living artists of today
contemporary
ART
Vol. II
international
Copyright © [2013] by Art & Beyond Studio, Inc. 143645-RYK1 Library of Congress Control Number: 214900853 ISBN:
Softcover Hardcover Ebook
978-1-4931-6422-6 978-1-4931-6423-3 978-1-4931-6424-0
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner. All artists featured in the Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art book retain Copyright © for each of their individual images. All rights reserved. Editor: Alina Ryk Lampert Design and Layout: Art & Beyond Studio. Inc. — exclusively designed for Art & Beyond Publications, a part of the Art & Beyond Studio, Inc.: www.art-beyond.com www.artandbeyondpublications.com. All rights reserved.
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contents Fine Art
Jewelry
Yulia Altas 4 Dr. Elana Ashley 6 Olivia Boa 8 Debbi Chan 10 Peter Filzmaier 12 Istvan Gal 14 Kathleen Gallagher 16 Kevin Harris 18 Anna Ivleva 20 Jack Jasper 22 Helen Kagan PhD 24 Jim Lively 26 Kevin McCabe 28 Joachim McMillan 32 Zlatko Milakovic 34 Jane Ellen Murray 36 Natalya B. Parris 38 Talia Prilutsky 42 Susan Anne Russell 44 Mila Ryk 46 Karen J. Sander 50 Paula Smiles 52 Kellen Traynor 54 Amy Trosino 56 Ralph White 58 Tom Zimmerman 60
Sandy Den Hartog 64
Sculpture Margarita van der Velden 68
Digital Art Photography Deb Drew Brown Charles Fletcher Vered Galor Elton Leonard Jr. Satoshi Matsuyama Diana Whiley
72 74 76 78 80 82
From the Publisher
fine art
yulia altas BUTTERFLIES ARE DANCING. Gouache on paper, 12” x 14”. 2012
Russian-born artist Yulia Altas was one of a handful of international artists who exhibited her work for the first time in, 2013 at the Miami Iron Side during the City of Miami – endorsed exhibition entitled “International Biennale Artists Exhibition Miami, IBAEM,” an event produced by The Art Marketing Mind, LLC.
“Even in my gloomiest mood, I try to find in the natural creations from God the raw material, the magic of life, colors and shapes needed to come up with a work of art,” – Yulia Altas.
Altas Yulia was born in Tula a city in Russia, surrounded by the rich art heritage of this country. Her first serious artistic education began at 10 years of age, in the Tula art school. During her 4 years of training, she took part in various competitions, exhibitions and festivals of children’s drawings, where awards, certificates and prizes were preseted. In 1993 she entered the Orel Art School, where she took most important basic skills of painting, drawing, composition, as well as crafts that included wall paintings, stained glass, Gobilen and more. Altas received an honors degree at Orel Art School, she later continued her studies for 6 years at Tula State University where she learned a new discipline, graphic design receiving a master degree. Immediately after graduation, in 2003, she went to New York, USA, where she continued her work in Graphic Design and fine art..
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Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art. Vol. II
AT SUNSET. Watercolor on paper, 12” x 14”. 2012
MEMORY OF SEPTEMBER 11. Mixed media on paper, 26” x 18”. 2013
Altas’ formal classical education is revealed in her colorful mix-media paintings depicting elements found in nature that are filled with picturesque features, which are characteristic of a combination of a well-lived and nurtured childhood in addition to the explicit graphic details learned during her college years. Her works are tender and emotional and she finds many opportunities in the open air to recreate her inspiration with the total energy of life that would be later used when she sets the theme to craft a particular motive or creation. Altas’ works have been showcased in New York at the Caelum Gallery in 2012; Spanish Society Benevolent Gallery in 2012 and 2013, she was one of a handful of international artists that exhibit in 2013 at the Miami Iron Side - endorsed exhibition entitled “International Biennale Artists Exhibition Miami, IBAEM,” an event produced by The Art Marketing Mind, LLC.; at the Elena AB Gallery Tribeca in NY, July and September in 2013; at the Chelsea Eye Gallery in NY in 2013. www.altasdesign.com
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dr. elana ashley
Dr. Elana Ashley Having greatly enjoyed reading Greco-Roman and Norse mythology as a child and teen, having studied the Bible during my early years and college years, and having received a Ph.D. from New York University in Ancient Near Eastern Languages and Literature, specializing in Ugaritic Mythology, I use my knowledge, understanding, and imagination to create bold, colorful, abstract, fantasy, mystical and spiritual paintings and mixed-media art. As a cancer survivor, I derive spiritual strength from the Bible. I take joy in every moment, in every splash of color, in ever-changing emotions and physical healing, in visions seen and unseen. Painting became the primary creative outlet for expressing my thoughts and feelings as I moved through the worst of the cancer and into the ongoing healing process. Whatever my mind, heart and spirit conceive, my hand translates into a colorful, fanciful reflection of reality; fantasy; mystery; sci-fi adventure; imagined, futuristic visions of what is to come; memories and dreams. I developed an artistic collection based on the Bible entitled Biblical Inspiration and the Creative Spirit.
This collection reflects man’s
awakening to his life’s journey, mission and relationship to God. Inspired by verses from AFTER THE GARDEN OF EDEN. Watercolor, 24” x 18”.
Genesis, two paintings emerged—After the Garden of Eden and Before the Covenant. My painting Reflections and the Hidden Cave represents man’s quest to understand the hidden messages behind God’s words in the Bible. Fountain of Life, the title of one of my mixed-media works, is referenced in the Books
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Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art. Vol. II
THE FLORAL KINGDOM OF ANIMALS. Acrylic, 28“ x 22“.
of Jeremiah and Psalms. Another painting, Delighting in the Law of the Lord Day and Night, signifies the duty of man in his service to the Lord, and appears directly in Psalms 1, verse 1. The painting Silver Wings, Humanity and the Shield of Truth represents the loving, protective relationship of God with mankind. Life—Pathway to Sunset represents man’s life journey with its joys, pains, and daily challenges. Through the painting A New Day—An Ancient City, viewers are encouraged to remember their roots—religious traditions, culture, and history. My art work falls into a series of four additional categories including Animals, Fantasies and Dreams (O, My Achin’ Back!), Sci-Fi Mystery (Alien Takeover), Nature, Animals and Birds (The Egret) and Abstract Art (Dream Images through Cats’ Eyes). My major focus as an artist has been to interweave bold colors into ever-changing tapestries of animal, plant and human life with spiritual awakenings—some planned, others completely unplanned. Sometimes I shift into quieter, more subtle tones, and the artwork reflects dreamlike, mystical and spiritual dimensions of my mind and heart. In addition to painting and mixed-media pursuits, my creativity has taken other artistic forms including cartooning, caricaturing, ceramics, sculpture, fiber art, puppet-making, floral design, and jewelry. Visit the Web: Division of Art - Dream Image Press. 847.480.8998 • www.dreamimagepress.com • DrAshley@comcast.net
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olivia boa BEWTEEN SKY AND EARTH. Acrylic on canvas, 50 cm x 70 cm. Timeless Painted blind.
Olivia Boa The freedom of painting blindsided “When I got the news that my 3 months old son was blind, I went through a deep reflection about our perception of things. When I created the “Blind Collection”, I never felt so much joy and freedom painting.” – Olivia Boa.
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Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art. Vol. II
THE TREE. Acrylic on canvas, 80 cm x 100 cm. Timeless Painted blind.
“If Olivia Boa feels free when she is painting blindfolded, this must be because she has years of practice behind her and she has mastered her movement with a spatula or her fingers, which makes her lay her acrylic colors following on a personal writing.”– Pierre Hugli for PH+Art magazine. oliviaboa@hotmail.ch • www.oliviaboa.sitew.fr
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debbi chan
GO GAME album. Watercolor/ink on rice paper done in a folding album, 14”W x 20”L. It will unfold to a continuous story painting 35 ft. Per album side.
