Featuring Sculptor Joe Gitterman

Stunning, breathtaking, and dynamic are just a few ways to describe sculptor Joe Gitterman's works of art. Using a unique array of fine metals and finishes, his designs become a focal point of interest whether in a residential, commercial, or public domain.

Mr Gitterman has an impressive list of private commissions and has the ability to fabricate his sculptures in many sizes. Please enjoy his fascinating story and our discussion below.

1) Joe thank you so much for participating in this interview. Your sculptures are stunning! After an illustrious career on the New York Stock Exchange, what propelled you into the life of a professional artist and sculptor?

I took my first art classes many years ago when my wife was working nights in the theater. I was working in the New York Stock Exchange at the time and my nights were free so I decided to put them to good use and nurture my interest in art. It became a hobby that I spent a lot of time on. I worked in plaster, wood and marble but really fell in love with metal. In 2011 I happen to participate in a gallery show and ended up selling a few pieces. It was a pleasant surprise to me that my pieces sold. I quickly mounted a website and became a full-time working artist.

2) When did you first become interested in the arts? 

Like many people I owe my interest in arts to a teacher.  My 6th grade teacher was fantastic and really encouraged me to express myself through art. 

3) Your sculptures are infused with movement. How does your thought process work when you begin a new piece or a new series of art?

It's a process in which I get a picture in my mind. I try to create what I am visualizing but sometimes I end up with something different than I originally envisioned. Sometimes that ends up being a really exciting surprise

4)  Who has influenced your style and creativity? Are there mentors or other artists that you respect and admire?

To name just three I would say Brancusi, Hepworth and Moore. My mentors and other artists that I admire is a very long list of amazing talents and contemporaries that have helped me. Too many to mention. 

5) Joe, I understand you do many private commissions from clients such as the renowned interior designer Robert Couturier to Norwegian Cruise Lines. Would you tell us more about that? 

For me the most exciting aspect of doing a commissioned piece or pieces is creating something that fits into and compliments the aesthetic of a specific location or design need. It is very different than creating something I love for myself. I recently installed a piece in a luxury residential building by architecture icon Robert A.M. Stern in Washington DC. It is the only sculpture in the building. 

6) Where can readers find your sculptures and do you have any upcoming exhibits? 

I'm working on some future exhibits and more information is available on my website - WWW.JOEGITTERMAN.COM  I am also on Instagram, Pinterest, FaceBook and some art exhibition sites. 

7) What is your advice to the beginning artist of any age? 

Be passionate about what you do and always keep exploring. 

Thank you again, Joe! 

Thank you to my Family, Friends and Followers who support The Arts!

xoxo

Karena

The Arts by Karena

The Windows of Buck House: Fabulous Fictional Females by Deborah Buck

The Windows of Buck House: Fabulous Fictional Females

by Deborah Buck

Deborah Buck is an artist extraordinaire, designer, entrepreneur  and author. She is president of Buck House, the company she founded to incorporate her independant art and design endeavors. In addition Buck is a professionally trained gourmet chef, a certified instructor of French Cuisine.

A. Muse, Paramour-Bohemian, Paris France 1934, Detail

This book celebrates The Windows of Buck House. Buck House, which Deborah opened in 2001 as a New York arts and antiques emporium, immediately garnered a following of fellow stylish tastemakers. Now closed, however the shop was open for eleven years as THE destination for those seeking distinctive gifts, art and furnishings.

Velocity la Rue, Automobile Designer, Detroit, Michigan 1960

Soon Deborah's artistic talents led to the creation of  the 6 x 6 foot bi-monthly windows  featuring Fictional Fabulous Women. These  included Anna Force, New York Ad Executive,  Goldy Bank, Geneva Investment banker,  Sheelock Holmes, London Detective;  a collection of 22 formidable female characters in all.

Queenie, Royal Head of State, London 2012

These superb installations show us the unique lives of these fabulous women;  encapsulated in a jewel box window setting, diorama style, with many of the accoutrements of their exciting and ground-breaking lives!

Belmont Blue, Jockey, Baltimore 1973- Detail

Buck has also included with each chapter and installation the autobiographical declaration from each woman...fascinating beyond. Women of style, substance and strength. Her writing will take you away to another world!

Alexandria Tombs: Egyptologist, Valley of the Kings, Egypt 2009

Deborah Buck with some of her infamous Abstract Art in the background

Book Courtesy of Acanthus Press
Images Courtesy of Deborah Buck
Photography by Jaka Vinsek

Deborah's Fine Art can be found at www.deborahbuck.com 
For additional information on Buck House; www.buckhouse.com 

To purchase this stunning book which will be a lifetime conversation piece:
Acanthus Press 


Thank you to my friends and followers who support The Arts

xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena

A Conversation with the Internationally Acclaimed Artist Steven Miller

 
Introducing artist Steve W Miller; he has exhibited his works on the national and international levels in New York City, Los Angeles, London, Cologne and Madrid. He is a Vinal Haven Fellow, a Rubenstein Scholar, and a Parsons School of Design Fellow. Mr. Miller’s work is in many private and public collections in the United States, Europe and Asia.

