Archive for the ‘Contemporary Art’ Category

 

Custom Commission your own Contemporary Fine Art

Posted on: September 30th, 2022 by Art Leaders No Comments

Commissioned Art for your home or office

Published September 30th, 2022

You did it.
You found an artist you LOVE….but they don’t have anything in the size you need!

Sometimes you fall in love with an artist’s work, but want something customized to fit your décor, colors, and style. More commonly, you might be restricted by size for a specific spot in your home or office. Not to worry, many artists are happy to customize paintings or sculptures for their collectors.

Many times, we have successfully worked with collectors and artists to help define and execute their unique vision. From original paintings to glass wall sculptures, have your preferred art piece customized to fit your needs. Below, find three stunning examples of contemporary art commissions that we have coordinated for our collectors.

Kerri Warner

Contemporary Figurative Art Commission

One of our collectors fell in love with the work o of our newest mixed media artists, Kerri Warner. In particular, they loved Warner’s piece titled “Gold Leaf”, but they needed something smaller in different colors to fit a particular spot in their home. The commission turned out perfect, and the artist was even able to incorporate the collectors’ names into their commission. Check out the finished product below!

Kerri Warner Contemporary Art Commission

Inspiration – ‘Gold Leaf’ by Kerri Warner

Renato Foti

Contemporary Glass Art Commission

Another collector was looking for something to fill an alcove at the end of their hallway. After visiting the collector’s home for an art consultation, the collector decided to have a custom glass wall sculpture made by Renato Foti. We were able to work with the collector to customize the colors of sculpture to pull in colors from her home décor. In fact, we gave the artist the colors to ensure the artwork would work perfectly. View the final piece below!

Custom Commission by Renato Foti

Inspiration – “Retro Prism Series” by Renato Foti

Antonio Molinari

Contemporary Abstract Art Commission

Abstract artist, Antonio Molinari, creates large scale paint pours filled with layered veils of color. One admirer of the Detroit artist’s work loved the idea of having a diptych commissioned. Well-versed in custom commissions, Molinari was able to create a diptych painting similar to the one that our collector originally had her eye on. Commissioning a diptych based on “Botanical Reflection” solved the long wall problem that the collector faced, just in time for her to host a family dinner in her new home. Now that is truly a fairy tale ending.

Antonio Molinari Custom Commission

Inspiration – “Botanical Reflection” by Antonio Molinari

To have your own contemporary art commissioned, contact the gallery today!

Follow Art Leaders on Instagram, Linkedin and Facebook to stay up to date on all things art.

Contemporary Art for your Dining Room

Posted on: September 15th, 2022 by Art Leaders No Comments

3 Contemporary Art Ideas for the Dining Room

Published September 15th, 2022

Spice up your dining room this fall with a new contemporary painting! With the holidays fast approaching, its time to get your hosting space ready for friends, family and loved ones. Original artwork can spruce up any space and bring new life and visual interest. Below, find three of our favorite contemporary artworks that work in any neutral contemporary dining space.

Rodney Denne

Local Detroit artist, Rodney Denne, creates bold figurative and abstract paintings. In fact, many of his pieces include layers of colors and symbols that are sure to start conversations! Featured  the title painting from his Exposed series, a perfect contemporary art piece for your dining room.

David Ma

David Ma’s original contemporary abstract paintings showcase an appreciation for the natural world. For instance, his use of color paired with the gestural texture of the paint creates an organic scene only nature can create. Furthermore, The organic nature of his artworks create a calming and serene atmosphere for your dining space.

Ekaterina Ermilkina

Contemporary artist, Ekaterina Ermilkina paints abstract cityscapes that are full of texture and color. These textured oil paintings resemble a mosaic due the heavy specks of color and shape, giving the viewer a feeling of unity and togetherness. What better way to represent the unity of family and friends than enjoying a stunning original painting by Ermilkina in your dining room.


Follow the gallery on Instagram and Linkedin for more art inspiration and ideas! Additionally, feel free to call or email the gallery for more information.

248-539-0262   |   info@artleaders.com

Figurative Art – From Traditional to Contemporary

Posted on: August 20th, 2022 by Art Leaders No Comments

Five Figurative Artists You’ll Love

Published on August 20th, 2022

Some of the most influential and well-known works of art connect us to the human figure. For example – The Mona Lisa, The Scream, The Birth of Venus – all speak to us through the human figure. Figurative art, whether traditional and representational or contemporary and abstract, creates a human element and a captivating presence in your home. Whether it be an expression, an action, or simply a familiar face, when we look at the human figure on a painting, we are able to make connections to our own lives.

