Featured Artist: Jacob Dhein!

Jacob Dhein | ArtFoodHome.com

Nude in Blue V by Jacob Dhein – 20×18.5″ Oil on Panel

Jacob Dhein. Stunning paintings. Different. Realistic. Abstract. What a cool combination! Jacob has quite a story (as you will read below). I think his work is incredible! Check out his website to see more of his work!

Read a bit about Jacob, from his website:

Jacob Dhein was interested in art as a child. Crayons and colored pencils were his tools of expression. He spent hours intricately crafting drawings of comic book heroes and animals. By the time he graduated from high school, one of his drawings was exhibited on the wall of a local bank. It wasn’t until he was a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh that he decided to take a drawing class. He found this so compelling that he continued with sculpture and painting. During this time he met several accomplished and influential artists who encouraged him to pursue a career in art. Tc Farley, his advisor and sculpture professor, taught him about the struggle and dedication one needed to succeed as an artist. Li Hu, his painting professor, showed him the professional side of the art market and what he needed to do if he wanted to paint for a living.

In 2006, Jacob graduated with a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in Painting and Sculpture. He worked for several years after graduation, although still continued with his artwork, mainly doing portrait commissions. During this time he took workshops to enhance his skills with painters whose work he was interested in. After two years, in 2009, Jacob dedicated himself to painting full time. Upon reflection he realized that there were missing elements in his artwork he needed to explore if he were ever to reach his goal of mastering the medium. He searched for a school that had a renown faculty that excelled in the area of representational painting. He decided to get his Masters of Fine Arts at the Academy of Art University, San Francisco that he completed in 2013. In 2014, Jacob started teaching drawing and painting at the Academy of Art University, San Francisco.

All images via JacobDhein.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

House Plan: The Mises Plan (C0512) by Allison Ramsey Architect!

The Mises Plan (C0512) by Allison Ramsey Architect

The Mises Plan (C0512) / Allison Ramsey Architect

The Mises Plan (C0512) by Allison Ramsey Architect! This plan is 3,044 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. I love the look of this house. Great porch, wonderful windows, interesting roof line. It’s different. I love different!

The Mises Plan (C0512) by Allison Ramsey Architect

The Mises Plan (C0512) / Allison Ramsey Architect

This is a generous size plan, just over 3,000 square feet, downstairs you have three bedrooms. I would use Bedroom 3 as a Study (as they have it marked). That way the person in Bedroom 2 has their peace and quiet. I like the center foyer, that would be fun to decorate! The dining room is more traditional, and the Breakfast/Kitchen/Living areas look like where I would do most of my living! I would maybe even use the formal dining room as an office?

LOOK at that screened porch! That would be wonderful! So many options!

The Mises Plan (C0512) by Allison Ramsey Architect

The Mises Plan (C0512) / Allison Ramsey Architect

You know what I’m thinking? The Playroom would be a really nice Art Studio space!! I love to hear your ideas, or what type house plan you’re looking for… Large? Small? One floor? Narrow, wide? Let me know!

Click HERE to see images of the real house!

All images via AllisonRamseyArchitect.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Featured Artist: Jane Oriel!

Lucky by Jane Oriel 18x14" Pastel on Paper

Lucky by Jane Oriel
18×14″ Pastel on Paper

Oh. My. Gosh! Precious doesn’t begin to describe this painting of Lucky! This sweet dog in combination with that wonderful wallpaper makes a heart stopping awesome painting! The colors all blend perfectly – what a sweet face! Jane has a real knack for capturing the innermost feelings of these beasts (I say that lovingly)!

Lux, Presto & Chico by Jane Oriel 24x36" Oil

Lux, Presto & Chico by Jane Oriel
24×36″ Oil

Another painting, this one is in oil. The wonderful rug, the three happy dogs just chilling out! Are you looking to have someone create a wonderful pet portrait? Look no further! Click HERE for more information regarding Jane’s portraits, prices, etc…

Read more about Jane, from her website:

Jane Oriel’s work can be found in many private collections and has been exhibited in solo and group shows nationally, for over 25 years. While living in NYC in her twenties, she studied at The Art Student’s League, Parson’s School of Design and The School of Visual Arts. After working as a Graphic artist for many years, Jane moved to Woodstock, NY where she started to exhibit her work and gain confidence as a painter. Her work continues to lead her to many different projects.

In addition to editorial illustration, private commissions, large scale public art and graphic design, she has created art work for many non-profit and community organizations, including many animal rescues.

“Creating artwork is where I feel most alive. It requires every part of my concentration. It forces me to trust that where I end up is meant to be.”

