Thursday, May 31, 2007

The Skyline of Las Vegas

Las Vegas Nevada! There's no other place like it in the world, and the city can be rightfully be defined as the country's top draw for razzle and dazzle when it comes down to ritualized excess. Las Vegas is entering its second century, and it looks like it will be a long time before the slot machines stop ringing. Just think, the small change left behind rings to the tune of $33 billion or so a year. And the city continues to redefine itself with some of the world's most alluring hi-rise condominium hotels.

No doubt, you'll pay when you hit the Las Vegas strip, but you get something special in return for what you pay for. If this weren't so, 35 million people wouldn't keep coming back for another round each year. This can only mean that the folks that run Las Vegas have got it just about right. Shows, concerts, the biggest names in the entertainment business, high-rise condominiums, and the excitement of tossing the dice all make Las Vegas a mind-blowing experience.

You can place the awesome panoramic view of Las Vegas at your fingertips with James Blakeway's beautiful Framed Art Panoramic City Scene: "Las Vegas Nevada." This inspiring print features the very finest in handcrafted moulding that is double matted in raven black. The custom engraved brass plate and handsome frame make it a wonderful compliment to any art selections presently in your home or office. It can serve as a wonderful reminder of the world-class fun and excitement that defines Las Vegas. It's obvious you know how to pick the best places in the world to mix it up and have fun. It makes perfect sense to choose the artwork that will define your lifestyle-in a single word.

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Mirrors On the Wall

There's more to a mirror that at first meets the eye. Mirrors are more than just something that we can see our reflections in. A mirror is anything that reflects similarity or likeness. People are fascinated on a level that deals with projections and reflections: self-alienation and self-recognition, and it's rare that a person can bypass the opportunity at looking at an image of themselves. It's fun to observe people looking in a storefront window, or watch them as they observe a reflection of themselves in a calm body of water.

Whatever the individual fascination with mirrors, no one will argue that a mirror can bring life to any room. If properly placed, they can visually expand a condensed area, and create colorful moods by reflecting the natural light in a room. They're perfect for reflecting the warm glow of a fireplace, or the reflection of a beautiful outdoors setting. It is the one piece, when placed in a room that can immediately add depth and character.

Brighten up your room décor form the Florentine Mirror Collection by choosing from an exquisite collection of handsomely framed mirrors. You can select from an extensive array of styles and sizes that feature the very finest in long-life glass. No matter what the colors in your room, or the style and arrangement of furniture, you'll be able to compliment the environment with the perfect mirror. If you love nature and art, the sculptured works of "Danny Edwards" are sure to move you with vivid and true-to- life images of the wildlife of the American Northwest.

Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Basket Art

There is a simplistic beauty found in the art of basket weaving that has been expressed through the centuries form cultures all over the world. Perhaps we love woven baskets of all kinds because of our inner acknowledgement that a "thing" so simple-can have so much meaning in our lives. We use baskets to carry food, tools, flowers, fishing tackle, and just about anything we can place inside of them that will fit.

The artwork of acclaimed artist Arnie Fisk is a testament to our fascination with the woven basket. His work is simple, and yet reminds us of the little things we cherish in life. "Well Traveled", is an art print that takes us back in time with a central theme of two old suitcases, two books, and a basket filled with balls of yarn. And for the traveler of yester-year or today, the meaning is still the same. When one travels, only the essentials are needed!

This handsome framed work of art will add a touch of nostalgia to any room. And, this is exactly what good artwork is intended to do. It arrives matted and framed in quality hardwood, and ready to hang with attached hardware. You also have a full selection of framing options to choose from that will fit any home or office décor: from walnut with gold, rosewood, and small gray driftwood, to antique gold. The artwork is protected by "real" industry standard glass, and you have the option of choosing non-glare-glass.

Saturday, May 19, 2007

As The Sun Goes Down in Yosemite

Yosemite is one of the most beautiful places on the earth. Glacially carved, it is heralded as being among the most famous landscapes in the world. To see it up close and personal is an experience that knocks most people off their feet. Each year, millions of hiker, climbers, and skiers make the sojourn to Yosemite Valley to view this awesome spectacle. What one experiences is a "geological" time that is far bigger than any of us.

