Showing posts with label winter. Show all posts
Showing posts with label winter. Show all posts

Monday, February 20, 2023

Twilight Woods

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty

   
Twilight Woods #261
gouache paint on bristol paper
2.5 " x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm)
201801004
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.
To purchase for your collection, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/555810485/twilight-woods-261-artist-trading-cards

Where this path will end is a mystery.  The trees rustle in the breeze stirring up the aromas of the forest. A freshness one always has to remind themselves of in civilization. The light refracts in strange ways at this time. It's when the surreal becomes the real.

Is there a place you go to relax?  Is it wide-open or cozy?  What do you see, hear, smell, and feel when you are there?  Is it a place where you can be by yourself?  What about it makes you feel good?

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:

Friday, May 6, 2022

A View of the Blue Mountains of the Adirondacks

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


A View of the Blue Mountains of the Adirondacks
acrylic paint on canvas 
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm)
202205015
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

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

This painting would look best in a space that is red, orange, purple, yellow, green, light blue, beige, grey, 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:

Monday, February 14, 2022

Icy Shore of the St. Lawrence River

 Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


 Icy Shore of the St. Lawrence River
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm) 
© copyright Mike Kraus Art Inc.

The chilly wind pierces my skin as I walk the shores of the St. Lawrence.  I look out toward Pine Island as the ice collects and builds on the gentle current.  Grindstone Island, which seems so massive on a sunny day, almost disappears in weather like this.  A flock of ducks flee Picton Island and huddle in a spot on Round Island trying to stay warm.

We are like icebergs on this mighty river.  Some racing and crashing at incredible speeds.  Others remain on the banks growing massive and strong.  All different kinds of formations.  Constantly changing with the fickleness of the weather.  Always breaking apart and coming together.

How do you enjoy your winter days?  Are you active with skiing and snowshoeing?  Or do you hibernate with hearty meals and hot cocoa?  Perhaps you live in a warm, sunny locale laughing at us that shovel?  

This painting would look best in a small-to-medium space that is red, orange, purple, yellow, green, dark blue, 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:

Monday, November 1, 2021

Autumn Is For Being Cozy

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Autumn is for treating yourself to cocoa on chilly nights at home.  Lounging in pajamas under cozy blankets with your furry family member.  Appreciating quiet moments watching the trees light up yellow, orange, and red.

Home is a shared space with the people you love.  A collection of ephemeral moments.  A reflection of the aspirations you have for yourself and your loved ones.  Surround yourself with joy and happiness.


Your Friend,
Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com


PS - Announcing the Grateful Art Show at: https://www.facebook.com/events/4285414921507031/?active_tab=discussion Join your favorite artists and creators for holiday fun!


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.


Friday, March 5, 2021

Chicago Street

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Chicago Street
acrylic paint on canvas board
5" x 7" (12.7 cm x 17.8 cm)
202103015
© copyright Mike Kraus
It's so cold outside that the door handle has frost on the inside of the apartment.  I eat my toast as I put on my layers of clothing: thick socks, long johns, undershirt, and ski goggles so my eyes don't freeze waiting for the train.  I top off my thermos of coffee and grab a few office papers.  I prepare myself for the wind chill as I put on my hat coat and boots.  As, I open the door, I know it's going to be a great day as the landlord already cleared the sidewalk. 


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

For more information or custom order, please visit:

Friday, January 29, 2021

Winter Glow

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


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

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

This painting would look best in a small-to-medium space that is yellow, green, blue, purple, black, white, beige, or wood 


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

For more information or custom order, please visit:
Store: MikeKrausArt.etsy.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MikeKrausArt
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mikekrausart
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/MikeKraus/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/MikeKrausBlog

Monday, November 2, 2020

Getting Cozy This Autumn

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


On sunny fall days, there's an explosion of reds, yellows, and oranges on hikes through your favorite parks.  Squirrels scurry through the leaves and deer sleep in the open enjoying the last days of a warm sun.  We embrace autumn as the sun rises a little lower in the sky each day.   Lazily binge watch movies on the couch under cozy blankets.  Our favorite oversized sweatshirts return from their long hiatus in the closet.  Home is your comfortable nest and it should reflect you and your loved ones.  A place to create memories around the dinner table and laughter playing games.  And a home where you can tuck your feet under a furry family member to keep them warm while relaxing.