Here at the gallery, we have a wide selection of figurative paintings, prints, and sculptures. Anna Razumovskaya’s contemporary impressionist painting bring us romance, while Gabe Leonards cinematic, story-telling paintings bring us drama. Figurative art from traditional to contemporary can compliment just about any space. Finally, below you will find five of our favorite figurative artworks that can impact any space.

Beauty of Dark by Hessam Abrishami

Beauty of Dark by Hessam Abrishami, Figurative Art from traditional to contemporary

Hessam Abrishami, Beauty of Dark, Ltd. Ed. Giclee on Canvas, 36″ x 48″

Loving the Spin by Anna Razumovskaya

Anna Razumovskaya, Loving the Spin, Hand-Embellished Giclee on Canvas

Anna Razumovskaya, Loving the Spin, Hand-Embellished Giclee on Canvas

Gold Leaf by Kerri Warner

Gold Leaf by Kerri Warner at Art Leaders Gallery

Kerri Warner, Gold Leaf, Mixed Media on Board, 48″ x 72″

Rossetto II by Pietro Adamo

Rossetto II by Pietro Adamo

Pietro Adamo, Rossetto II, Mixed Media on Canvas, 48″ x 24″

Lip Gloss is for Girls by Gabe Leonard

Lip Gloss is For Girls by Gabe Leonard

Gabe Leonard, Lip Gloss is for Girls, Ltd. Ed. on Canvas

Find a piece of art that speaks to you! You can find our contemporary and traditional figurative artists here:  Browse All Artists.

Anna Razumovskaya | Hessam Abrishimi | Kerri Warner | Pietro Adamo | Gabe Leonard

Contact the Gallery for more information on starting your own collection of figurative art, from traditional to contemporary. Additionally, you can follow the gallery on Instagram for gallery updates!

Craig Alan – Together They Stand

Posted on: July 26th, 2022 by Art Leaders No Comments

Populus by Craig Alan

Exhibition on view at Art Leaders Gallery August 1st – 31st, 2022

Published on July 26th, 2022

In recent uneasy times, many of us have seen how much we need one another. Isolation during the pandemic reminded us just how important it is to spend time with friends and loved ones. One person alone may be able to climb a mountain, but a large group of people can move that same mountain, or in Craig Alan’s case, create that mountain. Craig Alan’s Populus series is a visual reminder that humans can create something powerful together.

Hope Around the Corner by Craig Alan at Art Leaders Gallery - Mi

Inspiration

While he was visiting his hometown, Craig Alan found inspiration for what would become his most popular series of work. The series is composed of tiny figures, grouped together to create larger compositions of human figures, popular icons, and even abstract shapes. This series drew inspiration from a balcony overlooking Orange Beach, Alabama where people enjoying a wedding party seemed to form the shape of an eye where they stood. Furthermore, Craig explains, “Inspiration begins with a ‘What if…’ as I consider alternate imagery, surfaces, effects, results, etc. It comes from the past in conjunction with now. Like a bolt of lightning.”

Since the epiphany, his Populus series is now home to dozens of celebrities and icons of all ages. These icons include celebrities such as, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Freddie Mercury, John Lennon, Michael Jackson, James Bond and James Dean. He also pays homage to master artists such as Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, and Van Gough.

Craig states, “Art needs to be responsible to its purpose; to inspire and enhance.” To beginning artists he says encouragingly, “be yourself and do what YOU want to do, not what someone else advises or suggests,” and in the words of his Pepaw, “Don’t ever quit!”

Craig Alan from the Ground Up

From the Ground Up

Craig Alan has become publicly recognized as an innovator in the visual arts industry through the years. For example, he has presence in many galleries across the U.S., England, Germany and Canada. He has done work for commercials, advertisements, and even large-scale murals.

Alan’s most recent mural “From the Ground Up” is Atlanta, Georgia’s newest public art piece. The mural spans six stories tall and is a depiction of the city’s rise from the ashes of the Civil War to become a world known city. “From the Ground Up” embodies Atlanta’s rebuilding amidst the nation’s current civil unrest and its fight to unite against the coronavirus pandemic.

