John Stenger Studio

Award Winning Design

2012-01-14T06:59:00.000-08:00

A renovation in the historic oceanfront Morris Lapidus building on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach done by the award winning Firm of Steven Harris more photos can be seen at: http://www.stevenharrisarchitects.com/projects/Collins-Avenue

The Big One!

2011-10-04T08:44:00.000-07:00

The biggest art show of the year is happening this Saturday night Oct 8, at the Barry Gross Gallery

Barry Gross an iconic artist himself, will be joined by two other art heavyweights Laurence Gartel (the father of the digital art) and Salvatore Principe (The heart painter) who among many other works, painted a heart for Jenny McCarthy's autistic son. it all starts at 7pm. (Barry Gross Gallery) 3335 NE 32nd street Fort Lauderdale ...Call 305 609 2463 ...for more Information

Oct 1st.North Beach Artwalk

2011-10-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

Oct 1st was another beautiful night for the NORTH BEACH ARTWALK the district was alive with new visitor activity, and as usual I was there to capture it all for Behind The Art ...See all the photos at: http://johnstengerstudio.com/jss-photography-behind-the-art-page3.html

Big Changes to the Behind the Art WebSite

2011-09-20T15:33:00.000-07:00

I have recently updated the entire Behind the Art website with a new cool heading, and extra large photos, but the biggest difference is the websites focus! It will now be covering not just art, but the South Florida Design and Fashion community as well. ...See our new look here:http://johnstengerstudio.com/jss-photography-behind-the-art.html

and check back from time to time for new and interesting photos as the season nears.

MODERN MASTERS: BARRY GROSS/SALVATORE PRINCIPE/LAURENCE GARTEL

2011-07-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

MODERN MASTERS: BARRY GROSS/SALVATORE PRINCIPE/LAURENCE GARTEL

Saturday, October 8 at 7:00pm

Location: Barry Gross Gallery See More at: http://johnstengerstudio.com/jss-photography-behind-the-art.html

Photos From North Beach DIstrict Art Walk

2011-07-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

Iconic Digital Artist Laurence Gartel & Visual Artist Robin White get comfy at Barry Gross gallery during July 2nd artwalk.

For more photos go to: http://johnstengerstudio.com/jss-photography-behind-the-art.html

Photos from June 4th North Beach Artwalk

2011-06-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

See the complete set of Photos at: http://johnstengerstudio.com/jsspersonalphotos.html

North Beach Art-Walk Saturday June 4th

2011-05-29T06:43:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping to take some good photos for my website gallery page at this next artwalk, it's going to be a big one, as always the whole district is participating, Gallery 101 is featuring their Isn't it Iconic! ..Dont you think! Showing. Plus Barry Gross Studio has an exhibition entitled "EXPOSED" ...so if you are in the neighborhood Please Stop By!.

New Painting (BACKRUSH SERIES) 36" x 36" Available through The Studio

2011-05-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

Photos From North Beach Districts Fashion Show & Artwalk

2011-05-10T05:23:00.000-07:00

Artist & Model (ROBIN WHITE) & (Thor) At Gallery 101's
Art & Fashion Show See More Photos at: http://johnstengerstudio.com/jsspersonalphotos.html

A Change in Painting Styles

2011-05-07T09:10:00.000-07:00

I am planning on a series of Abstract Paintings using some of the techniques employed in the new 2011 Coastal Disturbance series Landscapes. I will post photos as soon as they are available.

Coastal Disturbances # 11 ...New Works

2011-05-07T09:03:00.001-07:00

New Works At The Studio, May 2011

2011-04-20T05:29:00.000-07:00

"Maybe There's Still a Chance" 36" x 36 " (Email for Price)

Revisiting The Abstract Painters "Their Best Works"

2010-09-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Some Readers have asked me to UPDATE a Post from several weeks ago, entitled (ABSTRACT PAINTERS ...THEIR BEST WORKS) ....so I am providing a link to that older post which has been greatly added to since it's original Publishing. See Bill Gingles, and many other fine artists work.

http://johnstengerstudio.blogspot.com/2010/08/abstract-paintersour-best-work.html

"Water From a Darker Room ...60"x48"

By Bill Gingles

http://www.billgingles.net

The Bonnet House...4th annual Best of the Artists Series

2010-08-28T23:11:00.000-07:00

The Bonnet House – 4th annual Best of the Artists Series The Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and St. Lawrence Gallery 4th annual Best of the Artists Series continues with its 3rd installation Thursday, August 12 at the St. Lawrence Gallery. The five exhibitions feature a variety of works from 16 Bonnet House Fine Artists. The four artists included in this exhibition are Sandra Camper, Barbara Dix, George Dolan and Sandy Dolan. The exhibition runs August 12 through September 4.

Attendees have the opportunity to vote for their favorite piece at the first four exhibitions and the fifth exhibition will include the winning pieces from the first four shows. The Best of the Artists Series winner will then be announced at the closing reception scheduled for Thursday, November 4. All five exhibitions are free and open to the public and the opening receptions include raffle items donated by each participating artist, wine and cheese and beautiful art. A percentage of all art sale proceeds will benefit Bonnet House and its programs. The receptions for each show will begin at 6:00pm on the first night of each exhibition as well as the closing night of the final exhibition.

The upcoming exhibition dates are as follows:
Third Exhibition: Thursday, August 12 – Saturday, September 4 (Opening Reception: Thursday, August 12, 6pm)
Fourth Exhibition: Thursday, September 9 – Saturday, October 2 (Opening Reception: Thursday, September 9, 6pm)
Fifth Exhibition: Thursday, October 7 – Thursday, November 4. This show will include favorite pieces voted on by all the attendees from the previous four shows. (Opening Reception: Thursday, October 7, 6pm)
Best of the Artists Closing Reception: Thursday, November 4 at 6pm. Best of the Artists Series winner will be announced.
St. Lawrence Gallery is located at 3556 N. Ocean Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale two lights north of Oakland Park Blvd. on the east side. For more information, please contact Monica Estevez at (954) 563-5393 ext. 127 or St. Lawrence Gallery at (954) 566-8011 or visit http://www.bonnethouse.org/ or http://www.stlawrencegallery.com/.

NEW RIVER FINE ART...Las Olas Blvd.

2010-08-27T06:50:00.000-07:00

New River Fine Art is one of South Florida's oldest and most prestigious fine art galleries. With locations in Fort Lauderdale and Naples, Florida, New River Fine Art is the premier source for masterworks and fine contemporary paintings, sculpture and glass art. Walk through our doors and discover another world. A world that is abstract... surreal... romantic... classical.New River Fine Art's curators travel the world in search of extraordinary works from renowned Masters such as Picasso, Rembrandt, Miro, Dali and Chagall along with Contemporary work from today's most sought after artists including Royo, Pino, Jamali, Pamela Masik, Thomas Arvid, Hessam, Henry Asencio, Luc Leestemaker, Purvis Young and Kerry Hallam. Renowned sculptors include the works of Frederick Hart and Tuan as well as glass art from Daum Crystal, Dino Rosin and Chris Hawthorne to name a few.

