Author Archives: Amanda

Frame Your Love: Valentine’s Day Ideas

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re searching for something unique to express your love, a custom-framed gift is the way to go. While chocolates and flowers are classic choices, custom framing offers a timeless way to preserve cherished memories and create a lasting tribute to your relationship. From choosing the perfect mat and frame to selecting UV-protective glass, every aspect of the framing process can be tailored to your preferences, ensuring that your gift is truly one-of-a-kind.

Explore a few of our Valentine’s Day ideas below, and contact us to get started on a gift for your special someone.

 

Wedding Keepsakes

Do you have keepsakes from your wedding that you haven’t framed yet? A personalized shadowbox frame can showcase your invitations, marriage certificates, vows, and accessories from your big day in a beautiful and distinctive way.

 

Love Notes

Express your love through writing, and turn your words into a work of art. By encasing your love letters, poems, and other handwritten mementos in a beautifully crafted frame, you can create a timeless tribute to your love.

 

Photography Favorites

Capture special moments in time — whether it’s a candid photograph, a favorite from your engagement shoot, or a family portrait. By printing and framing your favorite photos, you can create a gallery wall of memories that tells the story of your relationship and celebrates the moments that matter most.

 

Encapsulated Memories

Create a time capsule for your most cherished memories with your loved one. Tickets from an unforgettable concert or sporting event, souvenirs from a special vacation, a book jacket with significance to your relationship — the possibilities are endless.

 

Art from the Heart

Explore works of art from our gallery that capture the spirit of Valentine’s Day. Browse Amber Goldhammer’s graffiti love messages, Nathalie Boissonnault’s playful animals, or Craig Alan’s romantic pop art pieces.

 

In Loving Memory of Patricia

It’s with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Patricia, our beautiful friend and member of our gallery family.

For over 16 years, we had the pleasure not just to watch her shine as an art consultant, but to see her connect personally with her clients and colleagues. Patricia touched our lives with her warmth, sense of humor, and thoughtfulness. She will be greatly missed by all of us at the gallery.

Patricia’s family is holding a memorial service at 2:00 on February 3rd. Please click here for more information.

 

 

Patricia Ann Berry
January 3, 1957–January 7, 2024

Donations can be made in memory of Patricia at donate.als.org.

 

Perfectly Placed in 2023

Throughout 2023, we had the pleasure of connecting clients with artworks that inspire, bring joy, and transform living spaces. Join us for a trip down memory lane as we revisit some of the diverse and captivating artworks that found a home in the hearts of collectors this year.

 

Large-Scale Statements

These striking large-scale pieces enchanted us with their bold color and dynamic compositions.

Beatriz Simon, Blue

 

Liz Barber, Spring Rush

 

Mersuka Dopazo, Still Life VII

 

Curated Pairings

The artworks here play off of each other, helping to create spaces that are layered and harmonious.

Hunt Slonem, 3 Pink in November and Maria Burtis, Blossoming

 

Ray Gross, Orange Banksy Paint Tube and Rose Masterpol, Rising Sun

 

Maura Segal, Parachute and Kadee Craft, Colorfast Grande

 

Peaceful Retreats

Art can completely transform the mood of your space. In each of the cozy living rooms below, the artworks enhance the warmth and serenity of the room.

Joseph Adolphe, A Whisper

 

David Skillicorn, Wabi-Sabi 12-4

 

Dennis Campay, The Crossing

 

Enchanting Figures

Experience the emotional impact and versatility of figurative artwork in these three installation photos.

Gavin Benjamin, Miss a Thing 5

 

Pezhman, Boudoir Reflection II

 

Geoffrey Gersten, Enjoy

 

Playing With Color

Whether complementing existing hues, or creating contrast in a black and white space, these clients weren’t afraid to go bold with color.

Charlie Bluett, Dance With Me

 

Marshall Noice, Five in Fall Color

 

Raul de la Torre, Poemes CXIV

 

Happy Collectors

There’s nothing like the magic moment of watching a client fall in love with a work of art. We look forward to many more inspiring artwork install photos in 2024!