“From the Ground Up’ is also available in a limited edition print! Click here to view the artwork.

Click here to view “From the Ground Up” on YouTube.

View the Craig Alan Populus collection here.

Follow Art Leaders Gallery on Instagram for more updates on Craig Alan’s work!

Detroit Elite Eight

Posted on: June 28th, 2022 by Art Leaders No Comments

Michigan’s Best Artists share their inspiration

Published on June 28th, 2022

Michigan is home to many talented artists, and Art Leaders Gallery recognizes just how important local art can be to the community. Throughout July, the gallery will be exhibiting eight of our talented local artists. The Detroit Elite Eight are not only making an impact in the Detroit Metro, but many of our artists have been recognized internationally.

In addition, we often connect to the story and inspiration behind artists and their artwork. Read about where the Detroit Elite Eight find their inspiration and what their work means to them below.

Antonio Molinari – Abstracts

Detroit Elite Eight

Where do you find your inspiration?

“I find inspiration in nature.  There is so much to draw from, the beautiful shapes, colors, and textures.  Just stepping outside I constantly discover so many ideas to pursue.  I also draw inspiration from design.  Proportions, line work, and the simplicity of things I find attractive.  I feel the combination of these influences create something unique and fresh.

How has art impacted your life?

“Art is vital to me as a person.  It’s not a hobby to me it is so much more.  I physically and emotionally need art.  I need the visual stimulation and emotional expression of art.  It touches a part of my spirit that nothing else can.”

What is the purpose or goal of your work?

“The goal of my work is to captivate viewers and stimulate their imagination.  Take them out of their current state, let them lose themselves in the painting.  I want viewers to forget stresses and feel inspired. The goal is to bring them on journey each time they view the art in hopes that they discover new hidden details each time.”

View Molinari’s Artwork


Gerd Schmidt – Landscapes

Detroit Elite Eight

Where do you find your inspiration?

“I find my inspiration everywhere, constantly in awe of nature and the world we live in. I am lucky to have a home surrounded by beautiful trees that inspire my paintings.”

How has art impacted your life?

“I believe that art is such a fun way to express my creativity and life a dreamful life.”

What is the purpose or goal of your work?

“Personally, my goal is to have fun and improve as much as possible. I enjoy seeing people look at my work. Often as they get closer and closer, they wonder if the trees are real or not. Hopefully, this allows people to look closely at nature and art, as they are so intertwined.”

View Gerd’s artwork


Dane Porter – Minimalist Sculpture Artist

Detroit Elite EightWhere do you find your inspiration?

“For most of my work, I find inspiration in two very different things, nature, and architecture. With a lot of work containing modern minimalist lines, the inspiration can be found throughout. A lot of pieces are either representational of modern infrastructure and or natural silhouettes.”

How has art impacted your life?

“Art has affected every aspect of my life ever since I can remember. Even from a young age, I was always creating. Today, most of my decisions are based on creativity and color. Art has graciously given me purpose in so many ways. Art has greatly impacted my life by becoming a career for me; creating contemporary pieces of art for homes and commercial businesses. Coming from a family line of artists and craftsmen; art was destined to become a constant in my life.”

What is the purpose or goal of your work?

“The goal of my art has always been to create powerful visual works never seen before. The purpose however has always been to create artwork that temporarily takes the viewer out of their norm to experience something brand new and visually captivating. And if I am lucky, A bit of symbolism will be found throughout my work as well.”

View Dane Porter’s artwork


Rodney E. Denne – Abstract Figurative Detroit Artist

Detroit Elite Eight

Where do you find your inspiration?

“I find inspiration by studying other artists. It is important to learn from others in order to develop. your own style. I am particularly interested in the works of CY Twombly, Franz Klein, Bob Thompson, Willem do Kooning and Mark Rothko.”

How has art impacted your life?

“Growing up in Clarkston, MI, I really enjoyed drawing. My mother did ceramics and I was always surrounded by creativity. After spending time in the Air Force, I began to draw again. This led to painting and eventually the creation of my large scale abstract figurative works. I now feel that I paint because I have to. It is part of me.”

What is the purpose or goal of your work?

“I believe that my audience hasn’t even been born yet, so I am constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with new mediums and styles that might be enjoyed once I am gone.”