Our clients are assisted by an expert staff with years of experience dedicated to providing the highest level of service. New River Fine Art's design specialists work with the design trade on custom homes, yacht interiors, custom framing, corporate projects, monumental sculptures and hotel interiors. Whether you are interested in purchasing a special painting or building a private or corporate collection, our consultants can provide the resources that make acquiring fine art a rewarding experience. http://www.newriverfineart.com/gallery_new/index2.asp

Gary Nadar Fine Art...Worlds Largest Art gallery

2010-08-26T17:33:00.000-07:00

"A Fernando Botero bronze outside the 50,000-square-foot factory that has become the Gary Nader Fine Art Gallery"

Gary Nader fine art has become much more than just a gallery. Situated in the heart of Wynwood,the new and renovated art district of Miami, it presents an extensive number of solo and group exhibitions,the publication of catalogues and art books, as well as providing extensive professional services to assist a private clientele, corporations and museums with the acquisition or sale of Latin American, Modern and Contemporary art. The gallery also provides certifications and appraisal services as well as art advisory program and curatorial information including cataloguing and conservation.

At the moment Gary Nader fine art is the largest and most important fine art gallery in South Florida, and the biggest gallery in the world with 55,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space with three components: Gary Nader Private Collection, the Exhibition Gallery and the Sculpture Park. The gallery displays a major selection of works by Modern and Contemporary Latin American artists such as: Guido Albi Marini (Italy), Pablo Atchugarry (Uruguay), Fernando Botero (Colombia), Carlos Capelan(Uruguay), Sandro Chia (Italy), Guillermo Conte (Argentina), Manuel Esnoz (Argentina), Walter Goldfarb (Brazil), Armando Mariño (Cuba), Manuel Mendive (Cuba), Guillermo Muñoz Vera (Chile), Carlos Quintana ( Cuba), Pablo Picasso (Spain), Henry Matisse (France), Damien Hirst (English), Martin Kippenberger (German), Robert Rauschenberg (USA), Lucio Fontana (Argentina), Cundo Bermúdez (Cuba), Roberto Matta (Chile), Wifredo Lam (Cuba), Joaquin Torres Garcia (Uruguay), Yoshitomo Nara (Japan), Frank Stella (USA), Jesus Soto (Venezuela), Rufino Tamayo (Mexico), among others. Throughout the years Gary Nader fine art has fitted his efforts to the requirements of the fastest growing market on the international scene and specially its clients. Website: http://www.garynader.com/

Sailboat Bend Lofts

2010-08-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

These lofts were completed in 2008 but recently an art friend of mine tells me many of these units are still available. I visited the complex when it was first completed in 2008 and I was very impressed by the Loft-Studio/Living Spaces. Located in Fort Lauderdale's historic Sailboat Bend neighborhood, the Artspace Sailboat Bend Lofts are complete! Artspace, in a unique public/nonprofit partnership with Broward County Cultural Division and the City of Fort Lauderdale, have created 37 units of affordable live/work studios for individuals and their families. The live/work units are available to families earning 50% and 60% of area median income. There are 16 1-bedroom, 18 2-bedroom, and three 3-bedroom units in the three-story building designed in a U-shape around dedicated parking. Adjacent to the new-construction lofts, we are renovating the Historic West Side School, built in 1923, as the new home for the Broward County Historical Commission. This exciting new facility is located within walking distance of downtown Fort Lauderdale and its many cultural facilities, the Riverwalk, and Himmarshee historic district.

After almost ten years of work, we are excited this project has become a reality for the arts community, its patrons and supporters throughout Broward County. It's a win, win, win: a historical restoration, an arts project with new housing, and a new home for the Historical Commission in a historic neighborhood. If you need a great Studio-Living Space check them out: http://www.artspace.org/properties/sailboatbend/

Creative Space Available in Fort Lauderdale

2010-08-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

The White Table Foundation is a new, creative movement in Fort Lauderdale that is rethinking the idea of co-working and collaboration. By creating a hub for everyone involved in the arts, technology, or anything in the creative realm, WTF is creating a space where individual talents can be harnessed into a think tank environment. The office, if you can call it that, is a beautiful, modern space located on Las Olas behind Asia Bay restaurant. Presently, WTF has enough space for ten more full-time creatives, but they plan on expanding as soon as the current space is filled. Aside from the co-working aspect, WTF plans on hosting some local events - from launch parties to gallery showings - in their space as well as around Las Olas to get the buzz around the boulevard going again. Check out the space: http://morewillie.com/2010/08/coworking-las-olas/

Contact Willie Morris at 434.258.2356 or willie.morris@gmail.com or facebook.com/whitetablefoundation

Studio E Gallery, Palm beach Gardens

2010-08-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite Palm beach county Galleries is Studio E Gallery, I first came across them in their original location on Lake Ave. in Lake Worth many years ago but since then they have moved the Gallery to the PGA district. Studio E Gallery is owned by Ann and Evan Griffith. We've logged tens of thousands of miles seeking work that is fresh and alive and passionate, pieces we think you'll find compelling for years to come. For Ann and Evan, first came the fascination with art, then the practice of it (in the form of painting), and finally a love of collecting. But this wasn't enough. To better serve the extraordinary artists of our time, Studio E was born. "We think you will be as engaged by the works of these artists as we are. Every artist's story is different, but at the root these things are the same: they work long, hard hours; they are dedicated to perfecting their vision; none of them is making a killing; they give you the best of themselves. Enjoy the fruits of their many labors, as we have. Filling your world with the creativity of others will inspire you in your own endeavors."

Studio E Gallery, founded in 1996, focuses on contemporary fine art, three-dimensional media and sculpture. Nationally and internationally known artists are showcased, with a warm spotlight for southeastern artists of note. The space contains several viewing galleries, making it ideal for multiple exhibitions. With its pivoting and moveable walls, the gallery changes shape from month to month.

1% for the Community Studio E pledges 1% of its revenues each year to community based causes. We don't do a percentage of profit because profits can vary greatly from year to year or not exist at all in a given year - and we want to consistently give back to this community which has given so much to all of us. Wherever possible, we recycle shipping products, re-using wood, cardboard, bubble wrap, peanuts and other packing material. This is good for the environment and good for you, lowering your packing costs. This is why we are consistently lower in packaging costs than mainstream shipping companies.

http://www.studioegallery.com/index.html

Fashions Night Out ...Miami Design District

2010-08-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

Key West Fine Art Printing and Photography

2010-08-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

Artist friends of mine who routinely make prints have given Alan Kennish's Prints Rave reviews, I myself have spoken with alan on the phone and I was impressed by his technical knowledge, and willingness to help with a first time printing project.

Key West Fine Art Printing and Photography is a small fine art and photographic studio operating in the heart of the Key West gallery district ..We work with artists to reproduce their work by digitizing the original piece, adjusting color correction and sharpening as needed and then printing with exacting care. We use state of the art scanners, printers, and software to create images that range from large format giclees on canvas to smaller piezography on archival art papers.All work is done to archival and museum quality standards. Some of Alans well known Key west Artist Clients are, Sharon Wells, Barbara Totten, Barbara Elvi, Christy Transier, Jonas Dale Malone, David Scott Meyer, Don & Shirley Sullivan, Janet Mueller, and Leo Gullick.

