Art for the Cat Collector

Cats are interesting creatures to say the least, and they come in as many sizes, colors, and shapes imaginable. People have debated for centuries over whether cats can be taught to do tricks, or if they can really fit into the classification of being intelligent. However, for the cat lover, these things are unimportant. We can love cats simply for being what they are.

Cats provide a loving presence, and maybe it's just the feeling of a cat cuddling up next to you that symbolizes love and warmth. It doesn't hurt to feel that wonderful vibration when cats purr either! And, just think of the joy you feel when your cat is had a tasty meal. There's nothing better than watching a cat lick its whiskers. When that happens, somehow it makes life feel good through and through.

Cat's can be of tremendous help if a person is sick or under the weather too. They seem to intuitively sense the need for a person's attention, and in giving it in their own unique way; they serve a wonderful purpose in making that person somehow feel better. Be on the lookout though! Cat's are legendary for being finicky, and it's this almost human-like quality that makes them so endearing.

Cats live long lives, and we can enjoy them for many years. Often, the passing of a cat is equivalent to losing a loved one. Steve Hank's limited edition, "The Cat's Lair", is the perfect celebration of those little animals we just can't seem to live without.

Make a Limited Edition Print the Perfect Gift!

A print can be the perfect gift, but finding the right print as a gift for a special occasion can be a challenge. Some good rules of thumb are as follows: You should always pick a gift that fits a person's lifestyle. Delve into whether they like decorative prints, or if they prefer prints that border more on the conservative side of art.

Do they love animals, or are they more the outdoors type and attracted to the change of seasons? Inquire if they like to play cards, collect clocks, mouse pads, or collect home décor items. Is the person you have in mind an amateur sportsman or woman, or are do they "cut their teeth" in watching or participating in sports? The list of possibilities can be endless, and it will be up to you to narrow down the choices.

The biggest thing to remember is to keep the search fun, as the search will actually open up your knowledge about who that person really is. Once you've narrowed your search, you should also take into consideration the type of setting your print gift will be placed in. If you're personally familiar with the recipient, you can make a reasonable guess. If on the other hand you're not as familiar with a person's private home settings, it won't hurt to inquire from those that might have the "inside" scoop.

A safe bet can be wildlife print, and the perfect place to start is with the acclaimed work of David A. Maass. His fine art limited edition print "Tomahawk Trail-Pheasant" would make the perfect gift. Very few people can reject the beauty of nature, and this work of art captures perfectly the essence of something we all want to preserve.

We Can All Use a Little Relaxation

There's nothing like having a home that is inviting and relaxing for friends or family. "Relaxation" by Patricia Govenzensky" is a beautiful work of art that says it all in the stroke of a brush. She is fast becoming a rising star in the International world of art, and is well known for her richly textured acrylics and watercolors. Her paintings offer center around "romantic" mysteries, and her use of watercolors are able to evoke feelings of intense happiness or sadness in her characters.

This is a superb work of art that will enhance any room decor. The colors are vibrant, and represent every major color on the spectrum. This means that it immediately becomes a perfect match for any wall in the home or office. And, let's face it! It's a great conversation piece. Great art that evokes an emotional response is what make are great in the first place.

The vibrancy and life in her work is perhaps a result of her youthful years in Tel-Aviv, where from a young age she was enrolled in art courses sponsored by the Tel- Aviv Museum. Later, she studied at the Avni Institute, and continued to expand her knowledge at the Ramat Hasharon Art Academy, where she graduated with honors.

This is art that has the ability to create a relaxed mood-of which we can never have too much of. Your orders will usually ship in 3-9 days, and may take a bit longer if you're ordering "custom framed" products, so if you're getting this outstanding piece for a gift, order a 2-weeks or so in advance to ensure you'll have your beautiful piece in time.

Summertime is Here and Your Choice of Artwork Should Help Celebrate It

Summertime is here, and hopefully the living will be easy. Why not celebrate with the beautiful hand signed artwork of Sueellen Ross. "Summertime and Living is Easy" is the perfect suite to celebrate the long awaited summer, and compliment your art collections.