Debbi Chan. On the cusp of two creative signs, the tiger and the rabbit, I was born in Houston, Texas. With a creative push from day one, I took up the brush by age ten. In my early years as a budding artist I decided that oil painting was not my thing but watercolor and ink were. That really never changed but the style vacillated from realism to fantasy throughout those formative years. It was not until a bit of aging wisdom came to me that I sought out a teacher and found Frank Chiu, a master artist in traditional Chinese painting. He mentored me for over a decade and was later joined by his wife, Judy. They showed me that just taking Sumi lessons was not enough. I involved myself in Chinese culture, philosophy, and art until it coursed through my veins and I saw the world through different eyes. My teacher gave me an artist name – Sosum. He said I always do what I say I will do and SOSUM was the name He chose. What He did not know is that the main reason I got in to traditional Chinese art was to paint on silk. Sosum also means, through the root character, threads of silk. I learned much from this wise teacher. then I took an invitation to visit Idaho for a three weeks vacation.
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GO GAME album. Watercolor/ink on rice paper done in a folding album, 14” W x 20”H.
INGE’S THE NETHERLANDS” album. Watercolor/ink on rice paper done in a folding album, 14” W x 20”H.
Four days before my departure for home, I decided to live here and when I went back home it was only to pack my apartment and say two goodbyes: one to the Buddhist Temple where I was an ordained nun; the other, to the Chiu’s, my mentors and teachers who had become family. Frank Chiu threw the IChing without my knowledge and four days later in my new home he told me what the sticks had said..... GO TO THE WESTERN MOUNTAINS...so now a decade has passed. I own a farm on ten acres of paradise, and my heart and art are reaching heights not reached by many... I can truly say that I am rich – rich with no money. And art is still as exciting as it was when I picked up that paintbrush fifty years ago. www.absolutearts.com/portfolios/s/sosum
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peter filzmaier SPECTRUM. Mixed media on paper, 40" x 30".
Oscar Wilde says. “Art is the most intense mode of individualism the world has known”, and according to Aristotle, “The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance but the inward significance”. Art, expressed through this inward significance reflects the individualism that Oscar Wilde refers to. This individualism combined with the pursuit of perfection in technique and visualization of the inner significance of a work of art engages artists, in a habitual, lifelong practice in achieving the originality and aesthetic quality in their art.
Peter Filzmaier. In the process of learning I continually study the great artists of the past and the notables of today to expand my knowledge of technique, color theory and composition. My originality in vision is the result of my path in life, my life experiences affecting my interpretation in color and form of the subjects I paint and this process continues to evolve as it is habitual within me to continue to strive to do more. The art market interests me as a platform for sharing my work and I cannot deny the pleasure of selling my work. However, I decided early in my pursuit to avoid the pitfall of painting for the market by continuing to express myself free of such an influence and so like in life I take the variations of popularity with a discerning interest and without adverse effect to my creative aspirations. Art is not a profession it envelopes all aspects of life affecting perception and heightening the thought processes regarding shapes, light values and colors. It taps the intuition enhancing imaginative renderings and automates principles of technique and design learned from habitual practice. It goes beyond a learned skill requiring the artist to be open to new ideas about self and others welcoming
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Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art. Vol. II
CONTEMPLATION. Acrylic on canvas, 16” x 20”.
the individuality of people and cultures to evolve thinking, to evolve artistic expression. I find great solace in the natural world and I am always inspired and at awe when I see the beauty of this world and when I see the common desires among so many people to build a world with more opportunity, acceptance and understanding. I first started dabbing in oils in my late teens but did not seriously take up painting until my early twenties. Growing up in Ontario, Canada and having an affinity for the out Doors, drew me to the works of the “Group of Seven”. I began painting on site through all seasons and traveled throughout the country. During this time, I was engaged in jobs in construction, horse racing and forestry while I developed my skills as an artist. At age twenty nine, I made the decision to attend the Georgian College of Fine Art to supplement my love of art with formal training. This was such an asset for me as I gained much knowledge in art history and color theory while having access to live models to hone my drawing skills. The academic exposure introduced me to the art of the world and nourished a thirst for learning which to this day has not diminished. After leaving Georgian College, I lived in inexpensive accommodations, lacking modern conveniences and continued my work painting outdoors along with frequenting libraries to study the works of masters. My work was well received at art shows and represented at a number of galleries. After spending a few winters in southwestern United States, I was represented by an agent and galleries in Scottsdale, Arizona and La Jolla, California. I then moved to Long Beach, California and continued to paint in the American southwest for a number of years. From there, I moved to St. Petersburg, Florida were again I began showing in one man shows and acquired an agent who was also able to show and sell my work in Munich, Germany. Today I live in Bushnell Florida, where I built my house and studio, a rural area in central Florida, close to nature. peterfilzmaier@gmail.com • www.filzmaierstudio.com
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istvan gal UNFORGETTABLE MARILYN . Oil on canvas, 30” x 40”.
Istvan Gal was born in Budapest, Hungary. Gal immigrated to the United States, eventually settling in Chicago, IL about 44 years ago. As a young man full of hopes and ambitions, Gal experienced difficulties early on as an immigrant in a new countlry but persaviered when he received an engineering degree from Midwest Engineering College. Shortly after Gal began his career as a design engeneer, a field he worked in for many years. During his years as an engineer in the Chicago factories, Gal dreamed about becoming a full time artists and painting beautiful pictures.
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Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art. Vol. II
BLUE DANUBE. Oil on canvas, 36” x 48”.
This dream came true when Gal retired. He began a painting program at The School of Art at the Art Institute of Chicago where he received a certificate and exhibited his work. “Now, I’m painting my life away and enjoying it.” stated Gal. His work was published in the School Catalog (2007) of the Art Institute of Chicago. Over the years Istvan Gal’s work was exhibited at Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL, Art & Beyond Studio, Morton Grove, IL, Senior Artist Network, Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago, IL, Pallet & Chisel Gallery, Chicago, IL, Emily Oak Nature Center, Skokie, IL, Devonshire Cultural Center, Skokie, IL. gal2453@msn.com
LAKE POWELL. Oil on canvas, 30 “ x 30”.
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kathleen gallagher WILDFLOWERS. Oil on canvas, 48”x 48”.
Kathleen Gallagher Kathleen grew up in the beautiful Southern Westcoast of British Columbia, Canada. From the moment Kathleen first took hold of a pencil as a child, she has felt the passionate longing to create. While the Westcoast of British Columbia is a nature lover’s paradise, Kathleen had an explorer’s spirit and she left her home province to travel extensively in her early twenties throughout the Canadian North, including Northern British Columbia, the Yukon and Northwest Territories, and Northern Alberta. With a sketchbook in hand, she explored nature and the varying textures and colours of each landscape, became a source of artistic inspiration for her. Passing through Grand Prairie, Alberta, she decided to enrol in the Visual Fine Arts Program at the Regional College in 1982-83. While studying in Grande Prairie, she developed a passion for painting. She eventually returned to British Columbia and raised a wonderful son. Although she left her artistic pursuits behind for a period of time, they were never forgotten or completely set aside. Although Kathleen refrained from showing her work publicly, she continued to paint when possible. In 2008, she began to paint regularly and eventually
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Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art. Vol. II
GREEN AND YELLOW TREES. Oil on Canvas, 48” x 30”.