Amber Goldhammer, Friends For a Lifetime

 

Liz Barber, Blooms of Spring 4

 

3 Pieces to Elevate a Mountain Chalet Bedroom

This rustic space is so inviting with all its light and warmth.  All three pieces bring a different feeling to the room and tell their own story. They connect, transport, and ask for the viewers attention with a bit of romance and magic sprinkled in!

—Mina

Idea 1: Improv by Sherri Belassen

Sherri Belassen, Improv, Oil on Canvas, 48 x 48 inches

 

Belassen’s Improv brings joy and connection to this personal space. The dramatic color palette and exaggerated stance of the dancers just punctuates the drama of this beautiful room.

View more work by Sherri Belassen.

 

Idea 2: A Whisper No. 2 by Joseph Adolphe

Joseph Adolphe, A Whisper No. 2, Oil on Canvas, 48 x 60 inches

 

Adolphe’s A Whisper No. 2 makes us feel like we are truly immersed in nature. The gorgeous vista outside is pulled in making it feel like we are in a treehouse.

View more work by Joseph Adolphe.

 

Idea 3: Circumstances by Beatriz Simon

Beatriz Simon, Circumstances, Mixed Media on Canvas, 78 x 78 inches

 

I love the way the Simon’s Circumstances feels like it is an extension of the crackling fire below. The blaze of orange just accentuates the warmth of the room and allows one to create their own narrative.

View more work by Beatriz Simon.

Finding a Focal Point

For this chic, yet classic modern farmhouse living space, I selected pieces that would be complementary to the design, and would create a much-needed focal point. Discover how each impacts the mood and enriches the personality of the room. Which would you choose?

—Chelsea

Idea 1: Standing on Peace by Amy Donaldson

Amy Donaldson, Standing on Peace, Oil on Canvas, 28 x 46 inches

 

Amy Donaldson’s Standing on Peace captures the eye with its spirited palette, inviting you into the sitting area. The painting is both serenely grounded and energetic, capturing light within a gestural flurry of earthy hues.

View more from Amy Donaldson

 

Idea 2: Fade Into You by Alberto Murillo

Alberto Murillo, Fade Into You, Acrylic on Canvas, 40 x 40 inches

 

Alberto Murillo’s Fade Into You is a bold option that complements the strong features and layered look of the space. Strong overlapping fields of color keep the viewer focused on the piece, framed by the built-ins on either side. In this painting, Murillo captures a sense of tranquil flowing shapes, as the layers transition into each other.

View more from Alberto Murillo

Idea 3: Highland Cow No. 4 by Randal Ford

Randal Ford, Highland Cow No. 4, Photograph on Aluminum, 48 x 48 inches

 

Like the perfect song for a special occasion, Randal Ford’s Highland Cow No. 4, named Symphony, seems to be right at home in this space. Her soft, wispy tufts of hair complement the variety of textures in the room while the gold accents, warm wood tones and decor lend an effortless bohemian glow to her tousled look. The only thing that’s missing is Randal Ford’s book, The Animal Kingdom, for the coffee table.

View more from Randal Ford

 

Work with one of our art consultants to find the perfect piece for your space: Schedule a complimentary consultation.

Holiday Gift Ideas

Embrace the extraordinary this holiday season. Take a look through these artful ideas from our gallery, and find something that resonates with you—whether you’re searching for a distinctive gift for a loved one or looking for a piece to add to you own wish list.

For more ideas, make sure to browse our Holiday Gift Guide lookbook.

 

For the Animal Lover

Randal Ford, Frazzle Chicken, Photograph on Aluminum, 32 x 32 inches

Browse more wildlife art.

 

For the Wine Connoisseur

Dennis Campay, Two Glasses, Mixed Media on Panel, 16 x 12 inches

Browse more still life art.

 

For the Urbanite

Xan Padron, West Village in the Snow, Photograph on Paper, 30 x 20 inches

Browse more photography.

 

For the Slonem Enthusiast

Hunt Slonem, Saturia, Powdercoated Aluminum, 14 x 14 x 3.5 inches

Browse more by Hunt Slonem.

 

For the Adventurer

Sherri Belassen, Borderline, Oil on Canvas, 30 x 40 inches

Browse more figurative art.

