​I've seen images of this private collection in a magazine or online somewhere...I can't quite place it.  So when I walked in the front door and recognized the space, I about fell over.  

This collection is amazing to see in so many ways and to hear the owner talk about each piece and artist with his passion and love of art, made it an more inspiring experience. 
​
These images were snapped with my phone, with owner's permission and are unedited.  These are also just a few of the many incredible works.  WOW!

What’s a Personal Artist and 3 Things You Need to Know Before Getting One

A Personal Artist is similar to a professional photographer who use their talent and experience to capture your precious moments with images, whereas personal artists leverage their unique talents and style to create original art and/or enhance the experience of an event.

Personal art is a beautiful way to savor a memory or experience, create an heirloom painting, or impress your brand.  

​If you are considering hiring a personal artist, there are some important points you need to know.  


First, be sure to find an artist that reflects your style.  

Imagine asking Mick Jagger to sing opera. I'm sure it would be something to see, but it's not his forte. 

​Each artist has their own defining style.  If you ask them to alter that style, you could be setting yourself up for disappointment.  

For example, I have a very distinct contemporary-impressionistic-abstract style. If a potential client is looking for a hyper-realism type of painting, they’ve got the wrong artist, and I will let them know up front. It’s a great opportunity for me to refer them to one of my artist friends specializing in that particular genre.


Second, find an artist within your budget.  

I can’t speak for other artists, but I genuinely want people who love my art, to have my art and I’m happy to make it happen without devaluing my work. 

Please don’t ever ask an artist to discount his or her work. Instead, let the artist know your budget requirements and they will most likely work with you. It may be a smaller size, a less expensive canvas or panel, or a similar but different piece. 


Last but not least, you’re going to want to make sure you have a signed contract.  

Having clear definitions of size, completion date, cost, framing, etc. is going to save you from any potential headaches caused by miscommunication or misunderstanding.  Any artist offering this service should have a contract ready.  I use my own contracts, written in simple terms and go over them with my clients line by line.  

There’s nothing quite like having a remarkable piece of art that tells your story with passion.  It’s a beautiful and timeless gift that will continue to give for many years and generations to come.

These little guys are 6" x 3" and $25, while they last.

"There's Always Light"
Mixed Media on Wood Panel  36" x 80" x 1.5"

Touched this one up a bit too...
​
"Two Sides of Light"
Mixed Media on Canvas 48" x 60" x 2"

Artist statement and bio rolled into a video under 30 seconds...

I used actual dirt from Silver Oak's Alexander Valley vineyard, their delectable Cabernet, and more!  Read captions to see how each element was manipulated into this painting.

These were inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West, located north of Scottsdale, Arizona, USA. An amazing man with an even more amazing legacy.

See their journey including all of the elements layered into these paintings here and here.

To learn more about Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright, and to book your own visit, click here. 
​

Remembering at Kennesaw Mountain. Marietta, GA

Now that Taliesin West is out of my head and onto canvas, the night at the rodeo is next. Great shots to work with from Cave Creek, AZ. "Bull riding at the Chip"

The Buffalo Chip...rebuilding of a landmark after fire. Learn more here.

A custom oil painting is the best souvenir of a special trip in a tasteful way that you can proudly display in your home to reminisce everyday of your fond memories.

I created this oil painting of Moonlight Basin, Montana from the snapshot in my head as we were departing.  We were driving down the road and as I turned to look out the window one last time, the sun was setting majestically in between the two main peaks.  This is the result of that memory.  To have your own memory celebrated in original art, please reach out to [email protected].

Here are a couple of oil paintings that were inspired by Amelia Island...

Images from the northeast tip of Fort Clinch.  More paintings in store inspired by the marshes and lighthouse...stay tuned for those.

To learn more about Fort Clinch, Amelia Island, Florida, USA, click here.

RUGGED BEAUTY LEFT ME IN AWE..

TEXTURE, TEXTURE, TEXTURE...

CONTRASTING SOFT SHAPES, SHARP ANGLES...

A TOUCH OF THIS...

A SPLASH OF THAT...

MIX IN A LITTLE OF THIS...

Can't wait to translate this onto canvas!!

​To learn more about Taliesen West, Frank Lloyd Wright, and to book your own visit, click here.