A New Gallery in Town: Gallery V Fine Arts

Photo Credit: Sito Colon

I was so thrilled to hear that my longtime friend Valerie Phillips has opened a new art gallery in Mission Farms West in Overland Park, Kansas located here in the Kansas City area. Mission Farms is a perfect mixed use development with luxury condominiums, apartments, dining and shopping, as well as a great locale at 4020 Indian Creek Parkway. Please call for hours and additional information at 913-341-3483. The website for the gallery is www.GalleryVFineArts.com  

 She is carrying some amazing artists of several genres and continues  to add art to the mix. Enjoy!

Ceramics by William Kidd

1) Did you know from a young age that you wanted to be in the gallery business?

The answer is actually "no." What I did know; however, was that I wanted to be an artist as early as age five, not even knowing quite what that meant...But, I learned early, the thrill of expressing myself and creating something original that came from a unique internal place that was all my own.

As a young adolescent, my parents took me to a gallery show in my hometown. They had read about an artist's endeavor of opening his own personal gallery, converting a run-down very historic building into a restored new place of beauty to showcase his work. My parents introduced me to the artist and staff as their daughter "the artist".  As we exchanged words about his art and gallery, the artist suggested, "Maybe one day you'll have a gallery of your own!" That impression was my first education and visual impression of an art gallery, which has always remained in my memories.

Art Glass by Scott Gamble

Cube Cup Luminaria by Michael Mikula

2) When did you realize that you wanted to open your own art gallery?

About 5 years ago, as I was entering into my eleventh year in the art gallery industry. What started as merely a vision, but an explosive daydream about 20 years ago and not knowing quite what to do with this powerful dream, later turned into an accidental second career for me. Eventually, after managing 3 separate galleries over the years, I found that all the stepping stones of my various professions in art, design and sales, at last, had rounded out the experience I needed to step forward into my own business. Then, the recurrent question from others of, "Is this your gallery?" and "Why haven't you started your own gallery??" revealed what I took as "my sign" that "now" was the time. While I had developed a scrapbook of "someday" ideas and sketches of my own gallery space, it was the encouragement of my family, friends, mentors and clients who nudged me to move forward with what I already had in passion, ideas and ability to make my dream a reality!

Wood Sculptures and Vases by Gary Burditt

Beth Cosner Custom Jewelry Designs

3) Have you had mentors or others that you admire in the art world?

Yes, probably my art teachers more than anything were the earliest and ongoing force who recognized and encouraged the artistic "gifts" in me. I give equal, if not more importance, to my kindergarten teacher as my greatest influencer as my college art professors. Grade school through my adulthood, there were many, many influencers and mentors who shaped me...They were the ones who thought outside the box and encouraged me to stretch - to not only learn, but also to discover. I have tried to see the gifts that each person who crosses my path has brought my way. I believe our wonderful mix of personalities in this world is like a beautiful symphony. One same note cannot compose a song! We were meant to "sing" together!

Valerie with the Baby Grand Piano sitting in the Front Window Photo Credit: Sito Colon

4)  Who are some of your favorite artists?

This is the toughest question, because I consider art to span across many mediums or genres. I have an affection for too many artists and too many art forms! I once heard, "When we love something, we tend to love it too much!" I love the Classical music of Tchaikovsky and Chopin, the ballets danced by Mikhail Baryshnikov to modern dance and Cirque de Soleil; Andrea Bocelli, Dave Matthews, Aretha Franklin to name a very small few. Picasso's woodcuts, abstract expressionism to street art!  Some of my favorite Old Masters are Renoir, Degas, Van Gogh and Rodin.

I would say that modern day artist, Victoria Montesinos paints in a style that connects to my soul. She paints in a surprising similarity of style as I discovered in my own art in early college years!

Painting by Artist Salome

5) Will people be able to make purchases of art and artful accessories online?

While we do not have online payment arrangements available at this time, customers can contact the gallery by phone (913-341-3483) or email us at: info@galleryvfinearts.com to place art orders for pick up or shipments.

Photo Credit: Sito Colon

6) What advice do you have for the budding entrepreneur at any age?

Follow your dreams! Never give up. Listen to your inner passions and detect your innate gifts. In doing so, every day will be rewarding, even through the challenges. Each day is a joy to go to work at the job you love. LIVE in your ELEMENT! 

As I was starting my business from ground up, my famous quote was: "I never had so much fun being so stressed out!"

Metal Kinetic Wall Sculptures by Frank Strunk III

7) Are there any special events or artist features scheduled at Gallery V Fine Arts in the near future?

