To celebrate Mother’s Day this week, we asked some of our artists to tell us about their mother and how she supported or influenced their work. But to begin, I would like to say a little something about my mother…

My mom…it’s hard to even find the words to express how I feel.  At 4’11” and a complete dynamo, she designed and made our clothes as children, keeps an amazing organic vegetable & flower garden and makes the best stuffed peppers ever! She is my inspiration and always will be.  I’m in awe of her courage to leave Greece in 1967 at the young age of 33 (with my dad, sister and myself in tow) to travel to a country…a land of opportunity, where she didn’t even know the language.  Her and my father’s dream was a better life for their family.  And their dream came true.  Thank you mom for all the sacrifices you made along the way and for bringing me here to grow, excel as a business owner and follow my dream of becoming a wife and mother myself.  “Se agapo!” (I love you in Greek)

Left: Still in Greece when I was just a baby Right: Fixing my veil on my wedding day in 1993

Artist,  Karin Sheer writes…

“My first recollection of a painting is of one that my mother did on my bedroom wall when I still just two years old. To spruce up the otherwise plain room, she had painted a scene from a story book of a boy walking along with a fishing pole over his shoulder off of which dangled the fish which he had just caught. Apparently, I was terrified of the fish (which was about an inch in length) and, wailing, refused to sleep in the room until she painted over it! So, I hate to say that my first memory of a painting was an unpleasant one but the good news is that the experience did not negatively impact my future interest in art!! My mother had an old wooded box full of tubes of various colored oil paints and on occasion she would get it out and start a painting. She was self taught and treated it as a hobby. She would labor over each new painting, learning as she went to blend the colors and recreate the image which she copied from one of her magazines …usually a pastoral or ocean scene. The Connecticut countryside , where we lived, was a great inspiration for her and she gravitated toward the beauty of the ocean and peaceful, pastoral scenes. She completed several pieces which she deemed acceptable and they hung in the living room of our house. My mother always encouraged me to draw as a child and featured my work on the refrigerator. My decision to get a degree in Art Education was met with enthusiastic support but, like my mother, I only painted as a hobby until about ten years ago. By that time, my mother had passed away and, unfortunately, she did not get to witness the progress I’ve made over that time. But, whenever I do a painting involving an ocean, a barn or a cow, I know that my mother would approve!”

Click image to see more of Karin Sheer's artwork

Artist,  Lisa Schuster writes…

“Mothers. We all have one. Some of us are blessed with good ones that teach, love and take good care of us. And some of us are twice blessed with mothers that are happy people themselves and who believe in us so much they inspire us to find our best selves. Such is my great fortune with my beautiful mother.

Songs have been written in their honor, countless poems have been penned. And I am humbled to say that my floral paintings have been painted in the hopes of reflecting her joy as she toils in her exquisite gardens. I cannot see a flower, bouquet or garden without seeing it thru her eyes. With love, pride and gratitude, Happy Mothers Day.”

Click image to see more of Lisa Schuster's artwork

Artist,  Mary Barr Rhodes told us…

This is the conversation I had with Mary & her mother over the phone…

Mary: “My Mother was a great support to me. Not only did she put me through college, but she even modeled for me for my figurative drawing class! Isn’t that great!?’

Mary’s mother, Frances A. Barr: “Whether it was a flower, a truck, or the sky above!”

Mary: “I don’t remember painting a truck…”

…and with that I heard only laughter in the background, two very similar & sweet laughs.

Click image to see more of Mary Barr Rhodes' artwork

Artist,  Rocky Woods writes…

“My mother, Veronica “Vera” Woods, was the kindest, dearest, slow-to-anger person I’ve ever known. She was quite attractive and could have easily been mistaken for Ingrid Bergman.

Most parents put artwork on the fridge. That wasn’t good enough for my mom. She hung my art (for as long as I can remember) on our front window & front door! She had such pride in her son, the artist! What more encouragement did I need? The good Lord took her home when I was only twenty, but she will always remain in my heart, and someday we’ll be reunited.”