starting to emerge from the shadows and show her work publicly again. While Kathleen started by doing some commission work, she began to participate in local and international exhibitions and has had gained positive recognition through publications recently. Over the years, her work has taken on a distinct abstract style and has evolved into an exploration of nature and the elements, expressed through texture, and helped along by the use of her favorite tool, the palette knife. Sometimes it is a simple barren tree, at times a field full of flowers, a lush forest, or a dark sky that inspires her work. Whatever the inspiration is behind each work, her paintings represent Kathleen’s love of nature and are expressed through her distinct textural palette knife techniques. Each one of Kathleen’s paintings will vary in how much reality remains of the landscapes. At times Kathleen’s paintings are black and white, and other times are bright with colour, at times they are dark with intensity; primarily the textures are what dominant her unique abstract landscapes. While at times her paintings are bold, there remains an organic feel to the work. It is clear that Kathleen intends the viewer to be as fascinated by nature as she is herself. katgallagher.com • katgallagherart@gmail.com
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kevin harris BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS. Pastel on watercolor paper, 24” x 18”
Kevin Harris born and raised in Washington, DC, Kevin Harris is an artist specializing in Pastel, Acrylic and Oil Portraits. Kevin always wanted to draw and would copy what he saw in the comic books he so loved as a child. Batman and Superman were his first subjects. After serving in the US Army, Kevin continued draw as often as he could because he considered it therapy for a challenging childhood. He also enrolled in various art classes and art groups because he was passionate and eager to learn. Kevin began his portrait painting business, after a coworker saw a pencil drawing on his desk and asked him to do a family portrait for her. As he improved as an artist, he kept seeking more challenges and more artistic growth by experimenting with other mediums like pastels and oil and acrylic paints. His curiosity in all things art continues to grow even today as he constantly says that he is still learning as an artist. Kevin’s first solo art show titled “Eyes toward our hero’s” in Baltimore, MD, was met with great support from the community. His pastel portraits of celebrities and community leaders gained him rave reviews and a solid following in the Washington, DC and Baltimore region.
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Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art. Vol. II
BELLYDANCER. Pastel on watercolor paper, 24” x 18”.
ANGEL-FRO. Pastel on watercolor paper, 24” x 18”
He currently resides in Charlotte, NC with his wife and 3 children. As an artist who specializes in African American art, every piece I do has a strong focus on color. One color though that you will not see on my palate is black. Webster’s defines black as follows: reflecting or transmitting little or no light - characterized by the absence of light. Everything I do has light. Every word I speak has light. Every action is leading towards...LIGHT. Light reflects off all colors in the spectrum except...BLACK. I choose my colors very carefully and build my paintings to highlight certain aspects of the subject. Even though the word black is used to describe a race of people, the color black is never actually in their pigmentation, hair, eyes, and features. I use the darkest greens and blues to dictate darkness and in extremely rare cases use whites to highlight. This, I believe, leaves me a full spectrum of color to work from to achieve my artistic goal. www.kevharrisart.com • kevharrisart@gmail.com International • 19
anna ivleva
CHINA SILK. Oil on canvas, 30” x 40”.
Anna Ivleva. When I have been asked about my strengths as practicing visual artist, I am quick to reply that my lack of fear of painting with bold, bright colors is my greatest strength. All of my work is painted in oil on canvas with colors from our daily surroundings such as yellow, red, lavender, blue and green. These uplifting colors create joy and mental stimulation in the viewer I believe, which is very important to me. My picture are meant to capture and reflect on canvas the glory of Glory of God on Earth. My artwork is quiet and peaceful as well as joyful. In my portraits, I first draw the viewer in through the eyes-the window to the soul. Then comes the face, the body, and the surrounding atmosphere.
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RUSSIAN PEASANTS. Oil on canvas, 30” x 40”.
LILACS WITH FRUITS. Oil on canvas, 24” x 30”.
In the still life works, I want the observer to be able to smell the flowers and taste the fruits. In landscape, there is a call to visit and enjoy the real smells and textures. As a practicing artist I want to reflect nature on canvas and the creations of God in bright bold terms. www.healingartworld.com
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jack jasper BIRTHSTONE. Acrylic, 52” x 38”.
Jack Jasper. My art is relational. I have always been fascinated by creation myths and I perceive the universe as having evolved from one catastrophic event. From one point, everything emerges, with the best scenarios trying to rush to completion. I grew up in Chicago and lived for years in Montana. While there I studied medical technology and the life sciences. From the experience of being surrounded by the powerful presence of nature in Montana and my studies, I’m drawn to experimenting with combinations of elements, sometimes alluding to air, earth, fire and water. I try to represent nature’s electron dance, with an ambient underlying sexuality, unfolding as a shimmering becoming—a synchronicity between disparate elements.
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LABYRINTHINE. Acrylic, 52” x 38”.
EMBRACE. Acrylic, 52” x 38”.
I’m drawn to the culture of the Australian aborigines and their idea that every thing they do is connected to the Dreamtime when their Creative Ancestors created the world. My theory of art and life is dialectical. From the one point of creation, all contradictions arise. I see my art as the struggle between thesis and antithesis. I have moved from an imagist sort of art to abstraction to try to play this out. I have worked as a graphic designer and a medical illustrator and in a subtle sense it may influence the work. I try to use my art to reconcile these contradictions and to achieve synthesis and— ultimately—transcendence. www.jackjasperart.com International • 23
helen kagan phd.
NOSTALGIA. Oil on canvas, 30” x 36”.
Helen Kagan PhD, a holistic therapist and artist, believes that art as a powerful form of self-expression is a vehicle for emotional, physical, mental and spiritual well-being, and can enhance healing to those in need. A refugee from Russia, she’s been developing her unique technique and style as ‘Healing Arts’ which reflects her own deep and colorful view on life, a desire to bridge realities and heal the Past. Coming from a family of scientists, Helen was always fascinated by the left and right brain relationship. As a therapist and artist, she believes that tragedy, pain, and trauma can be healed with beauty, love, positive energy, self-expression.
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SUN SHOWER. Acrylic on canvas, 30” x 24”.
IN SEARCH OF MEANING. Acrylic & Mixed mediums on canvas, 48” x 36”.
Dr. Kagan states that she’s always communicating important spiritual messages through her art, like: being on a Journey, going towards the Light, awareness of ‘Here and Now’, and of course - ‘J’oie de Vivre’! ‘Healing Arts’ – is Helen’s unique way to integrate fine art and the art of healing, and through beauty of expression, positively charged intention, healing frequencies of color, and energetically balanced composition – to enhance well-being in a viewer. Helen believes in mind-body-spirit connection and her passionate art is a statement of her beliefs. www.HelenKagan.com • www.NYhealing.com
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jim lively
CITY AT DAWN. Acrylic on canvas, 30” x 30”.
METALLIC ABSTRACT 5. Acrylic on panel, 12” x 16”.
Jim Lively is an attorney who left the practice of law to pursue his passion full-time as a contemporary figurative and abstract artist. While he has been painting many years, he only began publicly exhibiting the latter part of 2008 due to his career as an attorney. Jim’s works have been recognized in numerous juried competitions and
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LAYERS OF CIVILIZATION. Acrylic on canvas, 48” x 24”.
RULES FOR RADICALS. Acrylic on canvas, 30” x 30”.
publications. He was just named to the 2013 list of Art Tour International Magazine’s Top 60 Masters of Contemporary Art. In addition, he has participated in several group and a solo exhibitions across North America and in Europe. Jim has published four books containing images of his art including two novels. The most recent novel “The Puzzle Aesthetic” is available on www.amazon.com. Jim is currently Art Director Emeritus and General Counsel for LuminArte Gallery in Dallas (www.luminarte.com). www.jimlivelyart.com
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kevin mccabe
THE INFERNAL MACHINERY. Pastel on paper, 25cm x 25cm.
Kevin McCabe was born in England and moved to Perth, Western Australia with my parents at the age of four. I still live in Perth with my wife and 7 year old son. A self-taught artist, I has been practising art in various mediums for more than 20 years, developing my own style and process. I now concentrate on two media: digital art and pastels. I have had numerous solo and group shows in Western Australia.
