Fresh Paint! - Paintings, sketches and studies by Barbara Sistak Baur

Custard Tarts

2011-08-25T15:22:00.001-05:00

Custard Blue

Lenette -- These paintings are 6"high x 8" wide. They each come with a black frame. For the prices, I include shipping (they are very easy to mail) and sales tax (yes, I am registered with the state of Illinois) in the total prices.

Custard Rustic

Cupcake Fields

2011-08-25T15:21:00.001-05:00

Cupcake Field Lavender

Lenette-- These paintings are 6"x8"and have a small black frame. Each one of these is available for $99 including shipping and sales tax.

Cupcake Field Red

Cupcake Field Yellow

Fruit Tarts

2011-08-25T15:05:00.000-05:00

Fruit Tarts Red

Lenette - These are 6"x4". They are the "medium-sized" mini paintings. Each of these are $69. People often get them in pairs at the art fairs.

Fruit Tarts Yellow

Fruit Tart Blue

2011-08-25T14:45:00.001-05:00

Fruit Tart on Blue

Lenette - This is a mini painting -- just 3" high by 4" wide. It has a little black frame. You can have this little one for $53 complete. It is very popular!

Clementines

2011-08-25T14:42:00.002-05:00

Clementines on a Raised Plate

Clementines on a Shelf

Lenette -- Each of these are mini's -- 3"x4" inches. You can have any two of these for $98. One for $53. They are adorable!

Clementines in a Glass Bowl

Little Cupcakes

2011-08-25T14:32:00.001-05:00

Cupcake Lemon

Cupcake Mint

Cupcake Sherbet

Lenette -- Each of these little paintings are 4"x3". You can have any two of these for $98. One for $53. They are adorable!

Paintings in Geneva Shop

2010-11-08T18:37:00.001-06:00

Paintings by Barbara Sistak Baur in the Shoppes at 123, Inc. (formerly the Persimmon Tree,) 123 S. Third St., Geneva, IL

I am pleased to announced that my paintings are now available at The Shoppes at 123, Inc. (formerly the Persimmon Tree), 123 S. Third St., Geneva, IL. As shown is the photo, several of my smaller and mini paintings fit in nicely. This is an adorable little shop that you can easily wander in for hours! There is all manner of household items to be viewed, many created by local artisans.

The Shoppes at 123, Inc. (formerly the Persimmon Tree,) 123 S. Third St., Geneva, IL

New at this is shop is the name and concept. Instead of purchasing ready-made merchandise, as they have for years and years, the shopkeepers are now inviting artists to display works of art oriented for the home -- some whimsical, some more serious. Geneva is a great little town to shop in -- many, many shops line the historical downtown. You could easily spend a day. Hey, now that the holidays are on they way, why not consider a trip to Geneva!

Paintings by Barbara Sistak Baur in the Shoppes at 123, Inc. Priced from $49. © B Sistak Baur

Pies on Pans

2010-10-11T21:33:00.005-05:00

Pies on Pans, 21"x27", acrylic, $1100, © B. Sistak Baur

Pies on Pans with its viewpoint of looking right into a pie case is a design study with ellipses. Ellipses are circles as seen from the side. You see them everywhere throughout your day but usually just call them circles.

Ellipses are challenging shapes for anyone painting or drawing. To better understand and perhaps conquer ellipses, I suggest a new column in the NY Times called Line by Line. This is a delightful series on the pleasures of drawing and one entry is all about ellipses.

The study for this painting is a smaller, 11"x14" version. You can view it here.--Barb www.sistakbaur.com

2nd Annual Mindful Massage Open House

2010-10-11T21:27:00.000-05:00

I enjoy displaying artwork at business events or social occasions. Here is one of them coming up. Please stop by for a relaxing massage!