There's a lot to do in this vast wonderland of nature. Whether you're a naturalist that loves being in the large open spaces, a person that loves standing in a cool stream and waiting for the first nibble of the day, or there at Yosemite to simply enjoy a host of adventurous activities, there is an extraordinary appreciation of nature that you will take home with you.

"Yosemite Sunset" captures the awesome beauty of a sunset like no other place in the world. The sun reflects on the quiet waters, and the brilliant colors of evening wind down another day that will be quietly tucked in the bosom of eternity. This is an emotionally inspiring print that can be the center showpiece in any room setting. Framed under glass, this magnificent work is matted and framed with quality hardwoods that will withstand the test of time. It arrives at your doorstep ready to hang with all the attached hardware. Even if you've never visited Yosemite, you can own a piece of it right where you stand.

Friday, May 18, 2007

The Heart of a Lion

Lions have always symbolized power and nobility. John Banovich is a man that is passionate about the wildlife of Africa, and this passion constitutes the very soul of his work. When John Banovich paints, he describes the experience as completely losing track of time, and getting into a perfect rhythm that he calls "the dance".

He compares painting to the art of filmmaking. He sees the similarity in that both arts are able set a stage and introduce characters that stand out. An expert at utilizing space, he is able to effectively bring out only the most important aspects in his paintings. John Banovich is well aware of the environments that his subjects thrive in, and this allows him to give his subjects immense personality and presence. Using the mediums of both oils and acrylics, he's able to capture the very drama of life as it plays out in the world of nature.

There in the bushes, a lion waits quietly with her cubs as they survey the surrounding area lying unseen in the tall grasses. Here in the wild, a natural drama unfolds, and the fate of each creature's life hangs in the balance. "Heart of The Pride" is an inspiring limited edition that captures the very essence of the life on the African Plains. This will make a fine collection piece in any home or office, and bring the incredible diversity of Africa where it can be truly appreciated. Own it today, and experience the work of a master that will surely linger vividly in your imagination.

Thursday, May 17, 2007

The Mystique of Lighthouses

For countless centuries, cultures have used various methods of guiding the safe return of sea-faring vessels. The Egyptians first built lighthouses, and they are credited with having built the tallest lighthouse over 2000 years ago. It stood a magnificent 900 feet tall, and guided ships safely into port for over 1500 years. The Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans followed suit, and built their own versions that withstood the test of time.

The ancient lighthouses used wick lamps as their source of light, but were effective even though the light was only for several miles off shore. The 1800's was a time for invention and discovery, and the first modern lighthouse lens is credited to a man named Augustin Fesnel. Such is the way of history! Perhaps, the love of lighthouses gathers its true mystique from being the guiding light that shows us the way home.

You can bring the fascination of lighthouses right into your very home with the awe-inspiring print of Jean Guichard titled "Phare de Slyne Head, Galway Irlande". You can almost hear the waves crashing against the ancient crags. This is a vision that beckons from another time and place, and you may find yourself lost in a world far away as you gaze upon it. . It's very common for people to collect them as memorabilia, or to wear them as emblems on a favorite piece of clothing. The lure of lighthouses is almost spiritual, and their hypnotic effect often cause people to climb hundreds of stairs to see a view of the world from the top.

Timeless Landscapes

There are countless unique landscapes throughout the world that will always from distant memories. The seasons come and go, and the landscapes shift and change to mark-time with the "all" of life. If stone houses and rural landscapes are among your fondest memories, you'll thrill at the privilege of owing a print by acclaimed artist Wayne Bystrom.

There is something special about growing up in the countryside, and when an artist makes his or her living from being up close and personal with nature, the love of painting can be seen in every stroke of the brush. Whether you're an accomplished artist, an art admirer, or just someone that like to dabble in the oils or acrylics on occasion, you'll agree it's something special to create a landscape painting that generates intense emotion.

Grab those brushes and find a quiet spot to block out the world. Remember, no matter what the level of expertise, painting a landscape is a lot like real life. Everything in life, when seen from a distance, makes you realize that only certain elements were important. It certainly doesn't hurt to have a painting by a landscape master gracing the living room wall for inspiration either. "Winter Reflections" by Wayne Bystrom, captures that beautiful feeling of being somewhere peaceful and safe.