View Denne’s artwork


Konstantin Savchenko – Impressionistic, Textured Oil Painter

Konstantin

Where do you find your inspiration?

“As an art instructor, I find inspiration seeing the incredible artworks that my students create. I feel that my work continues to develop and change being surrounded by creativity everyday.”

How has art impacted your life?

“I have met amazing people throughout my career, and I am so grateful for those relationships. Without art, I would not have the same life that I do today.”

What is the purpose or goal of your work?

“The goal of my work is to connect with my audience emotionally so that they can be transported into the landscape depicted in my paintings.”

View Konstantin’s artwork


Andrew Madvin – Hand-Blown Glass Artist

Detroit Elite Eight

Where do you find your inspiration?

“I grew up curious with the freedom to explore the outdoors quickly becoming interested in the natural world around me. In high school, I loved metals and jewelry classes, which eventually led me to glass sculpture.”

How has art impacted your life?

“Art shaped my life. I feel very fortunate to be able to work with my brother, doing what we love.”

What is the purpose or goal of your work?

“The material holds an excitement I can feel. I see endless possibilities in form, technique, and physical attraction waiting to be discovered. This is the goal of my work; to explore its possibilities.”

View Andrew Madvin’s artwork


Robert Madvin – Hand-Blown Glass Detroit Artist

Robert Madvin

Where do you find your inspiration?

“My inspiration comes from nature. My artwork focuses on natural elements, textures, and color. I also take inspiration from my travels and day to day life. While I was studying in Hawaii, I created his glass sculpture series called Pohaku, meaning “rock” or “stone.” Ancient Hawaiians would stack stones upon one another to create rock sculptures. The sculptures acted as navigational tools throughout the islands.”

How has art impacted your life?

“My brother, Andrew, introduced me to glass at while I was still in high school and it forever changed my life. We now are lucky to own our own glass studio where we create our artwork together.”

 

View Robert Madvin’s artwork


Richard Powell – Contemporary Pointillism 

Richard Powell

Where do you find your inspiration?

“The work of other artists constantly inspires me. Many times I wonder through art fairs and galleries in awe of what humans can create. In addition, I have always enjoyed the works of impressionists and post-impressionists such as Van Gogh and George Seurat.”

How has art impacted your life?

“I grew up with a love for fine art. I went to school at The College of Creative Studies in Detroit. Art continues to hold a strong presence in my life as I experiment with a variety of mediums. Powell has paints with a variety of mediums.”

What is the purpose or goal of your work?

“I hope to inspire other artists and my audience to grow in their own creativity.”

View Richard Powell’s artwork

 

Ukrainian Artists

Posted on: April 19th, 2022 by Art Leaders No Comments

Artist Spotlight – April

Ukrainian Artists – Konstantin Savchenko, Anastasiya Skryleva, Andrii Afansiev 

Published on April 19th, 2022

Art Leaders Gallery is proud to represent three talented Ukrainian artists. Among many well-known international and local artists, our Ukrainian artists are some of our top-selling and most gifted artists. Konstantin Savchenko, Anastasiya Skryleva, and Andrii Afanasiev are all oil painters, yet their individual styles emerge in their paintings. While each artists paints with thick texturized oil paint, their unique processes and varying subjects allow them to distinguish themselves. For our April Artist Spotlight, we are happy to showcase our Ukrainian Artists. Find their Artists Biographies below.

Konstantin Savchenko

To begin, world renowned artist, Savchenko, creates paintings that are full of color and textures. Each oil painting is a study of blending paint with palette knife to create stunning landscapes, cityscapes, seascapes, and florals. Further, he expresses emotion and beauty by building up his shadows and highlights with heavy text

ures.

Savchenko began traveling the world with this family at a young age. During his travels, he studied painting techniques at various exhibitions.  Furthermore, he took part in many shows while studying at the Kharkov Art and Industry Institute. His work evolved into what it is today by pushing his methods and his colorful textures. Furthermore, he now works as an Art Instructor at the Kharkov Art College.  He teaches his unique style, and his students are inspired by his artwork. His paintings are both moving and intimate due to their color and emotional subjects, such as Venetian landscapes, couples in the park, and stunning floral arrangements.

View Savchenko’s work on our website or on his instagram page!

