's an example:

Family Schedule
7am – 10am
Adult 1: Work
Adult 2: Watch children
Kid 1: Breakfast and school work
Kid 2: Breakfast and school work

 10am – 11am
Adult 1: Watch children
Adult 2: Check work messages
Kid 1: Online class
Kid 2: Zoom with friends

 11am – Noon
Adult 1: Check work messages
Adult 2: Help children with homework
Kid 1: homework
Kid 2: homework

 Noon – 1pm
Lunch for everyone.  Extra time to play outside or walk around neighborhood

 1pm – 1:30pm
Adult 1: Help children with homework
Adult 2: Check work messages
Kid 1: homework
Kid 2: homework

 1:30pm – 4pm
Adult 1 and 2: Work
Kid 1 and 2: Free time

 4pm – 5pm
Adult 1: Chores and errands
Adult 2: Work
Kid 1 and 2: Chores 

 5pm – 7pm
Dinner.  Extra time for own activities.

 7pm – 10pm
Adult 1: Spend time with kids
Adult 2: Work
Kid 1 and 2: Theme night activities (Movie Night, Game Night, etc).  Free time.  Bed.



4) Use Everything - Allow open access to every board game, book, art supply, toy, or whatever for your children.  Allow them independence so you can work.  Be honest with your children about your job.  When you are working, you're not to be interrupted unless it's burning or bleeding.  Also, there are millions of educational videos available for on streaming services.  Is your kid freaking out and you need to be in a Zoom meeting?  Let them watch Cartoon Network if it keeps them quiet.  We're in a State of Emergency.  No one will judge you for doing what you need to for survival.

 5) Improv - With many school districts providing little to no guidance, it's good to employ the tactics of shortform improv theater.  The "structure" is education and it is driven by audience/student.  If your kid is really into roller coasters, make that a full day project.  Have them spend a couple hours researching the 10 best roller coasters in the world.  Write a report on why those are the best roller coasters.  What is the science and math behind roller coasters?  What is their history?  Create a design and build a model of your own roller coaster.  Use the techniques of Montessori education.  Let your student own their education by having fun.  

 My grandpa was a master at this.  He'd teach me through every day experience.  It'd always start with, "Hey Mike, would you like to learn how to..." and end with me doing chores.  This is how I learned how to change light fixtures, write checks, read schematics, fix a leaky toilet, change the oil, cook a meal and so much more.  By college, I was completely independent and able to run my own household.  

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6) Communicating With Others - It's good for your child to talk with their friends and play online games.  So, let them do it.  In fact, encourage them to use Zoom with their grandparents, mail a letter to a cousin, leave a note to a neighbor in need, or host an online party.    

 7) Be Patient, Flexible, and Relax - This has been a big change for you, your kids, your boss, and everyone else.  Sometimes, the homework isn't going to be finished.  It's not going to prevent your kid from going to college.  It's okay and shouldn't interrupt your work.

 There are nearly 50 million families in America experiencing the same problems you are right now.  So call, text, email, Zoom, group chat at least one of them.  Share your successes.  Laugh at your failures.  And remember to take care of yourself.  Everything is going to be fine.  



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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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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Friday, May 1, 2020

Skaneateles Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Skaneateles Lake
acrylic painting on canvas board
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm)
202004029
© copyright Mike Kraus

We came to here to be spoiled.  A day at Mirbeau Inn rotating between massages, the spa, and cocktails in the lounge.  Now, we lazily explore Skaneateles Lake's waters barely making a noise in the crisp winter air.  Lingering in Clift Park, the setting sun gently paints the landscape in pinks and yellows before near complete darkness.  At peace, our boots crunch in the snow as we make our way to The Krebs for an exception dinner to finish the perfect day.

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

 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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Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Turn It Off

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Turn It Off #365
pen and ink on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202004028
© copyright Mike Kraus

Avoid too much exposure to news– Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories (including social media posts). It can be upsetting to hear about the crisis and see images repeatedly. Try to do enjoyable activities and return to normal life as much as possible.

Seek help when needed– If distress impacts activities of your daily life for several days or weeks, talk to a clergy member, counselor, or doctor, or contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-985-5990.