We will have approximately 4 - 6 scheduled events throughout the year. Right now we are planning an event for Cinco de Mayo and a Mother's Day special with larger scale showcased artist events throughout the year. Stay tuned to our Facebook page and our website for details at galleryvfinearts.com.

Thank you so much Valerie!

 

Art by Salome

I don't know about you; however I am ready to get out and explore this spring. Art galleries like Gallery V Fine Arts are the perfect place to find new works of art for your home or even lovely and very special gifts for others! Please visit the gallery site www.galleryvfinearts.com. You can also visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/galleryvfineart. 

Thank you to my Friends, Family and Followers who Support The Arts.

Please leave a comment and also sign up for email alerts to receive my latest features!

xoxo

Karena

The Arts by Karena

Featuring Artist Julia Tema Contacessi

Introducing artist Julia Tema Contacessi and her fine works of abstract expressionism. Please enjoy our interview and the art she has presented in this article. I think that you will find it as inspiring and mesmerizing as I do!

Terrain

Julia, tell us about your early years and your beginnings in the world of art and creativity.

When I was about 3 years old my mother joined a playgroup with other mothers that had toddler age children.  The structure for the playgroup was a craft or art project, snack and playtime. When craft time was over the norm was that all the children ran over for snack, except me. It was known by all that I wanted to keep working on my project, and so I did. I think this is the best way to describe my approach to art and creativity. I love it, am focused on it, and can be perfectly content to do it all the time.

Are you a self-taught artist or where did you take art courses?

I got my BFA in 2000 after 4 years of study at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. At the time my focus was on graphic design, illustration and photography. After graduating, I went on to work as a designer and eventually a Creative Director, all the while painting for myself. It wasn't until just about 15 months ago that I left my full-time job in marketing to pursue painting full-time. I have never looked back!

Changing Winds

Were you encouraged to pursue your dreams and did you have a mentor or artists who inspired you?

I am very lucky. I have two very supportive parents that encouraged me to pursue my dreams — whatever they may be.

So many artists inspire me. My very first inspiration was my mother. She is an artist, designer and teacher and encouraged my creativity in all forms & mediums. Helen Frankenthaler is another. Her belief that there is “no formula” and the artist should “let the picture lead you where it must go,” are principles that I embrace.

I was lucky enough to study under Charles Goslin for 2 years at Pratt. He was a wealth of wisdom and I translated much of his advice into action, not only in art but life. I think this quote from Goslin helps to sum up much of his philosophy, “You can help heal a world full of hurt and violence, with the beauty and grace it so desperately needs.”

 The fabulous work of art by Julia makes this area of a room sing!

How does painting make you feel? How would you describe your artistic style?

Some days creating can be a battle, but then there is that moment when I layer on the paint just right — so that it dances in time and space. The canvas yields to my will, and I know I’ve just begun to capture something meaningful. That‘s when I have to catch my breath. It’s fascinating and wonderful, while at the same time, a struggle. That’s why I paint. My style is single-minded and focused on the simplicity of beauty in the moment. My goal is to drown out the noise and clutter to find a sense of calm. The end result is clean, fresh and modern.

Waking Dreams

What else inspires your works of art? Do you work plein aire, from photographs, or from the images in your own mind?

Color, usually from organic elements in nature, is a huge inspiration of mine.  I often obsess over color palettes, which I plan well in advance of any paint hitting the canvas. Also finding beauty in the contrasting nature of things, for example rough gritty texture layered with glossy metallic.

And although I carefully plan out my color palette, I let my paintings’ composition; lines and structure develop and evolve as I work. Not working from photos or images in my head, but instead building upon the canvas before me. Sometimes the hardest part is laying down the first brush stroke. 

Where can our readers find your works of art and do you have any upcoming exhibits?

My work is sold in the following design shops and galleries:

• Sorelle Gallery in New Canaan, Connecticut
• Bel Mondo in Westport, Connecticut
• Anam Cara Gallery in Greenwich, Connecticut
• Minted - http://www.minted.com/store/contacessi
• Crated:http://crated.com/contacessi
  
  

In addition to the above locations, you can see all of my work on my site www.juliacontacessi.com. There you can sign-up for the mailing list to get a sneak peak at the latest work, plus updates on events and promotions.

Julia Tema Contacessi

Finally what words of wisdom would you impart to the aspiring artist of any age?

Do what you love, and tell everyone about it. If you want to do your art as a living, don’t be shy about it and don’t keep it a secret. Surround yourself with like-minded creatives and help one another to succeed in your goals. Peers are  just as important as mentors.

Julia thank you so much for this enlightening interview. Your passion for your art shows so beautifully! 

Dear readers, a work of original fine art is the perfect gift for couples to give one another, or to acquire for oneself at the Holidays. Please do consider art at the top of your Gift List!