 


Anastasiya Skryleva

Anastasiya was born on February 18, 1997 in Kharkov. Her life has been centered around art since she learned how hold a paintbrush. This has shaped her into the young artist she is today. In 2012 she entered the Kharkov Art College where she began her artistic training under previously mentioned, world renowned artist Konstantin Savchenko. She exhibited her work with other students and faculty in both 2013 and 2014. Since 2013, she has taken part in exhibitions of the Ukrainian Union of Artists. She also opened at the collective exhibition “New Wave” in Gallery Smalto in 2014. Canada, China, France, Germany, Poland, Russia, Turkey and the Ukraine displayed her collections in both public and private settings.

Skryleva’s oil paintings capture deep tones and layered colors to create stirring images that speak to the viewer. Among landscapes of her native Ukraine, she favors depicting still life arrangements, and the beautiful fluidity of decorative koi fish. In the gallery, you will see many intricate floral arrangements resting on top of a female figures head. These floral portraits have become a recognized subject matter of Skryleva. Art Leaders Gallery is proud to be the first gallery in the United States to represent this young, blossoming artist.

View Skryleva’s work on our website or on his instagram page!

 


Andrii Afanasiev

Andrii Afanasiev has spent years studying fine arts in Ukraine. He began this passion in his youth. He received his education at the State Art College. At this time, Andrii became an apprentice in the painting department. After spending six years in school, Andrii transferred to The National Academy of Fine Arts. In addition, Andrii began his passion for art restoration. There, he received his degree in art restoration and painting. Now, he enjoys creating floral, seascape, and landscape paintings with bold texture and oil paint.

Andrii continues to build his career around painting and restoring famous fine artworks. He currently works as a master painter and fine art restorer at The Museum of Contemporary Art of Ukraine, as well as The Museum of Theater Music and Cinema of Ukraine. With this, he learns new methods of painting texture, color, and medium.

As a result of this knowledge, he creates stunning abstract florals, and textured seascapes. Moreover, he creates large scale paintings with layers of oil to draw out texture and depth. For example, when looking at one of his seascapes, one can almost hear the waves on the ocean. Andrii is popular for his romantic, contemporary, floral paintings. He effortlessly paints his floral pieces ‘floating’ on the canvas. Andrii paints each subject with textural strokes and beautiful blends of color.  Furthermore, his stunning paintings cross boundaries between classic and contemporary.

View Afanasiev’s work on our website!

Figurative Abstract Paintings by Rodney E. Denne

Posted on: March 18th, 2022 by Art Leaders No Comments

Artist Spotlight

Detroit Artist Rodney E. Denne (RED)

Published on March 18th, 2022

Rodney Denne is a Detroit artist, known for creating dynamic figurative abstract paintings. Denne creates large bodies of work using both bold, vibrant colors and thick mono-chromatic texture. In his collage and more colorful works, he adds imagery of cars, nature, robotics, and the human body to symbolize grounding. However, in his highly textured black and white paintings, bold abstract figure-like shapes juxtapose delicate background patterns. Through this process, immersive concepts emerge in his paintings. As a result, Denne’s work brings interest, vibrancy, and thoughtfulness into our lives. Denne expresses, “I am nature; a part of all things. I feel my art must come from within.” 

Read Denne’s feature article in the West Bloomfield City Lifestyle magazine, highlighting his artistic inspiration and background. The article is written by Amy Niezur and originally published in the June 2022 issue.

Painting Process  

Denne creates his dramatic pieces with oil sticks and various other medium. This allows him to produce expressive line work and unique imagery. Similarly, in his collage works, he layers a variety of mediums. Subsequently, the layers create a depth that is unique to his work alone. In his own words, “I work on both painting styles at one time. I’m divided by the figure and color, as well as black and white. I find the need to fulfill both desires in the creation of my paintings.”

 


 

Heavy With Welcome by Rodney E. Denne

Heavy with Welcome by Rodney E. Denne

Past and Present

Born in Detroit, Michigan in 1971, Denne was drawn to art at the age of four. Memories of his years of service in the US Air Force influence his work. After serving in the military, Denne studied under artist Bob Jacobson. Later, he received a BA in Art and Religious Studies from Saint Mary’s College of California. Later, he then gained gallery representation at the age of 27. He describes himself as an abstract expressionist and a contemporary figure painter. His mid-century modern style infuses with his personal experiences to create dramatic compositions. His emotional, large-scaled figures encapsulate viewers through their textural patterns. Accordingly, each painting has a title that reflects a personal connection to Denne’s past and present.