 

For the Gardener

Deborah Weiss, Blooms + Stems, Mixed Media on Paper, 30 x 22 inches

Browse more floral art.

 

For the Kid at Heart

Dylan Martinez, Goldfish H2O Bag #120, Handblown Glass, 11 x 6.5 x 4.5 inches

Browse more sculpture.

 

For the Romantic

Nathalie Boissonnault, I Would Like To Get To Know You Better, Mixed Media on Canvas, 40 x 40 inches

Browse more whimsical art.

 

Check out our Holiday Gift Guide lookbook for more artful gift ideas.
Work with an art consultant to find something special.

Empowered Figures

For this warm and elegant living space, I chose three very unique pieces that celebrate the multifaceted nature of women. With vivid and bold forms, these paintings each tell their own story through strong and empowering female subjects.

—Patti

Idea 1: Dames by Rose Masterpol

Rose Masterpol, Dames, acrylic on canvas, 60 x 60 inches

Rose Masterpol’s modern look at the female figure is a fusion of colors, bold outlines and capture the essence of women and jazz music. She skillfully intertwines the worlds of femininity and music depicting “dames” dancing around the canvas. The painting comes alive with strong brushstrokes, with a vivid interplay of colors and movement. The dark, rich palette beautifully mixes with the room’s lush velvets and deep gray walls.

View more work by Rose Masterpol.

 

Idea 2: Three Divas by Dennis Campay

Dennis Campay, Three Divas, mixed media on panel, 48 x 60 inches

In Dennis Campay’s mesmerizing portrayal of a modern cityscape, the viewer is immediately captivated by the trio of divas that command the canvas. Campay’s masterful use of color and light create and atmosphere of sophistication and intrigue. This painting complements the simplicity of this room and makes the walls the focal point of the space.

View more by Dennis Campay.

 

Idea 3: Miss a Thing 4 by Gavin Benjamin

Gavin Benjamin, Miss a Thing 4, mixed media on board, 60 x 60 inches

Miss a Thing 4 by Gavin Benjamin is a captivating mixed media piece that effortlessly weaves together a tapestry of textures and pattern. The hand applied Swarovski crystals create a beautiful headpiece for this mysterious woman. Inspired by haute-couture, Benjamin’s large scale work is a striking visual narrative that is both intriguing and glamorous.

View more work by Gavin Benjamin.

 

Work with one of our art consultants to find the perfect piece for your space: Schedule a complimentary consultation.

4 Reasons to Add Large Scale Art To Your Home

While artwork of any size can be visually captivating and meaningful, there’s no denying the transformative power of a large scale piece. Incorporating large scale art into your home creates an immersive experience and offers numerous benefits that can turn your living space into a haven of creativity and self-expression.

Hyunmee Lee, Behind, acrylic on canvas, 60 x 60 inches

 

#1 Reflecting Your Personality

Your home is a canvas, a reflection of your personality, style, and experiences. Large-scale art allows you to make a bold statement about who you are. Whether you choose a piece that resonates with your interests or a work by a favorite artist, large-scale art is an opportunity to express yourself and tell your unique story. It can be a powerful means of showcasing your individuality and leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

View more work by Hyunmee Lee

 

Mersuka Dopazo, Black & White In The 60s, mixed media on canvas, 84.5 x 70.5 inches

 

#2 Creating a Focal Point

One of the advantages of large-scale art is its ability to create a focal point in any room. When you walk into a space with a stunning, oversized artwork, your eyes are immediately drawn to it. This centralized focus can serve as a conversation starter and set the tone for the entire room. Whether it’s a bold abstract painting, a captivating photograph, or a magnificent sculpture, large-scale art commands attention and adds a touch of drama to your interior design.

View more work by Mersuka Dopazo

 

David Burdeny, Nets Study 7, photograph on paper, 59 x 73.5 inches

 

#3 Adding Depth

Large-scale art pieces can transport you to different worlds right within your home. A landscape or an airy abstract piece can create an illusion of depth by drawing your gaze into the artwork, making the room feel more spacious and expansive. This optical trickery is especially useful in smaller rooms, where it can open up the space and make it seem larger than it actually is.

View more work by David Burdeny.