2nd Annual Mindful Massage Open House,
“A Few of My Favorite Things”
Sunday, October 17th, From 3:00 PM
Mindful Massage Studio
6345 Joliet Rd.
Countryside, IL
708-205-8943
Join us for a celebration of Massage, Art and Music. Featuring the Art of Ken Reif, Barbara Sistak Baur, and Deanna Guzzi. Music performed by Jimbo Delta.
Refreshments provided, along with complimentary Chair Massage and Raffle. Massage Packages and Original Art available for purchase.
Come as you are. Just come!!
Your Hostess Jean Sotos
Email: mindful.massage@live.com
Phone: 708-205-8943
You are welcome to bring a friend

Fruit Tart on Red with Gold

2010-09-19T13:35:00.000-05:00

Fruit Tart on Red, 11"x14", acrylic, $400, © B. Sistak Baur

Gold paint -- I have always wanted to put gold paint on a painting. Fellow artists warned against it because it is easy to get too kitschy. But, in the secret seclusion of my studio, I went ahead with it anyway. And never showed it to anyone. Until now. Here it is. A fruit tart on a red background set on a gold plate. And trimmed with a gold valence-like treatment, top and bottom. It reminds me of a small-town bakery window and shelf. How fabulous! The close up shows the golden swirls. You can click the image for an enlargement. By the way, lots of people use gold paint but the master is Gustav Klimt. And his work is not kitschy at all. He's the guy who gave us the famous Kiss. Here is a multi-media presentation about him. I am pretty sure I am going to try gold again.

Art in The Barn

2010-09-19T13:10:00.000-05:00

September 25-26, 2010 is the fall classic Art in The Barn in Barrington (IL) on the grounds of Good Shepherd Hospital. This art festival is unique because the artworks are actually displayed in old farm buildings, left over from when the hospital was built. What is so much fun is that visitors wind through all the buildings -- upper barn, corn crib, lower barn, tool shed, garage, etc. -- viewing and purchasing artwork. A portion of each sale goes to the hospital auxiliary. It is Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. Here is the link. Look for me in the Mill Room. I am in the same spot as I was last time.

"Patterned" After Matisse

2010-08-31T21:32:00.003-05:00

The Bakery Visit, acrylic, 11"x14", framed, $400

Last time I wrote about Wayne Theibaud and this time I would want to mention another artist that I've always admired -- Henri Matisse. Matisse was an artist who focused on beauty in his paintings. He wasn't about telling stories or delivering hidden meanings. He enjoyed painting interior scenes in harmonious colors, figures that were dancing or bounding and, of course, beautiful models amid heavily patterned backgrounds. He concentrated on using color to express beauty in ways that were new at the time. "I dream of an art of balance, purity, tranquility, devoid of disturbing or disquieting subject matter...as something akin to a good armchair..." -- Matisse.

He has taught me to appreciate the beauty in the scenes I create. My featured artwork today is also about patterns and colors. This painting shows the pattern of the bakery racks and the repeating patterns of the fruit tarts and cookies in the pans. There is also the pattern of the triangles that make up the slices of chocolate cake. The human brain is comforted by patterns, I think. There may be a sense of ease with rhythm.

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Oakbrook (IL) Center Invitational Art Fair

2010-08-31T18:38:00.003-05:00

The fine Oakbrook Center is the setting for a long running invitational art fair this Saturday and Sunday, September 4 and 5. Artists have booths that leisurely wind through the outdoor pathways that run through the center.