Your Friend,

Mike Kraus
MikeKrausArt.etsy.com


Having Fun During Coronavirus

Art Project: 
Building a Fire Pit:
Share Heart of Hope:
Hiking:
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Parlor Game:
Celebrating Women:
Have A Picnic:
You Haven't Seen That?!? Game:
Have Some Theme Spirit:
Working For the Weekend:
Honor and Remembrance:
Apple Picking and Other Farms:
Halloween Gravedigger Flashlight Game:
VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!:


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.


Friday, May 1, 2020

Skaneateles Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


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

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

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

Tips For Working At Home

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

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

Winter Glow

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty 



Winter Glow
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm) 
202001005
© copyright Mike Kraus

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



More About Mike Kraus Art
My NPR Marketplace Business News interview about art as an alternative investment

Graphic Ear interview on WAYO 104.3 FM

Boston Voyager Magazine interview 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.



For more information or custom order, please visit:

Friday, March 6, 2020

Skaneateles Lake

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Skaneateles Lake
acrylic painting on canvas board
16" x 20" (40.6 cm x 50.8 cm)
202003009
© copyright Mike Kraus

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

This painting would look best in a medium-to-large space that is dark red, orange, yellow, green, dark blue, dark 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 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.

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Winter Woods

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Winter Woods
acrylic paint on canvas board
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm) 
202001003
© copyright Mike Kraus
To purchase, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/listing/207839524/winter-woods-original-acrylic-painting-8

It's a chilly late afternoon in the forest.  The snow glows on the creaking branches of the trees.  All I hear is the crunching of my boots down the icy path.  This is the season of hibernation.  A time of reflection and calm.

This painting would look best in a space that is green, red, yellow, blue, orange, violet, purple, green, brown  beige, grey, white, black, or on 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:

Wednesday, May 8, 2019

View from Jagungal Lodge Kosciuszko National Park, Australia

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


View from Jagungal Lodge Kosciuszko National Park, Australia
acrylic paint on canvas board
11" x 14" (27.9 cm x 35.6 cm)
201905040
© copyright Mike Kraus
To purchase, please visit: https://society6.com/product/kosciuszko-national-park-australia_print?sku=s6-10982257p4a1v45 or commission your own piece at: https://www.etsy.com/listing/186507940/custom-commission-original-art-by-mike

Everyone has someplace special to them.  For her family, it's Kosciuszko National Park in Australia.  It's where they gather for one time a year.  The days are spent skiing, drinking cocoa, and warming up next to a large fire.  They talk about their lives scattered around the globe.  And remember the good times growing up.  And this humble road in Kosciuszko National Park always says "I'm home."


View from Jagungal Lodge Kosciuszko National Park, Australia (sketch)
color pencil on paper
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201905043
© copyright Mike Kraus

A quick sketch of a possible piece.  We wanted to make sure all the elements were there.  That it fit together appropriately.  And it had it's own unique sense of "place."



View from Jagungal Lodge Kosciuszko National Park, Australia (sketch)
oil pastel on paper
8" x 10" (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)
201905044
© copyright Mike Kraus

 Another quick sketch was completed to emphasize it's painterly colors.  The composition was slight adjusted.  And the colors are darker to boost contrast.  In the end, a combination of many of these features were used for the final piece.  It's a very thoughtful, original, and unique gift from a daughter to a dad.  I'm very grateful to be a part of such a wonderful project.

More About Mike Kraus Art
My NPR Marketplace Business News interview about art as an alternative investment

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM

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:

Friday, January 25, 2019

Winter Woods

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Winter Woods #333
gouache paint on bristol paper
NOT A PRINT OR REPRODUCTION
2.5" x 3.5" (6.35 cm x 8.89 cm) 
201901010
© copyright Mike Kraus
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.

More About Mike Kraus Art
Final Days of the Book Etc Art Show featuring Larry DeKock, Larry Wood, and myself
https://www.facebook.com/events/807457209586575/

Graphic Ear Interview on WAYO 104.3 FM
https://www.mixcloud.com/graphic-ear/070518-graphic-ear-with-mike-kraus/

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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