Owner Alan Kennish lives and works in Key West, Florida. He has studied art and photography at Columbia College (B.A. 1968), The New School in NY, and The University of New Mexico. His photographs have appeared in a number of national and western magazines, including Southern Living, New Mexico Magazine, Outdoor Magazine, Down River Magazine, and a body of commerical work for advertising agencies in the Alburquerque Santa Fe area.Alan currently exhibits at the KW Light Gallery, The Pineapple Gallery, and Key West Art Gallery.His artist's eye and training, combined with many years working as a printer, have earned Alan the trust and respect of many local artists and make him uniquely qualified to produce excellent museum quality reproductions. See their website at: www.keywestfineartprinting.com/

Charles de Lisle ...San Francisco based Artist & Designer

2010-08-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

focused on the execution of hand-crafted furnishings, custom interiors, experienced space planning & interior architecture. Dreaming of beautiful and interesting ways to enliven the physical world around us. Charles’ experience spans the last 25 years working within the art of ceramics, metalwork, custom furniture, product design, decoration and interiors. Following 10 years as principal and partner of the firm De lisle, Philpotts & Staub, Charles founded his own office the Charles de Lisle Workshop. He continues to assist his clients produce inspired, award-winning residences, hotels & restaurants. Projects reach from across California to New York, New England, the Pacific Northwest, Montana & the Hawaiian Islands. Charles de Lisle’s work has been featured in Metropolitan Home, Interior Design, The New York Times Magazine, Dwell, Architectural Digest Germany, The Wall Street Journal, Sunset, California Home + Design, Traditional Home, & other publications.

website,

Art Expressions Gallery ...Fort Lauderdale

2010-08-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

We want to assemble a collection of bright, exciting, well thought out pieces (both painting and sculpture) that bring the viewer joy, happiness, and are fun to live with. The work we are bringing together is by both established and emerging local artists, people who are serious about what they do, and are excited about their art. Although we have the deepest respect for long-standing traditions, and those who established them, we feel there is a real place in the art world for work that is accessible, both visually and financially. Art, in a real sense, need not only exist in museums. It should be something you want to live with, that brings a smile to your face, or makes you feel great each time you see it, like a ray of sunshine in your life. Art is not only determined by the importance or long-standing reputation of the master who creates it, it is in fact just as worthy of respect, perhaps even more so, if it is different, unusual, and new. Even the great masters were once young and unknown, and people looked askance at the fresh eye they brought to the world, and how they viewed it. What makes art, in our opinion, is a work you admire, one that makes you happy each time you see it, and above all one you love. We hope that you love the work that we bring to you. Thank you again for visiting Art Expressions website. We wish you the best in health, happiness, love and happy art collecting and look forward to hearing from you soon.

See their Website At: http://www.artexpressions.tk/

Address: Art Expressions L.L.C.1438 NE 26th Street (between Federal Hwy and Dixie) Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 (954) 537-9000 PHONE ...Gallery Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm Thursday through Saturday: 12:00 pm to 9:30 pm Closed: Sunday & Monday Other times by appointment.

F.A.T. Village Arts District, ...Ft. Lauderdale

2010-08-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

F.A.T. Village (Flagler Arts & Technology Village) is home to some of the region's most talented artists. Their studios, galleries and performance spaces are comprised of a series of unique buildings. Built in 1950, the incomparable construction of these industrial warehouses offers ideal space for artists, galleries and performers. The location and venues provide an array of options for film and television production, photography shoots, events and parties. F.A.T. Village is situated to the west of Andrews Avenue and the FEC railroad tracks, and bordered on the south by NW fourth Ave. and the north by NW sixth Ave.

Fort Lauderdale's up-and-coming arts district has attracted artists and merchants from many different trades due to its ample studios with an urban feel. At present, there is one gallery, eight artist studios, four workshops, a gym, two theaters, a special event company, scenic and prop manufacturing, dance rehearsal studios, a costume warehouse and a music studio.

Gallery 101

Brew La La Coffee bar

The Art of Alex Studio

Artist Robin White and her paintings at Gallery 101

Art Opening in the District

Exterior of Alfred Phillips Studio

Abstract Painters..."Their best Works"

2010-08-18T04:36:00.000-07:00

Bill Gingles "Water From a Darker Room"

http://www.billgingles.net

IAN MACLEOD "Composition # 114-B"
http://www.ianmacleodpaintings.ca/

Clara Blalock "Flight 9"

www.clarablalock.com

Lisa Pressman "Element of Air"

http://www.lisapressman.net/

Tina Mammoser, "Spanish Clementines"
http://www.tina-m.com/

Debbi Becker, "Florida Landscape #1"
debbibecker@bellsouth.net

Jim Dicke

Leslie Parke "Almond Tree"

www.leslieparke.com

Denice Taylor-Rinks "In the Beginning"

www.aestheticalclimate.com

Francine DeBlois "Maturity"

www.francinedeblois.com

Rodney Thompson "Stages Of Morning"
http://www.rodneythompson.com/

Nancy Christy-Moore "Fire & Ice"

http://www.nchristy.com/

Randi Strand

http://www.blankeark.no/

DM Weil "At The Zoo"

http://www.sobro721.com/

Cheryl McClure "Island"

http://www.cherylmcclure.com/

HGTV Casting Call For...West Palm Beach

2010-08-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

According to South Florida ASID, HGTV's popular show, Bang For Your Buck, is looking for West Palm Beach homeowners who have renovated their bathrooms within the last 2-3 years! We'd like to feature three fun, enthusiastic homeowners and their recent bathroom renovations, filming in the greater West Palm Beach area October 5-8, 2010. This is an exciting opportunity for homeowners to be featured on national television, and it's also a great way for local designers and contractors to show off their work! Each episode of Bang For Your Buck will tour three similar remodels at similar price points in the same city. We'll bring in our design expert and real estate expert to determine how the renovation impacts each home's value. We'll also provide viewers with expert advice, answers on remodeling values, and inspiring ideas for design. If you're not familiar with the show, catch us on HGTV on Saturdays at 3:30p Eastern / 2:30p Central, or feel free to check out episodes online at: http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103619661787&s=2505&e=001Bfk56OZqex2oe2uiMzVfSaGjtmz0cteyuthuNfEaJmPwv4_tXFl346SmiQyZBwKc7tU3hEAvPa-gif1e3hLiceHfn8n4VI688IFCREypAUTMRbZCk9IO0Q==. Interested homeowners should apply immediately! The deadline to express interest and begin the casting process is Wednesday, August 25th. Applicants will be asked to include the final cost of the renovated bathroom, photos of the space, and a photo of the homeowners. Start the application process today by e-mailing Juliana Broste at jbroste@highnoontv.com or call (303) 712-3129.

South Florida Artist ...LeeAnna Yater

2010-08-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

LeeAnna Yater is an artist, designer and educator who enjoys making art with unique and colorful fabrics, clay and other mixed media. her mission is to share her love of art with art enthusiasts and students of all ages.

In LeeAnnas own words: after graduating with an BFA in Interior Design at Western Carolina University I was employed as an Interior Designer for several years with Broyhill Furniture in Lenoir, NC and Little & Associates Architects in Charlotte, NC. I continued to further my interest in the fiber arts by weaving and designing textiles while attending programs that included: Penland School of Crafts, John C. Campbell Folk School, and Arrowmont to name a few. I then decided to return to graduate school where I received my MFA in Art and Design at Winthrop University. I continued to explore the fiber arts and exhibited my artwork throughout the Carolinas, Georgia, New York, and Washington D.C. I began to teach art & design in the Carolinas and also acquired some interesting commissions such as designing two Hot air balloons for a south Florida lawyer. The perk from this project was being a participant in test flying the balloons in France, Italy, and Switzerland.A need to be near my family brought me back to Florida where I lived much of my life and I began to teach at Florida Atlantic University, Lynn University and Broward Community College. I continued to work in fiber and exhibited with Broward Art Guild, FAU, BCC, Borders Books, Art serve, Uncommon Gallery, and at the Ft. Lauderdale airport.I continue to teach 2-D Design, Art Appreciation, Drawing and Color Composition at BrowardCollege. I have not determined whether my artwork and my teaching are influenced by my love of color and design or if teaching these courses has influenced my work.