I will have a booth that is front of Bloomingdale's Home Store. I hope you can come by.
--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

After Wayne Theibaud

2010-07-19T18:20:00.002-05:00

Dreaming of Pie, 11"x14", acrylic, $400, © B. Sistak Baur

It may not surprise you to learn that when people see my art, they often compare it to the work of Wayne Thiebaud (pronounced "tee-bo"). He begain his career in the art world in the 1950's with paintings of … cakes! And pies and delicatessens and ice cream and gumball machines, etc. Sound familiar? No, I didn't see his work and decide to try it for myself. It was after I started my own pastry series that I thought I should take a closer look at Thiebaud. Here is what I found: strong, cool shadows; repetition of strong shapes; thick paint; receding images; simple backgrounds. So I thought I might inject a little bit more of "Thiebaud-ism" into a piece of work and see what happens. The result is "Deaming of Pie." Of course, there are obvious differences: mine is more abstract, the background is undulating and the pies seem to be the floating. The similarities include the repeated items, the strong texture, shadows and the perspective gained by diminishing size. Okay, so what do you think? Does it remind you more of Thiebaud? By the way, Wayne Thiebaud continues to work in San Fransciso today. Here is a recent video from YouTube.
--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Geneva (IL) Arts Fair July 24, 25

2010-07-19T18:11:00.000-05:00

Geneva, IL, is one of those towns when I say, "I have to come back here and really explore." It is a beautiful little town on the Fox River, far west of Chicago. The older streets are lined with lovely little shops converted from Victorian homes that you just can't resist entering and discovering. This is the setting for this weekend's Chicago area art fair. It is located on S. Third Street and runs from 10 am to 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. Here's an article about its in the local paper.

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

3 Little Cakes Explore New Combinations

2010-07-05T21:21:00.004-05:00

Painters have favorite subjects that they return to time and time again. Georgia O'Keefe painted a mountain in New Mexico dozens of times. Wayne Thiebaud painted delicatessens over and over. For me, it has been these three cakes. I have executed paintings of these cakes on several occasions. These are among the smallest, just 8"x7" each (the frames add a couple of inches on each side). Does that mean they are copies of previous paintings? Absolutely not. Each is it own original with its specific aspects. These cakes may look chocolaty-brown, but they come from a red base. The background is high contrast with much white. The suggestion of a rack is impasto (very thick paint) like the cakes. Their size, diminutive. This combination of traits is unique to this group.

Why are painters drawn to subjects over and over? I think it is because they sense the depth of possibilities and are not finished exploring them. Is there another new color combination to try? Is the light different this time? How far can the lights and darks be pushed? Eventually, I will be done. I think I might be now. --Barb

From top,

Small Swirl Cake,

Small White Cake,

Small Chocolate Cake,

7"x8" each,

plus frames,

$169 each,

A stunning focal point

2010-06-24T13:24:00.004-05:00

The Bakery is Open, 21"x27", acrylic, $1100, © B. Sistak Baur

Discovered in a small shop, immediately I saw that a fabulous painting could be composed for these glorious tarts. Soft gels form the kiwis, peaches and strawberries. Stiffer gels provide height and depth for red, blue and black berries. They are put on a traditional bakery rack with a new twist: the racks themselves are created with the same gel used for the fruit and "piped" on, after a fashion. By the way, I don't measure anything but simply "eyeball" rack spacing. The design of this work calls for abundant space so the size is a bit larger, measuring about 21" high by 27" long (approx 27" by 34" framed). As always, you can click the images here online to see a larger view. Could this painting be the stunning focal point you have been looking for?

--Barb
www.SistakbBaur.com

My Favorite "Bakery"

2010-06-24T12:41:00.002-05:00

I am often asked where I find my inspiration. I freely admit that I find bakery items beautiful and admire the artistry of the master bakers. In a sense, I feed off their creativity. My favorite bakery is not a bakery at all but an ethic market with a butcher, fresh seafood, a grill, produce and, of course, baked goods lining the back walls. It is called Graziano's, an Argentine market, and it is located in Miami. It is there where my journey started for this series of paintings and to where I return whenever I can. The bakery cases are stocked with mesmerizing treats of brilliant colors and luscious textures. The display is new every time, filling me with renewed inspiration. I do not speak Spanish and they do not speak English. They must think I am a funny tourist when I snap my reference photos. But they pay me no mind. And, just so you know, yes, everything tastes as fabulous as it looks!

-- Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Schedule for June, July, August, Sept 2010

2010-06-24T12:05:00.002-05:00

Glencoe Festival of the Masters this weekend, July 10-11
On Saturday, July 10 and Sunday, July 11, the Festival will return to Glencoe, IL, on the North Shore, for the 3rd season. Professional artists' booths will line Park Avenue and Village Court. Admission is free and you will enjoy art, live music and festival food. Hours are 10 am to 5 pm, both days. A few blocks east of the festival is a beautiful beach on Lake Michigan. Pick up a lunch and have a picnic--it's worth the visit! Set your GPS to 320 Park Avenue, Glencoe IL, 60022. More info here.

Art fair in Arlington Hts. (IL) this Saturday and Sunday, June 26-27
The Promenade of Art takes place in the intersections of Campbell and Vail this weekend from 10 am to 5 pm each day. I visited this fair last year and found the downtown area of Arlington Hts vibrant and pleasurable. Sidewalk cafes, a lovely plaza and a live theater are some of the things I discovered. And it is just steps from the Metra. I hope to see you there! I am in Booth 352.5, on Campbell.

Other dates:
-June 26-27, Promenade of Art, Downton Arlington Hts, IL
-July 10-11 Glencoe Festival of the Masters, 320 Park Ave., Glencoe, IL-July 24-25 Geneva Arts Fair, S. 3rd St., Geneva, IL
-Aug 7-8, Art at the Glen, Glen Town Center, Glenview, IL (tentative)
-Aug 21-22, 29th Lakefront Art Festival, Washington Pk, Michigan City, IN
-Sept. 4-5, Oakbrook Center Invitational Fine Art Exhibition, Oak Brook, IL
-Sept. 25-26, Art in the Barn, Good Shepherd Hospital, Barrington, IL

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

TipsyCake Cake Shop II

2010-06-12T07:50:00.002-05:00

Here is the second painting of the TipsyCake kitchen featuring a baker at work on multiple cakes. This painting tells the story of a busy shop. There are many cakes in progress, multiple bowls of frosting are about, various tools are on the counter, there is something simmering on stove and trays of goodies are in the racks. Yet, this baker is focused on the single task of completing her cake.

This is a small, acrylic painting, just 11"x14." Unlike many of my pastry paintings, I use standard paints with no extra gels or media (see the close up-remember you can click the image to see a larger view). My personal challenge was to keep this painting warm and colorful in the midst of the cool stainless steel. In addition, I wanted it pair nicely with the first painting like this. Whenever I paint in a serious like that, I keep the first painting in view in my studio. It keeps me on track.

-- Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

TipsyCake Cake Shop

2010-05-11T22:29:00.002-05:00

There is an actual cake shop in Chicago named TipsyCake and that was the inspiration for this painting. The TipsyCake Cake Shop shows two bakers at work with bright colors against the stainless steel background drawing you into the scene. There are many elements that attracted me to this painting -- the setting, the colors, the figures. And the challenges were many-fold: capturing brightness in an indoor setting, bringing color to a stainless steel environment, having the two figure-shapes interplay correctly and adding enough detail but not so much as to overwhelm. I am very satisfied with the level of detail that is balanced by the looseness of the strokes. Click on the close up image for a larger view. And, of course, I love this the story this painting tells.

I created a second painting like this and it is on my web site. Click here to go to the galleries.

-- Barb

www.sistakbaur.com

By the way, I want to tell you that TipsyCake creates the most fabulous cakes and desserts. They look fantastic and - better yet - they taste like heaven. And that isn't always the case with lovely desserts -- I know. I have visited (and sampled) many bakeries near and far.

If check out the web site, you'll find wonderful examples of the "cakes the dreams are made of" And, if you ever get a chance, this is the place to go for true taste delights!

Thank you, TipsyCake, for allowing me to visit your shop to find inspiration for my latest series of pastry paintings!