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SASSEMBLY. Pastel on paper, 25cm x 25cm.
My digital work begins with me photographing one of my paintings. The image is then manipulated to the point where it is unrecognisable from the original. The photograph is fractured and splintered, in a process that is almost digital “action painting”. The results are often evocative of landscapes or other natural forms.
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THE QUIET EARTH. Giclee Print on paper, 30cm x 40cm.
The images are exhibited as Giclee prints. Giclees are high quality fine art prints using a laser jet process. They are widely accepted by museums and galleries as a true fine art medium. The printing process uses 2880dpi technology to apply Ultra Chrome pigment ink onto fine art paper.
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UNIVERSE. Giclee Print on paper, 22cm x 27cm.
MAELSTROM. Giclee Print on paper, 30cm x 40cm.
My pastels seem to be quite different from my digital work, but follow a similar process. I build a background until it starts to evoke an image, which I then ‘draw out’ from the background. The images usually contain an expressionist/surreal representation of a human form or face. They hopefully connect on an emotional level with the viewer. People often see things in my images that I didn’t see myself. I like the mystery and intrigue of ambiguity, of letting the viewer find their own story. www.interactivearts.com.au/artists/kevin-mccabe
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joachim mcmillan
VACTION TIME. Oil on canvas, 18” x 24”.
Joachim McMillan Artist Joachim “Mosayic” McMillan was born in Grenada, West Indies he immigrated to the United States and currently resides in Beaverton, Oregon, USA. McMillan is a self-taught artist who is most known for his style called Mozayic™, meaning scoring and patterned and describes it as mosaic and “stained glass” imagery. He also uses Impasto Freestyle – loose strokes and Shadow Fix – illusion of reflections. McMillan paint in oil on canvas with a palette knife and his subjects are mainly imaginative compositions.
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SECRET HARBOR. Oil on canvas, 30” x 40”.
McMillan aspires to captivate the viewer and impact the art world with his work. His inspirations come from several areas of his life including the environment around him, his memories and imagination. McMillan’s work has been exhibited at ArtExpo New York in 2008 and his past shows include: : California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington. McMillan’s work has also been exhibited internationally in other countries including Barbados, Canada and Grenada. His work can be seen in collections around the world. www.Joachimmcmillan.com
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zlatko milakovic
PROPHEC. Oil on canvas, 140 cm x 90 cm.
Zlatko Milakovic was born 54 years ago and has been living in very dynamic way. In his youth he was a top athlete (javelin thrower, champion), later manager of a well-known banking group, insurance company, national association of business managers etc. By the age of 18, he moved with his family (his father was a colonel in the army). Over the course of his life he has lived in nine different cities in four different countries. He has a Master’s degree in Political Science and has been additionally trained by programs of world-renowned business schools. Zlatko Milakovic is a professional artistic painter. His artwork adorns the walls of European collectors. Milakovic can be reached exclusively via referrals. His artworks are taken directly in Milakovic’s studio. Milakovic’s art pursues many different topics, but preference is given to the woman and her beauty. His work is on the border between abstraction and realism. If working with oil on canvas, on one theme he works for about a year. It is difficult to find Milakovic’s work in European art galleries and the reason is simple, he works on one artwork for a long time and after his exposure in art galleries, the paintings quickly find a buyer. Milakovic was a sculpture teacher in Zagreb (Croatia, Center for Contemporary Art) and painted in studios of several world-renowned artists - teachers. When he talks about his development and learning painting techniques he always praises the Italian teachers (Carmello
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FISHGIRL. Oil on canvas, 120 cm x 90 cm. SYMBOL. Oil on canvas, 120 cm x 51 cm.
Zotti) and emphasizes that the artist’s development is multifaceted, presupposes training techniques, absorption of knowledge and experiences of other artists and especially his own intellectual elevation. Nowadays, Milakovic wants to continue his career painting somewhere outside Europe. Recently, he is looking for a gallery which will recruit him and represent him. His working energy and sense for artistic motifs that draws attention are a guarantee for success. Milakovic currently lives and works in Zagreb, the capital city of the Republic of Croatia. www.zlatko-milakovic.com
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jane ellen murray
Jane Ellen Murray. In 2009 Jane Ellen was invited to display her paintings in Florence Italy at the Biennale Internazionale Dell’Arte Contemporanea. In 2010 She had an Opening at the Amsterdam Whitney Gallery in Chelsea and the Broadway Gallery in New York City. Her still life “Cherries Jubilee” was featured on the cover of the calendar sent out by Whitney COQUETTE. Oil on canvas, 12” x 24”.
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Gallery to their patrons. She is listed in International Contemporary MASTERS IV.
A NEW LEAF. Oil on canvas, 18” x 24”.
ORANGE MARMALADE. Oil on canvas, 18” x 24”.
Her work has been shown at the Southern Nevada Museum of Fine Art in Las Vegas, the Gora Gallery in Montreal, the Nina Torres World Tour Exhibition in London and the LuminArte Gallery in Dallas. Next year her art will be featured at the opening of the Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s new Tip Top Tap Gallery in Chicago’s Fine Arts Building. www.janeellenmurray.com • janellen@janeellenmurray.com
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natalya b. parris GROOVY FLOWER.
Natalya B. Parris My artwork “Groovy Flower” is a symbol of my love to my daughter Victoria, for whom I painted it. When Victoria learned that my painting of a flower, which she liked very much, was sold she became very upset and sad. I decided to paint another flower as a surprise birthday present for her 12th birthday. When I create my “Emotional Counterpoints in Paint – Dots Artworks,” I create “two artworks in one.” That means that I not only make a drawing before I paint dots, I create a finished artwork, before I add dots to it. That was the case with Victoria’s surprise painting, which I painted after a storm. We did not have electricity for five days and I could not see very well, but Victoria’s birthday is in September; so, I had little time to finish the painting. I was painting with the flashlight and hid the painting so that Victoria could not see or find it. I liked the “first” painting and since I knew that after I added dots to it nobody would recognize it,
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ANASTASIA.
I decided to have a professional photo of it made. I brought the painting to a gifted artist and successful business woman - a friend of mine to take a photo of it. She liked the artworks so much, that she insisted that I not add dots to it and keep it as it is. She even named it “Groovy Flower.” For me now this painting is not only a symbol of my love to my daughter, but it is also a symbol of artist’s camaraderie. “Anastasia” acrylic 10” X10” artwork is the first in the series of artworks “Memories of Hillwood.” The Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens is a decorative arts museum in Washington, D.C., USA. The artwork was inspired by an orchid flower I saw in the Hillwood’s Greenhouse. I named this artwork after Anastasia, the youngest daughter of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia and my daughter whose middle name is Anastasia also.
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THE FOREST NYMPH PHOTO.
The Forest Nymph Photo Walking at sunset in May 2012 in Milton M. Kaufmann Park in Maryland USA with my daughter Victoria, I saw Cornus Celestial Hybrid Dogwood flowers that reminded me so much of Victoria’s eyes. I said, “Victoria, quickly climb inside this tree!” Victoria climbed under the branches without much enthusiasm and immediately exclaimed, “Small bugs are crawling all over me! I can’t stand it!” I said, “Sunset is nearly over and I have a vision of your eyes in this tree. If you want to be a model you must extend your ‘comfort zone;’ you must learn to overcome your fears. Most importantly, you do not take photos only when you feel like it. You must be available any day any time when the opportunity comes. Being a professional means do the best job you can when you least want to do it. This is your chance to prove to yourself that you can do it.” It did not come easy to my eleven-year-old daughter; it was a challenge, but she did it! I am so proud of her. This photo is a reminder that if you want something with all your heart, you can do it no matter how hard it is.
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THE SMELL OF SPRING PHOTO.