Current Fiber Art Work

My current work has developed into a combination of media that I have picked up on through out the years. I was exposed to the computer design programs in the early 90’s while in graduate school and it has continued to infiltrate my work. I have always enjoyed taking photographs and with the onset of the digital camera and the ease of manipulating photos and paintings in the newest computer software programs it continues to fascinate me. It allows me to explore design, color, and pattern in ways that could not be done as easily without the computer. I continue to incorporate my weaving background as well as to design fabrics that can be incorporated into my final designs. See More on LeeAnna and her work at:

http://www.leeannayater.com/

SOHO In Miami ...The Wynwood Arts District

2010-08-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Wynwwod Art District is South Floridas answer to the New York art scene, no matter where the gallery seeker travels in this state, they will not find an area that reminds them more of the famous SOHO/Chelsea districts in NYC. The first time you visit the Wynwood district day or night, you may be tempted to put your car in gear and run for the nearest I-95 entrance ramp due to this districts ominous look, a former warehouse and garment area. But the area is actually quite safe, although as in any big City ...always use caution!

The Wynwood Art District is a section of Wynwood, a neighborhood in the City of Miami, Florida, United States. It contains over 70 galleries, museums and collections. It is roughly bounded by NW 36th Street (north), NW 20th Street (south), I-95 (west) and NE 1st Avenue (east).

History: The Wynwood Art District Association was founded in early 2003 largely because of the efforts of Mark Coetzee and Nina Arias. Mark Coetzee initiated the idea based on a similar project, Art Night, he had started in his home town- Cape Town, South Africa. The Association publishes an annual brochure with a map and a list of the Association’s members. It is home to over forty galleries, five museums, three collections, seven art complexes, twelve art studios and five art fairs.
Every 2nd Saturday of each month a community wide Art Walk is held. Galleries, art studios, alternative spaces and showrooms open their doors to the public for art, music and refreshments.

New York Artist...Leslie Parke

2010-08-14T07:07:00.000-07:00

"Avalanche", 42 x 48 inches, oil on linen, 2010

"Compacted", 44 x 64 inches, oil on linen, 2010

I met Leslie Parke quite by accident this week during a reciprocal blog following, during our conversations on Facebook I realized I was speaking with an experienced and very talented, Full time Artist, who also has a very unique studio in upstate New York. If you read her bio/resume you will see she has created her Art all over Europe as well as in the United States, with an extensive Museum and Corporate collection to her credit. See her website and blog where you will find more information on her work. http://www.leslieparke.com/index.html

Artist Leslie Parke lives on the New York/Vermont border and works in a studio that spans the top floor of a 19th century factory building. Over the years she has worked on both sides of the pond in Sweden, France and Germany.

Be sure to visit her blog, where she shares her passion for food, art and travel, with an emphasis on art history mysteries, studio practices, and artist's painting sites.

"While Leslie Parke's new paintings are definitely about something, they go about their work quietly. They do not yell or clamor, they require your attention. Beautifully rendered (perhaps almost dangerously so), but not sentimental, these paintings elicit intricate emotions."

David Rees

Gallery 101, ...A Year in the Fat Village Arts District

2010-08-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

"Adam White Gallery Owner"

"August 28, will mark Gallery 101's (One Year) move to the Fat Village Arts District"

Our mission is to provide a modern venue for artists to show their work and cultivate creativity through artistic and community events. We recognize diverse functionsand meanings of art and provide a forum for creative expression.

Spaces Available to Artists / We at Gallery 101 welcome artists to come by and see our gallery layout. Each space has been created to display the unique focus of each work of art. The Gallery was designed to have an open atmosphere with a central gallery loft area for gathering. This space is perfect for large events. If you are interested in art submission or holding an event at the Gallery 101, please call 954.882.1861 for details. Gallery space is available to artists on a 3 month minimum contract. This contract will be for gallery representation on displayed works as well as cataloged works which the gallery will also broker for you if desired. This allows artists to sell more of their work in a professional environment to more clientele, and it allows gallery clientele to browse works by an artist and even commission custom works by our resident artists. Featured ArtistEvery 2 weeks, we have a featured artist or a curated group show.

Submissions are accepted via email and each must be an original art work. Fees are $500 for resident artists, or $700 for non-resident artists. Show will hang for two weeks, which includes an Artist’s Opening Reception Night, a Facebook page event, PR broadcasts, email campaign to our database and other advertisements as they become available.

Events/ Gallery 101 is available for public and private events. We have had many sponsored events and charity benefits including The Breast Cancer Benefit, The Food Bank Event, The Children’s SOS Village Benefit, The Pet Project Benefit and The Culture Network Launch Party, as well as many private networking events.

Design District Night ...August 14, Saturday Night

2010-08-12T08:38:00.000-07:00

The Miami Design District is a neighborhood north of Midtown in Miami, Florida, United States. It is within the Buena Vista and southern extremity of Little Haiti neighborhoods. It is roughly divided by NE 36th Street to the south, NE 43rd Street to the north, NW 1st Avenue to the west and Biscayne Boulevard (US 1) to the east. It is home to over 130 art galleries, showrooms, creative services, stores, antiques dealers, eateries and bars. Every 2nd Saturday of each month a community wide Art & Design Night is held from 7-10pm. A popular event, Art Galleries and Design Showrooms open their doors to the public for music and refreshments.Miami Design Districts ....Art & Design Night Aug 14 Saturday 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

New Gallery at Miami Bakehouse Art Complex

2010-08-11T08:48:00.000-07:00

May 21st, 2010 marked the announcement and formal dedication ceremony of the BAC's main gallery as the Audrey Love Gallery. The special reception honored the Audrey Love Charitable Foundation's generous gift to the Bakehouse Art Complex. For those that did not attend the event, I would like to share my thoughts from that evening: Next year celebrates our 25th anniversary, an extraordinary accomplishment as a non-profit whose mission to provide affordable working studio space to artists has never waivered. 25 years in this same location makes us a true pioneer in the burgeoning arts district of Wynwood. Our facility is clearly not new nor recently renovated space, but one feels its history as many can remember the smell of fresh baked bread permeating the air around the neighborhood on their way to work or school. In such a young city as Miami, where this kind of history is unique, it is important to preserve our past. Our signature flour silos freshly painted and illuminated at night, now stand tall as a beacon to the Bakehouse and the arts district.

No organization can survive if there is no growth. As the Executive Director over the past few years, I have recognized that meaningful growth takes time. Board development, administrative policies, and programming- all have undergone significant change for a positive impact to the organization as a whole. With the help of our Board of Directors and others, we are charting a new course where the BAC can play an integral role locally, nationally and even internationally. With a long-term vision for the Bakehouse, we believe that embracing the past while looking to the future can be achieved. Comprising over half a city block, there is much opportunity for physical growth, but it is critical that we understand the needs of the local Wynwood community and the needs of the local artists who seek affordable work space in a vibrant and ethnically diverse metropolitan city. We value our past with vision to the future. Support from organizations like the Audrey Love Charitable Foundation is enabling us to take these momentous steps into our future and it is through this generosity that we will impact the artists and community for generations to come.

To all of you and particularly the Audrey Love Charitable Foundation, on behalf of our Board, Administration, Artists and Community, I want to truly thank you for your vision and for believing in our organization. http://www.bacfl.org/

Joseph Cortes Designer.... Homelife Interiors

2010-08-08T15:22:00.000-07:00

HomeLife Interiors, Inc., proud winners of an ASID Design Excellence Award, is a full-service interior design firm based in South Florida’s Palm Beaches. Dedicated to the creation of custom interiors, the company prides itself on combining Architecture and Interior Design to find unique design solutions. HomeLife completes projects tailored to the individual styles and needs of its clients, on budget and on time. HomeLife Interiors, Inc. is known for creating dynamic spaces that enrich the businesses and lives of their clients and staff.

