Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Hello Autumn!

 Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


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Embrace change and get ready with fall colors.  Whether you're looking into new seasonal decor or have been eyeing the perfect piece, autumn is the best time to upgrade your artwork.  Face masks, artist trading cards, and small paintings are popular this year.  When you upgrade this autumn, you'll enjoy your walls for the entire winter. 

Stay Safe,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

Having Fun During Coronavirus
Art Project: 
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/07/art-project-having-fun-during.html
Building a Fire Pit:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/08/building-fire-pit-having-fun-during.html
Share Heart of Hope:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/08/coronaviruscovid-19-heart-of-hope.html
Hiking:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/08/hiking-having-fun-during-coronavirus.html
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Parlor Game:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/08/mary-wollstonecraft-shelley-parlor-game.html
Celebrating Women:
 https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/08/celebrating-women-having-fun-during.html
Have A Picnic:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/09/have-picnic-having-fun-during.html
You Haven't Seen That?!? Game:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/09/you-havent-seen-that-game-having-fun.html
Have Some Theme Spirit:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/09/have-some-theme-spirit-having-fun.html
Working For the Weekend:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/09/working-for-weekend-having-fun-during.html
Honor and Remembrance:
https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2020/09/honor-and-remembrance-having-fun-during.html


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 1 comment:

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

Apple Picking and Other Farms: Having Fun During Coronavirus


Apple Picking and Other Farms: Having Fun During Coronavirus

Coronavirus (COVID-19) didn't stop autumn.  It's a great time of year to get outside and enjoy the weather.  Let's embrace the change and find ways to be grateful together.

1) Where To Go? - What kind of experience are you looking for? Do you have kids? Then you'll probably want some place close that has more of a theme park feel. A farm with a petting zoo, hay rides, and many other activities. If you're a couple that wants something a little more romantic, look for a more remote farm with fewer amenities. Chefs may be interested in farms with a large variety of apples. And people looking for something more unique may search for farms with heirloom fruits and veggies.

So, do a little research before you visit. Especially if you are looking for some place special or want to bring a pet. (Also, have a couple backup orchards/farms just in case you encounter large gatherings or other unsafe situations)

2) When To Go? - To avoid crowds, it tends to be best to visit farms before noon.

September and October are great for apple picking. But, it can vary greatly depending on your specific location and climate. Also, there are lots of other foods available at pick-your-own (PYO) farms like fruits, vegetables, pumpkins, and products like homemade honey, syrup, and pies.


3) Is This a Good Apple? - Most orchards will tell you which foods are ready to pick. If you see a lot of apples dropped under a tree, it may be past ripe. The apples are probably still good, but may need to be eaten sooner.

Start by picking apples from the bottom of a tree and working your way up. A ripe apple is easily removed with a simple twist and pull. It's okay if an apple is a bit tart as they can be stored longer. And avoid bruised apples "as a few bad apples can spoil the bunch" is a true saying.  Prevent bruises by gently placing apples in your bag.

4) Where To Put All These Apples? - Find a cool, dry spot in your home to keep fresh. If moist from rain or sprinklers, lightly dry off before storage. But don't rub off the white blush until you're ready to eat. 


5) So Many Apples? - In your excitement, you brought home several bushels of apples. Fortunately, there's lots you can do with them like make vinegar, candles, jam, soaps, butter, lotions, decorations, and so much more.

Personally, baking apples are my favorite. It can be by themselves, as part of an entre, side dishes, or in pies. Lots of great recipes at: https://www.countryliving.com/food-drinks/g650/apple-recipes/

6) Enjoy the Experience - It's all about time with your friends and family. Of course, you could just go to a grocery store and be done with this in five minutes. But, it's about the people you're with. It's searching for the "perfect" orchard that has what you're looking for. It's finding the best apples. Taking photos as we awkwardly pretend like we know anything about farming and agriculture. Maybe getting fresh apple cider and adding something extra to it. Once home, sharing great treats and meals of food that you picked yourself. 
 
AND 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:
at 1 comment:

Monday, October 5, 2020

Keep Your Distance

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Keep Your Distance #393
pen, ink, and graphite on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202010089
© copyright Mike Kraus
to purchase, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/235107769/keep-your-distance-393-artist-trading

*NOTICE - SHIPPING DELAYS HARMING SMALL BUSINESSES MAY BE EXPERIENCED: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/aug/16/usps-mail-delays-postmaster-general-changes-workers

Social Distancing doesn't mean we can't have fun.  Grab your hand sanitizer, masks, 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. 

When going out in public, it is important to stay at least 6 feet away from other people and wear a cloth face covering to slow the spread of COVID-19. Consider the following tips for practicing social distancing when you decide to go out.