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

Please sign up by email for notifications so that you do not miss my latest features!

Lastly leave a comment as they truly make my day!

xoxo

Karena

The Arts by Karena

My Art is Featured at Cindy Hattersley's Rough Luxe!

Today I am honored to have my art featured at Interior Designer, Cindy Hattersley's blog, Rough Luxe! Please go take a look and read our interview!

Thank you so much  Cindy! I will be interested to hear your comments!!

Thank you to my friends and followers who support The Arts!

Please do  leave a comment, they make my day!

xoxo

Karena

The Arts by Karena


Please subscribe by email to get linked with my weekly postings!

2013 Artists Series Featuring Kerry Steele

An Interview with Artist Kerry Steele

Many of you will need no introduction to a favorite artist and interior designer in the blog world. Kerry's art has been featured  at Aesthetic Oiseau, the Pink Pagoda, Bijou and Boheme, Chinoiserie Chic, and Oh Captain, My Captain.  She has also been included in many juried exhibits which can be found at 

Kerry Steele Fine Art

Indigo Bunting
Sold

1)      At what point did you realize you had the passion for painting? How important was that moment/ time to you?

I don't know that there was any one magic moment. I have always loved creative pursuits and have painted on and off since I was about 7 years old. The delight with which my work is sometimes received has really fueled my passion. The realization that some people save up for a while to buy a painting I made is very humbling and keeps me going during moments of self-doubt.

Wet Words
24 X 30

 2)     Tell us about your inspirations when you start a work of art.

My inspirations vary widely. Often they are just vague ideas of an intended mood using specific color combinations and other times I see flowers or a landscape on Pinterest and just get going on a canvas.

Figure 4
Sold

3)     Kerry who are some other artists that you admire or have been mentors to you.

I absolutely adore Christina Baker, who has been a sweet friend and mentor. Her art is top notch and she is a darling person too.

K) I do admire her works of art!

What if God Wears Boots?
18 X 24 Oil
Available Contact Kerry

4)     How did your color palette come into being? It is very distinctive.

I am beginning to see that my color palette of choice is totally authentic to who I am, what I love. 

People that meet me in person in conjunction with my art tell me I look like my paintings. I think if I took a photo of my closet it would look like one of my paintings. Hmmm..maybe I'll paint my closet.

Secrets of the Sky
Oil and Acrylic Commissioned

 5)     I understand you accept special commissions, how would you like readers to contact you and what are your various social media links?

I often do commissions and have a special page devoted to common questions about the process (http://kerrysteele.com/commissions-faq.html) I am happy to answer further questions through my website contact form at (http://kerrysteele.com/contact.html)

I am on Pinterest here :http://pinterest.com/designdumonde/boards/

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/KerrySteeleArt?ref=hl

Instagram : @KerrySteeleart

Twitter : KerrySteeleart

My Etsy shop : https://www.etsy.com/shop/KerrySteelefineart

Fleurs Trouvee
Available
Contact Kerry

Laying Under the Table and Dreaming
Oil on Linen
Sold

Bluestocking Babe
Oil and Charcoal on Linen
Contact Kerry

6)     Kerry where is your studio, in your home or a separate space?

My studio is at home. It is currently still in the dining portion of my kitchen. I have plans for a dedicated room but a few home improvement projects are in the way of that at the moment.

(K) I have done both and will say that sometimes it is nice to work early in the morning or late at night without leaving the house!

Elemental Memory
24 X 30
Oil on Canvas
A work in Progress!
Contact Kerry

7)     What are some words of wisdom you would impart to the beginning artist of any age?

I think the best advice is just do it. Make your art. Feel the fear and jump in anyways. If its a little scary then you are probably doing something interesting.

Watery
24 x 30
Available in Art First Gallery
in Fredericksburg, VA

Thank you Kerry, for participating in The 2013 Artists Series.

Dear readers and faithful supporters of the Arts, I hope you will leave Kerry a comment about her works of Abstract Expressionism. I am taken with her spontaneity and often an element of joy in her works of art.

Kerry is offering a 15% off code on her paintings!

The Etsy code is KAREN2013 it is for 15% off anything in my Etsy store and expires at the end of July. 

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

PS Dear Readers, as Google Friend Connect Reader is phasing out, please follow Via BlogLovin at the top of my page or via email. That way you will not miss any of The Series OR Exciting Giveaways being Offered!

In case you missed:

An Interview with International Interior Designer Alex Papachristidis

An Interview with International Interior Designer Alex Papachristidis

Introducing Interior Designer Alex Papachristidis

I was very fortunate to have a long conversation recently with a the very talented Interior Designer Alex Papachristidis

Alex also sent me his book "The Age of Elegance" which I cannot recommend  highly enough.

