Friday, January 29, 2021

Winter Glow

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Winter Glow
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm) 
202101004
© copyright Mike Kraus

Winter isn't always gloomy.  The grey clouds do break in the morning sun.  The crisp air snaps in the warmth of the sunlight.  The snow and ice on branches sparkle.  You find what you look for.

This painting would look best in a small-to-medium space that is yellow, green, blue, purple, black, white, 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:
Store: MikeKrausArt.etsy.com
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Wednesday, January 27, 2021

Cayuga Lake

 Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Cayuga Lake
Acrylic paint on canvas
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm) 
© copyright Mike Kraus

A lazy day along Cayuga Lake hiking between Seneca Falls and Ithaca.  Well worn paths through gorges and woods that open up to vineyards.  A tractor path leads us down to the calm lake where we take a snack break.  With places like this, social distancing is easy.

This piece would work best in a space that is light red, orange, yellow, dark green, navy blue, purple, white, black, 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.

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Tuesday, January 26, 2021

New Valentine's Day Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19


New Valentine's Day Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19

Valentine's Day is about "love" and it's not just for couples.  Something we could all use during the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic. So, here are a few ways to celebrate

For Singles
1) Turn Your Home Into a Spa -  Light some candles, make a hot bath, order some lotion, a bottle of wine.  

2) Random Acts of Kindness - Do something nice for someone else who is single.  A small gesture can go a long way.  A simple note, candy, or some guilty pleasure you know they like.  For ideas, visit: https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/

3) Singles Only - Host a singles-only virtual party.  Invite a diverse group of people from various parts of your life.  Encourage dressing up and fun cocktails.  Invite people to show off a talent or interest they have.  

4) You're Such A Miranda - Binge watch Sex and the City.  If that's too much about relationships for you, there are plenty of comedies and stand-up streaming as well.

5) I'm Not Cooking For Just Myself - Treat yourself to your favorite takeout.

6) Treat Yo' Self - It's good to spoil yourself sometimes.  Personally, I'm not a big fan about "stuff."  I have too much and somehow I keep collecting more.  But, I do like the simple pleasures of food and drink.  It can be a whole meal.  But, I've had lots of great times just with a bag of chips and a can of something for a neighborhood walk.  

7) More Please! - Make your favorite dessert.  Is there anything better than that?  This photo of homemade snicker bars (below) was taken 7 years ago and I can still taste them from memory.  Here's the recipe just in case: https://butterwithasideofbread.com/homemade-snickers-bars/


For Couples
1) Breakfast Date - Mimosa and pajamas.  It's Sunday this year, so start early.

2) Hiking - Go to favorite or meaningful spot

3) Takeout Lunch - Eat on hike or while enjoying overlook

4) Virtual Wine Tasting - There are plenty to choose from.  Order a variety of wine and learn about them from the comfort of your own home.  The best part, you don't have to drive afterwards.  Here's an article that may help: https://www.liquor.com/best-virtual-wine-tastings-5025086

5) Make a Special Dinner - Favorite foods or what you had on first date.  Or from some other occasion like a honeymoon or special event.  You can keep it simple and just make something you both really like too.  

6) Board Games Are Sexy? - Get a game to spice up the relationship: https://www.mydomaine.com/the-best-sexy-board-games-for-couples-1021943

7) Make Cocktails - There's lot of options and even virtual classes: https://www.virtualcocktailclass.com/

8) Game Night - Valentine's Day doesn't have to be only couples in love.  Some couples have kids.  Or they see each other every moment of every day and would like to have a virtual double date.  Here are some game ideas: SongPop, Heads Up Houseparty, Ticket To Ride, Animal Crossing, Mario Kart Tour, Coin Master, Harry Potter: Hogwarts mystery, Exploding Kittens, Words With Friends, Werewolf, Jackbox, Scrabble, Clue, Marvel Strike Force, Fortnite, Golf Battle, Quiz Up, Scattergories, Fishdom, and so many more!!!

9) Romantic Movies - Snuggle on the couch with a glass of wine.  Here's a list of the best romantic movies: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/top/bestofrt/top_100_romance_movies/



For Kids
1) Decorate the House - Cover your house with hearts.  Write a note on each one telling about something or someone you're grateful for.

2) Special Meal and/or dessert - Make something fun for the kids.  It can be something silly like a heart shaped pizza.  

3) I Love My Family - Start the day with a big family hug.  Write messages to each other saying what you love about them.  And then find an activity you can all do together to have fun.  

4) Love Notes - Write several notes to your kids saying what you love about them.  Put them in places they'll randomly find them like their shoes, cereal box, backpack, lunchbox, TV, phone charger, pillow, etc.  