 

Gavin Benjamin, Miss a Thing 3, mixed media on board, 60 x 60 inches

 

#4 Playing With Color

Color has the power to evoke emotions and set the tone for a room. Large-scale artwork creates an atmosphere with color, whether it’s a soft, calming palette or an energizing array of vibrant shades. A well-chosen work of art can create cohesion and harmony to your room, or even introduce a bit of playfulness and drama in a neutral space.

View more work by Gavin Benjamin.

 

Start browsing large scale artwork.

Art For a Modern Cottage Retreat

I love how this room feels like a modern cottage retreat. I chose pieces I felt complemented the simplicity of the space and referenced the natural world just outside.

–Jenna

 

Idea 1: Burtis, Coming Through Again

Maria Burtis, Coming Through Again, Mixed media on canvas, 36 x 60 inches

 

Coming Through Again by Maria Burtis captures an abstract landscape, filled with soft color and texture. I think the piece is fresh and contemporary, while referencing the feel of a traditional landscape.

View more work by Burtis.

 

Idea 2: Segal, Cream of Mushroom Soup

Maura Segal, Cream of Mushroom Soup series, Mixed media on canvas, 36 x 20 inches each

 

The soft wood tones in the room and Maura Segal’s Cream of Mushroom Soup series harmonize together perfectly. The clean lines mixed with collaged elements of her work always bring a sense of playfulness to any room.

View more work by Segal.

 

Idea 3: Adolphe, A Whisper No. 2

Joseph Adolphe, A Whisper No. 2, Oil on canvas, 48 x 60 inches

 

Adolphe’s A Whisper No. 2 is light and ephemeral – like a dream floating above your head as you relax in bed!

View more work by Adolphe.

Work with one of our experienced art consultants to find the perfect piece for your space: Schedule a complimentary art consultation.

Rose Masterpol: Geometrix and Freedom Series

 

Rose Masterpol is larger than life as are her works. Often poetic with unrivaled breadth and depth, always strong and boldly colored, the work is uncanny and perfectly balanced. Her technical approach changes to the mood and flow of the next thing that emerges on a new canvas at any given time. Her abstractions stream from De Stijl to Fauvism to expressionism to the pure abstract realm.

View more work by Masterpol.

Quiz: What’s Your Art Style?

Discover your style personality, and learn more about what speaks to you as an art collector.

 

Art Style Quiz
Choose a dining room design.
What is your ideal vacation spot?
Which outfit would you wear?
Pick a flower arrangement.
Which cake are you ordering?
Choose your dream house.
Pick a bedroom design.

Three Art Placements That Embrace Bold Color

Whether you’re playing off of existing colors, or creating contrast in a neutral space, don’t be afraid go bold with a vibrant work of art.

Marshall Noice, Five in Fall Color, Oil on Canvas, 60 x 49 inches

 

Noice’s lively abstracted landscape is right at home in this bedroom designed by Jay Jenkins that plays with color, pattern, and texture. The vivid tones in the piece pop even more against the deep charcoal wall.

View more work by Marshall Noice.

 

Aron Hill, A Change of Season With Orange, Acrylic on Canvas, 60 x 60 inches

 

This minimalist piece by Aron Hill makes a bold statement over the fireplace. The understated furnishings and design elements allow the art to become to the focal point in the room.

View more work by Aron Hill.

 

L: Anda Kubis, Variegated 1, Oil on Canvas, 48 x 36 inches
R: Matt Neuman, Clover series, Woodblock Print on Paper, 14 x 14 inches each

 

This bedroom creates a fun contrast between black and white and color. The two artists’ works complement each other beautifully and add a fresh energy to the space.

View more work by Anda Kubis and Matt Neuman.

 

Feeling inspired?

Browse artwork by color to find something vibrant for your home.

Artwork We Would Place in Our Barbie DreamHouse

With all of the chatter surrounding the opening of the Barbie movie, we couldn’t help thinking of what our Barbie DreamHouse would look like. Naturally, it would be filled with plenty of fun, colorful artwork. We took a look through our collection and found some pieces that have just the right playful (and pink!) energy.