With over 25 years of experience, the firm approaches projects from an architectural point of view, and finishes them with their signature, soft-modern style. HomeLife interiors has been featured on HGTV’s “Bang for your Buck” series and “Designing for the sexes”. Interior Design is a service industry. We are here to make the design process simple for you. We take all of the mystery, misconception and angst off of your hands.

Space planning, furniture and finish selection, kitchen design, bath design, replanning interior walls. We can prepare construction drawings and coordinate construction with our architect or yours. Green Design features are an added benefit. http://www.hlinteriors.com/

Actor ...Gerard Butler's NY, Loft

2010-08-06T07:49:00.000-07:00

It took Gerard Butler four years before he finally spent the night in his own home. The actor said he knew his 3,300-square-foot, two-story loft in New York’s Chelsea district was going to need a lot of work. “I wanted something elegant and gorgeous and at the same time rather masculine and raw,” Butler said. “I guess I would describe the apartment as bohemian old-world rustic chateau with a taste of baroque.” Butler will grace Architectural Digest’s May cover. The magazine will feature photos of his pad, which is still not yet complete, as well as his decorating inspirations. Film designer Elvis Restaino, who helped bring Butler’s complex vision to life, said "We re-created things that came into Butlers life from his travels in Europe, or even from an old coffee shop in New York". Butler’s apartment furnished with 13-foot-tall mahogany doors, crystal chandeliers and limestone lions - is a place “to retreat and spend time on my own,” he said. “New York is such a frenetic, crazy city, so I love to use the place for just some peace and quiet.”

Industrial Home in LA

2010-08-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

Magnus Walker and Karen Caid were looking for a new building downtown to house Serious Clothing, their rock'n'roll novelty clothing company. At the same time, they were house hunting in Hancock Park. Then they found an industrial building near Santa Fe Avenue. "It was pretty gross," recalls Caid. The upstairs, she says, was "pitch black, skylights covered with tar, black garbage bags over windows and dead rats in various degrees of decay."

But the nondescript building, a former fabric-cutting factory, had an ample parking lot, a large enclosed garage, hardwood floors, high ceilings and all that space--26,000 square feet of it. They took the plunge. "We wanted something on a grand scale and thought, 'Why not combine the two?' " says Walker, who sometimes doesn't leave the house he calls his "mini-Hearst Castle" for several days at a time.
Today the space is divided into a modern downstairs office and factory. Upstairs, 11,500 square feet are devoted to living quarters that sport a medieval castle motif: newly installed gothic arched doors and windows, coffered ceilings, stained-glass windows, medieval sconces and, for effect, lots of gargoyles. "When I was a kid I was never much into visiting stately buildings," says Walker, who grew up in the northern industrial town of Sheffield, England. When his parents came for a recent visit this summer and saw their son's unique digs for the first time, it was their consensus that there was "nothing quite like it in Sheffield, nor all of England, for that matter."
But the place he and Caid love most is their narrow 15-by-120-foot garden, a former graffiti-riddled alley behind the building. An oasis of lush green lawns, gardenia trees and jasmine, it's peppered with their eclectic flea market finds--religious statuary, angels, a lion-head fountain, a Chinese moon gate--as well as candles and ubiquitous gargoyles. "We rarely leave," says Caid. "Sunday mornings are all about hanging out in the garden. We grab a book and a cup of coffee, watch the kittens play. You'd never know from the front of the building that this was here. It's our secret garden."

Virginia Miller Gallery, Miami

2010-07-31T10:10:00.000-07:00

For more than 35 years, Virginia Miller has introduced artists with unique personal visions and techniques to the South Florida art community. These have included numerous mid-career latin american artists and international artists as well as a number of historically significant modern latin american masters. Some of her exhibitions have been spectacular, such as the one-person show of sculpture and paintings by Karel Appel, the installation of grass growing in the shape of Ana Mendieta’s body, or Eric Staller’s "Lightmobile," a VW Beetle studded with 1,659 tiny light bulbs flashing in computer-programmed patterns. Ana Mendieta installationand ‘Silueta’ photos in May 1992 Other shows have been bold, such as Fernando Luis’ one-person exhibition of lascivious priests and pregnant nuns, or contemporary Russian art years before glasnost and perestroika, when the Soviet Union was still viewed as our enemy. Eric Staller’s ‘Lightmobile’with its1,657 programmed lightbulbs

Karel Appel and Virginia Millerselect a sculpture for his exhibit The common denominator has been the "spirit" or artistic integrity of the work, a highly accomplished technique, and outstanding value. Miller strongly believes that a dealer in contemporary art has a great responsibility to help people learn how to look at art, to feel what it’s about, and not to be intimidated by new art forms. Miller exhibits at such shows as Art Miami, Art Palm Beach, and Arteamericas. Miller’s start in the art field was as unique as the works she sells. After working in a law firm and bank, then managing an advertising agency, she decided to return to college. As an undergraduate, she met a number of artists who complained that local galleries only wanted to exhibit nationally known artists. With her business and advertising background, Miller saw an opportunity, and soon she was organizing exhibitions of fine art in banks and other venues to benefit local charities. Beginning in the late 1960s, those exhibitions may well have made local art history as Dade County’s first synergism of art and business for the benefit of charitable organizations. Exhibiting Historically Significant Artists

After opening her gallery in 1974, five years after she began dealing in art, Miller sought out and curated major exhibitions of a number of important artists who had never before exhibited in the region. In 1978 she exhibited a retrospective of Alice Neel’s works on paper dating from 1926 to 1977. It was Neel’s first exhibition in Florida, and like all of Miller’s exhibitions, it was curated by the director herself. Along with the exhibition, the gallery showed the award-winning public television film, “Alice Neel: Collector of Souls. ” Miller, who had served on a panel with Neel at Manhattan’s prestigious New School, persuaded her to show the historic works by offering to dredge them out of the nooks and crannies of her spacious apartment in Spanish Harlem. “My husband and I dragged paintings from beneath her bed and out of the depths of her closets,” Miller recalls.Clearly, Neel had not seen many of the works for a long while. Years before, an irate lover had cut up and burned 60 of her paintings and 200 drawings and watercolors, and from time to time as the artist saw an artwork she exclaimed, “I thought that son-of-a-bitch had burned that one!” About that same time, Miller arranged for the first exhibition of models and architectural drawings by SITE, the multidisciplinary art and architecture organization from New York. The SITE team had created a number of famous “deconstructed” buildings around the nation, including two in Greater Miami, and Miller arranged for two Greyhound buses, complete with live music and snacks on the road, to take art enthusiasts to tour them. Many of the works from the SITE architectural exhibition went on to be shown in Ronald Feldman Fine Arts in New York and eventually at the Museum of Modern Art.In 1983 Miller scored a national coup with a worldwide exclusive exhibition and sale of “Doonesbury” animation drawings and paintings. “Doonesbury” animation art is rarely seen on the market, as Garry Trudeau only allows it to be sold to benefit select charities–- in this case, for abused children.
Alice Neel’s 1978 portrait of Virginia Miller was in her exhibition top

Karel Appel
Major Sculpture Commissions Include Massive Bronzes
Miller commissioned two of the nation’s largest bronze sculptures—a 36 by 78-footer on Biscayne Bay in Miami and a 60-foot-tall work at the International Airport in Omaha, Nebraska. Other public sculptures include a larger-than-life bronze of baseball immortal Joe DiMaggio and a small boy at the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital in Hollywood, Florida. Miller’s article on outdoor sculpture for Collector-Investor magazine was full of advice for anyone contemplating an outdoor work, particularly one in the subtropics or near salt water.
More than 300 Exhibitions In 12 Locations