Click image to see more of Rocky Woods' artwork

Artist, Paula Wiggins writes…

“My mother was something of an enigma. She was the daughter of Irish immigrants who settled in a small industrial town in Connecticut. Her grandfather had built the family home which, when I was small, was large and wondrous. As an adult it had become small with rickety back steps. One of my earliest memories is of a family dinner interrupted by a fire in the backseat of a 1955 Pontiac parked in front of the house. It was from a burning cigarette. Everyone smoked back then.

When World War II erupted my mother, who was a nurse, went with a girlfriend to enlist, with the provision that the two be stationed together. Certainly, the recruiters said. The two young women joined the United States Navy and never saw each other again. My mother went on to attain the rank of Lieutenant Commander and stayed in the Navy for 7 years. She was to meet my father at St. Albans Naval Hospital.

After the war, returning veterans were expected to forget what they’d seen and resume civilian life. My parents settled in suburbia to raise 2 children as was expected. My mother was not one to talk about her past. My sister and I often wondered if the trauma of caring for the wounded of Iwo Jima and Okinawa made her reclusive, silent, and painfully shy. Or was she always like that? I never knew what she thought of my art and my decision to become an artist. While she dutifully attended openings she did so without comment. To her, emotion was to be strictly hidden away. Maybe that’s my mother’s real influence: cloaking the interior workings of the soul in paint, in paper, and in bits of the discarded past.”

Click image to see more of Paula Wiggin's artwork

Kelly Ryder, ADC’s PR & Social Media Specialist writes…

“My mother is the superwoman of all super hero mothers. She believes in me, supports me, and beams with pride for me no matter how large or small my achievements. The epitome of every epic story’s leading lady—she is beyond beautiful, kind, caring, smart, and strong. She is loved & admired by every person she meets. Her unconditional love, dedication & faith in Christ amazes me daily.

It is my hope to someday become even half the woman my mother is.”

Mom- I love you with my whole heart. You're my mentor, role model, and best friend.

To all mothers—whether you are expecting your first child, enjoying the beautiful chaos of kids at home, or all your children are grown—a very happy Mother’s Day!

Ok, we can admit it. When it comes to design, a lot of the time we ladies are calling the shots. This is probably how the infamous “man cave” came to exist. And, sure, we get it. You want your space too—a place designed just for you where you can escape to work, watch a game or strum on your acoustic.

Artwork by John Landsiedel

Dream Big

When I think of ‘design for men’ I often visualize the cool “bachelor pad” often portrayed in Hollywood. Maybe it’s that rustic Arizonian escape, the skyscraper apartment with city views, or the art deco sports pub. All of these awesomely man-centric oases have the same thing in common—a sense of status and establishment still infused with the comfort and ease any one would desire in their getaway space.

What man doesn’t want to be the stylish Don Draper of their Mad Men world?

Click image to see more of Tom Towhey's artwork

Down to Earth

Bold patterns and sleek neutrals are the epitome of masculine. Colors of the earth—the browns & steels of dirt and clay—are timeless and can be play up to be sharp & modern or played down to be worn & laid back.

Artwork by John Landsiedel

Less is More

Men like it simple. They don’t need a lot of “things” or “stuff” to be content and satisfied. Primary colors, minimalist abstracts, and copper artwork are just a few fantastic & man-friendly artwork choices. Bold colors and clean lines bring a space clarity—helping avoid the feeling of chaos or visual busyness. This ‘less is more’ design concept is perfect for work spaces where you hope to get a lot accomplished. The less complex a space, the easier it is to focus on the task at hand.

Click image to see more of Lisa Schuster's artwork

Stylish and Strong

The texture and weight of metal artwork creates a space with structure and strength; two words often synonymous with the roles men play in our lives as “our rock” and “support.”  Why not have a space that reminds you of that every day?

Click image to see more copper artwork

The Hang Out

Not only is it nice to have a space for yourself, but also a space to bring your pals. This kind of space is where you can indulge in guilty pleasures… a cold beer, ESPN highlights, jazz music & or a cigar. Whatever your poison, it’s nice to accommodate your man space for your male friends. This is a great place to play a little more because it’s less about the ‘to do’ list and more about the fun to be had.

Artwork by Patrick Williams

Boys will be Boys

It’s true. They will. Which is why they need a space of their own to express their unique personality through design and artwork just as much as we ladies do. So men, claim your territory and take your design style and put it into action. You’ll love having a space to escape to! And, I promise you’ll shine with pride when you get to show off an entire room designed with you in mind.