1) Know Before You Go: Before going out, know and follow the guidance from local public health authorities where you live.
2) Prepare for Transportation: Consider social distancing options to travel safely when running errands or commuting to and from work, whether walking, bicycling, wheelchair rolling, or using public transit, rideshares, or taxis. When using public transit, try to keep at least 6 feet from other passengers or transit operators – for example, when you are waiting at a bus station or selecting seats on a bus or train. When using rideshares or taxis, avoid pooled rides where multiple passengers are picked up, and sit in the back seat in larger vehicles so you can remain at least 6 feet away from the driver. Follow these additional tips to protect yourself while using transportation.
3) Limit Contact When Running Errands: Only visit stores selling household essentials in person when you absolutely need to, and stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household while shopping and in lines. If possible, use drive-thru, curbside pick-up, or delivery services to limit face-to-face contact with others. Maintain physical distance between yourself and delivery service providers during exchanges and wear a cloth face covering.
4) Choose Safe Social Activities: It is possible to stay socially connected with friends and family who don’t live in your home by calling, using video chat, or staying connected through social media. If meeting others in person (e.g., at small outdoor gatherings, yard or driveway gathering with a small group of friends or family members), stay at least 6 feet from others who are not from your household. Follow these steps to stay safe if you will be participating in personal and social activities outside of your home.
5) Keep Distance at Events and Gatherings: It is safest to avoid crowded places and gatherings where it may be difficult to stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household. If you are in a crowded space, try to keep 6 feet of space between yourself and others at all times, and wear a cloth face covering. Cloth face coverings are especially important in times when physical distancing is difficult. Pay attention to any physical guides, such as tape markings on floors or signs on walls, directing attendees to remain at least 6 feet apart from each other in lines or at other times. Allow other people 6 feet of space when you pass by them in both indoor and outdoor settings.
6 ) Stay Distanced While Being Active: Consider going for a walk, bike ride, or wheelchair roll in your neighborhood or in another safe location where you can maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and other pedestrians and cyclists. If you decide to visit a nearby park, trail, or recreational facility, first check for closures or restrictions. If open, consider how many other people might be there and choose a location where it will be possible to keep at least 6 feet of space between yourself and other people who are not from your household.

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:
at 1 comment:

Friday, October 2, 2020

Coronavirus/COVID-19 Heart of Hope

Coronavirus/COVID-19 Heart of Hope
 

With over 7 million confirmed U.S. cases of COVID-19 and more than 200,000 lives lost with no end in sight.

Join us to remember those who have died, to honor survivors, frontline, and essential workers, and to demand that elected officials do more to develop a national plan to combat the physical, mental, and economic threats from COVID-19.

These are our grandparents, our parents, our siblings, children, coworkers, and neighbors. We are all at risk. No one is immune from this pandemic. This crisis is not over.

October 4, 2020, Noon - 1:00 EDT
The Ellipse, Washington, D.C.

We will erect 20,000 empty chairs on The Ellipse as an art installation honoring the scale of this tragedy by representing just a fraction of those we have lost

We will get through this stronger together.

https://nationalcovidremembrance.org/





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 1 comment:

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Essential Heroes

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Essential Heroes #392
pen, ink, and graphite on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202009087
© copyright Mike Kraus

*NOTICE - SHIPPING DELAYS HARMING SMALL BUSINESSES MAY BE EXPERIENCED: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/aug/16/usps-mail-delays-postmaster-general-changes-workers

To all our essential heroes, living and deceased, thank you for your dedication and sacrifices so that we can live.  We are profoundly grateful for and respectful of all you have done for us.  Thank you for your great personal courage that enable to be safe, healthy, and free.

#WearAMask In honor of our heroes

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

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 1 comment:

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Honor and Remembrance: Having Fun During Coronavirus

Honor and Remembrance: Having Fun During Coronavirus

Coronavirus (COVID-19) has impacted all of us.  So many of us are/know frontline and essential workers, lost their job, family that's been infected, co-workers who've been hospitalized, and friend that passed away.  While health and travel restriction prevent us in joining the National COVID-19 Remembrance on October 4th in Washington, D.C., there are other ways we can honor and celebrate.  Here are some ideas.