You can tell that the artist has a strong love for animals, and the result is an exceptionally strong and appealing design using watercolor, India Ink, and pencil. These cats will tempt you to find an easy chair in your favorite spot on the front porch, or that hammock strung between two trees out in the back yard.

An exceptional artist, the works of Sueellen Ross have been exhibited worldwide, and she has been listed in Who's Who in American Art since 1987. The love of painting comes natural, and her two cats are no doubt inspiring. There's an almost "playful" attitude that she's able to bring to bare in all of her works. And, it's this spirit of pureness and realism that touches the heart of those that love animals.

Her attention to detail is most impressive, and no matter what the background in her painting, the animals seem to dominate in a graceful and playful way. She's able to capture her animal's personalities in a way that no other artist of her caliber can. Make sure you liven up your home or office this summer with a personally signed print from one of America's most endearing artists.

The Impact of Realism

David Ward is a master when it comes to capturing realism and uncanny detail. He has an impressive background, and has lived and worked in Mexico, Southwest Africa, Guatemala, and England. Many of his paintings hang in corporate and private collections the world over. "A Boy and His Dog" is a perfect example of his ability to paint a picture that looks as if it had been taken by a camera.

You can see the very ripples in this placid lake, and the reflections in the water couldn't have been painted more realistically. The dog watching its master leave is a scene played out thousands of time in daily life. This is a handsome work of art, that will perfectly with any type of decorating theme.

David fits perfectly into the group of artists that have made the successful transition from the commercial world into that of painting full time. For him, success and fame soon followed, and he is able to spend the quality time it takes for his art to transcend to another level. He presently lives in Canada where the natural beauty of the country is a continual inspiration for his realistic work.

Your art collection won't be complete until you have something by David Ward hanging from the wall. There is something so say about an artist that paints with such striking detail-and what's being said easily falls within the realm of intense admiration. Make it a point to discover the genius of David Ward today!

Modern Art Made Simple

At first glance, you may not be sure what to make of Julia Ogden's artistic talents. It doesn't take long however, to make the distinction that she is a talented artist. Her hand signed and Limited Edition Giclee "Cream Field I" suggests something quite beyond the art itself. It's unique to say the least, and becomes a powerful focal point of ones attention. It's modern, futuristic, colorful, and somehow manages to convey a sense of purpose.

The colors are vibrant, and will compliment virtually any color scheme. Her talent allows her to space perfectly. The artwork is balanced, and has enough substance to make each work of art complete within itself. This balance immediately transcends the paintings and becomes the theme of the surrounding spaces.

Julia's background is in both art and literature, and this is perhaps why each of her creations seems to tell a story. You can choose from a vast array of handsome framing options that include honey oak, dark walnut, cherry, driftwood, and antique gold to name a few. And, the prints will ship within 3 to 9 days. If you're ordering a "custom framed" product, additional time may be required.

Whatever package you choose, you'll have plenty of time to make a place for the intriguing artwork of Julia Ogden. You'll be able to spend hours pondering what makes the artist "tick". And perhaps this curiosity about the artist, even more than the artwork itself, is what creates notable acclaim for her unique gift of expression.

Locked in Combat

You can almost feel the thunder of two mammoth elephants as they interlock in fierce combat! The scene is so real that it can be mistaken for a photograph. Such is the realism that is contained in the fine art work of Joshua Spies. "Raging Bulls" is a striking print that will compliment the décor of any wildlife collector.

Joshua Spies is a truly gifted artist, and his accomplishments are already legendary for an artist his age. His wildlife subjects take him near and far across the globe, and the awareness level, of the importance of wildlife preservation, is raised by anyone who glimpses his works. Joshua Spies lives in the tradition of some of the finest artists in the world-far away from the crowd and off the beaten path. Watertown South Dakota is presently where he takes up residence, and no doubt draws inspiration from the stirring beauty of his hometown.