Click image to see more of Robbie Kemper's artwork

When designing a space, decision making can seem daunting. Doesn’t it seem like there are endless options?  It’s not that we don’t like anything enough to choose, it’s that we like too many to choose! Too many colors and too many styles suit our multidimensional personalities and it can make it difficult to settle on just one. Don’t let these choices stress you out! Take back the control by letting some of your favorite things—your favorite flower, dessert, lipstick, or clutch—guide you through the design process.

It may seem outside the box, but it really works and is incredibly fun! Isn’t there a reason you love that {insert your favorite item here} so much?

Let the things you love most, inspire your space! What else could possibly make it more you?
 

Summer’s Sweet Treat

Bright & bold colors are so “in” this year. These fresh colors are energetic and lively; they keep us feeling youthful! But it doesn’t have to stop with color that pops! Mixing and matching patterns is also a popular trend. Here we brought some pattern up to the wall with this Kevin Poole abstract.

Click image to see more of Kevin Poole's artwork

Peony Perfection

Every year on your birthday, anniversary, or Valentine’s Day—what kind of bouquet do you get that is sure to make you smile? The textures and colors of your favorite flowers can easily be infused into your home. This Frank Satogata painting captures the color, playfulness, and femininity of a vibrant floral arrangement. His brushstrokes, lose and layered are reminiscent of petals.

Click image to see more of Frank Satogata's artwork

It’s in the Bag

All women have their favorite purse or clutch. It’s our ‘go to’ bag for a fun evening out. Let the style and color combination of your most beloved accessories help you create your space. Here we have a modern style hand bag with a modern twist. Its color layering and asymmetrical design is represented in this fabulously colorful Rachel Gillen painting.

Click image to see more of Rachel Gillen's artwork

Ch-arm Chair

Think it’d be ridiculous to design an entire space around one piece of furniture you just can’t seem to get enough of? Well, I hate to say it out right, but you’d be wrong. If anything it’s the smart thing to do! Designing without a focus can lead to a space that doesn’t feel complete or uniform. To balance the bold colors in the chair we chose to pull out the color that is represented the least. By putting that teal/blue painting by Helen Buck on the wall the beautiful, but finer details of this chair are accented rather than lost.

Click image to see more of Helen Buck's artwork

Mouth-watering Magic

Food is beautiful. And although we cannot all claim to have the talent of Emeril in the kitchen (“BAM!”) we can still use it as inspiration. Our favorite foods encompass so many stunning colors. Strawberry, lemon, raspberry and orange sherbet (mm, frozen yogurt anyone?) are all represented in this contemporary piece by Robbie Kemper.

Click image to see more of Robbie Kemper's artwork

Your Toes Know

This season, I have seen women wearing the most gorgeous, bright, & fun shoes. We may not always think we know what we want, and what our personal tastes and style are—but I tell you this; our toes know. Let your favorite shoes help you pair (get it?) the right colors together! This boudoir is so fresh with teal walls and cranberry accents—Frank Satogata’s lily painting ties it all together!

Click image to see more of Frank Satogata's artwork

Love the Results

If you begin by choosing the things you are certain of—the things you know you love—and design from there, you are undoubtedly headed for success. Just as the things you love help define you, your space should reflect you and your one-of-a-kind personality! So, how do we accomplish great design with ease and (of course) pleasure? Listen to the wisdom of the Beatles. All you need is love.

There are so many different styles of artwork out there, why should we limit ourselves to just one medium? When we think of artwork the first thing that tends to come to mind are paintings and illustration. And I must say, these mediums are classic. They will forever be in style, and are always excellent to display in your space.

Click image to see more of Frank Satogata's artwork

But…and I know you knew a “but” was coming…there are SO MANY other kinds of cool mediums out there! It is incredibly fun to play around with different ones around the home or office. Representing several different mediums throughout your space keeps things fresh and shows your diverse taste.

Just because you are switching it up in medium, doesn’t mean the overall look can’t be cohesive. Use other elements like colors, texture, and subject matter to accomplish an aesthetic balance.
 