You can own it today, and it will always be a part of the beauty that you embrace in life. It will ship in a beautiful custom frame of your choosing, and will arrive within 3-4 weeks.

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Amish Sabbath

It's the Sabbath, and on a cold winter day, the Amish gather their horse-drawn buggies together at days end. Tomorrow is a new day! Donald Patterson has captured the moment perfectly in his painting "Amish Sabbath". The lives of the Amish are without complexity, and guided by a set of rules known as Ordnung. These rules dictate the life of an Amish individual in almost every aspect, from farming technique, to the length of his or her hair. These are also the rules by which they form their communities.

There is simplicity in everything the Amish stand for, and even the clothing represents a unique humility and lifestyle that is removed form the world. You can celebrate the life of the Amish with Donald Patterson's framed art print "The Sabbath". This is a beautiful 26" x 36" painting that arrives with your choice of navy or gray, and you're sure to be impressed as well with the attractive Rosewood frame it's housed in. You can proudly place this memento on the wall the moment it arrives.

Good art can set the tone of any room in a home. It also says something about the people that live there. How you arrange your furniture and the artwork you choose to surround yourself with; is really an expression of what you're saying to the world about your own unique style and philosophy. Let's fact it! We can all use a little simplicity and beauty in our lives, and the right art can be the perfect catalyst.

Friday, May 11, 2007

The Gift of Stephen Lyman

There are places in the woodland areas, that if still long enough, one can hear the actual snow as it cascades quietly and softly to the frozen ground below. There's a motionless repose and a longing that makes one wish the moment could last forever. This is the feeling that the acclaimed artwork of Stephen Lyman conveys. "A Walk in the Woods" is the perfect piece of artwork décor that will give a sense of depth and presence to any room. Great art allows one to enter into a relationship with both the creator of the work, and those who are able to experience the same artistic impressions. You'll be able to sit for hours alone, with a loved one or friends and enjoy the special beauty of this limited edition.

Art collectors will often follow the work of a particular artist and collect as many paintings or prints as possible. Stephen Lyman is best known for his painting of nature that includes winding rivers, magnificent mountain ranges, and the animals and birds that inhabit the wild. Such works often capture a particular moment in nature, and this sublime effect is what you can expect when such works of beauty are displayed in your home.

A favorite among many is the limited edition of Stephen Lyman called "Steller Autumn". This work will impress nature lovers no matter what their favorite season of the year. Every artist will leave his or her mark, and in the art of Stephen Lyman, there always seems to be an element of timelessness that transcends the moment. His departure from the world was untimely, but the beauty and truthfulness of his work will endure.

Thursday, May 10, 2007

Art for the Jazz Lover

No lover of jazz is complete without the artwork that fits not only the décor of a room: but that of a life as well. Just as a room can be filled with colors and patterns that shift and move with a resident theme, so does the jazz lover seek to find works of art that define how he or she moves through the concourse.

Whether you're a seasoned collector, or just beginning to feel the groove, the right work of art décor can make your home a happening place. Take for instance the "Jazz Cello!" This is modern art that defines the essence of a musician lost in a world all his own. Perhaps it's Miles waiting to showcase in the background. On the other hand, our character in the painting might be warming up to accompany the thunder of McCoy Tyner. Whatever the nature of his gig, this piece will enhance and bring out the best qualities of any room in your home or office.

The art is framed under glass and uses a number of design elements that include high quality moulding, mats, and filets. The attached hardware also makes it easy to install on any wall in the home. "Jazz Sax" is also a great piece that captures the essence of the Sax. With a little imagination, you can be right there on the set with Coltrane as he glides through the tempo of his signature sax sound.

Art can enhance and bring life to any setting, and the fine artwork of "Jazz Sax" and "Jazz Cello" will serve to compliment any life well defined.

Wednesday, May 09, 2007

Experience the Vibrant Colors of Ethnic Art

It might be termed ethnic art, but it's an artistic expression that all cultures can enjoy and appreciate. Dorit Levi conveys the joy of life in a unique synthesis of colors and images that flow form the canvas in all of her works. You can tell she's influenced by such greats as Picasso and Braque. The great ones, however, learn from the masters and then develop a style uniquely their own. "Ethnic Music Players" is a limited edition serigraph that you'll be proud to display. The colors are magnificent, and the longer you gaze at this piece, extreme talent begins to take on a whole new meaning. Just keep in mind that when you order, if it's a custom framed product, and may take 3-4 weeks delivery.