Today's families face a lot of stress in the world, and there are long hours spent at the office, sports practices for the kids, and late dinners. This is why it's important to be surrounded by the things that allow us to draw a sense of contentment from within. There is a great deal of emphasis in getting the outdoors approach to interior design, and the "lodge look" is considered in. While few have the money to make those retreats to those pine mountain lodges whenever the mood strikes, on can, with a little imagination and planning, find the right combination of print art that can be the center piece of any home or office theme. The work of Joshua Spies is an excellent place to begin.

Investing in the Home

Homeowners are fixing up the homestead and opting to place their hard-earned dollars in their largest investment-their home. And, the home improvement embellishments range from crown moldings and ceiling tiles-to pocket doors and lavish windows. If you're in the designing mood, the one thing you can do is keep it simple and consider the prints and paintings that will compliment whatever the mood or theme in your home or office.

Jon Crane has the perfect selection of fine watercolors that will set the tone no matter what the season. His handsigned print "Snowy Day", depicts a beautiful secluded cabin scene. You can almost hear the snow as it is falling in the quiet woods. This is finely detailed print, and is typical of the magic that Jon spins on canvas. Over-sized, and nostalgic landscapes are his trademark, and it doesn't hurt to come from a family of talented and notable artists either. His great-great grandfather, was a well known Civil War artist.

Bringing the openness of rural American into your home, through beautiful artwork and prints, is a great way of sprucing up your living spaces form the inside out. For many people, their home is the biggest investment they may make in a lifetime. A solid investment in fine art can be the catalyst that starts you down the road of taking care of the things most near-and dear. And, what better place to begin than with the fine art of Jon Crane!

The Feeling and Color of an Avantdil

If your tastes run towards artworks that tell a story with vibrant colors and dashing figures, you will find the work of Avantdil will fit the bill for what you're looking for.

An exception piece is found in the artwork titled, "Tango Argentina". This large sized print measures in at 40" x 40" and it is part of a very limited edition that is hand numbered and signed by the artist himself. There are only twenty prints in the entire series and it is printed in the style of embellished giclee on canvas.

The artist's style of this painting is impressionist but it also has elements that make up cubism and abstract as well. The colors are rich and detail in this richly stroked piece will lend something new almost every time you gaze up on this impressive piece. The giclee on canvas gives the artwork a very authentic look and with the texture on the canvas, many people will assume it is an original piece.

Avantdil is a popular artist that is collected far and wide. Some of his notable patrons include the United States Ambassador to Georgia, the Governor of the Republic of Adjaria, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Russian Federation, the Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia, and the President of International Lyons Club.

If you don't already have an Avantdil in your personal art collection, consider adding this vibrant piece as a beautiful impact piece to your decor.

Old World Elegance on Your Walls

The elegance of the old world can be found in the most simplistic everyday things around us. The everyday flower and teacup transform into something magnificent with her skillful touch. "Evening Symphony", is a fine limited edition print that you will relish for a long time to come. It is reminiscent of the long hours that go into the crafting of a fine musician-or that of any other profession.

Saia, takes her art seriously, and approaches her craft as if it were a form of meditation. The more she practices her art, the more clearly she sees the world around her; and this insight is readily seen in her delicate paintings that are nothing short of inspirational.

It does not hurt to grow up in the rustic and wide -open spaces of rural Wisconsin either! There is something beautiful and wholesome that takes hold of a soul in these types of environments. Saia feels that the creation of at is not a process that can readily be learned in a classroom. Yes, the theories and techniques with diligent study perhaps can be. However, the true inspiration that accompanies pure creativity comes from deep within.

This fine honed philosophy can be seen in every one of her paintings and sketches, and is her most eloquent driving force. Making a difference in the world by giving back through one's talent is an enriching experience, and brings us closer to the "truth" of all things. You can own a piece of Saia's wonderful world by creating a collection of her fine prints and limited editions.