Photo Fabulous

Photography is another classic. Although Da Vinci was long before Ansel Adams, and photography is not nearly as old compared to painting and illustration, it still earns a spot in the classics department. Photography is a fantastic way to artistically showcase subjects that are associated with you personally—places or things of special meaning to you.

Click image to see more of Marc Wavra's artwork

The Wonders of Wax

Encaustics are another fantastic style of artwork. They are also known as “hot wax paintings.” The artist uses heated beeswax and adds pigment to achieve the desired colors. These pieces look incredible—the colors are rich and vibrant, the material is dense, and the surface smooth. Using this malleable wax medium, the artist can create textures through scratching, carving or building up the wax.

Click image to see more encaustic paintings

Metallic Magic

Specifically, copper. Copper artwork is incredibly unique. It’s beautiful, durable, and can be displayed indoors or out. It shines, glistens, can be commissioned to incorporate any color, and is often bent to create a three-dimensional wall sculpture.

Click image to see more of Ken Rausch's artwork

Make a Statement with Sculpture

Artwork doesn’t just have to be on the walls! Consider mixing your 2-D and 3-D artwork. Sculptures make a bold, dynamic statement in a room and come in several different mediums including stone, glass, and clay. Like the copper artwork, many sculptures can be used both indoors and out. And, most importantly, they come in all different styles appealing to a variety of tastes, representational or abstract.

Click image to see more sculptures

Click image to see more sculptures

Marvelous Mediums

So next time you’re looking for a new piece of artwork, remember that you have a nearly endless amount of options. Sometimes we forget how many styles and mediums are available to us. It’s fun to display not just one, but all of your favorite types of artwork! Don’t fall into a rut, but instead keep things fresh by mixing it up!

There is something incredibly powerful about transformations. This is why we are so intrigued by the concept of ‘before and after.’ We love seeing women made over—hair, makeup, and wardrobe done for them to help remind them of their beauty & potential. We get such satisfaction watching interior spaces be painted and furnished to improve the look and feel of a home, and even more so, in watching the homeowners delight in the difference it makes!

The same transforming affect can happen with a piece of artwork being hung on a wall, or putting a frame on a piece of artwork, our favorite photograph, or memorabilia. There is just something so exciting about the finished look. It feels whole…complete…and increasingly significant as compared to the ‘before.’

Click image to see more of Trish Weeks' artwork

Meet Jeff.

Jeff Westermyer, a fairly new client and good friend of Art Design Consultants came in to pick up a finished framed piece that he ordered during the Frame Sale Insanity. After our first introduction about a year ago, Jeff quickly became one of our greatest supporters…

“I can actually see ADC from my balcony, and I always thought it was such a cool space. I was invited to the Cincinnati Design Star event through Park Place Condos’ weekly email. The event was fabulous. It was a fun mix of people and great artwork.”

Kramer the dog approves.

Jeff walked in and saw a wall featuring thousands of samples and mentioned he “had no idea ADC did framing!”

“I purchased a piece of art from an ADC auction & wondered if I could afford to have it framed there as well. I did a little shopping around and ADC turned out to have the best pricing—and on top of it all they customized the painting for me. They cut off the 90’s matting to make it a beautiful finished piece. I’ve had 5 pieces plus framed at ADC since, and the finished work is always impeccable. I love the entire Art Design crew.”

“I actually recently recommended ADC’s framing services to an artist neighbor of mine who ended up getting several pieces framed during The Frame Sale Insanity sale. She picked up her finished pieces last week, and called me so happy, to say ‘thank you for telling me about this place!’

Kitschy Kool

For his most recent frame job, Jeff chose a 4” wide, traditional gold, ornate frame to create a fun juxtaposition with the whimsy of his artwork. “I found this piece for $35 in a second hand store. I thought it was so kitschy that it was cool. After seeing it finished with the frame it looks like a work of art!”

Meet Chris…The Man Who Made It Happen!

With so many wonderful corporate and residential projects in the works, we are proud to announce that we have recently added another member to the Art Design team. Everyone, meet Chris. Chris is our newest framer, and not only is he friendly and funny…he is extremely talented!

