Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts

Monday, May 1, 2023

💚 THANK YOU MOM! 💚

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


THANK YOU MOM!  You are always with us no matter the distance.  You've shielded us from so many obstacles.  And you taught us what real love is.  Mother's Day is a small expression of infinite gratitude for a lifetime of affection.

Let's celebrate the beauty of mom by letting her know she's unique and special.  

Your Friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

IT'S OFFICIAL!  I've accepted the role of writer for
ARTS o’ MAGAZINE.  
https://medium.com/arts-o-magazine/beauty-is-a-survival-tool-35c808371ee2


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 Center, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Lurie Children's 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 thousands of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.


For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Friday, July 15, 2022

Ultimate Girl's Camping Weekend In New York

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 


Ultimate Girl's Camping Weekend In New York
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
202207025
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

Are you going on an unexpected trip?  Here are some tips for having the ultimate girl's camping weekend in New York state.  Don't forget your tent, sleeping and cooking gear, comfortable clothes for various conditions, and toiletries (including bug spray, chapstick, and sunscreen).  Remember to leave the smartphone at home because you're going off-the-grid and don't want to be tracked.  Don't worry about the consequences of the bull horn prick or snake venom.  We care about your health and you can receive treatment even if you're from out-of-state.  You'll have access to health centers and/or pills.  It's your choice.  All that hiking can be stressful, so be sure to treat yourself to good meals.  Find great recipes that are easy to make or have a local restaurant deliver to your site.  New York welcomes you at: https://www.iloveny.com/places-to-stay/camping

Let's start being kinder to others and ourselves with the Kindness Challenge at: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10226330581306590&set=gm.408879584593350

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 thousands of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Dad Joke #94: My Doctor Says I Need Glasses...  🍷🍷🍷

  Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


DAD LOVES SUMMER!

There were always tough days, but dad said "never give up."  After a few bumps and bruises, it did get better.  Now I can face challenges with a smile on my face.  How did your father impact your life?  What can we do to show him our gratitude for all the years of affection?  THANKS DAD!  Now let's make him happy with some grilled food and cold drinks.

Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - YOU'RE INVITED
to the
SUMMER ART PARTY!!!
This is a fun way to find and buy amazing art.  Browse unique, hand-crafted items in ceramics, jewelry, glass, mixed media, photography, wood, leather, fiber, metal, wearable art, digital art, paintings, prints and so much more!


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 thousands of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.


For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Monday, May 2, 2022

Let's Celebrate the Beauty of Mom!

 Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Let's celebrate the beauty of mom.  A mother is important because they always have a presence in our lives.  Eternally there to protect and love us no matter what.  Mother's Day is a day to show our gratitude for all the years of affection.  THANK YOU MOM!  Let's make our mother's proud by following her example and finding our own happiness.

Your Friend,
Mike Kraus

PS -  You can help Ukrainian artists in lots of ways right now:


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 thousands of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.


For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Friday, February 25, 2022

Waddle I Do With Myself

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Waddle I Do With Myself
acrylic paint on canvas board
4" x 6" (10.2 cm x 15.2cm)
202202006
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

Why are we alike?
What do we care about?  
And how to we benefit working together?

This piece would work in a small space that is light orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, black, white, grey, 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 thousands of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Tuesday, November 2, 2021

The Adventures of Ethan Vaughn The Dream Master: Book 1: The Mystery of the Treeless Forest


I'm so proud to announce that Richie Bell has illustrated their first book, The Adventures of Ethan Vaughn The Dream Master: Book 1: The Mystery of the Treeless Forest.  It's quite an accomplishment to achieve before graduating high school.  And a promising start for their career in the arts.  I've been privileged and grateful to watch Richie develop as an artist.  To have such a kind and tender heart that will guide them to a bright future.  