Please enjoy our conversation and some of his amazing works of his art. He often works in large scale format which captures your attention and takes your breath away. 

1) Steven, Tell me about your first interest in the world of art.

My earliest interest in art was from my childhood.  I started drawing and painting when I was 3 years old and have continued to do so to my adulthood.  There was a time when it seemed to come too easily so I took a break, but ultimately the draw to make art was too strong for me to resist--so back I came.

2) When your studies began, I understand it was in the representational principles of art.How did that evolve into other and current genres that you are so well known for?

Yes representational art was my latent education.  I am self taught, but decided to go to graduate school so that I could teach on the university level.  I did get offers from universities, but none that instantly appealed to me.  I had to "unlearn" what grad school taught me and get back to my roots.  I was afraid to make an abstract painting, but eventually learned the language and equipped myself with the tools to hopefully make a "successful" abstract work.  I do dip into the landscape and figurative pool now and again, but prefer making abstract work.

3) What inspires you when you are facing a large canvas? There is so much Vitality…Energy in your works of art. Your methodology?

I am inspired by everything that surrounds me: people, animals, news, the internet, photographs, pop culture in general.  I layer my canvases and use lots of glazing.  I work and rework my canvases.  Often times I will work on a canvas for several years.  Sometimes they gell almost instantaneously

4) Who has been a mentor in your life? Are there artists that have made such an impression on you that you have emulated or have been uniquely affected by their works?

Artists that inspire me are De Kooning, Guston and Joan Mitchel, among others.  Of course Matisse and Bonnard as well.

5) Your work is internationally known and is in many private and public collections around the world. Can you tell us some of them?

I am lucky enough to have been included in the Savannah School of Art & Design's Museum, MOMA and in many private collections, most of whom prefer to remain that way, but my work can be found from Los Angeles to Madrid.

6) Some readers may be interested to know that your works of art have been in television and movies. How did that come about?

  
 My work has also made appearances in both television and film.  My work was initially discovered by the director of "Sex and the City", and from there it blossomed to other tv shows and films.  It's always nice to be asked.

 

 7) Steven, where are you currently exhibiting and do you have any openings in the near future?

 I've just taken a break from my NY gallery.  I just had a show in May 2012 in NY.  I am concentrating on my work and not necessarily concerned with my next show.  That being said my next show is in May 2013 in Greenwich CT.

 8) Finally what words of wisdom would you impart to an artist of any age; whether a beginning artist or not?

My only words of advice are to focus on your work and be passionate about what you do.  Try and make clear and intelligent decisions--and if you make a mistake or two along the way, hey that's part of life and the learning process.  Don't worry about what other people are doing, listen to your own inner voice.   

Excellent advice, Steven. I believe one of the most difficult challenges for an artist can be finding their own voice to translate to the canvas, through the lens, etc.

Steven, Thank you so much for participating in The 2012 Artists Series. I am so impressed with your works of art. I am truly inspired.

Readers you may click on the images to see the incredible saturated color, layering, brushwork, and glazing on Steve's art. 

Also, please visit Steven's website to read more about him as an artist and view many more of his works of art at  stevenwmiller.com. You can find prints of his art at at http://steven-miller.fineartamerica.com/ For additional information please contact Steven at (212) 255-6247.

As always your comments are so important to the blog community and our featured artist.

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

My entry into  2805's Potpourri Friday Party    
                   is sponsored by Appliances Online."

2012 Artists Series Featuring Kerry Steele

Introducing Artist Kerry Steele. You may be familiar with Kerry through her blog site Design du Monde.  I hope you enjoy the following interview and a glimpse  into her world of gorgeous abstract art!

Elan

 

Kerry, when did you become interested in art and what drew you to painting?

 

I have always liked art and as a child I accompanied my grandmother to her painting and art history classes that she taught. I have actually always thought I was far better at drawing than painting and until last year, I had not picked up a brush in about 10 years! Mostly the impetus was wanting a few huge canvases to fill my walls. I bought some but I enjoyed the process of working out an abstract that was pleasing to me.

Satsuki Rain

 I have seen some of your amazing abstracts; how did you find a niche in that genre?

 I was not exactly looking for a niche when I started because I was initially painting for myself. The best advice I have read is to paint what you love and for me the palettes have a lot to do with trends in Interior Design and Fashion and I think people respond to those colors.

 

Sakura

 

 

I can understand that, with your background as an Interior Designer. 

Kerry, where do you find the inspiration for your works of art? 

I find inspiration in other art. Sometimes its a line that I find beautiful and use as a jumping off point or the colors in a landscape create a mood that I translate into an abstract. 

Patrician Plan

 What are some artists past or present that you admire? 

 De Kooning, Deibenkorn, Sally Benedict Read, Claire Desjardins are a few.  

 

What Art Events are  scheduled in the near future? Also, Kerry  where can your works of art be purchased?