Chris has been in the custom framing business for 26 years. This not only includes being the Supervisor of Larson Juhl Cincinnati Division—world leading picture frame moulding supply enterprise—but also owning his very own upscale custom framing shop, Walden Lake Art & Frame Shop, Inc. in Plant City, Florida.

…aka…when it comes to framing, there is nothing Chris Morris cannot do and we are so incredibly thrilled to have him working with us!

Are you a talented artist, or do you know someone who is?

I am so pleased to announce that Cincinnati’s Art Comes Alive (ACA) 2012 is officially open for entries. So here’s the scoop…Art Comes Alive is a national art contest & regional exhibit that awards the brightest and best artists in a variety of categories. This competition is a phenomenal opportunity for artists to be acknowledged for their talents, gain exposure and win purchase awards and gallery contracts.

With $65,000 in awards, this is an amazing chance to get your art noticed by collectors, corporation, healthcare & hospitality industries, interior designers, art galleries & dealers. If you aren’t an artist yourself—pass along this wonderful opportunity to an artist you know!

Awards

Our designated Jurors will choose 150 works to be showcased in the final exhibit & opening night awards ceremony on June 15. These select artists will then be presented with $15, 500 in purchase awards, 8 gallery contract awards, 19 featured artists spots on Litsa’s Blog: inspirational ideas on art & design, and a 2 page ad in Venue Magazine…just to name a few!

Awards by Subject:

Landscape Artist of the Year
Still Life Artist of the Year
Figurative Artist of the Year
Abstract Artist of the Year
Floral Artist of the Year
Architectural Artist of the Year

Awards by Medium:

Watercolor Artist of the Year
Printmaker of the Year
Mixed Media Artist of the Year
2-D Painter of the Year
Illustrator or Pastel Artist of the Year

Fine Craft Artist of the Year (includes glass, fiber, jewelry, & clay)
Sculptor of the Year (includes metal, stone, & wood)
Photographer of the Year

Special Awards

I am so excited about the Special Awards! We will be presenting 2 Lifetime Achievement Awards (male & female) as well as 2 Emerging Artist Awards (male & female) & even (yes—we’ll need your help!) People’s Choice Award! Choose your favorite artwork & vote at ADC, Art Design Consultant’s Facebook page!

Our Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

Anne Lisben, Elegant Fare: $5,000 purchase award & $5,000 catering & bar for opening night reception/awards ceremony

Gold

Burke, Inc: $2500 Purchase Award

Mike Story: $2500 Purchase Award

ADC, Art Design Consultants, Inc: $1100 Purchase Award & $1400 Category Awards

Silver

Larson Juhl Moulding: $1000 Framing Gift Certificate

Lisa & Rich Boehne: $1000 Purchase Award

Friends

David Cowdrey: $500 Purchase Award

Asset Advisory: $500 Purchase Award

The Details

Feb 22, 2012
Competition opens

April 20, 2012
Submission deadline

May 4, 2012
Results announced for artists accepted in exhibit

June 4, 2012
All artwork selected for the exhibit MUST arrive at the gallery (by 5:00 pm)

June 8, 2012
Results announced for purchase awards

June 15, 2012
Opening night and awards ceremony

July 20, 2012
Exhibit closes

Entry Fee:

$45 1st image
$25 2nd image
$10 3rd image
Free 4th image

Accepted Media:

paintings

original prints

drawings (includes pastels, charcoal, & pencil)

sculpture (includes metal, stone, & wood)

non functional fine art crafts (includes glass, fiber, jewelry, & clay)

photography

mixed media

*size limit: we will not be accepting artwork larger than 48”x60”, Sculptures cannot exceed 72”H x 24”W x 24″L and must arrive in one piece.

Eligibility
All visual artists in the country above the age of 18 are eligible to participate.

…so what are you waiting for? ENTER NOW! And of course keep your eyes peeled for the ACA artist blog features soon to come!

With every New Year come new resolutions—goals we set to improve ourselves and our lives. Whether you hope to declutter & organize, work harder for that promotion or to distress, unwind and have more “you” time, I strongly believe the right atmosphere can motivate you to succeed. Improving your space can help you stay on track—your mood and energy are so strongly influenced by your surroundings, why not immerse yourself in a space that helps you accomplish all you set out to do.