 

Wild Dreams by Geoffrey Gersten

Oil on linen, 48 x 36 inches

Super Blow Pop Strawberry II by Alexander Sheversky

Oil on canvas, 60 x 48 inches

 

Strength For Life and Cupcake by Amber Goldhammer

Mixed media on canvas, 30 x 30 inches each

Vintage Bouquet 5 by Emily Filler

Mixed mixed on canvas, 54 x 72 inches

 

Fluffle Color Score by Hunt Slonem

Oil on canvas, 48 x 60 inches

 

Black & White in the 60s by Mersuka Dopazo

Mixed media on canvas, 84.5 x 70.5 inches

 

Luminous Lilly Pulitzer Pink by Tom Bolles

Mixed media on canvas, 60 x 50 inches

 

Beachball I by Nina Jun

Glazed ceramic, 11 x 10 x 10 inches

 

Hi, Beautiful III by Srinjoy

Mixed media with LED on panel, 60 x 48 inches

 

Keep browsing pink artwork.
View the Lookbook: Pop Culture Art

New Arrivals: Black & White

These new arrivals have striking black and white color palettes that let their sophisticated compositions sing.

Joshua Brown, Five Nearly Camouflaged Zebra, Acrylic on Canvas, 48 x 60 inches

 

Joshua Brown’s painting approach is bold and graphic, and our newest arrivals push this style even further. The backgrounds and foregrounds blend together in these black and white pieces, creating dynamic compositions that highlight his playful subjects.

See more from Joshua Brown.

 

Hunt Slonem, 5 Sparse Hutch, Oil on Canvas, 36 x 48 inches

 

Hunt Slonem’s body of work has continued to evolve over the years as the artist explores diamond dust, glass and metal sculpture, neon, and other mixed media. With its minimalist grouping of bunnies, 5 Sparse Hutch gets down to basics, emphasizing the expressive bunny outlines that are so iconic to his work.

See more from Hunt Slonem.

 

Raul de la Torre, Fils I Colors DCXIX, Mixed Media on Paper, 30 x 22 inches

 

This neutral toned piece is one of several new arrivals from De la Torre’s Fils I Colors series on paper. The seamless blending of embroidery and paint on paper gives these works a unique sense of depth. Each one tells a story with its palette—what do these colors say to you?

See more from Raul de la Torre.

 

Maura Segal, Sweet Licorice I and II, Mixed Media on Canvas, 60 x 36 inches each

 

Balance and harmony come into play in Maura Segal’s work, and the black and white contrast of this duo accentuates that balance further. Segal creates interesting textures and patterns with layers of hand cut paper that catch the light and make the pieces come alive.

See more from Maura Segal.

 

Carol O’Malia, Back Again, Oil on Canvas, 54 x 54 inches

 

Carol O’Malia’s pillow paintings capture the beauty of the ordinary, day to day moments that we often overlook. Though this piece has a black and white “look,” you can see O’Malia’s mastery of subtle color in the velvety background, soft violet shadows, and delicate highlights.

See more from Carol O’Malia.

 

Keep browsing black and white art from our collection.

Spring Install Roundup

We absolutely love connecting clients with artwork. When the art harmonizes with the space and the collector’s personality, it’s just magic. As we head into summer, take a look at a few of our favorite “Final Install” shots from this season. Who knows, maybe you’ll get some inspiration for your own collection.

 

Aron Hill, A Change of Season With Pink and Yellow, Acrylic on Canvas, 60 x 48 inches

 

Aron Hill:
View More Work | In the Artist’s Studio | On the Wall

 

Mersuka Dopazo, Still Life VII, Mixed Media on Canvas, 82 x 97 inches

 

Mersuka Dopazo:
View More Work | In the Artist’s Studio | On the Wall

 

Hunt Slonem, Pres Lincoln, Oil on Canvas, 48 x 48 inches

 

Hunt Slonem:
View More Work | In the Artist’s Studio | On the Wall

 

Beatriz Simon, Sun in My Window, Mixed Media on Canvas, 78 x 58 inches

 

Beatriz Simon:
View More Work | In the Artist’s Studio | On the Wall

 

Sherry Czekus, Pleasantries, Oil on Canvas, 40 x 60 inches

 

Sherry Czekus:
View More Work | In the Artist’s Studio | On the Wall

 