All images via JaneOriel.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Nachos Recipe: An easy and decidedly decadent quick dinner (while being heathy at the same time!)…

Healthier nachos | ArtFoodHome.com

We were trying to come up with something for dinner. Something different. We all get stuck in a rut of making the same thing. We wanted fresh, tasty, healthy, and fast!

I threw these together, put the pan under the broiler until the cheese melted and then added the tomato mixture and fresh avocado – This was a roll your eyes back in your head kind of dinner :)

Here’s what I did – Click HERE to print:

N A C H O   M A M A ‘ S  N A C H O S – Healthier version

i n g r e d i e n t s 

Whole Foods 365 Brand Organic Blue Corn Chips (or whatever brand you like)

Container of grape tomatoes, sliced thin

Onion, sliced thin (however much you like)

Lime, wedge, squeezed

1 Avocado, peeled, de-seeded and cut into small chunks – Wait to do this until you need it.

1 box of 365 (Whole Foods) brand Black Beans, rinsed, and lightly patted dry – use however much you like  I used 1/2 box.

365 (Whole Foods) brand Organic Pepper Jack Cheese, grated (however much you like). I could have used more but was trying to be “good”… and it was delicious!

Jalopeno’s, diced (or buy the diced ones in a jar near pickle section at grocery store)… I didn’t have these, but will use next time!

Cilantro, chopped (didn’t have it this time, but will next time)…

d i r e c t i o n s

Mix the chopped grape tomatoes and diced/minced onion. Then squeeze the wedge of lime over. Stir to mix the flavors. Can add cilantro and jalepenos if you like.

I used a rectangular metal roasting pan, but use whatever you’ve got. Spread the chips out evenly. Top with black beans and grated cheese. But under broiler until cheese melts (and if you use more cheese than I did, wait until it starts to get a bit bubbly) – be sure to WATCH IT! It never takes long under a broiler, sometimes just a minute or two…

When it comes out of the oven, top with the tomato salsa mixture, and the fresh avocado. You can also have a side of Greek yogurt, but I kept it simple.

This will make your tastebuds smile… seriously!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Featured Artist: David Cheifetz!

David Cheifetz | ArtFoodHome.com

Fat of the Land by David Cheifetz  –  12 x 24″ Oil on Panel

I love orange! Look at how that orange just makes this painting stand at attention! The entire painting has so much interest, from the light and shadows to the unique background. I love the combination of realistic and abstract. That bit of orange that follows to the vase – STUNNING! David’s paintings are unique – be sure to check them out!

Read a bit about David, from RS Hanna Gallery website:

David Cheifetz (pronounced “chay-fits” or “high-fits”) was born in the Pacific Northwest in 1981. A former architect, David started learning to paint with oils in the fall of 2007 while attending the Schuler School of Fine Arts in Baltimore, and in 2009 made the transition to full-time artist. David currently lives in Palo Alto, CA with his wife, Yasmine.

Images via DavidCheifetz.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Charlie in charge…

Charlie | ArtFoodHome.com

Hey! I’m Charlie! Giving the human the day off… sharing a few of my favorite things with you… she’ll be back tomorrow!

I love grabbing the humans socks… gets them all riled up. They chase me around and eventually I end up with a treat (carrot or frozen green bean). It’s taken several years, but I think I have them trained…

Charlie on his way downtown

I love to feel the wind in my hair! Someone is always threatening to make me wear Doggles!

Charlie in the sprinkler!

I love a good sprinkler! There is nothing better than passing a house with a sprinkler while on my morning walk! I dive right in, get soaking wet, ahhh, it makes me smile! Also love when the humans water the grass – they laugh at me!

charlie favorite things

Hee, hee… have I got her trained or what? She makes my healthy treats look fancy (well, sometimes)… two of my favorites: Pumpkin and whole grain pasta. She’s a little stingy with the pasta, but I’ll take what I can get!

Charlie | ArtFoodHome.com

Friend or foe? I’m not really sure. They come and visit (or torture?) me by sitting on the windowsill!

IMG_3481

Of course! What do you expect? I am a dog, hee hee…

SURPRISE CHARLIE! It’s me! The human… and you thought I forgot… Happy 6th Birthday!! xxoxoxoxoxox, love us!

Charlie IS 6!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR CHARLIE!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

…AND MANY MORE!

 

 

Featured Artist: Ralf Feyl!

Painting by Ralf Feyl
Painting by Ralf Feyl

Ralf Feyl. I have been in a conundrum trying to select a few paintings… Truly, Ralf’s paintings are so good that I want to show you every single one, but thankfully you can click on the link at the beginning of this post to be directed to his website where you can peruse to your heart’s content!