Out with the Old, In with the New

What better time than the New Year to get rid of the things you don’t need or use. It can be entirely refreshing—and freeing—to clear out all the unnecessary “stuff” in our lives. A decluttered space brings ease to stressed minds, and allows a room to breathe. As they say…”less is more!” Minimal design does not mean your space has to feel sterile or cold, but instead simplified.

Fresh & Focused

Certain colors and shapes increase energy and focus. If you’re trying to get work done, surround yourself with an atmosphere that will keep you productive. If you make your home office a place you love to be, than an evening working late seems far less daunting. Environment affects mood. Mood effects energy. Energy feeds ambition.

There is reason coffee shops are filled with students, professionals, and literature lovers. Yes, the energizing jolt of caffeine may be one reason, but the other is the atmosphere these cafes create to keep you lingering. We all love a calming, yet productive spaces where we can focus without feeling flustered.

Soothe & Destress

If your resolution was to stress less & relax more, begin by creating a space that invites you to do so. A spa like bathroom will entice you to take more bubble baths. A soothing bedroom with soft colors, and luxurious linens will help you unwind from long days.

Color Confidence

If you’re 2012 plan is to be more positive, find love or go out on more dates with your spouse, or even simply to take more risks—adding some color to your life could help tremendously. Bright colors give us energy, increase happiness, and even influence self confidence. Depending on your goal, the right colors can create a cheerful, romantic, or edgy & fearless atmosphere.

ADC, Art Design Consultants wants to wish all of Cincinnati a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

To our friends, family, clients, and artists we want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your support in 2011—we look forward to 2012;  we hope to journey with you onto new and even greater things than the year before.

Click image to see more of Kevin Poole's artwork

“City Sidewalks, Busy Sidewalks”

The true hustle and bustle of this holiday is just around the corner…last minute shopping, wrapping the presents, cooking the feast, traveling & perhaps even snow…I want to remind you to find time to pause & reflect on your blessings and the memories you made this year. And of course, in true artistic spirit, to tell you to also soak in all the beauty that comes along with Christmas.

Click image to see more of Donna Roger's artwork

“Dressed in Holiday Style”

Sing a carol. Let the lights dazzle you. Breathe in the cinnamon spice and the pine of the douglas fir and blue spruce Christmas trees. Soak in the golds, silvers, reds and greens of the decorations. Sit by the fire. Drink hot chocolate. Wear your pajamas and slippers until the afternoon. Hug your parents, siblings, children, or grandchildren. Give, receive, and give again…

Click image to see more of Kevin Poole's artwork

Click image to see more of Mary Barr Rhodes' artwork

“And On Every Street Corner You’ll Hear…”

This is our wish for you…Peace of mind, prosperity throughout the year, health for you and yours, fun around every corner, energy to chase your dreams and joy to fill your holidays!

Click image to see more of Tom Towhey's artwork

Click photo to see more of Frank Satagota's artwork

The most wonderful thing about floral artwork is how a single, beautifully simple subject matter can be recreated through artwork in so many different ways. Changes in mediums and techniques can create vastly different looks. Lisa Schuster’s technique gives her paintings intense energy! Her use of soft or saturated colors and textural brush strokes gives her artwork movement and electricity!

Click photo to see more of Lisa Schuster's artwork

Bright and colorful floral art is stunning in rooms that get volumes of natural light. This enhances the illusion of bringing the outdoors inside. Sunrooms and kitchens we like to keep light and fresh which can be enhanced through the vibrancy of the art we choose. However, bedrooms and libraries we like to keep romantic and relaxing. More intense contrast and colors create the “fresh” look while softer brushstrokes and low contrast create romanticism.

Click photo to see more of Kevin Poole's artwork

Click photo to see more of Lisa Schuster's artwork

Art that Blossoms

Artworks portraying flowers or blossoms are often associated with the traditional style—still life paintings categorized in our mind as pre-modern. Well, wake up and smell the flowers! This is simply not the case. Floral paintings can be executed in extremely different fashions, influencing the style of the piece. Any piece of artwork can be abstracted in proportion and color, minimalist in composition, or surrealist like the work of Rene Magritte to bring modern flair to a subject matter that has been an artist’s muse for hundreds of years.