Maura Segal, Gumdrops II and III, Mixed Media on Canvas, 40 x 24 inches each

 

Maura Segal:
View More Work | In the Artist’s Studio | On the Wall

 

Takefumi Hori, Gold and Color No. 122, Mixed Media on Canvas, 48 x 48 inches

 

Takefumi Hori:
View More Work | On the Wall

 

David Skillicorn, Botanica 17-5, Mixed Media on Canvas, 36 x 48 inches

 

David Skillicorn:
View More Work | In the Artist’s Studio | On the Wall

How They Placed It

Take a look at how these collectors and designers thoughtfully incorporated works by Christopher Peter, Craig Alan, and Jeff Erickson into their spaces.

Christopher Peter

Peter’s intriguing silhouettes are blended seamlessly with botanical elements, infusing a piece of nature into the spaces they inhabit, while stepping outside the traditional landscape box. Layered with handmade papers and repurposed book pages, his works are perfectly enchanting in these collectors’ homes.

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Design: Ann Gottlieb Design GC: Marks Woods Construction Photography: Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Peter:
View More Work | In the Artist’s Studio | On the Wall

Craig Alan

Using his own signature style, Craig Alan cleverly pays homage to celebrated artworks and cultural icons. Containing hundreds of tiny, precisely painted figures, these works never fail to engage the viewer. With their playful subject matter and meticulously crafted compositions, we can see why they’re placed in offices, game rooms, and dining spaces alike.

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Design: Michael Preston; Photo: Nathan Schroder
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Design: Erica Burns, Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
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Design: Katalin Farnady, Photo: Jennifer Hughes
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Alan:
View More Work | On the Wall

Jeff Erickson

Erickson’s minimalist abstract works evoke meditative landscapes and water scenes, bringing a serene presence to these spaces. The artist’s process of layering paint with wax medium and then distressing areas of the canvas allows him to create captivating sense of depth that’s even better in person.

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Design: Larina Kase; Photo: Jon Friedrich
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Design: Solis Betancourt & Sherrill, Photo: Marcos Galvany
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Design: Katherine Crosby, Photo: Robert Radifera
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Design: Hendrick Interiors, Photo: Jennifer Hughes
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Erickson:
View More Work | On the Wall

New Arrivals from Matt Neuman

@neuman.matt

 

Working from his studio in the Bronx, painter and printmaker Matt Neuman uses geometry in his art as a way of appealing to our instinctive desire to organize information and create structure. Fascinated with the cosmos, physics, and the building blocks of life on different scales, Neuman’s repeating patterns serve as a metaphor for the infinite.

 

Matt Neuman, Coils series, Acrylic on Panel, 11 x 11 inches each

 

Our new arrivals include Coils, a series of acrylic paintings on panel and Clover, a series of limited edition woodblock prints on paper. These vibrant works investigate how we experience space through line, color, and pattern. Repeating geometric forms give the pieces a sense of rhythm, and a variety of color juxtapositions allow for each to take on a different visual tone.

 

Matt Neuman, Clover series, Woodblock Print on Paper, 14 x 14 inches each

 

Take a behind the scenes look at Neuman’s process on his instagram.

 

Matt has exhibited in solo and group exhibitions throughout the US and abroad and his work has appeared in many publications, including The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, and The Aspen Times.

View more of our new arrivals.

Welcome, Carly Allen Martin!

We are so excited to announce that our galleries are now representing acclaimed contemporary artist Carly Allen Martin.

Known for her extraordinary use of color and layering, Allen Martin creates with the intention of tapping into our common humanity. Her abstract works are energetic and optimistic, as they celebrate the beauty of this connection.

 

Costal Waters, Mixed Media on Paper, 60 x 52 inches

 

Our newest arrivals include mixed media works on archival paper, panel, and linen. The different textures of the raw surfaces become an important element in the work.

 

 

Allen Martin allows spontaneity to play a role in her work, while stopping to assess and reflect on each piece throughout various stages of the process.

My process begins with an oversized roll of archival paper or primed linen. From there, I measure and cut until I have a variety of sizes and textures.

I then lay each work on the floor and begin making marks quickly and spontaneously before pausing, looking, and reflecting, oftentimes leaving the studio in order to return with a fresh eye. In my life and in my work, I have learned the pause is as critical as the mark.