It is filled with page after page of the most sumptuous rooms!
Please enjoy images below of some special projects including The Kips Bay Showhouse.

1)     Alex please tell us about your early years and your beginnings in good taste.

  I understand your childhood was not only quite interesting; it was an international adventure as well.

I had an amazing young life. My Mother believed in new style education, I was not left with nannies. I experienced seeing the world, foreign films, fine dining. One year we went to Greece for the summer and ended up staying for two years!

We went to Paris and Venice to visit museums and galleries.

2)    How did these experiences influence you and your career decisions?

I was influenced by style, sensibility, an understanding different cultures. I never thought of being a designer and so went into the family business; shipping. Then I understood how important is is to do something you are passionate about.

3)    Did you take classes early on in design or go to a school of interior design?

A friend told me that I always had great taste one day and I had an epiphany.  I immediately enrolled in the Parsons School of Design for classes. 

When I think back as a child I had collections of small scale houses which I styled. Friends and family gave me Steif Figures that I dressed for the homes; so I suppose there was a prediction to design.

4)  How would you describe your design style? A client has probably seen or heard of your work when you get a call to take on a project!

     Traditional with a fresh touch. I like to see a juxtaposition of the new and old! My friends and family have had me design their homes. Stay open and life has a way of bringing great experience and knowledge one's way!

5)    Whether you are working on a residential or commercial design; in what ways is the connection with your client important?

    We have a very special relationship and become close. I like to be very personal and am not technology oriented, though it is taking over. I stay in a good mood, respect my clients. There is a process of understanding each other and building a personal rapport.

     Have fun! I feel it is a privilege to have this experience and want it to be their home and to enjoy every room. I help them build collections and artwork. It is a balance.

6)    Who are some iconic interior designers that you admire and respect?

The great Renzo Mongiardino, see his work in "Roomscape" He was the Interior Designer for The Hotel Particular in Paris, Renzo was the designer in the 1960's for Stanislas and Lee Radziwill's home in Oxfordshire, England, and many more great projects as both Architect and Interior Designer.

     Georges Geoffrey, who designed for Gloria Guiness, the Rothchild's and more. The cultured Mona von Bismark, one of the best dressed and most influential woman of her time!

7)  Your new book is named “The Age of Elegance”, in which the Forward is written by the esteemed Mario Buatto. Alex how do you apply that description to your personal and design aesthetic?

    I am somewhat "old school", I am very aware of the architecture which sets the tone. I want to create a place of beauty, even in my own homes which I share with my partner Scott. 

    There has to be variety, every room a visual feast. I combine my love of 18th Century antiques with contemporary art. I am very detail oriented and stay open to new directions. All is luxurious (not necessarily expensive) and tasteful.

8)    Alex, you are also a designer who is featured in Ronda Rice Carmen’s “Designers At Home, Personal Reflections on Stylish Living” Your apartment on the Upper East Side, where you live with your partner Scott is luxurious, sumptuous and artful to the nth degree. I absolutely loved what I saw!  Comments?

     Ronda and I know each other through mutual friends. She has written about me on her site, so when she asked me to participate,I did not hesitate. Our apartment is a beautiful place to live and work in. (an understatement I believe)

9) Alex, what words of wisdom would you impart to the beginning interior designer?

    I tell young people to think of hobbies they like and how that can apply in choosing a career. Do what you are passionate about! 

      Work with a designer you admire to gain experience, be an intern. You will get a sense of scale and have great exposure. Study the classics, go to antique shops, go go museums. See the best there is. Study the best and most  luxurious fabrics and furniture lines.

    Build great relationships with all of your vendors. It is so important; I have worked with the same vendors for over 20 years. Be a great Problem Solver; as they will arise and you will be remembered for resolving the issue.

 Alex thank you so much for participating in The 2013 Designer Series. You have  given us a great insight into your life, your work, and your inspired design aesthetic!

Alex has a line of incredible handmade ceramic lamps designed for Christoper Spitzmiller Inc. and a lush line of Langhorne Carpets; the next may be a fine fabric collection. 

I hope you will purchase his design book for your own book collection, You will have hours of enjoyment perusing page after page. "The Age of Elegance"  Simply click on the link! You may also contact Alex through his design site  Alex Papachristidis Interiors

Readers please leave a comment for Alex; I know it will mean a great deal to him!

Thank you for supporting the arts in every form and genre. The arts make the world a more beautiful place.

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

The winner of The Enchanted Home Giveaway is....Betsy at Coastal Colors!

Congratulations and thank you Tina for sponsoring this Giveaway for the  Summer Hostess!