1) Share Something of Sentimental Value - My grandpa use to snail mail me short letters.  Usually, just asking how I'm doing, a description of the weather, and maybe information about family or an upcoming holiday.  I accidentally saved most of them by using them as bookmarks or leaving them in a drawer.  After he passed away I found all my replies in his dresser.  Now when I miss him, all I have to do is read his letters.  But, you can share anything and use the hashtag: #NationalCovidRemembrance  

2) Support Their Cause - Is a friend or family member a nurse, doctor, or other healthcare worker in need of PPE?  Maybe the person you'd like to honor had a charity that was close to their heart.  You could donate to that cause.  Better yet, have an online fundraiser.  With Facebook, it's never been easier: Facebook Fundraising Creator - https://www.facebook.com/fundraiser/with_presence/create_dialog/?source=blue_bar_create_menu


3) Plant A Living Memorial - Plant a tree, a few flowers, or whole garden for someone.  You could order a custom sign from Etsy or make your own.  Here's a great website for autumn plantings: Garden Design - https://www.gardendesign.com/autumn/planting.html#:~:text=Fast%2Dgrowing%20root%20veggies%20such,see%20No%2DFail%20Fall%20Crops.  

4) Host a Zoom/Facetime/Hangout Event - The people we love also had many other people that loved them too.  So, invite them to get together and remember the good times.  Invite participation by asking for stories, photos, favorite songs, and cheers them over their favorite food and drinks.  


5) Make Public Art - Make signs thanking essential/frontline workers, cover your driveway in chalk blue hearts, create drawings for the windows of your home.   

6) Tradition - Rituals and traditions are a way to strengthen the bonds of friends and family.  What new tradition could you celebrate in their honor?  Is their an important date for them, like a birthday?  What locations were special to them?  Allow for flexibility and encourage fun ideas.


7) Join the National COVID-19 Remembrance - Add your loved one to the memorial tribute at: https://nationalcovidremembrance.org/actions/wall-of-remembrance/

Find way to help your friends, family, and nation at: https://nationalcovidremembrance.org/actions/email-signup/

and visit:
https://nationalcovidremembrance.org/
October 4, 2020, Noon - 1:00 EDT
The Ellipse, Washington, D.C.

The livestream event will feature a National Moment of Silence on October 4th at Noon EST, live and recorded performances, a virtual tribute wall, a remembrance of victims and family of COVID-19, and more.

We will get through this stronger together.



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:
at 3 comments:

Monday, September 28, 2020

Keep Your Distance

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Keep Your Distance #391
pen, ink, and graphite on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202009086
© copyright Mike Kraus

*NOTICE - SHIPPING DELAYS HARMING SMALL BUSINESSES MAY BE EXPERIENCED: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/aug/16/usps-mail-delays-postmaster-general-changes-workers

Social Distancing doesn't mean we can't have fun.  Grab your hand sanitizer, masks, 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. 

When going out in public, it is important to stay at least 6 feet away from other people and wear a cloth face covering to slow the spread of COVID-19. Consider the following tips for practicing social distancing when you decide to go out.

1) Know Before You Go: Before going out, know and follow the guidance from local public health authorities where you live.
2) Prepare for Transportation: Consider social distancing options to travel safely when running errands or commuting to and from work, whether walking, bicycling, wheelchair rolling, or using public transit, rideshares, or taxis. When using public transit, try to keep at least 6 feet from other passengers or transit operators – for example, when you are waiting at a bus station or selecting seats on a bus or train. When using rideshares or taxis, avoid pooled rides where multiple passengers are picked up, and sit in the back seat in larger vehicles so you can remain at least 6 feet away from the driver. Follow these additional tips to protect yourself while using transportation.
3) Limit Contact When Running Errands: Only visit stores selling household essentials in person when you absolutely need to, and stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household while shopping and in lines. If possible, use drive-thru, curbside pick-up, or delivery services to limit face-to-face contact with others. Maintain physical distance between yourself and delivery service providers during exchanges and wear a cloth face covering.
4) Choose Safe Social Activities: It is possible to stay socially connected with friends and family who don’t live in your home by calling, using video chat, or staying connected through social media. If meeting others in person (e.g., at small outdoor gatherings, yard or driveway gathering with a small group of friends or family members), stay at least 6 feet from others who are not from your household. Follow these steps to stay safe if you will be participating in personal and social activities outside of your home.
5) Keep Distance at Events and Gatherings: It is safest to avoid crowded places and gatherings where it may be difficult to stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household. If you are in a crowded space, try to keep 6 feet of space between yourself and others at all times, and wear a cloth face covering. Cloth face coverings are especially important in times when physical distancing is difficult. Pay attention to any physical guides, such as tape markings on floors or signs on walls, directing attendees to remain at least 6 feet apart from each other in lines or at other times. Allow other people 6 feet of space when you pass by them in both indoor and outdoor settings.
6 ) Stay Distanced While Being Active: Consider going for a walk, bike ride, or wheelchair roll in your neighborhood or in another safe location where you can maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and other pedestrians and cyclists. If you decide to visit a nearby park, trail, or recreational facility, first check for closures or restrictions. If open, consider how many other people might be there and choose a location where it will be possible to keep at least 6 feet of space between yourself and other people who are not from your household.

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:
at 1 comment:
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