Furthermore, he claims to be a product of urban and suburban environments. In effect, such duality is infused in his work. Denne states, “Within the background of my paintings, I use the images and words of mysticism, religion, myth and the Divine unknown.” He draws influence from the mid-century European art movement COBRA. In addition, his work also falls in line with artists such as Paul Klee, Franz Klein, Bob Thompson, CY Twombly, Jean-Michael Basquiat, Pablo Picasso, and William De-Kooning.

The works of art that give Denne international recognition reside in select fine art galleries and private collections throughout the United Sates as well as Europe. You can stay up to date with his latest works by following our Facebook or Instagram page

 

Exposed by Rodney Denne (RED)

Exposed by Rodney E. Denne (RED)

Figurative Abstract Commissions

Rodney E. Denne uses unique methods to convey strong statements in his figurative abstract paintings. Denne offers custom commissions for clients. These striking paintings work well with a variety of decor. A bold colorful painting will liven up your space. Conversely, a more neutral black and white painting adds texture to your space. In essence, Denne will be sure to create something remarkable for you. Currently, Denne’s work is available exclusively through Art Leaders Gallery

Family Triptych by Rodney E. Denne

 

Contemporary Paintings by Antonio Molinari

Posted on: November 5th, 2021 by Art Leaders No Comments

Artist Spotlight – Contemporary Paintings by Antonio Molinari

Published on November 5th, 2021

Antonio Molinari is a Detroit artist who creates large scale, contemporary paintings. Certainly, they will make a bold statement in  your home. Molinari creates dynamic color palettes. He does this through overlapping layers of color. As a result, these abstract paintings ignite the senses. Furthermore, viewers can dive into the depth of his delicate color washes. His pieces often allude to floral and plant patterns. In addition, this reminds us of the connection that we all have to the earth. Moreover, this renews the viewers spirit, and brings both energy and calmness into our spaces.

 

Abstract Painting Process

Antonio Molinari takes the poured painting process to a whole new level with his large scale paintings. For instance, he executes an exquisite amount of both control and freedom. For example, he manipulates the canvas to guide the direction of the paint. However, he also lets it flow into the delicate abstractions that we see in his work. Molinari strategically selects his unique colors. By doing this, he creates dynamic color palettes as veils of pigment overlap one another. You can keep up with his latest work by following along on his Instagram Page

BetweenTheLines-AntonioMolinari

Bold Inspirations

Molinari spent his childhood in the countryside. As a result, his love for nature and organic shapes was first sparked. For instance, he recalls admiring the way the rays of light moved across the field during sunrise. Therefore, these delicate washes of sunlight are mimicked throughout his work. Each piece has an unexpected way of breathing new life into a space. Molinari went on to receive his degree from the College of Creative studies. He works as a designer for Lincoln Motor Company creating concept car interiors.

Contemporary Painting Commissions

Antonio Molinari uses soft techniques to make bold statements through his contemporary paintings. As a result, his dynamic, sexy paintings illuminate any space. Molinari is happy to offer commissions for clients. Furthermore, if a specific color scheme or size is desired, he is happy to work with you. In short, he will create the perfect artwork for your home! Molinari’s paintings can be hung either horizontally or vertically to fit your space. These beautiful paintings work well in both contemporary and mid-century modern homes.

Currently, Molinari’s work is available exclusively through Art Leaders Gallery. We encourage you to come in to the gallery. Experience these beautiful abstract paintings in person. Seeing these large scale paintings are even more striking first hand! We are happy to work with you one on one to help you select or commission the perfect piece for your space.

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What is Art? | 2019 Dr. Seuss Book Release

Posted on: February 28th, 2019 by Art Leaders No Comments

Dr. Seuss's Horse MuseumWhat is Art?

Published February 28th, 2019

With the 115th birthday of Dr. Seuss approaching, and the recent passing of his wife Audrey Geisel, there has been a lot of press regarding the legendary author; 28 years after his death!

Among the many drawings remaining at the Seuss estate, they discovered an unfinished manuscript. This manuscript was found in a similar manner to the one used the create the posthumous 2015 release of “What Pet Should I Get” (a now best-seller).