Ralf’s water is captivating. It’s like sitting on the back side of Monhegan watching the waves crash against the rocks. There is something spiritual about this. I could sit there all day long, lost in thought… the sound of the ocean is so peaceful! So are Ralf’s paintings!

Painting by Ralf Feyl
Painting by Ralf Feyl

I think the graceful lines of the boat against the abstract background is just beautiful. There is a sereneness to this painting.

Lovely! You’ve got to check out Ralf’s website… Stunning work!

Read a bit about Ralf, from his website:
First generation German roots and a midwestern upbringing provided Ralf Feyl with a strong foundation and sharp instincts. Born in Chicago in 1970, Ralf was immersed in the world of hand work, his father being a master carpenter and his mother, a seamstress and tailor. Observing his parents’ crafts, Ralf became attuned to detail, delicacy, and design. At the American Academy in Chicago, Ralf studied with the beloved and respected Bill Parks. He then traveled east to study in Connecticut at the Lyme Academy and became deeply inspired by the mysterious borderlands of the coastal area and the people who inhabit it. Once in New England, Ralf found the influence and stimulation he needed. In 1992 Jeff Cooley of the Cooley Gallery offered Ralf his first exhibit, where he has been represented ever since. Ralf has over twenty solo exhibitions to his credit, and his work is found in hundreds of private and corporate collections across the globe, including Deutsche Bank, Frankfurt; Boeing, Chicago; Swedish Trade Council, Stockholm; and Pfizer Inc., New York. Ralf Feyl resides in Maine where he continues to paint. At times elusive and at times familiar, Ralf creates a plurality of feelings that keeps the viewer engaged and curious.

All images via RalfFeyl.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

House Plan: 222 Greensboro Place by Our Town Plans!

222 Greensboro Place by Our Town Plans
222 Greensboro Place by Our Town Plans

222 Greensboro Place by Our Town Plans. This plan is 1,563 square feet with 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms.

I love the screened porch on the side of the house! Think of all the wonderful times that could be spent on that wonderful porch!

Click HERE to see some great (real!) interior images!

222 Greensboro Place by Our Town Plans
222 Greensboro Place by Our Town Plans

This is such a great plan! You walk in off the front porch into the Sitting Room (Living space), and in that room is a real masonry fireplace! There is nothing like a real fire!

The kitchen is located in the back of the house. Efficient in design, making every square foot count. Just look at the counter space, woohoo! There is a Master Bedroom downstairs, as well as washer/dryer and a powder room.

222 Greensboro Place by Our Town Plans
222 Greensboro Place by Our Town Plans

Upstairs is one generous size bedroom, bathroom and plenty of storage! Perfect!

All images via OurTownPlans.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Featured Artist: Phil Starke!

Phil Starke | ArtFoodHome.com

Christmas at the Farm by Phil Starke
16×18″ Oil

Phil Starke. Look at the incredible light hitting this painting! I love the stone fireplace. I like the composition of this painting… by having the view come from below looking up at the house is cool – it adds interest! It’s different. I love different!

A winter painting in summer? Yep! Ever hear of Christmas in July? With the temps in Charleston, SC right now (well, it is summer!) looking at a painting to cool off is rather appealing!

Phil has a blog (Between the Palette Scrapings – great title!) that is full of wonderful information, I highly suggest it! Check out his website for workshop information, videos, books, etc.!

Read a bit about Phil, from his website:

Phil Starke began to show an interest in art from the time he lived in Germany as a young boy while his father was in the military.  He studied at the American Academy of Art in Chicago.  Inspired by the instructors at the Academy, Starke changed course from his aim at the advertising world and developed a passion for oil painting.  It was upon graduation from the American Academy of Art that he decided to plunge into the profession of fine art.

From the Midwest, West and Southwest, Phil has continued to be inspired.  Each season and each region has its own color palette and unique landscape.  From landscape to figures, and plein-air to studio painting Phil continues to find inspiration in his work.

Choosing to share this passion and inspire others, Phil also teaches workshops, helping others develop their own individual talent.

All images via PhilStarke.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Garage/Guest House Plan: G0063 by Allison Ramsey Architect!

Garage/Guest G0063 by Allison Ramsey Architect
Garage/Guest G0063 by Allison Ramsey Architect

Garage and Guest Cottage G0063 by Allison Ramsey Architects. The garage is 357 square feet, and the guest cottage is 363 square feet with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom. Perfect for guests, or if you live where you can also rent, this is a perfect small cottage apartment isn’t it? I love the lines of this Guest Cottage!