The Smell of Spring Photo In May 2011 my 5th grade safety patrol daughter stepped off the school bus and asked me to teach her how to be a fashion model. I explained to her that being a model requires a lot of hard work before you see a beautiful photo. Victoria insisted; so I said, “OK, climb inside this yellow bush in our garden.” The reply was, “There is no space to stay there.” I said, “I just have taught you ‘rule number one’: The model does not complain, she finds a way to do what the photographer asks her to do, and she does it with a pretty smile on her face.” That stern admonition did not stop my determined daughter. She found a way into that bush and asked, “What’s next?” I gave her a daffodil from our garden and said, “My vision as a photographer to create a ‘yellow paradise.’ You, as a model, must also be an actress. You must deliver that vision to the viewer. How you do it is not my concern as long as nobody else looking at this photo knows how uncomfortable you are in this bush and how many photos I took before we get this very special shot.” Looking at the photo now, I see my daughter in her safety patrol belt, wearing her first-ever earrings; but, most of all, I see our very special time together that bonded us and started our ‘modeling adventure.’ privatenbp@hotmail.com • www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.590398457655918.141368.111488538880248&type=3
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talia prilutsky THE POWER. Acrylic on canvas, 36” x 48”.
Talia Prilutsky. Born in Donetsk, Ukraine in
1972
I
started
my
art
education
in
Donetsk State Art College and continued at I. Port Studio in Tel-Aviv, Israel (1995-1998) From 1998 I live in USA, Wheeling, IL. Nature and sunlight have provided me with the endless references. Every day offers unique and exciting opportunities for the artist who follows the light. I love the magic and beauty that light and shade create and the way these impressions can be shared. The idea of contrast matters almost as much – the way objects were arranged, have been obscured or hidden, or are shown in such a way that they can’t be fully understood. Also, I wanted my painting to hold a sense of moment and
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THE SIELENCE. Acrylic on canvas, 36” x 48”
energy. Since each painting can be translated as part of the artist’s personality, I try to use different techniques for every painting. This is become the most challenging part: to choose the style and manner for the certain subject matter, whether it is portrait or landscape, realistic painting or abstract. I just love the endless possibilities this provides for creative mind! I hope you will enjoy discovering the final version of my attempts as mush I have enjoyed the whole entire process - from sketching to the final touch! www.myartishock.com
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susan anne russell
Susan Anne Russell. “I am an artist. I live, breathe and feel art everyday. Art is my inner world of dreams, fantasies and exploration.” My work stems predominantly from dreams. My textbook Exposing Yourself to the Performing Arts has been published by BVT. The sepia paintings: Beatrice and Aphrodite are printed in the book. Exposing Yourself to the Performing Arts is in many international libraries, including: Oxford University Bodleian Library, Harvard University Schlesinger Library on the History of Women in America, Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, Yale University Sterling Memorial Library, Columbia University Music and Arts Library Dodge Hall, Cornell University- Sidney Cox Library, Rutgers Douglass Library, The RADARoyal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, University of Chicago Regenstein Library, Oberlin College Library, The Spertus Museum Library, Jewish Theological Seminary Library, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni Venice, Italy, UCLA Music library, University of Tel Aviv -Buchamann Mehta Music Library, Rijksmuseum
Research
Library,
Amsterdam,
Netherlands, Fondazione Maxxi Museum, Rome, Italy, The Museo Nacional de Arte Reina Sofia, Madrid, Spain, Musee d’orsay, Paris, France, The MCA Sydney, Australia, The Jewish Museum in Prague, Lake Forest Library, Eastman School of Music Library, St. Mark’s Bookstore, NYC Orwig Music Library at Brown University, New York SPIRIT MESSENGER. Acrylic on canvas, 24” x 36”.
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University Library, and the Art Institute’s Ryerson Burnham Library.
WATERFALL WITH LILIES. Acrylic on canvas, 30” x 40”.
Since 2013 I have been represented by Saatchi Gallery in London, England, and have sold work to international collectors. My work was selected to be in the “Inspired by Monet” series by curators of Saatchi. Additionally, I was granted a solo show at the Adler Mansion, and received many favorable reviews from Chicago newspapers. I was selected for the NY Biennale Art Show in 2009, receiving international recognition. New York’s Agora Gallery located in the Chelsea District accepted my paintings into their gallery for representation in 2008. Between 2009-2011 my work was exhibited at Gallerie MK in the River North District and at Robert Wayner’s Black Walnut Gallery located in the Fulton Market Gallery District in 2008. I was given a Solo show at Oxala Fine Art Gallery, and my painting Aphrodite was honored in the Chicago Reader’s Art section. Having traveled to Rome and Paris I returned with a unique aesthetic, balancing the inner spirit and the material world. Reworking the ideology of mythological imagery, busts, religious figures, icons, abstracts, nudes, the celestial, and the power of landscape, I seek to uncover a common denominator in our civilization. I paint many different genres. From landscapes, to abstracts, nudes, portraits, still life, to full scale commissioned murals. My paintings attempt to explore voyages through epiphany and fantasy. I have been an art history and Performing Arts professor since 2005. I have been an Executive Producer and Television interviewer of musicians for over a decade on a nationally syndicated program: Expose.’ The show received many positive reviews from Chicago newspapers and magazines. The Book: Exposing Yourself to the Performing Arts was inspired by the program. I am a mother of three children and consider the creative process an integral part of my life. My work stems predominantly from dreams. I consider art an evolving process and feel my art comes from an exterior muse that enters and inspires. susanrussell2005@yahoo.com
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mila ryk PEACEFUL DREAM. Oil On Canvas, 20” x 20”.
Mila Ryk is a third generation artist born in Ukraine. She immigrated to the United States in 1991. Inspired by Art Nouveau and amazed by the endless beauty of Orchids, she developed her own unique style and technique, which gave her the ability to share her vision and feelings with her viewers. Mila unites line work of figures, brushstrokes, colors and nature in one single form of harmony and beauty. In addition to her work in fine art, Mila is the sole proprietor/owner of Art & Beyond Studio, Inc., based in Morton Grove, a northwest suburb of Chicago, Illinois. Art & Beyond Studio Inc., established in 2003 offers full graphic design services, art events and art classes
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PASSION. Oil on convas, 18” x 24”.
for both kids and young adults. Mila is listed with the Cambridge Who’s Who Registry as an Honored Member and published in the 2008-9 edition of the Cambridge Who’s Who Registry of Executives and Professionals.
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MOONLIGHT DANCE. Oil on canvas, 20" x 20". In November of 2009 Mila’s artwork has been published in the Best of America Oil Artists, Volume II book. Her art was listed in the International Dictionary of Artists 2011. Mila Ryk is founder and publisher of Art & Beyond Publications created to help artists to self-promote their art. www.milaryk.com • www.art-beyond.com • www.artandbeyondpublications.com
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AWAKENING. Oil on canvas, 18" x 24".
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karen j. sander
THE CALL. Mixed media, 90 cm x 70 cm.
Karen J. Sander (Colombia, 1962). Karen J. Sander studied at the Art League School in Alexandria, VA and in Cali, Colombia South America with Plutarco Leon Idrobo Manzano and Guillermina Strohbach where she advanced her knowledge of oil and lithographic ink techniques. In addition, she took courses in the application of metal with Karen Christians at Somerville’s Artisan Asylum. Karen also studied Piano Performance and Composition at Berklee College of Music. She received Bachelors and Masters degrees in International Business from Southern New Hampshire University. Throughout her life Karen belonged to the world of business but now she is a full time artist.
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TREMOR WITHIN. Mixed media, 120 cm x 100 cm.