Fine Dining and Glassware

The term fine dining is generally used to describe a restaurant or atmosphere that tends to create a serious dining experience. There will usually be a great location and view that compliments the restaurants overall theme. The service strives to be impeccable, with chefs and a service crew from the best culinary schools available.

Perhaps you may not be able to enjoy this type of atmosphere as often as you would like, but you certainly bring the dream close to home by owning the Thomas Stiltz, numbered, and limited edition: "Champagne of Kings". You will find an extraordinary presence of light and form in his works. He does a wonderful job of accenting the ordinary things in our everyday lives by evoking deep feelings and emotions.

The emphasis on detail is stunning, and you can tell this is a man that takes his time when enjoying a fine meal with friends or family. It is obvious that he takes the same care and concern when crafting images of wine and glass. Like the famous wines that take years to age, his process of painting is patient, and utilizes old world techniques using many layers to build up the painting surface. The effect is nothing short of amazing and stunning!

Entertain your family and friends with the fine works of Thomas Stiltz. The artwork alone will do a superb job of setting the proper mood. And, when artwork rises to this level, it is nothing short of being a masterpiece.

Mystery on the Stairs

You can add a little mystery and intrigue to any home or office setting with the moody work of Gilberte Brassai. "Stairs, Momartre, Paris", is an interesting take on stairs that seem to wind their way downward, and disappearing into the night. It may take some time to get used to the effect, but is perfect for the individual looking to create the perfect balance of transparency and intrigue in their home.

His work almost has a "film Noir" them associated with it, and on every print, one almost expects something mysterious to occur. If you have a similar theme in your artwork at present, this is the perfect print to set the mood for things to come. Gilberte Brassai was an individual that felt that even the most mediocre photograph had something significant to say to the world. Thus, when you obtain one of his works, you will quickly realize that his pictures "speak" volumes. And, such a tour de force will need the perfect compliment in furniture.

Soft leather furniture can be a great anchor for the works of Gilberte, and with the price of leather falling in recent years; accented pieces are far more affordable. Leather also has a sensuous quality surrounding it. Its durability is also well known. If properly treated, it can outlast upholstered furniture with a life span of 15 to 20 years.

Almost done! Other accents are green ferns and flowers that heighten the mystery mood of Giberte Brassai's works. Now, you are ready to give the perfect tribute to the famous Frenchman by entertaining in style.

Embracing the Wide Open Places

Some of the most stunning and beautiful scenery can be found in the wide-open spaces of America. Bountiful wildlife, and exquisite scenery of equine images are the trademarks of Chris Cummings. "Josie", is a beautiful hand signed and numbered limited edition that will bring the very outdoors into your home.

That the artist is in love with nature-is apparent. Chris Cummings was fortunate to grow up on acreage that borders the Santa Cruz Mountains, and this closeness to nature is evident in her paintings and drawings. Majoring in wildlife biology, and minoring in fine art also plays an important role in her ability to bring the intimate scenes of nature vividly to life.

It is great to have a theme when you decorate with paintings and photos. Everything does not have to match, but if you can create a unifying aspect in your choices, the entire atmosphere of your home will be enhanced. Your chosen theme should be centered on a focal point in our home. The focal point is usually the largest object in a room or setting. If you cannot find the obvious focal point, then your paintings or floral arrangements can do the trick.

Equine artwork generally works best when the unifying theme is complimentary, and if you love horses, the works of Chris Cummings are the perfect gift for yourself or anyone that shares your sentiments. Horses on the wide-open spaces of the country convey to all of us a sense of freedom, and you can experience that wonderful feeling up close and personal when you purchase any one her fine limited editions.

Celebrate the Children in Your Life

Our children are important at any stage of their lives, and this will always be the case as any mother or father knows. And, no matter what the special challenge that each one faces, they will always need a good measure of support and understanding. There are those special moments when our children are nestled safe in our arms, and the cares and fears of the world seem to melt away for them.