"Jazz Trio" is another great piece that can compliment your collection. Justin Bua brings to life the essence of what a jazz trio is all about, and the players on this set all look as if they can take the
lead anytime. There's a definite fluidity that catches the eye, as each jazz musician seems to bend and move with a groove that jumps right out of the picture. This is an art print that will look great in any room setting, and will add definite flare to that jazz party you've been thinking about hosting.

Justin Bua takes the tempo up a notch with "The Jazz Quintet". You're right there in a quaint jazz club, as the pianist, sax man, drummer, bass player, and lead singer keep the tempo fluid and sweet until the wee hours of morning. Make it a point to own the entire collection. Great art is a thing of beauty.

Tuesday, May 08, 2007

Art Collections for the Avid Golfer

While horse racing may be the sport of kings, golf is quite often a pastime of the frustrated. It's a challenging pastime, but it is the kind of activity that can make any sports person feel like an amateur. No matter what your level of play though, having the right artwork can bring you a little bit closer to the winner's circle. Who knows, perhaps having artwork that inspires shooting under par will help you visualize that winning putt, or inspire that 300-yard drive off the tee.

Why not start with the fine art prints of Larry Dyke? "Ocean Challenge" will remind you of the times you put the ball in the drink, and had to use your last "mulligan" to stay even par. Let's face it though; golf is much more than a game. It's the one sport where one has to rely solely on one's own skills and talents. It reminds us that we not only have to hone our talents to play well on the course, but also the tools and skills that will help us win the game of life.

The beautiful limited addition "Morning at the Sixteenth" is where we should all be in the late hours of the morning. This is a stunning work of beauty that every art lover can enjoy that enters your home or office. We've all been there before, winding down the golf day and taking a moment to admire the perfectly manicured greens, the crystal blue-sky overhead, and the colorful foliage.

Why not bring the inspiring artwork of Larry Dyke's handsome collection into your home or office for everyone to share and enjoy!

Monday, May 07, 2007

The Art of Africa

When one thinks of Africa being captured on canvas, the first name that comes to mind is John Banovich. It's not hard to imagine the beauty of Montana fueling the imagination and stirring the soul of a ten-year-old boy. The effect of the vastness of nature on his early years is nothing short of amazing! Being a student of zoology and art created a magical synthesis that is seen and felt in every stroke of his brush. "Great White" is a powerful print that captures a moment of awe-inspired repose as a rhino lingers majestically. This piece is an attention grabber, and you'll be continually inspired to fathom what life on the endless plains of the African Serengeti must be like.

"The Patriarch" is an open edition canvas that gives one a sense of the natural balance that depicts the soul of Africa. The magnificent creature pauses, looks up, and with the blood racing in your veins you freeze in your tracks! A moment of potential danger has passed and you continue on your African Safari. This is the emotion you and others will experience each time you gaze at this powerful painting. It's sure to become a favorite selection in your archive.

"Reflections of Gold" is another fine limited print that will round out the art décor of any home or office. There at the river, the animals of Africa forget for a brief moment the conflict of life; and pause for a refreshing and life-giving drink. The genius of John Banovich is not only in his gift of bringing the canvas to life-but also in his ability to make you fell you're actually there.

Friday, May 04, 2007

Picasso That Doesn't Look Like a Picasso

Cubism the style that most people say leaps to mind when they hear the name Picasso. Cubism is a very interesting style of art that takes a common everyday object and forces the viewer of the see the object in an entirely new way. The object might be anything from a chair to a cat to a person and the painting will be broken into sections within the artwork and different angles of the object will be present.

This was the reason disjointed faces and violins with pieces around a painting were prominent in some of Picasso's early pieces as he painted in the Cubism style. What many people don't know is that isn't the only style Picasso used. He also painted a good number of portraits of everyday people living life as he experienced it. Picasso was known as a fiery tempered and hard to live with man who was able to see the beautiful in the most common of objects and everyday situations.

A great conversation piece for your walls will be Sleeping Peasants as it is not done in the Cubism style and many people upon viewing it may not believe you at first when you tell them it is a Picasso.