AWARDS ART & BEYOND Summer/Fall 2013 – Inside Front Cover and Quarter Page No. 15 EXHIBITIONS 2014 Gallery at the Piano Factory, Boston, MA. 2012 Apex Fine Arts Boston Contemporary Sean Boyce Studios, Boston, MA 2012 Galería Arte Magenta, Buga, Colombia 2011
Centro Cultural Colombo Americano Galería Humberto Hernández, Cali, Colombia karenjsander@gmail.com www.karenjsander.com
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• 51
paula smiles
DRIPPING. Ink and colored pencil, 12” x 9”.
Paula Smiles. I had been drawing from a young age, in the Village Art School in Oak Park and then at the Jr. School at the Art Institute of Chicago. At age fourteen, I misheard the word ‘nude’ for ‘new’ and signed up for a life drawing class with new (nude) models. So my journey began. My drawings do not strive to be a narrative but rather a distortion of a form in humor. An amazing instructor once said ‘people are afraid of drawing hands and feet, so they hide them.” Happily, he insisted I learn to draw them. Finding hands and feet hold much energy and expression, I enlarge and exaggerate them. My focus has evolved away from attempting to depict a particular person; drawing attention away from the “who” has led to my ‘Pinhead” people. As my work progresses, the figures are showing up ‘somewhere’ as environments are growing. Drawing in pen and colored pencil allows me the control to emphasize the lines and put together the pieces of the puzzles that make the pictures work. My passion for drawing has led me to exhibit my work at shows at The JCC of Houston, The Figurative Art League of Evanston, Skokie Art Guild, She Art, Art & Beyond, National Pastime Theater, and Phantom Gallery in Chicago, and Rhythm & Beyond as well as published in the Art & Beyond “Nude and Figurative Art” issue and Art & Beyond printed Summer/Fall 2013 magazine. I not only work on paper but have branched out to clothing, scarves and ornaments.
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SITTING UP NORTH. Ink and colored pencil, 12” x 10 3/4”.
MUSICAL. Ink and colored pencil, 12” x 8 3/4“.
Along with drawing I work as a medical social worker in hospice. I’ve learned that life is a challenge and so is my drawing. The goal of both is to complete all the pieces of the puzzle and enjoy the process and hopefully to share the fun along the way. www.paulasmiles.com paulasmilesart@gmail.com
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kellen traynor TREELESS. Acrylic on canvas, 30” x 30”.
Kellen Traynor was born in Rio de Janeiro. It was in this colorful city where she had her first encounter with art at 9 years old. Traynor currently resides in Quebec, Canada and between round trips to Brazil she has had the pleasure of studying under the direction of internationally known artists through various photography workshops. Kellen believes that different types of art can talk to each other indirectly. In order to keep a close relationship with art, Traynor chose a career in graphic design, which she has been doing for the past ten years. As a self-taught painting artist her approach to art is spontaneous with a unique style. Traynor explains that “currently the main focus of my work is the abstract contemporary, ranging from oil paintings and acrylic due to strength and subtlety of each texture, using nuances and gradations of colors to cause the illusion of mystery that pleases me and
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EUFÓTICA. Acrylic on canvas, 24” x 36”.
BAJAMAR. Acrylic on canvas, 24” x 36”.
instigates the observer into a world of their own and find their vision of determined work. The search for the cause of these sensations and show the path to this inner conversation with yourself is what moves me today.” Traynor suggests, through her unconventional view, that art despite all the modernity and technology, finds a way to adapt and expand to more different times and find that its essence is one of my goals. www.casilart.com International • 55
amy b. trosino
WAKEN THE SHY ONE. Pen and Ink, 6” x 8”.
Amy B. Trosino is the founder and owner of Artventure Studio, LLC in Medina, Ohio. Here, she teaches a variety of subjects including drawing, illustration, ceramics, bookmaking, creative writing and gallery design. Her work has appeared in Emanations, Art & Beyond, Art Buzz: The 2013 Collection, House Calls, Drink, Charleston, The Crescent Review Literary Journal, The Georgia Guardian and at the Annual
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IN HER HOME. Pen and Ink, 6” x 8”.
IN HER OWN TIME. Pen and Ink, 6” x 8”.
Children’s Book Fair in Bologna, Italy. She recently founded Odin House Publishing in Cleveland, Ohio where she creates and distributes Under Observation, a zine series that fosters awareness of life, humanity and the importance of living one’s true nature. The drawings entered for Living Artists of Today: Volume 2 are part of Trosino’s Shapemaker series, a body of work inspired by the fields of children’s book illustration, biology and histology. Highly autobiographical, these pen and ink works invite the viewer to look closely for hidden and obvious meanings in the detail. Trosino wanted these pieces to look as though she took samples from her life and placed them under a microscope. Through this technique, the immersion into every aspect of being, from the minute cellular level of the physical to the vast intangible potency of the spiritual, is revealed. www.amybtrosino.squarespace.com • artventurestudio@yahoo.com
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ralph white
LILIES. Acrylic on canvas, 18” x 24”.
“My goal is to create a spark of imagination in the viewer. When the observer sees images or has an emotional response to my work then I have accomplished my intention.” – Ralph White
Ralph White, born and raised in Southern California, is one of the premier creators of contemporary fusion art in the Los Angeles area. Through his studies with Rassouli, Ralph has developed a distinctive style. His brushwork is strong and vibrant, and his art reflects a positive flow of energy. Ralph’s works exhibit outward expressions of feeling and celebrations of the inward journey of thoughtful introspection. What becomes of the paint being placed upon the canvas is up to his soul’s expression or emotion at the time.
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SEED. Acrylic on canvas, 24” x 30”.
Ralph is an artist who brings a lifetime of transformational thinking into his paintings. A highly successful executive business coach, Ralph has worked with thousands of clients to re-direct their thinking toward possibilities. He brings this philosophy into his art, continually seeking to express the soul’s ability to evolve. Ralph has exhibited professionally in New York City, Las Vegas, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Beijing and Hong Kong, as well as in a number of corporate and personal collections.
He actively participates in local artist
groups and supports the arts in education. ralph@ralphwhite.com • www.ralphwhite.com
DAHLIAS. Acrylic on canvas, 30” x 40”.
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tom zimmerman BELLAGIO GLASS. Oil on canvas and is a spin off on Dale Chiluly’s larger glass work in the Bellagio lobby, 20” x 24”
Tom Zimmerman. I’ve always felt like I was blessed with artistic ability, my name is Tom Zimmerman, I’ve been painting in some form or other for at least 40 years now. I’m the guy that sat around in high school always drawing street rods and custom cars. I’ve had opportunities to do a little bit of shows in my early years, remembering that I did a show at Ursinus College, and my piece was rejected, but I never put myself down for trying, I still have the piece and it still looks good for the period. I ventured into many different venues of art over the next 20-25 years, including custom leather work, and wood carving, something I still have a passion for 3 dimensional lifelike carvings today. But my favorite has always been what I’ve been able to do with a canvas. I probably went about 10-15 years without working
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HUMMINGBIRDS AND CAMELIA’S, Acrylic on canvas, 16” x 20”.
on anything, always telling myself, I wanted to get back into this. During the past seven years, I’ve been martyred with health issues, which consequently made me do a lot of rethinking. Like I wanted to try to do a lot of the things that I had put on the back burner, before it was too late to do so. Being as I hadn’t done any painting for quite some time, I signed up for some classes at the local Michaels art supply store, mostly as a refresher, consequently again, I started spinning out some fantastic works of art, and continued to amaze myself, the hunger for more continues.