For Everyone
1) Will You Be My Valentine? - Make and send Valentine Day cards for friends, family, and other loved ones.  Let them know how grateful you are to have them in your life.

2) Unite Family and Friends With Video Chat - Use Zoom, Skype, Facetime, or other video chat service to talk with family and friends that are near and far. Start a "room" where people can join you for the day. Let them come and go as they please. 

3) Volunteer - What is important to you? There's so much need in the world. Spare a moment to help and organization that will make the world a better place.

4) Valentine Call - Zoom or call a friend, family member, co-worker or other person that you're grateful to know. Tell them you appreciate for them. And why you care for them.

5) Thankful Expression - Everyone has some form of creative outlet: drawing, singing, dancing, woodworking, etc. Make a gift for someone special

6) Support Local Businesses - Many local businesses offer curbside pick-up, delivery, and other COVID-19/Coronavirus safe options for their products.  Supporting small businesses struggling in your community will help your neighbors have a good holiday too.

7) Romantic Music - There's so many love songs and so much you can do with it.  Listen to a radio stations, make your own playlist, make a mixtape for someone, write your own song, etc.!  Music is a great way to get in the Valentine spirit.

8) Share Memories - Ask questions like "what was your best gift?" "what is your earliest Valentine's Day memory?" and "what's the strangest thing you've experienced during the Valentine's?"  Get things started and it can provide you fun entertainment.

9) Share Memories Online - Post a Valentine's Day photo and tell us a story about it.  Let us know who was there, what you're doing, when this happened, where it was, and why it was special.  Then invite your friends and family to do the same.

10) Get Dressed Up - Want to make a moment feel special?  Wear something fancy.  We've all been home wearing pajamas and being lazy.  Do something fun, eat a nice meal, and take photos while looking stylish.


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.

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Monday, January 25, 2021

Turn It Off

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Turn It Off #412
pen and ink on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
202101003

Avoid too much exposure to news– Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories (including social media posts).  Limit news to 15-minutes per day to stay informed; not overwhelmed.  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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Friday, January 22, 2021

Vita Dream

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Vita Dream
acrylic painting on canvas
14" x 18" (35.6cm x 45.7cm)
202012123
© copyright Mike Kraus

LET'S CREATE YOUR VERY OWN PAINTING TOGETHER!  Your cherished memory or idea can be made into a work of art.  Whether you want to remember a special day or give something to a caring friend; we can work together to create something unique.  Invest in yourself and the arts with a special vision to color your walls.  

This will be a positive, fun experience.  I would be happy to chat with you, with no obligation, about what you have in mind. It’s important to me that you’re thrilled with the final piece.  
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, January 20, 2021

A View of the Blue Mountains of the Adirondacks

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


A View of the Blue Mountains of the Adirondacks
acrylic paint on canvas 
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm)
© copyright Mike Kraus

It was a steep and treacherous hike up the mountain in the Adirondacks.  A wild region full of deer, herons, and chipmunks.  You may even find a moose, coyote, or black bear on these trails.  The dense pine forest opens up to a meadow full of brisk autumn air.  There is a startling calmness.  And from this view, it's as if we can see all six million acres of this park.

This painting would look best in a space that is red, orange, purple, yellow, green, blue, 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.

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Tuesday, January 19, 2021

The President's Cat: Having Fun During COVID-19


The President's Cat: Having Fun During COVID-19

Coronavirus/COVID-19 has allowed us to spend a lot more time with our pets.  So, let's talk about them!  Make some entertainment from an old parlor game.  

1) Getting Together - Make some snacks and beverages and gather your household family/roommates.

Game Rules:
2) The President's Cat Is a _______ Cat - The first player starts and using an adjective beginning with the letter "A."  For example, "The President's cat is an amazing cat."  Each player repeats using a different adjective.  When it returns to the first player, they move on to a letter "B" adjective.  This continues through the alphabet. 

3) Um...  Um...  Um... - If a player fails to come up with an adjective or repeats one previously used, they are out of the game.

4) Variety Is The Spice Of Life - Too simple or difficult?  Try these variations:
a) Set a timer - Everyone has 10-15 second to say their line
b) Clap in unison to set a pace for saying your lines.
c) Have the group speak in a rhythm to set the pace for saying lines.
d) Change the letter each person instead of each round.
e) Remember all previous and add your own adjective on each turn. For example the six player would say, "The President's cat is an able, bubbly, caring, dazzling, energetic, funny cat."  
f) Turn it into a drinking game.  Take a shot or swig every time you're out.
g) Have a prize for the winner(s).  It can be something simple.  For example, you get a piece of Starburst for each round and a Snicker bar for the most overall wins.  

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.

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