You can add to your beautiful artwork décor with the handsome limited edition print: "Always There". Artist John Monti captures the timeless essences of that "special moment" perfectly. This is a beautiful and thoughtful piece of artwork that will bring out the very best in your home or office surroundings. You can also choose the frame size, mat selection, and finish that provide the best compliment for your present home or office furniture arrangements.

Whether you're standing serenely by the ocean, pausing to rest alongside a country road on a windy autumn day, or alone with your child in the comfort of their favorite room-they will always remember those special times you gave them special comfort in their time of need. Every room, like our lives, has a focal point. There will always be that one object or event that can add a touch of warmth and presence. "Always There," is far more than a work of fine art by a celebrated artist. It touches upon the very core of what we all hold to be good and decent in life.

A Movie Room for Your Home

Have some extra space in your home that you don’t know what to do with? Are you a movie buff, and a lover of classic films and Hollywood legends? How about creating a movie room? As far as the decor goes, a perfect way to create that perfect space is to pay homage to classic Hollywood. Go black and white! Of course, there are several shades of gray in between. Choose furniture in black, or gray, that’s big and comfy to relax on while watching your favorites. Long, extra wide, extra fluffy couches and recliners are the perfect choice for this type of space. Choose tables and shelving that is sleek, and smooth.

Try painting the walls a medium to dark gray color, with black accents. You could even hang curtains on the walls to "frame" the entertainment center. This will help make the area look like the old theaters that we rarely get to see anymore. Use lots of satin finish metal, and glass for surfaces. Track lighting, or strategically placed spot lights are good choices for lighting, and will really enhance the room if you put them on a dimmer switch, so that the lights can go down when the movie starts!

Of course, for the artwork, one of the best choices you can make is framed art depicting Hollywood classic movies and stars of the golden era. Why not start with the ultimate legend among actresses, Marilyn Monroe? Try this framed art print "Summertime Marilyn" on for size!

How To Create a Relaxation Room

These days, life is all fast paced and full of stress. It's all about how quickly you can get things done. Everything has to be bigger and better and faster. In times like these, I think we often forget to slow down, and relax. Instead of turning your spare room into an office (why bring your work home AND dedicate a whole space to it?) or a guest room, turn it into a relaxation room. A room like this is a perfect place to calm down, mellow out, and relieve yourself of all the stressors in your life. It’s a place for tranquility and release.

Use colors that will help promote tranquility, cool colors that promote restfulness. Blues, greens, and light purples are great color choices. Keep the room uncluttered, but comfortable. You don't want the room to be bare though, one piece of art on the wall that helps you to escape and feel relaxed is good. One example of such a piece of art would be Maria Sherbina's "Gladiolas". This piece is beautiful, and tranquil. Other things to include in your room would be a CD player, water fountain, face masks, soft blankets, and a comfy chair. Books, bottled water, and even some candles or plants are good choices as well. Things that you do not want to put in a relaxation room would include phones, televisions, computers, or fax machines. These things are a connection to the world that causes stress, you don't want them in the very place where you are trying to release that stress.

Creating a Warm Italian Vineyard Themed Kitchen

The "Tuscan" theme is all the rage these days for kitchens. It’s easier than ever to find the perfect items to help you bring this dream kitchen into reality. It seems like everywhere you turn there are items designed for this theme in a kitchen. But how do you create an original space using this theme, while still keeping your space warm and inviting?

Warm colors are a must. The kitchen, at least in Italy, is generally the center, the heart of the home. This is the room people typically congregate in, to share laughter and stories, share home-cooked meals, and generally enjoy each other’s company. Choose from the warm palette; warm rustic reds, tans, browns, and mustard-y yellows work very nicely. A faux finish technique on the walls would also look lovely! For an even more "old world" style, consider using a wallpaper or appliqué that resembles brick behind the stove, or perhaps a scenic wall appliqué.

If you have a long wall that is just begging for something to adorn it, a long horizontal hanging piece of art, such as Randy Peyton’s: "Midday at the Vineyards" would be a perfect choice. This will set the mood for the rest of your space, and might even help a smaller space feel larger than it actually is.