 

Bowl of Oranges, Mixed Media on Panel, 60 x 40

 

Using multiple mediums—including charcoal, graphite, pastel, and oil—she layers her works with gestural marks, lively color, and textural nuance.

 

 

Allen Martin studied at programs around the world—Santa Reperata International School of Art in Florence, The European Academy of Art in Trier, Germany, and Aoyama Gakiun University in Tokyo—before earning a BFA in painting from Texas Christian University. Her work is collected both privately and publicly within the United States and internationally.

View more of our new works from Carly Allen Martin.

DukeDC Women’s Forum

We loved hosting this awesome group of Duke ladies in the Chevy Chase gallery last week! This event was part of the DukeDC Women’s Forum’s Neighborhood Conversations series, a chance for Duke alumni, students, and parents in the area to celebrate their common connection.

Our own Duke alumna, Betsy, led the group through a discussion on The Lisa Unger Baskin Collection, an incredible exhibition of books, manuscripts, photographs, and artifacts demonstrating “that women have long pursued a startling range of careers and vocations and that through their work they have supported themselves, their families, and the causes they believed in.” She related the works back to some of the women artists that are part of our collection at the gallery.

 

Introducing Gil Bruvel

Influenced by his daily meditation practice, Gil Bruvel is constantly mindful of the sensations, emotions, and imagery around him. After deep contemplation of these ideas and impressions, he translates them into stunning works of art that reflect his curiosity about the interworking of the human mind.

Learn more about Bruvel’s fascinating introduction into the arts and his most recent series Bending the Lines.

 

“The idea of bridging things together is a big part of life. We take our experiences and make connections that drive our decision-making. Be aware of the world around you and you will never lack inspiration.”

 

Feeling the Light, Stacked Wooden Sticks and Paint, 19 x 14.5 x 16 inches

 

Beginnings

Born in Australia but raised in the south of France, Bruvel started to learn sculpting and wood carving at age six from his father, a renowned cabinet-maker. Interested in the arts from an early age, he was pulled from school at fourteen years old to attend an intensive classical art restoration program.

“It was not just about restoring the artwork—it was to understand the core context, including architecture, politics at the time, social structures, how people dress, what material were being used in terms of pigments.”

 

Bruvel was able to take this range of knowledge and practical skills, and translate them into his own expressive art practice. These experiences sparked Bruvel’s connection to the history and tradition of art, and his desire to transmit truth on a human level, beyond social and political specificities.

 

Mask #181, Stacked Wooden Sticks and Paint, 18 x 16.5 x 8 inches

 

About the Work

We’re thrilled to have new free standing and wall sculptures from Bruvel’s Bending the Lines series in our galleries. Bruvel returns to his roots in woodcraft with these elaborate works—each figure is created from thousands of wood shafts painted in stunning gradient color.

The pixelated outlines mimic our complex neural pathways, while his use of gradient color reinforces our minds’ interconnectedness. The wood is charred to show the impact of natural phenomena on the physical form and its inherently transient nature, which is transformed by the passage of time, revealing further patterns and detail.

The serene expressions represent the clarity that Bruvel has achieved through his meditation practice and allow the viewer to tap into this present state of mind.

 

Sunlight, Stacked Wood Sticks and Paint, 42 x 24 x 19 inches

 

When you are creating art, it is good to have a connection to it. If it doesn’t make me feel anything, how can I expect someone else to feel something.

 

View more work by Gil Bruvel.

Art Consultant Insight

Let our expert art consultants bring the collection to life! We love hearing our team explain the techniques, concepts, and visual aspects behind each piece—check out a few videos of our consultants in action.

 

 

Contemporary Art For a Traditional Home

Just because your home has a traditional interior design aesthetic, doesn’t mean you have to stick to antique shops and auction houses for artwork. Layer contemporary pieces into your traditional space for a fun integration of styles that reflects your personality. Here are some ideas for seamlessly incorporating modern artwork.