Create your own masterpiece

2010-05-11T22:13:00.001-05:00

Think you can't create a masterpiece? Think again. At a Bottles-and-Brushes, a party-hosting service, you paint, sip wine and get individual guidance from a professional artist. At the end of the evening, you have a fabulous painting! You doubt me? Here is a group photo of a recent party and their really great paintings! Artist on-hand at this party was yours truly! Find out more about Bottles and Brushes.

That's me on the lower left. I am the only one without a painting because I was busy coaching the folks at this party. They did pretty good! (Click on the picture to see it a bit larger.)

-- Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Artists participate in Kaneland Community Arts Festival

2010-05-11T22:04:00.001-05:00

I was one of the artists that participated in the Kaneland Community Fine Arts Festival that took place in April. It is one of just a handful of public school art festivals in the State of Illinois. The event combines student and professional visual artists, hands-on workshops, and professional performing artists and groups. The festival annually draws approximately 3,000 students, families, and community members for a day of culture and fun. Bringing professional artists to the Fine Arts Festival to expose the communities to the fine arts is one of the goals. Find out more about the Kaneland arts programs.

Elegant Selection

2010-04-27T07:42:00.002-05:00

This is a smaller painting, 9" high and 12" wide ,and putting so much diversity into a small space was a challenge. Each pastry is unique with its own chocolate-like color and texture. They are almost tumbled one upon another creating an enticing display. In the close up, you can see some of the individual textures in the desserts. Look for the differences among them. Click on the image to see a larger view. In addition, this painting is one of three I created that feature glass plates. See the others here.

A plateful of lovely desserts suggests a story of an elegant day of entertaining, beautiful guests and delightful company. And, that is where this painting is going to be this Saturday, May 1. It is spending the afternoon at a fundraising gathering, being featured as a silent auction premium for the American Cancer Society's political action committee. A friend of mine is running this event and she would love to receive your bid. Bidding begins at $225. Contact her at: pjwhite@ameritech.net

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

May Art Fairs 2010

2010-04-25T22:10:00.002-05:00

May 1 is this Saturday and May is the unofficial kick off for art fair season in the Midwest. Here are three good fairs you shouldn't miss.

Oak Park, Art in the Park 15-16, Mills Park, 217 S. Home Ave.
The hometown of Frank Lloyd Wright is the setting. You can tour his studio and the neighborhood, which is the location of some of his early work. The West Suburban Art Guild organizes this event.

Riverside Arts Festival, May 22-23,
35 E. Quincy Ave
The entire town of Riverside is a national landmark, as it was planned by Fredrick Olmsted, the nineteenth-century landscape architect who designed Central Park in New York. Beautiful homes and city buildings are hallmarks of this town. A walking tour, conducted by the Olmstead Society, starts off at 2 pm.

Barrington Art Fair, May 29-30, downtown Barrington
Friendly little restaurants and an old-fashioned downtown area are two of the attractions of Barrington, long known to be the home of the horsey set. Barrington is a pleasant town to visit and the art should be fabulous. This is the newest Amy Amdur-produced art fair. If you are familiar with Chicago-area art fairs, you know that she conducts a fine show with high quality art and professional organization.

--Barb

www.SistakBaur.com

-

Long, Lovely Loaves in the Market

2010-04-08T19:19:00.007-05:00

Bread at the Market, 14"x11" , © B Sistak Baur

Rich, warm colors are great to work with but it is the setting of this painting that was the attraction for me. Recreating this scene -- placing the bread in a market -- was exciting. I created a stylized, simplified background to sharply contrast the more detailed basket and lovely, long bread loaves -- unpackaged and obviously fresh. Layers of paint define the individual loaves in the bundle. In the close up, you can see the interplay of colors that define the depth and loave textures. Bread texture is very satisfying in both eating and in re-creating on canvas.