 
Contact Richie Bell at:

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Friday, July 16, 2021

Zoe's Zebra

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Zoe's Zebra
acrylic paint on canvas board
5" x 7" (12.7 cm x 17.8 cm)
202106055
© copyright Mike Kraus

What if your body was unable to fight off viruses and disease?  The white blood cells we all take for granted just disappeared.  This is Zoe's reality.  Right after her 1st birthday, she had a fever of 105°F (40.6°C) and was experiencing seizures.  After several weeks in the hospital and countless blood test, baby Zoe was diagnosed with severe chronic neutropenia, which is incurable.

Zoe is a miracle.  Along with piles of medicine, she visits the U of M C.S. Mott Children's Hospital very regularly for biopsies and infusions.  On the other side of the state, her feeding tube and GI tract issues are treated at the Devos Children's Hospital.  But Zoe is a strong kid.  And she's a wild child!

When the COVID-19 pandemic is over, Zoe is looking forward to fulfilling her Make-A-Wish visit to Disney World that was postponed in June 2020.  If you'd like to learn more about Zoe and her journey and adventures, follow Team Zoe on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/499781363779983/

This piece would look best in a space that is red, yellow, orange, green, blue, purple, black, white, gray, 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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Wednesday, April 28, 2021

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 


Children who love and take care of their mothers know they are lucky, because they honor the most important person in their lives.  Mother's Day is a day of celebration for the mom who is always there for you when you need them.  THANK YOU MOMS!  We really would have been nothing without you and we love you for that.

Stay Safe,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com

PS - New Mother's Day Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19: https://mikekraus.blogspot.com/2021/04/new-mothers-day-traditions-having-fun.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.


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Friday, December 27, 2019

Taco 'Bout Awesome

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Taco 'Bout Awesome #347
gouache paint on Bristol paper
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
201912119
© copyright Mike Kraus
To purchase, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/625605604/taco-bout-awesome-347-artist-trading

Many Mexicans remained in the southwest after the invasion of the Mexican-American War.  While the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo promised Mexicans and Native Americans in the captured territory US citizenship, they lost their civil and political rights for at least 120 years .  From this came a group of women entrepreneurs called the "Chili Queens" that sold tacos as street vendors, an easy to make meal for the silver miners of 18th century Mexico.  When the railroads came in the 1880s, the tourist sought out the Chili Queen's tacos just as much as any other attraction.  From there, tacos evolved to use ingredients available in the United States and the development of food processing; including iceberg lettuce, cheddar cheese, and tomatoes.  This culinary delight is a tribute to our turbulent shared American history.  And something to remember every time we celebrate Taco Tuesday.

This artist trading card or ACEO (Art Card Editions and Originals) is frameable, collectible, enjoyable and can be given as a special gift for a birthday, wedding, new baby, anniversary, thank you or other occasion. It is a one-of-a-kind original work of art, NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION. It is signed on the back and lends itself to framing in a standard trading card frame or book.

Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:
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Friday, June 14, 2019

Nikki Beach In Saint-Tropez, France

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

Nikki Beach In Saint-Tropez, France
acrylic paint on canvas board
201906053 8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
© copyright Mike Kraus

At the north end of Rue Sibille, we made our plans for the day under the shade of a lone tree in a pocket plaza.  Lazily making an itinerary with a bottle of L'Opale de la Presqu'Ile de Saint-Tropez Cotes de Provence Rose.  We sauntered around collecting our bread, meats, and cheese "en pointe."  We follow the narrow lane of Rue du Portalet around the bend to Nikki Beach.  For the rest of the day, we enjoy the hot sun and and gently splashing water realizing how grateful we are to be here.

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


Michael Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.


For more information or custom order, please visit:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mkraus



My family came to America at different times for a myriad of reasons: the French to settle new land, the English and Germans for business opportunities, and the Irish to escape cruel oppression. The United States was a beacon of hope that only required our allegiance to the Constitution.