Gavin Benjamin, Heads of State No. 42, Mixed Media on Board, 40 x 30 inches

 

Find Historical Influences

Benjamin’s Heads of State series explores contemporary pop culture, politics, fashion, and design—but with a historical twist. The artist is influenced by 15th to 18th century art, particularly the Dutch and Italian masters. He incorporates this style in different ways in each piece, making them a great fit for a traditional space.

See more of Benjamin’s work.

 

Carol O’Malia, Throw Out Your Cares, Oil on Canvas, 30 x 72 inches

 

Make a Still Life Statement

With contrasting lights and darks and classical compositions, O’Malia’s “pillowscapes” reference the dramatic still lifes of the Baroque period. Her photorealistic style and limited color palette give the work a fresh, modern spin. Click here to browse more contemporary still life paintings.

See more of O’Malia’s work. 

 

John Brandon Sills, Barn on Hill, Oil on Canvas, 50 x 62 inches

 

Look for a Landscape

Landscapes are another genre that will complement a traditional space. You can go more classical with a Dennis Sheehan, incorporate a burst of color and a more abstracted style with a Marshall Noice, or meet in the middle with a beautiful John Brandon Sills barn.

Browse more landscapes.

 

Hunt Slonem, 4 Play 14, Oil on Wood, 17 x 36 inches

 

Try a Traditional Frame

Hunt Slonem’s Neo-Expressionist paintings are right at home in traditional and modern spaces alike. Slonem chooses ornate antique frames for many of his works, giving a classical feel to his whimsical bunnies.

Did you know Hunt Slonem has restored several historical homes? Take a look at how he combines traditional and contemporary styles into his maximalist spaces.

Contact our galleries to learn more about custom framing.

 

Maura Segal, Cereal Bowl, Mixed Media on Canvas, 40 x 40 inches

 

Embrace the Contrast

If you’re ready to go all the way into modern abstract art, a neutral palette or minimalist composition can help create harmony between the two styles. Explore our abstract collection and see what catches your eye.

See more work by Maura Segal.

New Arrivals: Paper Pursuits

Check out three new pieces that incorporate paper collage for an array of texture and another layer of meaning.

Christopher Peter, New Bloom, Mixed Media on Canvas, 48 x 48 inches

 

Christopher Peter, New Bloom

Peter is known for his figurative silhouettes that explore the relationship between humans and their environments. This new piece deviates slightly by removing the human element and creating a silhouetted portrait of nature itself. Peter layers acrylic, oil, gold leaf, and handmade papers on canvas to make this vibrant bloom come to life.

 

New Bloom (detail)

See more work by Christopher Peter.

 

Nathalie Boissonnault, The Road of the Lords, Mixed Media on Canvas, 48 x 48 inches

 

Nathalie Boissonnault, The Road of the Lords

They may be two-dimensional, but Boissonnault’s origami animals are in fact created from paper. The artist uses collaged road maps, with locations that often tie in with the theme of the work or have a special significance to her.

 

The Road of the Lords (detail)

See more work by Nathalie Boissonnault.

 

Maura Segal, Jellyfish, Mixed Media on Canvas, 36 x 60 inches

 

Maura Segal, Jellyfish

Segal juxtaposes acrylic paint with cut paper, exploring the contrast between positive and negative space. The paper element is subtle, but in person, the pieces catch the light to reveal a field of pattern and texture. The delicate lines in Jellyfish appear to be painted on the canvas, but are actually made of thinly cut strips of paper as well.

 

Jellyfish (detail)

See more work by Maura Segal.

 

Spotted on Instagram

When striking contemporary art, flawless interior design, and professional photography come together, it’s just *chef’s kiss*. Check out these scroll-stopping spaces recently posted on Instagram that feature works from our galleries.

 

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A post shared by Erin Myers Design (@erinmyersdesign)

View more from Raul de la Torre.

 

View more from Joshua Jensen Nagle (first image) and Jeff Erickson (second image).

 

View more from Beatriz Simon.

 

Interior design by Ann Gottlieb.
View more by Tom Chambers.

 

View more from Matt Devine.

 

 

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A post shared by Fuller Interiors (@fullerinteriors)

View more from Liz Barber.

 

 

Check these out for more art and design inspiration:

Designer Favorites Lookbook 
Finding the Ideal Backdrop For Your Art
Discovering Your Color Mood