Altogether, over the past 30 years, ArtSpace/Virginia Miller Galleries has presented close to 300 exhibitions in a dozen locations, including her five galleries: Coconut Grove, downtown Miami’s Miamarina, the Biltmore Hotel, the present ArtSpace, and the 9,000-square-foot ground floor of Douglas Centre. Other venues for the gallery’s exhibitions have included Broward Community College, the Boca Raton Museum, and various financial institutions and corporate offices. Many of the shows introduced artists to the region; some exhibitions introduced emerging artists. Some of the artists, like those mentioned above, were already historically significant; others have gone on to become important figures in the art world. “Early on, I chose to ignore the latest trends and instead to show only works that I personally relate to and artists that I believe in,” says Virginia Miller. “I’ve always insisted that my clients buy only works that they love. Although many of those works have appreciated in value substantially, I urge clients not to consider their art acquisitions merely as a financial investment, but as an investment in their quality of life.” Judging by the number of grateful letters received by Miller from clients who bought work from her years before, her philosophy has proven successful.

Abstract Painter Madeline Denaro

2010-07-30T21:53:00.000-07:00

Todays featured artist is Madeline Denaro, a Ft. Lauderdale based painter, sculptor and installation artist, She is originally from the Bronx. And is currently a founding member of the Third Avenue Art District, developing an active art community in Fort Lauderdale. Denaro had a solo show at the Museum of Art, Fort Lauderdale in ‘99 focusing on her large-scaled paintings and the sculptural installation “New Forms.” She was awarded the South Florida Cultural Consortium Fellowship in 2002 for "Breaths," her series of sensitive drawings on vellum. In 2006 she received the Artist Enhancement Grant from the State of Florida.The artist will be having her second solo show in New York at the Cheryl Hazan Gallery in Tribeca in October. Denaro completed her fourth solo show in Germany where Galerie Veronica Kautsch has been showing her paintings, drawings and sculptural “objects.” Her work has been well received at Trudy Labell Fine Art in Naples where she has been exhibiting since ’08 and she has been recently added to the roster of artists at Pryor Fine Art Gallery in Atlanta where several of her large scale pieces have been on exhibit.Her work is in both private, museum, and corporate collections in the U.S. andEurope. Denaro credits her education on an academic training at the South Florida Art Institute, broadened by extensive independent study in London and Frankfurt. You can view her work at www.gallery.me.com/madelinedenaro

Thompson Landry Gallery ...Toronto

2010-07-29T12:27:00.000-07:00

I have not visited this gallery personally, but artist friends who live in Quebec, and travel the world looking at art, tell me this is one of the most interesting galleries they have ever seen! ...Opened in March of 2006, the Thompson Landry Gallery is one of the newest additions to the arts community at the Historic Distillery District. Pioneering new ground for galleries in Toronto, the Thompson Landry Gallery showcases both the very best of the new generation of contemporary artists, as well as the great masters of Quebec. Housed in a beautiful 2700 square foot space in the Stone Distillery Building, it is the only gallery in Toronto specializing purely in Quebec artists and sculptors. The fourteen foot limestone walls, of the Stone Distillery create a distinctive backdrop for the striking large scale works of their internationally acclaimed contemporary artists. The impressive collection of the great masters, are housed in a room of their own. They are displayed in such a manner as though they have always belonged there. Using the historical artefacts in the space to create a unique ambiance, the Thompson Landry Gallery sets a new standard in achieving a warm and inviting atmosphere for their clients. Be sure to look at the Great photos on Both the Cooperage, and the Stone building when you reach their websites Home Page. http://thompsonlandry.com/

Artist / Designer Robin White

2010-07-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

Visiting Browards GALLERY 101, Is where I first met the stunningly beautiful, and extremely talented Artist/Designer Robin White, born and raised in Miami, she first studied painting at the university of Florida majoring in Fine Art, and graduating from the ringling school of art with a BFA in graphic design and illustration, although her real Passion lies in Oil Painting and drawing. She looks for the most direct way to make an emotional connection with the viewer, she finds the simpler the piece the more powerful and emotional the draw, every painting is a journey and a necessary step of the progression within the artist, But in the end her favorites always seem to be the more direct iconic images. The "faces series" for instance utilizes a simple subject matter, but within that there are so many variations of emotion, lighting, and color. It's an endless exploration of all those subtleties while still maintaining the directness that characterizes the style. Robin also does some remarkable Pet Portraits in her unique style of painting. Check out more of Robins work at her two websites: http://robinwhiteart.com/ http://www.whiterobindesign.com/

You can also see and purchase Robins original Art at (Gallery 101) Fat Village Arts District Ft. Lauderdale FL http://www.thegallery101.net/

Interior Designers ...Judy Fial & Jill Middaugh

2010-07-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

My good friend, Designer Judy Fial, owner of Interior Trends Inc. along with her associate Jill Middaugh, bring over 35 years of Interior Design and Renovation experience to assist you in refurbishing a single room or remodeling your entire home. Her renovation associates are licensed, bonded and insured to make the needed design modifications to your home. This includes building contracting services, structural modifications, plumbing, electrical, cabinet installation, finished carpentry and painting services. give her a call. they would love to hear your design goals and desires, they also offer a complimentary consultation.

Interior Trends Inc.
Judy Fial, I.F.D.A.
Phone 954-249-7141
PO BOX 272216 Boca Raton, FL 33427
http://www.interiortrendssoflorida.com/

Adamar Gallery Returns to the Miami Design District

2010-07-25T18:27:00.001-07:00

This may, or may not, be news to some South Florida residents. My favorite Miami gallery has always been, "Adamar Fine Arts" owned by Tamar Erdberg. The gallery was located in Miami's Design District for over 20 years located in a corner mall building that housed a giant ladies high heeled shoe in the main lobby. After all those years she moved the gallery South, to the high end Merrick Park Mall, under the name POP & ART, Some time ago she reopened Adamar Gallery in the Design District once again, just down the street from it's former location. I for one am very pleased to see her return to the District, she always had a good eye for artists that stayed on arts cutting edge, But still produced aesthetically beautiful works, something that is not always seen in Miami galleries. If you find yourself in the area be sure to check out Adamar Gallery, and also have a look around the design district. I'm sure you will find something new and interesting there as I always do. Location: Adamar Fine Arts 4141 NE 2nd Ave Suite 107 Miami, FL, 33137 Phone: 305-576-1355 Mon - Fri:11:00 am - 6:00 pm

Rossetti Gallery Art Show

2010-07-25T07:49:00.000-07:00

It has been some time since I attended a local art event but on Friday August 6, Rossetti Fine Art Gallery and Studios is holding it's Inaugural Juried Competition

"SUMMER HEAT 2010" 7:00 - 10:00pm. This event is sponsored by Morgan Stanley Hyatt & Ireland's Steakhouse and State Farm.Wine and Hor d'oeurves provided by Georgie's Alibi Catering RSVP. I am hoping for a good turnout at this event, as always I will be taking photos and posting them here at the blog.

Some New Posts of Older Work

2010-07-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

An Older 24" x 36"

Coming Out Of The Fog

2010-07-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone, I have not posted here in quite some time, I think the decline in the art industry has had me in such a depression, I just didn't feel I had anything new to say. But lately I have been redesigning my website and starting to paint in a new abstract style, so maybe I'm coming out of the funk! I'm hoping to have some of my new work posted here quite soon, so please check back.