  I exhibit in juried shows at the Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts in Fredericksburg, Virginia. My art can be purchased there or in my Etsy store, DesignDuMonde or someone may contact me directly about commissions or pieces not listed for sale.

Senanque

 Finally Kerry, as you are making your dreams come true, what advice do you have for the aspiring art of any age?

Painting what you love is only half the story. If you want other people to see your art it is never a good idea to play the pushy salesperson. Instead build genuine relationships with other artists, designers, collectors and they will come to you. Use social media judiciously. 

Great thoughts Kerry, thank you so much!

Visit Kerry ay her Etsy Shop, Design du Monde and also at her art site Kerry Steele.com  

If you would love to purchase a work of Kerry's art; she is offering a 15% off discount for the next 2 weeks. Use the Code ARTK2

I hope you will a comment of encouragement for Kerry! I so admire it when anyone takes the steps to go after their dreams!

Thank you to all of my friends and followers for supporting the arts!! What would life be like without it! 

 

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

Special Announcement and a Winner

Very Soon I will be able to Dance again!

This week I am having a Hip Replacement Surgery and will be out of commission this next month and enjoying (ha) Rehab!

Thanks to all of my Friends and Followers who have already sent me well wishes for a speedy Recovery!

The Exciting News first, is that I will have a Twelve Days of Holidays Giveaway Event!  You will hardly believe how many Unique and very Special Gifts will be offered! Many friends and Sponsors have Giveaways  for you that are quite varied. Come and Follow Art by Karena so that you will get first news of this Extravaganza!

 

 

The Winner of Two Dezigner Pillows from Pillows by Dezign is Amy of the blog Goodies and Besties! Congratulations to Amy!

Thank you to all who visited and entered this great giveaway. Not to worry though, the Holidays will bring many Wonderful Surprises! 

Thank you! I have won a subscription to Better Homes and Garden Magazine from Susan of the site Love Where You Live

 I am so grateful to Everyone I have met through this Wonderful world of Blogging!!

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

Amazing Dezigner Pillows Giveaway & Announcing a Winner

 DECORATE AFFORDABLY with Designer Fabric Pillows. Pillows by Dezign has Gorgeous decorative pillows with the average price being only $59 including the down/feather blend form. 

Their website is very user friendly, secure, and extremely easy to navigate.  ALL of their pillows are sewn in the United States, and all of the  fabrics come from respected mills throughout the Interior Design Community. Their goal is to provide superior customer service, build personal relationships with you, make your experiences with them delightful, and to help you find your personal sense of style in home décor!

 

 You can also order custom pillows from many of the Designer Fabric Houses. How great is that! Calling all Designers!

Decorative Throw pillows work anywhere in your home. Chairs, sofas, window seat, bedroom.

Choose from different styles. This is their Lumbar Pillow

The Bed Pillow Perfect for the Designer look in the bedroom!

As an Interior Designer, and owner of The Home Studio (www.thehomestudio.net) for over a decade, Marian LaFrance-Silverman has always said, “Decorative Pillows are the jewelry that completes the outfit.”

 

Fabric has always been Marian's passion starting with making her own clothes at age 11. She’s an artist, an interior decorator, and has even created beautiful stained glass windows and lamps. Despite the other interests she was always drawn back to fabrics. "Fabrics bring the interest and depth in to a room with color and overall design."

With that Marian convinced her son Brian to join her in creating Pillows by Dezign. 

You can see the vast assortment and selections when you visit their site Pillows By Dezign  

Click on the Blog tab as well for more inspiration. Changing out your pillows INSTANTLY transforms any room! Any Season!

Blue and Tan Ikat Throw Pillow

They generously sent me this Blue and Tan Ikat pattern Throw Pillow to Review and I can tell you the pillows are very high quality. Extremely comfortable. The Down/ feather fill inserts are wonderful!! Thank You!!

 To enter for a chance to win this generous and exciting Giveaway of Two 20 X 20 Throw Pillows

1) Visit Pillows by Dezign. Come back and tell us what pillow you would choose if you won (you can always change your mind later)

2) You MUST  Like Pillows by Dezign on Facebook!

3) Extra Entry Follow Pillows by Dezign on Twitter

4) For an additional Entry let me know that you are a follower of Art by Karena or become one!

5) Additional Entry simply Post about this Giveaway on your site!

That is 5 chances to Win!

Comment separately because I use Random.org to choose the winner! This Giveaway is open to Anyone. Just no anonymous comments Please.

The winner will be Chosen at Midnight EST on Sunday October 23rd and announced the following day. Spread the word!! 

Now for the Winner of The UPrinting Canvas Giveaway! It is Ann from Rooms of Inspiration

Jennette from Everton Terrace sent me a most beautiful necklace with a pearl and stamped initialed disk. I asked for J as it is for my daughter.

 Be sure to visit Jeanette and her fabulous Etsy Shop!

Thank you so much to my Followers, Friends, and Sponsors. Your Encouragement and Support mean the World to me!

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena