Blocked In By Ice

designer: harri koskinen

The block of light is an amazing piece of art, its almost as though the power trapped within speaks to you loud and clear. Even though the light is blocked it still illuminates threw shedding light in the space that surrounds it.

From yankodesign.com: The Block Lamp has been around for a while but I bet you didn’t know about its unique features. Each part of the block lamp was hand casted, then goes into an extremely long cooling process to avoid cracking when exposed to strong temperature changes. Awesome right! Even the matte bulb is sand-blasted for durability, and for once it’s a design that comes with the light bulb included! How thoughtful!

Captured on Canvas: John Lennon by Eli (in recognition of the 39th anniversary of his death)

The Two Faces Mo'Nique

photos: brownsista

Mo'Nique is the latest celebrity to be part of Derek Blanks alter-ego photo-shoot. Who is Derek Blanks? He is a very well known photographer out of Atlanta, Georgia. His work falls in between the lines of fine art and high end fashion photography. Those of you who may not be familiar with his name might know his work because it has been featured in numerous magazines.

Brangelina Exposed

Brangelina have been exposed thanks for artist Edward Daniels. As part of Daniels latest revealing pieces of art, he has chosen to sculpt Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in a R-rated sexual/nude pose named Brangelina Forever.

Edward Daniels is well-known for his over the top and very revealing sculptures inspired by celebrities and their lives.

I feel this is a bit too much like his other work (ex. Britney Spears pregnancy pose and Paris Hilton raunchy sex pose). Daniels is just one of those artist who enjoys pushing the envelope to the extreme.

Captured on Canvas Tribute to Michael Jackson:

Woman Attacks the Mona Lisa Painting with A Cup

AFP reports: Russian woman threw a teacup at the world's most famous painting, Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," but it emerged unscathed due to its bullet-proof glass cover, the Louvre museum said on Tuesday.

"The young woman took a cup out of her bag and threw it over the heads of other people who were looking at the painting. The cup smashed on the bullet-proof glass which was slightly scratched," a spokesman said.

"It looks like it was done by someone who was unhinged and wanted to draw attention to herself," he said.

The woman put up no resistance when museum guards apprehended her after the incident on August 2.

She was handed over to police who said the woman "did not have all her mental faculties and has been transferred to the police psychiatric infirmary."

Daniel Edwards New Work of Art Features Angelina Jolie

Sculptor Daniel Edwards has unveiled his latest tributes to celebrities. This time its Angelina Jolie who was turned into a unique work of art.

Who is Edwards: He’s an artist/sculptor of the “celebrity shock” variety.

Pictured:

Angelina Jolie-”Landmark to Breatfeeding’ ,Octomom Nadya Suleman-‘String of Babies’ , OPRAH ‘SARCOPHAGUS’ , Britney Spears-’Monument to Pro-Life’ and Paris Hilton ‘Autopsy’

Pictures of Store Mannequins Become A Collective Book of Art

photos: rauthphoto.com

Ohioan Jim Rauth has traveled the world and found an interest in mannequins. He decided to take pictures of store mannequins during his trips abroad to Europe and through out the United States. A weird hobby to some but a true art form to others.

Before he knew it he had dozens of pictures of woman, men, children, cowboys, geishas and solider mannequins from all over. Rauth realized his collection of photos was a very interesting art piece at its best. He then knew he had to share his collection with the world so he published a book called “Mannequin”.

The book contains photos of 225 arresting and artful images of wide assortment of mannequins.

Rauth invested $60,000 in the publication of 2500 copies of the book because he never considered approaching a publisher. This book is self-published and Rauth is selling it himself online at www.rauthphoto.com

Bio from rauthphoto.com:

Jim Rauth has had a lifelong interest in photography. After retirement from a thirty-three-year business career, he made the transition from casual to serious photography, studying at professional workshops and learning to capture a broad range of animate and inanimate subjects. Since building a varied portfolio and presenting a successful show at the Cincinnati Art Club in 2002, he has sold prints to individuals and corporations at galleries in Ohio, Michigan, Florida, and Indiana. Over the past two years Rauth has concentrated on mannequins as a photographic subject. The images selected for this book were shot in four countries and fourteen states.

Photographers Notes"We are all mannequins trying to be noticed"This collection began with my first mannequin images taken at night several years ago in Paris. Not only were the mannequins eye-catching, the were challenging to photograph due to reflective glass and occasionally unforgiving light. My "subjects" were found in windows, backrooms, attics, basements and sales floors of antique shops, boutiques, travel agencies, medical supply stores, vintage clothing outlets, sex shops, tattoo parlors, military surplus stores and elegant shops in fourteen states and four countries.All mannequins were photographed exactly as found. Existing lighting either helped or hurt but was not changed. Dirty windows occasionally made sharp focus impossible and reflections were an obstacle in some situations, but in others they were used to enhance the image. I have tried to show the diverse way in which artistically "dressed" mannequins are used to catch our eye.Time affects mannequins, as it does us --- they sometimes get cracked and broken. While flawless mannequins are beautiful, worn ones are compelling. In a way they represent us, challenged, but still going strong. rauthphoto.com

Captured on Canvas: Miley Cyrus by Minces

Where Does Your Kids Art Go?

What happens to your kids art once its brought home? Does it end up on the refrigerator, in the junk drawer, in the garbage or in a forgotten box in the attic? Consider framing your Childs work of art and hang it on the wall in the family room, living room, dining room and even your office as a priceless piece of art. Your child’s art may not be one of Picasso’s master pieces but its just as precious and can add a true touch of style to your room of choice with the right frame.

Tribute to Urban Street Art (Graffiti)

SayWhatNews pays tribute to Urban Street Art known as Graffiti. Using bright colors and a unique style of using spray paint, Graffiti art has become the staple of many Urban cities and the way an area expresses themselves/marks a territory. Many dislike the damage this art does to the neighbors and many see it has a form of beauty. Graffiti art is making its way to different art galleries around the world and is now considered a true form of art.

But I don’t want to shun this unique style of art but shine light on its beauty. When done the right way a fan of art can truly enjoy the genius of the artist and his/her technique. Lets work on bringing this beautiful art form to the forefront and place it where it should be , in a urban gallery celebrating its art form.

The Art of Sleeping

The art of sleeping has now become an exhibit. For all the females between the ages of 18 and 40 who love to sleep and love art, here is your chance to combine the two. The New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York is looking for women interested in becoming an installation by the contemporary Chinese artist Chu Yun.

Yun will be showing his work at the New Museum’s The Generational” Younger Than Jesus” exhibition of emerging artists April 7th to June 28th.

Ladies if you don’t mind people watching you sleep and would like to be part of the exhibit click on the following links for information. Also be prepared to take a sleeping pill before your display.

New Museum Contact Info. Details Idealist Website

Captured on Canvas: Megan Good by Khari Scott

Annie Leibovitz's Hollywood Magic

photo: vanityfair/annie leibovitz

The acclaimed photographer Annie Leibovitz has created more magic by photographing the most intriguing and creative director and actor team from this past year. Just in time before the Oscars, this reward winning photographer has created and photographed her most edgy and meaningful pieces of art to date. Leibovitz use of darkness with the right lighting is powerful and timeless. Her technique is undeniably one of the best and well known of this century.

photographed: Nicole Kidman & Baz Luhrmann (The Colonists)

See more of the photos: Vanity Fair Hollywood Portfolio

Fashion in Film

photos: taft museum

A must see exhibit of “Fashion in Film”.

Taft Museum Information:

Oscar season will be in full swing at the Taft Museum of Art this year when Fashion in Film: Period Costumes for the Screen opens. This will be the only regional showing of this exhibition, which has been setting records and charming visitors around the country. The sumptuous costumes span four centuries of clothing design and four decades of filmmaking, with the represented films, including Titanic, Evita, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Ever After. This exhibition, organized by the Trust for Museum Exhibitions, Washington, D.C., in cooperation with Cosprop, Ltd., London, England, features costumes worn by Cate Blanchett, Julie Christie, Gwyneth Paltrow, Nicole Kidman, Meryl Streep, and many others.

Films set in the past require the creation of historically accurate, often lavish costumes. Such costumes play a critical role in the aesthetics and power of the character by suggesting not only the historical setting but also the personality, age, class and status of their wearers. Over the last few decades, specialized costumers have created magnificent examples for leading filmmakers such as Franco Zeffirelli, Ang Lee and Robert Altman. Many of these original costumes are preserved in the collection of the London costume house, Cosprop, Ltd. This exhibition includes 36 costumes from films such as Evita, Titanic, Ever After and Sense and Sensibility, among many others.

Evoking the Renaissance through the mid-20th century, the 36 costumes perfectly complement garments worn by sitters and other figures in paintings in the Taft’s permanent collection. This exhibition is curated by Nancy Huth, the Taft’s curator of education.

This exhibition, organized by the Trust for Museum Exhibitions, Washington, D.C., in cooperation with Cosprop, Ltd., London, England, features extravagant costumes that span four centuries of clothing design and four decades of filmmaking.

Exhibit Open: January 31-April 26, 2009

Fashion Art Becomes Electrifying: by Dmitri & Devora

photo: dmitri & devora

This Fashion Art piece by Dmitri & Devora is electrifying. The usage of colors and strokes sends out an energy that sends electrifying pulses thru your blood. Its such a powerful piece of art but yet still exudes total sophistication and glamour. Truly Fashion Art at its best.

Clyfford's Still's On Display After Many Years

photo: artnews.com

Finally after years of being hidden from the world Clyfford’s work of art will be on exhibit for all art lovers to see. Hundreds of Clyfford Still paintings from 1943 - 1946 were sealed off from the public for years while ominous rumors about their condition circulated. Now, in preparation for the opening of a museum dedicated to the artist, experts can finally see how the works have held up.

The new Clyfford Still Museum in Denver is scheduled to open next year.

A Online Art Game Show That Gives Cash As The Prize

Artist Mark Kostabi has come up with a creative way to get his fans involved with his work. TitleThis.com is a online game show where art critics and celebrities compete to title Mark Kostabi's paintings for cash awards. Kostabi hosts the online show. The person that comes up with the best title for the painting wins cash. TitleThis.com

Captured On Canvas: Public Enemy

Bonded By Love: All They Need Is Each Other

Bonded is a painting that I came across online that grabbed my attention. I call it bonded by love because when looking at it you can feel the love that is between the man and woman portrayed in the painting. The warmth and true passion between this couple touches your soul. It makes you think about your true love whether its from the past or present. You find yourself imagining how powerful this couple love is, its unbreakable. Cherish your true love and never forget that bonded love that brought you together and that has kept you together.

Featured Artist of the Month: Kurtis Watkins

SayWhatNews featured artist of the month is Visual Artist Kurtis Watkins. Kurtis at a young age made a decision in his life to take “ownership” of his destiny and which path to walk. By doing so he discovered his natural talent to paint and draw. With inspirational guidance Kurtis creates some of the most beautiful and unique art that captures a feeling of hope and happiness. We spoke with Kurtis Watkins to get to know the man behind the brush:

SayWhatNews: Tell us who is Kurtis Darryl Watkins.

Kurtis: Kurtis Darryl Watkins is the world's most owned visual artist.

SayWhatNews: At a young age you made a choice in your life to become an artist and to take “ownership”. Tell us what does that mean?

Kurtis: I always knew that I wanted to be an artist when I grew up, but I almost chose a different path in life. Thankfully, I made a choice and decided to dedicate my life to becoming an artist. I took ownership of that decision and even through painful opposition, I followed my heart.

This is what owning a Watkins is all about. Ownership means following your dreams, and owning your calling. Ownership means never settling for less, and owning your greatness. Ownership means taking the initiative, and owning your actions.

And this is what I offer with every Watkins – the opportunity to own an idea, a passion, a tangible connection with an extraordinary work of art.

My goals is that everyone become an owner, not just of the art, but more importantly an owner of their calling, an owner of their actions, and an owner of their greatness!

SayWhatNews: What inspires a Kurtis Darryl Watkins creation?

Kurtis: God is my source and inspiration. My works reference everything from contemporary high fashion, baroque sculpture, personal experiences and a wide selection of music.

SayWhatNews: Your choice of colors are spiritually moving. How do you make your color selection?

Kurtis: Thank you! My works are all about subtleties and the color arrangements are carefully selected through color theory principles as well as experimentation.

SayWhatNews: Do you have a special technique when you paint?

Kurtis: I use acrylic paints along with additional techniques added through digital media. I also enjoy using pastels and charcoal.

SayWhatNews: Is their special name for the type of art you create?

Kurtis: I define my art by my name - WATKINS

SayWhatNews: Your art has been displayed at different art expos. Where else can someone purchase your art?

Kurtis: Everyone can view and purchase my works online at www. KURTISWATKINS. com

Kurtis Watkins Website

The Lego Man

Nathan Sawaya, a 34 year old Lego artist who learned how to make a child’s toy into grown-up art with an explosion of color and imagination has been taking the art world by storm. Working out of his Manhattan studio, his work can be seen in exhibits at U.S. museums. Back in 2007 Sawaya sat down with CNN and discussed his LEGO Art:

CNN Interview from CNN.com:

CNN: How is a LEGO artist different from a LEGO hobbyist?

SAWAYA: I get paid! In all seriousness, I've tried to take LEGO in a direction it's never been before. I've tried to put it in a museum setting, and I've created very large-scale sculptures that are on tour for the next couple of years. And that's something that I think is a little different from your average hobbyist who's really just building for fun.

CNN: What does LEGO capture that other media do not?

SAWAYA: LEGO is something that almost everyone has played with at some point in their lives. I notice a lot of times when people go to my shows they want to touch the sculptures. I receive many e-mails from people who have seen my work and are then inspired to get down on the floor with their kids and build. In fact, the museum show also has a building area for kids who are inspired to build their own artwork after seeing my pieces.

CNN: Does LEGO (the company) give you a discount on the bricks?

SAWAYA: They allow me to buy it in bulk, but I have to pay for my LEGO like everybody else.

CNN: How difficult was it to make the decision to switch from full-time attorney to fulltime LEGO artist?

SAWAYA: It wasn't very tough. I worked with great people at the law firm, but my passion was always for my art. As more and more people were commissioning pieces and collecting my artwork, it became clear to me that I should focus on my art full time. New York corporate attorneys are known for working the long hours. I find myself working long hours now as well, but I'm doing something I love. ... The worst day in the art studio is still better than the best day in the law firm.

CNN: Has it been a challenge to make ends meet?

SAWAYA: I have had some great large-scale commissions that have kept me financially secure for the most part. Currently my pieces are selling for up to tens of thousands of dollars, so the future looks bright.

CNN: Which piece are you most proud of?

SAWAYA: All of my pieces have special meaning to me, but I am particularly happy with a sculpture I did for the New Orleans Public Library. After the Katrina devastation, I was commissioned to build a permanent work of art for the library that would focus on the rebuilding of New Orleans. As part of the project, thousands of drawings by children from across the country were collected in which the children were asked to draw what they thought would be important for the rebuilding of the city. I then interpreted these drawings to create the sculpture. CNN: What's the weirdest thing you've ever been asked to build?

SAWAYA: I've built monkeys for both the talk show host Craig Ferguson, and the magician David Copperfield. I've also built a functioning industrial air conditioner.

CNN: You mean it actually churned out cold air?

SAWAYA: Well, it produced a slight breeze.

The Beauty of a Storm

The beauty of the beginning of a storm can be considered to be magical or even the powers that be at work. I found this photo of a boy watching the stormy clouds and becoming captivated by what he see’s with his own eyes. The photographer who took the photo was able to capture the light that was reflecting thru the clouds and make it transcend off of the page. This is what I call the magic of true photography. Not too many people are able to capture such magic at work. Your photo eye has to be able to see and feel the moment before you in order to capture the magic in the scenery or person you are photographing. Just take a moment and see and feel what that photographer felt and seen at that moment of snapping the picture.

Captured On Canvas: Megan Fox