I started
taking some classes at the Banana Factory in Bethlehem and also painting workshops at the Baum School of Art in Allentown, the results are phenomenal,
last year I did 8 shows,
unprecented for me, including the New Hope Arts & Crafts Festival in Bucks County, which I did well at, selling three of my paintings. I’ve played with oils a tiny bit, and watercolors about the same, but I work best with Acrylics. I’m currently taking a class on Pointillism, so I’m always trying to go in different directions. I belong to the Doylestown Art League, and the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen. We (my wife and I) just completed an exhibition at the Banko Gallery in Bethlehem for an Artquest members exhibition, and I have a piece going into an exhibition this weekend for the Doylestown Art Clubs exhibition in Warrington. I have many painting on an online website: FASO: tazman.fineartstudioonline.com. I always tell people, when talking about my artwork: “I feel wired, with a brush in my hands” I encourage anyone that even remotely has an interest like this to pursue it, whatever the cost or consequences, you don’t have to break yourself to be an artist, spread yourself out a little and do a little at a time, it will all come together in the end. tazman.fineartstudioonline.com
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jewelry
sandy den hartog
ARIANA, Means Peace in Africa. Pendant is Handmade again using the Lost Wax Method. This along with all the other Brass Beads come from Ghana Africa. Beautiful African Turquoise, Ethiopian Bicones, and Cryophrase. The second strand compliments the first with the smaller components. Coins hanging from the Pendant are African Trade Coins.
ANAKITA. Persian for IMMACULATE The lovely Pendant is Tibetan. Brass Inlaid with Persian Turquoise and Lapis. It’s surrounded with Lapis and Persian and Tibetan Turquoise,Interspersed with 14kt gold Beads with a Band of Lapis around the middle. The 3 strands are finished with Old Brass Ethiopian Bicone Beads spaced with Tiny Swarovski Crystals. Old Antique Lobster Claw Closure..
Sandy Den Hartog is a Native Californian. She now resides in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Her home faces the Beautiful Lake with a backdrop of a dramatic Mountain Range. With this view Sandy has taken the time to absorb the impact of this beauty and pieced together Jewelry that exemplifies each geographical characteristic, blending into original Jewelry Objects. She is an Award Winning Artist. Sandy has placed in numerous Juried Art Shows throughout Arizona. Her romantic pieces of Art continue to be showcased at DAVID RAFAELS at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. Other distinguished pieces of a different flair at the JAMES RATLIFF GALLERY in Sedona, Arizona. She is a self taught Artist. Her Jewelry displays both serene and harmonious qualities that have been regarded as the highest of models.
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EIRENNE. Goddess of Peace. Purple thru the Ages has always been known as a color of Peace and Spirituality. This Necklace signifies both of those. Pendant is a RARE piece of Chariot from Russia set in an extraordinary piece of Silver. The first strand features equally beautiful Chariot and Sterling Silver Gemstones. The second strand is of unusual African Sugilite and Sterling Silver as well. Two kinds of Gemstones from 2 different Continents Suround the Pendant in perfect Harmony.
KHEPER. Egyptian Word for Scarab meaning REBIRTH. The Scarab is of Museum Quality. Really OLD. It is surrounded with Egyptian Turqouis, OLD Ivory, Ethiopian Silver Bicone Beads. With Small TeakWood Spacers from Africa as well. The Enscriptian on the back of Scarab could be who carved it or from the Egyptian Book of The Dead. Which was very common if worn placed over the Heart.
Her work covers a wide range of style, from Ethnic, Classic, to Over The Top and Everyday Chic. She refers to herself as displaying “ARTISTIC FREEDOM.” Sandy loves to mix everything up. The old with the new, and the big with the small. Although quite versatile in her design she leans toward the large and Ethnic Style. Many of Her designs are created in Her Peaceful and Relaxed Times. She considers them to be her most Distinguished and Dramatic Pieces. Sandy also says, “If you can’t see your Jewelry from across the room, why bother.” Gemstones and Artifacts used in her talented designs have been found in her many World Travels. Kazuri Beads from Kenya, Turkamon items from Turkistan, Taureg pieces from Nigeria. All this supplemented by wonderful earthy components from the culture of the Yoruba People of West Africa. All this and so much more are incorporated into the Unique one of a kind Designs made by Sandy. stitches1@suddenlink.net
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sculpture
margarita van der velden
DO WE LISTEN. Ceramic Sculpture.
CONNECTING.... Ceramic Sculpture.
Margarita van der Velden VeldWerk Joyful Art For me, art is discovering your passion. By working with clay I have discovered my passion for making figurative and humorous sculptures. After successfully completing my education at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague (1980-1984) I worked as an independent graphic designer for many years. However, after working on commission for a long time, the desire to create freely spurned me to start making ceramic sculptures in 2001. Since 2007 I have left my work as a graphic designer behind me to focus completely on my art. Gradually,
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MOTHER EARTH. Ceramic Sculpture.
CLOSE YOUR EYES. Ceramic Sculpture.
through art, I have begun to experience life as a gift. I try to show the beauty of the world and instill a positive and loving appeal in everything I produce. It is my hope that my sculptures will bring a smile to someone’s face; to let them experience, even for a moment, how special and beautiful life really is. www.veldwerk.nl
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digital art photography
deb drew brown CALM CECROPIA. Photography. This moth hung out all day on my garage. I didn’t know he was alive until he finally took off. No special effects applied. Taken in Haslett, MI.
Deb Drew Brown. I was born in August 1952 and raised in Michigan. Oddly enough, I was educated as a Radiologic Technologist who took black and white x-rays. In photography, color is usually my favorite choice. I had a little Brownie camera in my hands at the age of seven but it wasn’t until I got my first series of Bald Eagle pictures that I decided to join art groups in the Lansing area and share my art. I used the automatic settings on my camera until I took courses at our local community college. Ever since, I have used the manual option to set my own factors. At the beginning, all of my photos were printed as pure photography with no adjustments. Now, I experiment with filters and editing to create some unusual results. Sometimes, I believe that an artistic filter accentuates the vibrant colors and patterns presented to us in nature. I also love printing on different materials for effect. I have entered the world renown ArtPrize 2013 contest in Grand Rapids, MI for my third time. When you register, you have to find your own place [venue] to exhibit your art. The third time must be the charm because after several “no thank you” emails from most of the biggest museums in Grand Rapids, I received an invitation
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FLAMINGO WITH ANGLES. Photography. I love the angles of the neck and back of this photo. The complimentary background adds to the diagonal design. This photo with no special effects was taken in Cozumel, Mexico.
SPARKLING RUBIES. Photography. I had to get up early to get this shot with the sun shining on the throat of this male ruby throated hummingbird. It was worth it though. This photo with no special effects was taken in Baldwin, MI.
to exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. I am so honored and of course, very excited. This art competition which involves over 2000 artists from all over the world takes place from September 18th to October 6th. The winners are decided by public vote. I hope that you enjoy my photography; to see my world of nature photography, please visit my website.. debdrewphotos@aol.com • debdrewbrown.com
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chuck fletcher Photography is more about access and composition and less about the camera or technology used to take the picture. It’s the photographer's job to creatively see the unusual in the everyday by balancing scale, light and luck. The right photo can have lifetimes of impact. - Chuck Fletcher “If your photos aren’t good enough, then you’re not close enough” – Robert Capa
TERESITA’S TWIST. Photography, Sepia/Gloss-Aluminum, 10” x 12”.
Chuck Fletcher. uses a camera to engage people. His photos reflect an interest in their emotions, environment, and culture. His work focuses on street photography and contemporary sociocultural themes exposed in candid portraits of people. Chuck’s early influences include volunteer work taking pictures of children waiting for adoption and a wide variety of street encounters during international travel.
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JEEPNEYS ROLLING. Photography, Monochrome/Satin-Aluminum, 10” x 12”.
THE LOOKOUT. Photography, Monochrome/Gloss-Aluminum, 10” x 12”.