Finish off your room with some accessories, like some wine bottles, antiqued or rustic hardware, and attractive window treatments. A warm wall plaque with a saying about family, friends, or food would be a nice touch as well. The goal is to create a space that is attractive, but very comforting and inviting at the same time.

A Firefighter’s Room

In the homes of most firefighters, you are bound to find lots of firefighter memorabilia. This habit of collecting this memorabilia is practically a prerequisite for the job! Why not create a room, like a den, to display these things?

Obviously, red is a great color choice for the walls. A rich, warm red is a great choice. You can use it for the walls, or just for the trim. Accent sparingly with black to anchor the room. Use shelves, book cases, and even curio cabinets to help display the “stuff” collected over time! If you can get your hands on an old hydrant, or an old fire extinguisher, it’s a perfect item to turn into a side table! As for the walls, the perfect choice, the ultimate tribute piece, is T. Franklin’s “Flag Raising at Ground Zero.” It’s a great way to recognize and remember the men and women, the brothers and sisters that were lost. This is the image that is emblazoned on the minds of so many when thinking about that event.

Add some fun in the room, in the form of an entertainment center, with a tv, dvd player, and even a game system. If you can manage, add a surround sound speaker system for optimal sound. Finish off with some comfy, firehouse style furniture, like leather couches. If you can find some that are slightly distressed, it’s all the better. When you’ve completed your room, you will have a space that any firefighter would be thrilled to call his or her own!

Creating the Perfect Space for your Little Princess

Most little girls will tell you, they want to be a princess! Even though you can’t actually make her a princess, you can certainly give her a bedroom space that is fit for one! Walls, done in a soft hue, like pink, or yellow or pale lilac, are a perfect start. Window treatments that are long and dreamy are a perfect choice, or even faux window frames that make the window look like a castle’s window. Faux treatments on one wall, or a portion of all walls to look like stone would be a wonderful touch as well!

If you aren’t interested in buying a whole new bed, consider making a canopy that hangs from the ceiling above the bed. This is easily accomplished by either painting, or covering (with batting and fabric) a piece of light but sturdy wood, then attaching “curtains” of fabric to the back and attaching that to the ceiling towards the head of the bed. Little touches in the accessories for the room will go a long way too! Sweet, tiffany style lamps in matching colors, frilly throw pillows, and even a pretty rug are great touches, that won’t break the bank. Wall hangings are a great idea too. Consider a piece like the Disney Open Edition Print: Cinderella.

Cinderella is the ultimate princess as far as most little girls are concerned. What little girls wouldn’t love to snuggle in at night and see that print above the bed? This print would be a perfect finishing touch for your little princess’ room!

Creating the Perfect Space for your Little Princess

Most little girls will tell you, they want to be a princess! Even though you can’t actually make her a princess, you can certainly give her a bedroom space that is fit for one! Walls, done in a soft hue, like pink, or yellow or pale lilac, are a perfect start. Window treatments that are long and dreamy are a perfect choice, or even faux window frames that make the window look like a castle’s window. Faux treatments on one wall, or a portion of all walls to look like stone would be a wonderful touch as well!

If you aren’t interested in buying a whole new bed, consider making a canopy that hangs from the ceiling above the bed. This is easily accomplished by either painting, or covering (with batting and fabric) a piece of light but sturdy wood, then attaching “curtains” of fabric to the back and attaching that to the ceiling towards the head of the bed. Little touches in the accessories for the room will go a long way too! Sweet, tiffany style lamps in matching colors, frilly throw pillows, and even a pretty rug are great touches, that won’t break the bank. Wall hangings are a great idea too. Consider a piece like the Disney Open Edition Print: Cinderella.

Cinderella is the ultimate princess as far as most little girls are concerned. What little girls wouldn’t love to snuggle in at night and see that print above the bed? This print would be a perfect finishing touch for your little princess’ room!