Click photo to see more of Helen Buck's artwork

Click photo to see more of Donna Roger's artwork

Another common myth about floral artwork is that it is—and I quote—“girly.” Well as fabulously feminine as flowers are they most certainly don’t have to be! Choose floral artwork with masculine touches. For example a blossom, versus a blossom tree can make a world of difference to the man of the house. Branches, the structured and twisting angles they create, can be just enough to make it so that piece of artwork is loved by both women and men!

It is not unusual wanting to know where your food, clothing, and furniture come from. Why should artwork be any different? The things that fill your home have more personal worth and meaning if you know the story behind them—the who, what, when, where and whys of their design. Choosing items that are rich in history and have unique tales to tell give the elements of your home relevance and intensity—enriching the space with one-of-a-kind conversation pieces. In an age when few store bought items tell a story, owning materials that have endured journeys rather than just another factory reproduction will make your style stand apart.

Click photo to see more of Karin Sheer's artwork

Art is created with intention and meaning, heavily impacted by the artist’s passions and experiences. These ADC Inc. artists have kindly offered to share the stories of their artwork, what inspires their design and how they came to find their “voice” as an artist.

Big Personality

Artist Rachel Gillen explains:

“My artwork is a reflection of how I feel about my life and the experiences that have shaped it thus far. It is largely about the people who have come in and out of my life, the ones who are still around and the ones who aren’t, and all the memories I’ve made and continue to make.  I strive for my work to be an honest interpretation of my day-to-day life. My work is oil on canvas and varies largely in size and subject matter.  I focus mostly on abstracting from realistic elements I am familiar with, mainly people that I feel I know very well.  I choose images that represent how I feel about that particular person and aspects of their personality.  I then layer those images in Photoshop with an actual portrait of the subject to create the image that will serve as the basic reference photo for my painting.

Click photo to see more of Rachel Gillen's artwork

The size and basic color scheme is in direct correlation to the person I am painting, whether they are loud and outgoing with a big personality, or more timid and shy.  I feel these portraits are a more honest representation of the subject than a traditional, academic portrait would be, because they delve deeper than just what you see on the surface.”

Click photo to see more of Rachel Gillen's artwork

Sheer Genius

Artist Karin Sheer shares:

“Simply put, I love color and the relationship between color, light and composition. It never gets old for me.  That’s probably because no composition is ever exactly the same as it was just moments before.  I can relate to Monet painting his haystacks at all different times of day and discovering the subtle and beautiful changes in the color created by the changing light.  It reminds me of a treasure hunt except the treasure is the lovely and sometimes unexpected colors that you uncover when studying a particular subject. For example, I love painting stone walls or rocks on a beach…the more you look, the more you see that the stones aren’t gray or brown or white, but green and pink, and purple and blue.

Click photo to see more of Karin Sheer's artwork

Nature’s beauty really speaks to me and I guess I feel compelled to respond by painting it!  Ever since I can remember I was drawn (no pun intended) to all the beauty that nature has to offer.   My parents often took us for Sunday afternoon rides through the countryside of western Connecticut where we lived.  (If we were lucky, and we usually were, the ride ended with a trip to Carvel).  I think it was then that I first started to appreciate beautiful landscapes and Connecticut certainly has a lot to offer in that department with its rolling hills, farms, stone walls and woods.  I paint what I think is interesting and beautiful for its color and composition and for the feeling or mood that it evokes.  Whether it’s butterflies, flowers, landscapes or seascapes, nature offers an infinite number of possibilities and a never ending supply of inspiration.”

Click photo to see more of Karin Sheer's artwork

Into the Woods

Artist Rocky Woods tells:

“I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember. First, a graphic artists and illustrator and then on to my first true love…fine art! Currently, I’m moving in a new direction which I call “Landstracts.” Since I could never decide which I’d rather create, landscapes or abstracts, I managed to fuse then into a rather unique and proactive art form.

Click photo to see more of Rocky Woods' artwork

My inspiration comes from all different sources, some grounded, some rather spiritual or metaphysical. My medium of choice is always oil pastels. For me, they are so adaptable and “user friendly.” I will continue to move in this present direction until the glorious omnipresent muses guide me elsewhere.”

Click photo to see more of Rocky Woods' artwork