Small Abstract Groups

2010-04-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

Six piece wall group, each panel 8" x 10" Acrylic on Canvas. (Contact Studio For Pricing.)

A New Direction

2010-01-01T10:45:00.000-08:00

I have long been known for my subtle toned down Landscapes, but for the past few months I have been experimenting with raw color,I really believe this will be an exciting new direction for me. I hope you all like the NEW DIRECTION SERIES. Pictured above 24" x 36" Acrylic on canvas. Contact studio for price.

A Mile off Malibu, Acrylic on Canvas

2009-08-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

This painting is from my, "A MILE OFF MALIBU SERIES", it was part of a showhouse design display, comissioned by Joseph Cortes Design of West Palm Beach FL, The firm responsible for the rooms design. The photo was also featured in the July/August Issue of Palm Beach Illustrated Magazine, The aim was to create a painting to harmonize with the Colbalt Blue Palette, while creating the illusion of a window view.

LA Abstract Painter, BRADFORD STEWART

2009-05-04T04:57:00.001-07:00

Bradford Stewart is an abstract painter living and working in Los Angeles. As a former composer and professional musician, his artwork is inspired by contemporary jazz, ethnic and avant-garde classical music. Stewart's paintings are specified internationally by interior designers, architects, and art consultants for high-end residential, hospitality and corporate projects. His paintings are commissionedfor specific installations and his work is being used in the television and film industry. Stewart studied art at the San Francisco Art Institute and California College of Arts and Crafts. He has had many soloand group exhibitions over the past 15 years.True To His Art, Space Magazine Article by Lisa BartleyBradford Stewart freely admits he has always been a nonconformist. In his first career as a composer, singer and songwriter, he didn't sell out by giving in to the image-crazed record companies that all too often commercialize its artists. Creating his own music was more important to him than packaging it.Today, as an abstract painter, Stewart remains a maverick. While galleries have urged him to stay within a particular style, he refuses to be pigeonholed. "I want the freedom to express myself in a variety of different ways", asserts the artist. Apparently, his autonomous approach is working. One of the top selling artists in L.A., Stewart's paintings range in price from $8,000 - $20,000, people typically buy several of Stewart's pieces at one time because his multi-faceted artwork adds character to a space, giving it a look of continuity without the appearance of a lone artist.Although Stewart transitioned from composer to painter nearly 15 years ago, music continues to be a major influence in his life." Painting is a very physical process. To me, it's very emotional. Music sets that up and keeps me in the right side of the brain," says Stewart. The artist gets his best inspiration from progressive, Avant Garde jazz. Some of his favorites are the high energy, dissonant sounds of classical composer Ed Bland, musicians Michael Brecker, John McLauglin, Wayne Shorter and the late John Coltrane.Another influence: His father, a painter, architect and prominent furniture designer. The younger Stewart was surrounded by creativity from an early age and it has had a significant influence on his life.Unlike the stereotypical reclusive artist, Stewart loves interacting with designers and clients, often bringing multiple paintings to their spaces to see what works. He welcomes the opportunity to do commissioned work and was recently hired by internationally renowned interior designer, Sally Sirkin Lewis. The paintings were featured in Architectural Digest.Stewart has a sense of overall feeling he wants to evoke, he never knows how each piece of art is going to turn out. In fact, many of the materials he uses-acrylics, enamels, resins, polyurethane, pearlescent paints- prevent him from having total control of the outcome. After about 20 layers, Stewarts' paintings have an organic, rich-almost three dimentional-quality. Visit his website at: bradfordstewart.com

Artist, ERIC LEE "Backpainted Glass"

2009-04-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

Eric Lee a self-taught abstract painter, born in Brooklyn, New York. Eric’s work includes back painted frameless glass paintings and functional art. He pioneered the process with an innovative method that seals the back of glass surfaces against damage from moisture and abrasion. The treatment has the additional benefit of creating an airtight backing.According to the artist, he spent roughly twenty years as a technical consultant to some of the world's leading architectural design firms. He worked on a wide array of projects…including the Guggenheim Soho, Armand Hammer and Andy Warhol museums, among others. His involvement in numerous noteworthy “art related” architectural projects undoubtedly has had an impact on his evolution as an artist. Eric credits his career working within the design community as the source of his inspiration.

Eric says, “I feel I spent most of my adult life developing my aesthetic sensibility. Until now, the influences on my work have been largely from outside the art world. I also find myself being energized and challenged as I seek to find my path in art.... trying to stay true to the songs that sing to me.”Eric is quoted from Art Business News as saying, “As my work evolves, I seek to explore that core concept – the effect of blending and transition from one color, form and even material to another. I suppose that in a broad sense, this is my world view as well: that the key to things is working between people of various genders, religions, national origins and sexual preferences...and colors, lies in our ability to see the beauty inherent in each. That allows us to be who we are and our willingness to see the beauty in the subtlety is what connects us.” Visit Eric's website at: http://www.presteau.com/

Abstract Artist, TANYA SLINGSBY

2009-04-23T15:13:00.000-07:00

"Tanya Slingsby"

(Photo by Gordon Dumka)

"Click On Photos To Enlarge"

Tanya Slingsby works independently from a 2,000 sq. ft. studio gallery in Vancouver, Canada. Since 2002, she has focused solely on abstraction in painting, creating visual discourses on primordial and ethereal states in nature and the human condition. Using a formalist approach, Slingsby explores the energetic and emotional interplay of colour, texture and surface. Tanya completed her Bachelors Degree with Honours in Fine Arts and History of Art at the University of Victoria and holds a Masters Degree in Aesthetics and History of Art by scholarship from the University of Sussex, UK. She is interested in the formal qualities of painting relationships between colour, texture, surface and spatial composition. She explores these elements through texturing media often over laid with thin washes and glazes applied mis en plat. Ambiguous residues, tonal depth and partially concealed textures are integral to my work. Commonly installed without traditional framing, my compositions carry over the edges of the stretched canvas or birch panel sides, giving the work a more sculptural quality. Each painting is the result of meditative subtraction and addition through layering. I use a variety of media including marble dust, acrylic polymer resins, acrylics, wax and oil pigments. "

Slingsby developed an expeditious approach to her art through a self-described “nomadic” period in 2005 in which she moved to India, then to London, then New York, back to India and finally to Miami, Florida. In April 2008, she opened her own Vancouver atelier. While this studio/gallery remains her home base, she divides her energies between studios in the UK and the USA, spending an equal amount of time on independent work as she does on commissions. Intent on pursuing sculpture in the future and committed to creating work that is accessible.Now specializing in ‘haute peinture’—commissioned contemporary paintings for an exclusive clientele. That includes corporate clients, interior designers, architectural firms and international collectors. Her work is featured locally in Chambar and Holt Renfrew and is part of several private collections found in the top 100 homes along the west coast of North America. Visit her website at: http://www.tanyaslingsby.com/

BLUE GALLERY, Kansas City MO.