This new manuscript however deals with a quite exciting topic for those of us who already appreciate Dr. Seuss fine art! As you may know, Ted’s late wife Audrey Geisel paired with Chase art group at the turn of the century to establish a collection of limited-edition fine artworks, never before seen to the public. Ted created many artworks during his lifetime which he never sold. The rare collections include his Secret Art, Collection of Unorthodox Taxidermy, Illustration Art, & Bronze Tribute Collection.

The Ultimate Question

The upcoming book asks the question “What is Art?” and explores an artist’s creative process. Ultimately, it will give readers an inside look at how Ted thought about art, and how he viewed the world. Ted (Theodore Seuss Geisel) had an amazingly creative eye and a passionate belief in imagination! It is so exciting to be able to get a glimpse inside his mind after all of these years.

“Dr. Seuss’s Horse Museum” is set to release this upcoming Sept. 3. through Random House Children’s Books. Illustrator Andrew Joyner finished the 80% completed manuscript and fully illustrated the book, as the sketches recovered were too incomplete to use. Joyner’s style is “both subtly Seussian and wholly his own.”

New Dr.Seuss Book 2019 Original Dr. Seuss Sketch 2019 Book Release

The publication will feature references to Alexander Calder, Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso, and other famous artists. The rumor is that Seuss characters like the Cat in the Hat, and the Grinch may appear in this book! Some of Joyner’s previous children’s books include “Too Many Elephants in This House” and “The Swap.”

The upcoming release of this new children’s book is truly delightful. In fact, it is a joy to see the legacy of Dr.Seuss living on in this new generation!

 

Images by ABC News

Craig Alan’s Populus: People Making People

Posted on: February 21st, 2019 by Art Leaders No Comments

Craig Alan’s Populus: People Making People

Despite the title’s multiple meanings, I am of course referring to Craig Alan’s ‘Populus’ figurative artwork series at Art Leaders Gallery. His artwork has captured the attention of many in the past decade. Check out this News Article of his latest public art piece in Atlanta, Georgia!

Each painting reads as a portrait from a distance– often a celebrity or known public figure. When you approach the work and look closely, you start to understand that each line and detail making up the portrait is an individual of their very own. Above all, the figures that make up these portraits are always unique. They interact in a world within the depiction of another a human being! In other words, he makes people made from people!

Alan’s Inspiration

Craig Alan’s inspiration behind the series began after he started taking photographs from his mother’s condo balcony. He captured the ever-changing crowds from a distance. As a result, a pattern began to form of a human eye in the lens of his camera. “This started my creative wheels turning,” Craig explains. Everything after that I suppose is history!

Craig Alan's Populus Series Hope Around The Corner featuring mini figures gathering around the letters HOPE available at Art Leaders Gallery

Hope Around the Corner by Craig Alan

 

Craig Alan believes that individuals need to work together for the greater good of the community. Therefore, his pieces have a general sense of community, positivity, and hope. He believes we are all small pieces of one large puzzle. Consequently, he wants viewers to be able to see themselves in each one of his pieces. As a result, his artwork is customizable with unique figures of your choice.

Populus Process

Craig Alan adding custom details to a piece of artwork from his Populus series.

Craig Alan hand painting ‘The Crossover’ details.

Firstly, Craig Alan meticulously makes stencils for each one of the tiny figures that makes up each of his larger images. Secondly, he then uses these stencils to spray paint each figure individually onto the canvas to create a larger image. After that, each figure is hand painted to include their unique qualities.

Watch this video for an in depth look at Craig Alan’s Populus Process. 

Craig has been expanding his figurative artwork series, which is gaining more and more recognition. In addition to public art, he offers originals, commissioned mixed media work, and has recently released a new limited-edition line on canvas! Craig now works in three different artwork classifications; Original, Mixed Media, and Limited Edition. His new limited-edition works are a signed & numbered edition of 75 giclée’s on canvas. His mixed media on wood is his most popular genre of work. They are available for commissions and are customizable in size, color, and details. Clients have asked him to add in their names, certain figures, their own portrait, etc. His original paintings are where the limits are fairly endless. Collectors can commission a Craig Alan original of their own face in the Populus style if desired.

Stay tuned and let Art Leaders Gallery be your go-to resource for all things new with Craig Alan!

Published February 21st, 2019

 

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