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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Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Tips For Working At Home: Take a Break


Take a Break

 Working from home IS stressful. Being forced to work from home because of Coronavirus (COVID-19) is WAY more stressful. Am I going to get sick? Will my friends and family stay healthy? How secure is my job? How and when will I be able to school my children? And what am I going to do now that my office is in my dining room?

 Let's start off acknowledging our anxiety. Close your eyes and take a deep breathe. When I started working from home 6+ years ago, I made a lot of mistakes. I understand everyone's situation is unique and difficult. But, let me share my experience to help avoid the pitfalls of working from home.

1) Why we need breaks - Isn't it just a waste of time? Absolutely not. Working without breaks causes you to burnout with stress and exhaustion. A break allows you to recharge and stay motivated. You're just like a race car, you need to take a pit stop to change your tires and refuel if you want to win the race. Time for yourself will improve your productivity.

 2) When to take breaks - This can be different for everyone. What works for me is a 15-minute break at mid-morning. A 30-minute lunch. And another 15-minute break in the mid-afternoon. Are you stuck on a project; take it earlier. Maybe something amazing is happening; then delay your break.

3) Take the full break - It's important to recharge your battery so you'll last through the day. Bored? Take the dog for a walk. Bake cookies. Practice the guitar. Do some light yard work. Do your bi-weekly grocery shopping. Do yoga, exercise, or meditation. Check-in with family. Power nap. Read a book. Find what works best for you.




4) What to avoid - Turn off the TV, especially 24-hour cable news. "It can be upsetting to hear about the crisis and see images repeatedly. Try to do enjoyable activities and return to normal life" https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/selfcare.asp

 Avoid social media like Facebook, Twitter, etc. Not only is is a black hole of time, but has many psychological negative impacts because they are designed to create conflict and controversy. Usage has also been connected to sleep disorders and addiction. You need to relax; not find more stress.

 Also, having a refrigerator so close can lead to mindless boredom snacking. I don't keep junk food in the house for that reason.

 5) Teaching Your Kids - Coordinate your schedules and make a routine. Try eating your meals together, schedule online classes, share breaks, time to read and work on assignments, online social time with friends, and reviewing homework together. Easier said than done. So, be flexible and patient with your kids and yourself.


6) Celebrate successes - Find small ways to celebrate your successes. It can be disappointing making a sale, closing a deal, or whatever and not being able to tell someone. It can be a snack, taking a bit of a longer break to play a game, or breaking open a nip bottle of alcohol.

 7) When you can't take breaks - Let's admit it: sometimes we can't take breaks. But, there are a couple things we can do: a) alternate between solitary work and partnering with a colleague over Zoom/MS Teams, b) rotate logical work (writing, math, spreadsheets) and creative tasks (presentation design, team meeting, anything visual). While a poor substitute for breaks, it does have some benefits.

 8) Nights and weekends - Close the door to your temporary office (if you have one). At least put a towel over your work space in the corner of the living room. This is your time to be with your family. Stay-at-Home orders can add stress to boredom. We all need something to look forward to after work and school. I suggest selecting "theme nights." Here are some of my favorites: pizza night, B-movie night, wino weekend, ice cream Sunday, backyard camping night, evening nature walk, family Zoom night, game night, driveway chalking, and countless others. Are your kids or roommates musical? Then have a "band night." DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN!!!

 Have any questions? Please feel free to contact me.


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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Monday, April 27, 2020

Keep Your Distance

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Keep Your Distance #364
pen and ink on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202004026
© copyright Mike Kraus

Social Distancing doesn't mean we can't have fun.  Grab your hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and wine and join your friends for a Netflix watch party (https://www.netflixparty.com/).  You're saving lives by cancelling events you didn't want to attend anyway.  Social distancing is deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. Staying at least six feet (2 meters) away from other people lessens your chances of catching COVID-19.

Other examples of social distancing that allow you to avoid larger crowds or crowded spaces are:
1) Working from home instead of at the office
2) Closing schools or switching to online classes
3) Visiting loved ones by electronic devices instead of in person
4) Cancelling or postponing conferences and large meetings


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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