2009-04-18T00:17:00.000-07:00

Blue Gallery owned by Kelly and David Kuhn, and their dog Stella, is considered to be one of the premier art galleries in Kansas City, MO. was established September 2000. Representing more than 40 emerging, and mid-career local, regional, and nationally known artists. With artwork placed in numerous private, public, and corporate collections. They hold several exhibitions a year, as well as participate in the art crawl, known locally as First Fridays held in the Crossroads Arts District each month. This event attracts thousands of art enthusiasts to the neighborhood as well as national publications such as Southern Living, USA Today, and Midwest Air Magazine, all who write articles on the Crossroads art district, as well as on individual businesses like Blue Gallery. Located at 118 Southwest Blvd. Kansas City , MO 64108. Website address:

http://www.bluegalleryonline.com/

(Click on photos to enlarge)

Owners Kelly & David Kuhn, and Stella

First Friday's

Gallery Interior

Downtown LA Loft

2009-04-13T05:22:00.001-07:00

( Click on the Photo to enlarge)

This minimalistic but stunning Penthouse loft, is located in the historic downtown Los Angeles biscuit building, built in the 1920's. The huge factory windows are original, and set at their normal height, a raised platform was later added to the reconstructed living area. Interestingly the Barcelona chairs and the building are from the same 1920's era. The white painted aged brick walls are also original, the units below are seperated by 6 foot of concrete flooring, so it's unlikely they will be distracted by the sounds of footsteps above them! The large custom black bookcase unit completes the design. (Photo courtesy of Lazybone cafe.)

Miami Designer, Wendy Schnell

2009-03-24T07:55:00.000-07:00

(Click On Photo To Enlarge)

Designer/Artist, Wendy Schnell of Miami FL. Worked in the Miami fashion industry for many years at Sanibel Company, involved in design and production, holds a design degree from MDJC. Wendy’s latest project has been a South Florida two story condominium, that she has completely redone using her trademark Arty/Funky style of Bright Colors, Painted furnishings, Faux painting, Antiquing, Stenciling, Mosaic tile, Tin Punched Details, (See Photos) An artist as well, her home is filled with Oil Paintings of her chosen subject, interesting women’s faces, Wendy is also an accomplished Jewelry designer, her one of a kind Vintage and beaded pieces can be seen at her online store. (Here)

Towles Court Art District, Sarasota Florida

2009-03-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

Although Towles Court may not qualify as one of the largest art districts, it certainly is one of the most charming. Along Florida's western coast is the Palm tree laden white sand city of Sarasota. Located just 3 blocks south of main St. between Washington Blvd. and Osprey ave. is the Towles Court Artist District, (Photos) a brightly painted collection of "Old Florida" bungalows that house Galleries and Studios, featuring original Paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and glass works. More recently, some of the bungalows house Interior Designers, Massage therapists, restaurants, and trendy Cafes. Named for William Towles, the district's original developer in the 1920s, Towles Court has come a long way in the last 20 years. It was formerly made up of 18 badly rundown houses, and by the late 1980s it had slipped into a sad state of decay. But due to a new zoning district plan, called "commercial residential" the city thought this might stimulate the areas growth. This led to many of the buildings being beautifully restored and used as residential and commercial galleries, studios, and retail spaces. The area has gone through some tough times over the last few years but due to increased traffic from less artistic business's such as restaurants, the areas artistic roots seem to be flourishing once again. Coastal Living magazine named Towles Court District as one of the top 10 art districts in the country! Artwalks take place on every 3rd Friday 6-10pm If you plan on visiting this area contact their offical website http://www.towlescourt.com/ a special thanks to Bette Stevens, and Meg Pierce for providing me with assistance and Photos on this beautiful district.

Art District on Santa Fe, Denver Colorado

2009-03-03T11:42:00.001-08:00

Not to be confused with the famous District in Santa Fe New Mexico, Denver's art district is located on Santa Fe Drive,(Photos) just south of Downtown Denver. This area has had a long standing history with artist studios, But in recent years has become a home to not only the artists, but many art galleries and other artistic business's as well. This came about as rental rates rose sharply in other parts of Denver. Beginning in 2003 17 Galleries, museums and theatres, organized the Art District on Santa Fe as a non profit corporation, with the specific intention of promoting public awareness on santa fe drive, between 5th and 11th ave. The district is now considered to be the center of the Denver art scene, and has the largest concentration of art galleries in the state of Colorado. More than 40 Galleries Shops, restaurants, Yoga Studios, Coffee Houses, Architects, and Designers. Every style of art and medium is represented here, from emerging artists, to contemporary and traditional Masters. Painting, Photography, & Sculpture. Galleries are open Late for the first Friday of every month Art Walks, 3rd Fridays of every Month are for more serious collectors. For more information or details on this district, please contact website http://artdistrictonsantafe.com/

CrossRoads Art District, Kansas City Missouri

2009-03-02T15:43:00.000-08:00

Crossroads is one of the five largest art districts in the U.S. (Photos) Located in downtown Kansas City Missouri, centered around 19th st. and Baltimore ave. It started out as a grassroots effort of local artists, to take advantage of renovating beautiful downtown brick warehouses, and industrial buildings as studios and living spaces, but over time mushroomed into a major art destination. Today there are over 70 galleries in the crossroads district along with many fine restaurants, including one owned by "Linda Bastianich" as well as architects, designers, and other visual artists. The district is also home to Live Music venues. Art galleries generally open new shows on the first Friday of each month from 6 to 9 pm. thousands of people flock to the district for gallery open houses. Some of the more active galleries are listed below. If you plan on visiting the district, contact their Blog at: http://blog.crossroadscommunityassociation.org/

So Whats So Great! About An Art District?

2009-02-24T12:11:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things when traveling is visiting that city's art district, this to me is the most interesting area of any city! not just because I am a lover of art, but because these areas have the best of everything Arty & Funky, all usually within walking distance, Art Galleries, Coffeehouses, Restaurants, Funky shops, Cafes, Bookstores, Design stores, Jazz and Blues Clubs, Bakeries, Natural food stores, and hip Hotels. Everything the artistic soul needs to survive while away from home. These areas also attract an amazing array of interesting people, Artists, Poets, Musicians, performers, Gallery owners, and sometimes even famous Celebrities all hanging out there, late into the night.

The Premise of this Blog

2009-01-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

I started this blog to talk about my day to day survival as a South Florida artist, and to write photo articles about the things that interest me, such as Abstract Art, Architecture, Art Galleries, and Interior/Exterior Design. My views of the art world are very grounded, so you will not see words like Juxtaposed used here to describe things! I believe an appreciation for art comes from within the person viewing it, and every piece of work does not necessarily require an intellectual explanation! Some posts will probably be more interesting than others, but I am planning on some hopefully good Photo/Articles, so if you don't care for what I have to say on a particular day, check back, and I may have started thinking more like you, by then! I hope you enjoy my blog, and please remember to view my complete website & works at: http://www.johnstengerstudio.com/

Help! I'm an Artist in South Florida

2009-01-28T08:30:00.000-08:00

Ever since setting foot in South Florida some 26 years ago, I always had the uneasy feeling that, anything that looks too good to be true usually is! and sure enough, the longer you stay here the more you realize, making a living in South Florida, will end up being the greatest challenge of your life! From a newcomers point of view it seems like an undiscovered haven for artists. Everywhere you look, there are wealthy people, multi million dollar homes, a seemingly thriving Design community, countless Art Galleries, a very large gay community. but even with all of this going on, absolutly nothing related to art buying is happening! The reason is, purchasing of original art here is quite limited, this is just not an art buying area like New York, Los Angeles, Santa Fe, or Scottsdale. Even much of the art in magazines of designer homes and condo's, is just rented for that one photo session, right after the photos are taken the art comes down and the owners real artwork goes back up, and they're most likely prints! There are also way too many outdoor art events, we have a major Art Fair someplace in South Florida every other weekend, and the only people who are making money off these events are the show organizers, and the guy selling smoothies! Not The Artists! Well that's my personal take on the art scene in South Florida, but you can come on down and decide for yourself! ....Now on to hopefully better Posts.