 I am extremely disturbed that a country that has shown me and my family such kindness is so cruel to others. This is not about politics. This is about justice, kindness, and truth. These children and parents are fleeing Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala because government-supported gangs are violently attacking them (https://www.rescue.org/article/what-causing-growing-humanitarian-crisis-along-us-mexico-border). After a dangerous journey, we deny them their rights to asylum (https://www.amnestyusa.org/campaigns/refugee-and-migrant-rights/), we kidnap and lose their children (https://www.aclu.org/issues/immigrants-rights/immigrants-rights-and-detention/family-separation), cage and sexually assault children (https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/27/us/immigrant-children-sexual-abuse.html?fbclid=IwAR1613Noe_Lczrx4etRHBNLxQS2BSlLu6Pr16uxKkaQy3U7wzl2V3211y_0), and deny them due process and indefinite imprisonment at detention/internment/concentration camps (https://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-oe-katz-immigrant-concentration-camps-20190609-story.html).  We're allowing them to die in these terrible conditions (https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/immigration/24-immigrants-have-died-ice-custody-during-trump-administration-n1015291).  And we arrest and try to imprison good, Christians who provide food and water to those in need (https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2019/jun/11/arizona-activist-migrant-water-scott-daniel-warren-verdict).

I don't care about politics and find involvement in them to be humiliating.  I do care about honesty, fairness, and respect.  I ask that you remember your family roots, that you search your heart, and confront cruelty in all its forms.

For ways to help, please visit:
https://www.raicestexas.org/

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Monday, September 17, 2018

Happy Baby

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Happy Baby
acrylic paint on canvas
5" x 7" (12.7 cm x 17.8 cm)
201806077
© copyright Mike Kraus
For more information, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/186507940/custom-commission-original-art-by-mike

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.

THANK TO KETTLE RIDGE FARM!  I had another great day at KettleFest.  It's always great meeting so many wonderful people, local artisans, talented musicians, and eating all the honey and maple syrup pancakes.
More About Mike Kraus Art
Boston Voyager Magazine Interview

Join my 540WMain Community Learning Academy workshop "How To Become A Professional Artist

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM​ Rochester at:


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, July 24, 2015

The Adventures of Giant Jenga

Have you ever thought, "you know what would make this game great?  If it was huge."  Then Giant Jenga is for you.

 Step 1: Have a crazy mother-in-law that comes up with these ideas
Step 2: Purchase 8 2x4x8s 

 Step 3: Measure out 10 1/2 inches and cut with the saw.  

 Step 4: Sand off edges and rough spots

Step 5: PLAY! 

 Step 6: Choose blocks wisely

 Step 7: Make sure no dogs are around during an unwise choice

Step 8: Reset



GOOD TIMES WITH GIANT JENGA!
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Thursday, October 23, 2014

CELEBRATIONS!


It's been a while since I've posted a "regular blog."  I've been pretty busy lately.  But, I've finished a bunch of work and wanted to show I'm doing more than painting like a maniac...
 Megan brought me out to Sticky Lips BBQ (http://stickylipsbbq.com/stickylips/) for my birthday dinner.  The ribs and sides were excellent.  I think the best I've had it town.  But Megan's brisket was beyond amazing and was three days worth of meals!

Megan's sampler platter. 

Man, I want to eat this again.  This place always has a line (except when your birthday falls on a Monday that is also a holiday).  No wonder it took about four years to get in.

I'm not the only artist in the family.   This is a portrait my niece did of herself, the twins, and the dog Bella.  I'm still trying to convince Rachel that I should represent her...

And if you didn't already know, I have a new niece and nephew:  Alyssa and Nolan.  They are super tiny and about a month old now.

And we've had Scout for one year now.  Here she is with Megan last year...

And here's the goofy mutt now.

A non-cooperating puppy from a year ago...

And the uncooperative puppy of now.

Scout and I last year...

And the big moose of today.

Megan and Scout relaxing by Irondequoit Creek

 Hiking through the fall foliage in Corbett's Glen.

We were too late (again) to see the salmon running the creek.  But, it's always a nice quick hike near our house.

That's it for now.  Better get back to work...
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