This framed art print is done in neutral colors and will easily match any decor. The print will arrive framed under glass and is mounted, matted and framed using archival tapes to ensure your print stays as beautiful as the first day you got it. The artwork is finished with a dustcover on the back and ready to hang.

Go ahead, get a Picasso for your walls, you can afford it and if you aren't a fan of the Cubism style, consider his softer more traditional pieces that capture a small moment in another place and time through the eyes of a very talented man.

A Gift of Love for Mom

Mother's Day is just around the corner and if you haven't already gotten your favorite lady a great gift, consider the gift of art. You love your Mom, go ahead admit it and you want to show her how very special she is to you. Consider an art piece that says it for you each and every time she sees it.

A sculpted heart to sit next to her bed or on a favorite table where Mom relaxes will be a constant reminder that she is loved. If your Mom is a collector if items you can also give her something to add to her collection. A Mom that has a collection of cows or ducks in the kitchen will love having a little sculpture that tells her just how special she is to you. You can also get her a special work of art that reflects her own individual and unique style. It's easy to get it framed to match her decor.

If your mother has a very particular sense of what she likes and doesn't like, a mirror will make an outstanding addition to her decor. Mirrors can be used to lighten rooms and also give the illusion of space in a smaller room. Go for a mirror with an ornate frame to a sleek and modern look - you can get the look your Mom loves.

A gift certificate will make an ideal gift if your mom is the type that really enjoys picking out each and every item for her home herself. This is a great way to ensure that she gets a gift she will love and a piece of artwork for her home that she can cherish and enjoy for years to come.

Thursday, May 03, 2007

Have a Dragon in Your Home

If you or someone you know is into the decorating style of Feng Shui, they will know the positivity that the images of dragons bring to the home. Dragons are thought to bring joy and luck to any household they grace and are often used near doorways to remove negativity and repel anyone wishing to cause the resident of the home harm.

All that aside, nothing looks more magical than a dragon. A piece of dragon art can fit in any decor from Shabby Chic to the austere Modern Eames style. There are a good number of choices for adding dragon art to your home. Go for a replica painting which to the untrained eye will look like an original apiece as even the brush strokes are plainly visible. A print matted and framed under glass will also look fantastic.

If you feel you have enough artworks hanging on your walls, think sculpture. A small dragon sculpture will look wonderful on a shelf by a winding ivy plant that mimics the curls and turns in the dragon's body or consider placing a pair of dragon sculptures on each end of a shelf or by a fireplace if you're using a Feng Shui method of decor in your room as the pair of dragons will bring harmony and balance to your room.

Don't feel that a green old Arthur style dragon is the only kind you can have. If you want a painting featuring a dragon but you're a little tired of seeing green dragons with yellow fire and not much else - check out the burst of color in Tiefeng Jiang's signed and numbered serigraph on canvas: "Dragon Bride". This outstanding piece is bright and will make a real impact on your decor.

Add a little luck to your room and add a dragon to give your abode a real conversation piece and of course, a little luck from the dragon.

Gift for the Elvis Fan

Even after all these the years, many people are still Elvis fans. Thomas Kinkade has created an outstanding piece titled, "Graceland, 50th Anniversary" and it was done not only for his own admiration of Elvis Presley, but also as a continued tribute to his wife, Nanette with the placement of five "N's" around this piece.

Thom has featured Elvis's green 1958 Cadillac El Dorado Biarritz Convertible in this painting. This car marks the entrance to Elvis's famous automobile museum. This painting was created to commemorate the fact that 50 years earlier, Elvis purchased Graceland.

In the front of this piece are Graceland's famous gates with their guitar motif that were custom built by John Dillars, Jr. of Memphis Doors and installed in 1957. Thom wanted to capture the feel of Graceland in this piece and did so beautifully. The piece was painted from an on-site sketch that was made on an autumn morning and Thom then added touches such as a likeness of the King and one of his famous cars.

Along with this piece you can choose the frame that you'd like to present it in. It will be professionally framed in the type of wood of your choosing. If this is for a gift you can closely match the frame to the wood colors of the main furnishings and give a gift that is custom made to fit into the recipent's home.

If you have an Elvis fan that you want to get a gift they will adore for years to come and as with most Kinkade pieces, there is rich detail throughout the piece making it a fantastic conversation piece.