Chuck’s photographs have been created over the years using a variety of camera and sensor types - from fancy Nikons to disposable cameras. The shots are taken on the move, with no rehearsals or second chances. The photographs are moments of opportunity, which means that nothing is staged – nothing is controlled – the environment, subject, lighting, movement and timing are all fluid. These blended challenges make street photography exciting and a unique way to convert daily life into art. Chuck is a published photographer and scientific author. An experienced geologist, teacher, and technical analyst, his pictures demonstrate a professional acumen for the graphics arts. He grew up in the northwest suburbs of Philadelphia, but now resides in Northern Virginia with his wife and three kids. Chuck is a member of the League of Reston Artists, the Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE), the Art League, Photographic Society of America, and supporter of the Arts Council of Fairfax County. He received a “Publisher’s Choice” award from Art and Beyond Magazine and is a finalist in a photo calendar competition. Chuck has participated in several regional group exhibitions and in addition to showing in two art galleries, his work is on permanent display at the Herndon Municipal Center [lobby], the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, and in several federal government buildings. http://tiopuravida.wix.com/bystander • tio.puravida@gmail.com
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vered galor FATHER’S ARCH, 1939. Life loving family of seven, …one sister and four brothers. School principle, Doctor, Engineer and twin athlete swimmers. Hard working, fun loving, …..only two survived the others, all condemned to die…..
“My photographic collages are layers of my reflections and observations, being personal, political or historical. Like our life experiences, these thoughts accumulate on top of each other, to create my feelings and emotions that get expressed in the artwork. The layering process coincides with the synthesis of creating visual pieces that invites one to investigate and explore the given information.” The artworks in this book are part of a portfolio called “Memories” and are my family personal story of the years 1936-1955, which are before, during and after World War II. Mother, Father and I are Holocaust Survivors.
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WRONG TIME, 1942. Wrong time wrong place to be born, When world to pieces ….is torn. no place to run… Hiding cellars
marching boots above only dreams can tell. Sugared silence Clinging to mountain slopes Reality of despair.
LEFT BEHIND, 1944. Down the Tatra mountains they came …. cloths and food they were looking for. …..captured, beaten and shot ….they were sent to places nobody came back from. The baby was left behind …..for God to take care of She managed to stay alive ……nobody knows how.
Vered Galor has been involved with the fine art world as an artist, curator and educator for over thirty years. She received her BA and MA in Fine Art from California State University in Northridge in 1975 and 1978. Mrs. Galor started her career as glass sculptor. In 1981 she established a business doing curatorial projects and consulting in Contemporary Fine Art. She lectured, participated in discussions and wrote art programs to encourage the collaboration of Art and Architecture. Since 1989 Ms. Galor has been teaching photography,
creating
her
own
artwork
and showing with galleries. She is currently doing Photographic Digital Collages and is represented by LarkGalleryOnLine, based in Los Angeles California. www.veredgalor.com • vgalor@hotmail.com
WINDOWS TO THE FUTURE, 1946. New life, new beginning ….a baby boy is born. New family, new hope windows to the future ……are formed.
New brother to a sister, …a son to survivors. All four are ready ….. to start anew.
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elton leonard jr. GOLDEN. Pencil and Digital Colors, 11” x 17”, 2010.
Elton Leonard Jr.
My artwork takes a
critical view of cultural, political and erotic perspectives. In my work, I reconstruct the American dream and fantasy images that are part of our childhood and adult culture. Having engaged subjects as diverse as black women’s rights, spirituality, African-American liberation and African culture, my work reproduces familiar visual signs, arranging them into new conceptually layered pieces. Often times these themes are combined into visual feminine elements that feature surreal and abstract backgrounds, juxtaposed with symbolic spiritual images, and often embellished with vibrant colors. The colors orange and yellow (that I most frequently use) establishes a dream-like surreal quality, suggests notions of calmness, peace, love, happiness and safety; which formally unifies the disparate figures in each portrait. While I use a variety of graphic as well as digital materials and processes in each project my
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WOMB PEACE. Pencil and Digital Colors, 11” x 17”, 2011.
methodology is consistent. Although there may not always be material similarities between the different projects they are linked by recurring formal concerns and through the subject matter. The subject matter of each body of work determines the materials and the forms of the work. My work for the most part is a major recording that reminds us about the beauty and sweetness of women and how to find the goddess within all of us. Believe it or not, we as humans are all Artists in one shape or form that is personally unique to us; for we have to ability to create our own lives and most of all our own destinies. My artwork is the very blueprint of who I am. – Elton Leonard Jr. www.eltonleonard.com www.facebook.com/EltonLeonardJr http://twitter.com/@SonofLoveDeity http://eltonleonard.blogspot.com ironlion75.deviantart.com
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satoshi matsuyama
BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN OUR HEARTLAND. 250mm
Satoshi Matsuyama was born and raised in Hakodate Japan, Tokyo and Sapporo has been his home for more than 30 years. Matsuyama’s last school education was high school, however, it carried out in 3rd and quit school. He has had no technical training in photography nor has he received any specialized art education. Matsuyama took his first trip to the Islands of Hawaii in 2002, suddenly, he began to create pixelized paintings on the Macintosh with Photoshop in 2003. His fascination with the beauty of Hawaii led him to visit the Islands more that 30 times to date. I was made to be realized the greatness of the work of God’s creation.
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MANOA ALI’I (ROYAL VAST). 250mm
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” (Romans 1:20) Looking through all things in the world, the intention of the only Creator, is that love be felt everywhere. The existence and character of our one God is to be known through his creatures. Although humans now have been able to change the colors and the forms of nature quite freely by the use of a tool called the computer, Matsuyama would like to utilize this technology in CONFORMITY to the God’s will and the intentions of the Creator, to show Nature in its truest and most beautiful forms. As long as he continues to do his work within this principle law and also showing his appreciation and respect as an administration of this excellent planet made by the true creator, God.” Matsuyama believes that he walks believe that he walks according to the laws of the Lord, the God will allot him the energy to continue his work forever with His eternal mighty power. (Psalms 119:1,2) http://aaronnutter.com • aaron@aaronnutter.com • 717-940-2675
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diana whiley
BIRD OF PARADISE. Digital Art, 16.5” x 23”.
Diana Whiley. Mainly a pen and ink artist, but conversant in watercolor and oils, I recently turned to mix media and digital art. I take inspiration from music and memories of the landscapes of my childhood: red-orange hills and white limestone by the River Murray South Australia. As a fantasy writer, I also created art to accompany my series of novels. Over a number of years I have been both editor and contributor to a number of local community art projects as well as book design and several book covers. I will be participating in SALA ( South Australian Living Artists) Exhibition in August. Art work and Biography appear in The World Art Book Volume 7; Paintings in an upcoming Art Fair in London. Recently, I have explored the relationship between symbolism and music in the rituals of various cultures. www.dianakwhiley.weebly.com • dizwhiley@hotmail.com
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UNDER GLASS. Digital Art, 12” x 16.5”.
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from the publisher Living Artists of Today: Contemporary Art is a resource for art professionals – gallery owners, art collectors, art publishers, museums and other art institutions around the world. This, the second edition of the book series takes the viewer through a visual journey of discovery and enjoyment of artwork by artists who live and work both next door to us and around the world, they share similar life experiences and moments in history, technological breakthroughs, economic hardships, tragedy and happiness of today’s fast paced world. Expressing oneself creatively and making an impact on the world while at the same time trying to make a living can be challenging and throughout history, artists have been known to face and overcome obstacles that this profession can bring. This book is a tribute to those artists who never give up their dreams, passions, ability to feel, live, love and experience joy. They create an extraordinary collection of art, capturing our life and displaying it through their prism of artistic vision to share with the rest of the world.
Living Artists of Today is a great example of the recognition of the artist. We are immensely proud and honored to publish these works and help bring these artists to the forefront and share with the world the work of these talented artists. Each artist published in this book has an Online Gallery on the Art & Beyond Publications website with a biography and direct contact information to the artists at www.artandbyondpublications.com.
Read. View. Enjoy.