Garage/Guest G0063 by Allison Ramsey Architect
Garage/Guest G0063 by Allison Ramsey Architect

This garage plan also has a carport on the side, which comes in very handy, especially if you live where there are a lot of trees! Keeps your car much cleaner! The steps to the upstairs are located on the outside, back of the garage, not in view, which is nice!

Garage/Guest G0063 by Allison Ramsey Architect
Garage/Guest G0063 by Allison Ramsey Architect

This little guest cottage plan has it all! A nice size bedroom, a Living/Kitchen area, as well as a Bathroom and a… Tada… BALCONY! I love this plan!

All images via Allison Ramsey Architect, used with permission…

NOTE: Email subscribers may have received a rather blank email with images… technical glitch has been resolved! :)

Catch you back here tomorrow!!

Featured Artist: Dreama Tolle Perry!

Dreama Tolle Perry | ArtFoodHome.com

Dreama Tolle Perry. Wonderful flowers. Beautiful colors – Dreama’s paintings make you feel good, don’t they? Dreama excels at colorful paintings with such nice soft brush strokes!

Interested in a workshop? Dreama has many scheduled! Check it out! Dreama’s website is full of info for artists and collectors alike!

Dreama Tolle Perry Paintings | ArtFoodHome.com

A sampling of paintings by Dreama!

Read a bit about Dreama, from her website:

I’m Dreama.  I’m an artist and writer.

A thinker and child of the 70’s, now in my 50’s, living into the teens—2015 and beyond, that is.  (According to this kind of math, I am getting younger by the minute.)

Named by my grandmother. Self-taught in art.

Lover of books.  Lover of color.

 Guilty of wearing purple eye shadow…and carrying a purple phone with my purple wallet in a ….you guessed it, purple handbag.

I grew up with both a brother and father who painted.

I traveled far via books checked out from the local library, 12 at a time, every week of every long Kentucky summer of my youth.

I dreamed, I imagined, I waited.

I was 30 before I picked up a brush.  50 before I began writing. To read more, click HERE.

Are you interested in taking a workshop? Dreama has many scheduled throughout 2015-2016, check out the workshop schedule!

Images via DreamaTollePerry.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Another charming home in Charleston, SC!

IMG_3059

Beautiful homes in Charleston, SC… there are many, but this is one of my favorites.  It’s the porch… how inviting is that? I would like to be on it right now!

Charleston has no shortage of stunning homes full of charm and plenty of character!

I have been signing off with “Catch you back here tomorrow”, but now I am considering something different… Have a second? Take the poll! It’s only a click!

Featured Artist: Joanne Hanson!

Joanne Hanson | ArtFoodHome.com

At the Marina by Joanne Hanson – 24×18 Oil on Panel

Joanne Hanson. Wonderful! I love the subtleness of the mountains in the backdrop, the shadows of the masts of the sailboats in the rippled water, as well as the shadow of the mountain – whoa! The dark navy of the boat on the right really seems to anchor things. The boat shadows are splendid!

Read a bit about Joanne, from her website:

Even though she was from an artistic family, except for high school art classes, Joanne Hanson did not paint.  Her sister, Adele Earnshaw, an artist for 30 years, finally convinced her to come and be her helper at a workshop she was teaching in Tuscon.  As it was April, which can be muddy and cold in Colorado, and as it was warm in Arizona, Joanne consented.    Adele didn’t get much help in that class, because as soon as Joanne picked up the paintbrush, she was hooked.  Since then, she has taken classes at the Art Student’s League of Denver with Kevin Wechbach, Rob Gratiot, Ken Valastro, Kim English and Michelle Torrez.  She has studied with Chris Morel in Taos, Tim Deibler in La Veta Colorado, Carol Marine in Sedona, AZ, Jill Carver, in Rico, Colorado, Larisa Aukon of Scottsdale AZ, and of course, is learning constantly from her first and best mentor, her sister Adele.  
Visit Joanne’s blog, titled “On Becoming an Artist”

Joanne’s artwork is available at Arts Alive Gallery in Breckenridge, Colorado, the Cornflower Boutique and Gallery in Frisco, Colorado, The River’s Edge Gallery in Alma, Colorado and the Blue Goose Gallery in Chester, CA.  She also participates in shows at the Framed Image Gallery in Englewood, Colorado.

Joanne is a member of the Women Artists of the West and Plein Air Artists of Colorado.

Image via JoanneHansonArt.com, used with permission…

Catch you back here tomorrow!