Bread at the Market, Close Up, © B Sistak Baur

The vertical format emphasizes the shape of the loaves. On my website, I have matched this painting with two others that share the same format. See how they look together and let me know what you think. This painting is currently available to be shown. Please call me if you would like a personal appointment.

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

This painting has been sold.

Chicago Art Open Showcases Diverse Works (Mine, included)

2010-04-08T19:10:00.002-05:00

The 12th Annual Chicago Art Open, presented by the Chicago Artists' Coalition, will be on display from April 20-May 7 at the River East Art Center, 435 E. Illinois Street, Chicago. There are more than 350 works of art on display, all from members of the Chicago Artists' Coalition. The Chicago Art Open is an unique opportunity to appreciate the diverse talent of the city's visual artists. The Opening Reception is April 24, (a Saturday), from 12-4 pm.. Yes, I am displaying my "Loaves" in this exhibition and will be at the opening reception (which is free for everyone). I hope to see you there.

Two more great events are happening at the Open. One is the Benefit Preview Party, April 20, from 6-9 p.m. Advance tickets are $50. The other event is the free event, "How to Collect" panel discussion that takes place May 2, from 12-3 p.m. (If you can't make this but are interested, I am going to attend and post the information here on my blog.)

Loaves, showing at the Chicago Art Open, 16"x30", stained canvas adhered to board, © B. Sistak Baur, $975

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Live Demo at High School

2010-04-02T18:59:00.006-05:00

Carol Bristol, high school art teacher at the Westminster Christian School in Elgin, IL, invited me to give a live painting demo. Well, I was more than a little nervous, never having done a live demo before in front of actual people! But they were studying Wayne Theibaurd and working on cake paintings. So who better to give a live cake painting demo then yours truly? So I agreed. The class was delightful!

We started out talking about Wayne Theibaud and how my work is the same and different.

I passed around paintings so the students could look
at them up close.

The class asked great questions.

Then, it was time to get to work!

The students were very interested in learning

about the impasto media that lets you do very thick paintings.

And, I was able to show the students exactly how to mix the paint and apply it to the canvas. I went on to show different texturing techniques.

They loved looking and touching!

I could tell that the students were very interested in these painting techniques.

They had several paintings to look at. I hoped to offer a variety.

Thank you, Carol Bristol and students!!

-- Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Brisk Approach Suitable for Easygoing Subject

2010-03-21T19:11:00.004-05:00

Fruit Tarts on Red 12"x9", acrylic, framed, $300,
© B. Sistak Baur

Fruit tarts as a painting subject are attractive because of the variety they offer. Not only in colors and textures but in the styles with which they can be approached. Very thick and textural paints are apt. But fruit tarts are also very suitable for a more brisk approach that features fast, broad brush strokes and an easygoing looseness. The second approach is what I selected for this painting, Fruit Tarts on Red.

I put a close up picture below so you can see the brush strokes clearly and how one layer is quickly applied over the underlying layer, often working with wet paint on wet paint. You can click on the picture for a larger image. The result is an expressive painting. Fruit tarts work well in groups so I also have blue and yellow versions of this painting. They are posted on my website in the 9"x12" gallery.
-- Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Kaneland Celebrates the Arts

2010-03-21T17:03:00.001-05:00

Far west of Chicago is Kane County, where Sugar Grove and Maple Park are located. Rural communities with agricultural roots, they represent the home of the Kaneland Community Fine Arts Festival this April 18. For one day, the Kaneland High School in Maple Park is the location of an art extravaganza with performances, workshops, art demonstration and exhibitions. The entire community participates. In association with the Fine Arts Festival, a juried art exhibition is concurrently shown at the Sugar Grove Library.

I am proud to say that I am participating in these events in two ways. First, I am one of the invited artists demonstrating in the Fine Arts Festival on Sunday, April 18. And second, two artworks of mine were selected for the fine art exhibition at the library which runs from March 26 to April 30. (Grand Fruit Tart and Cheesecake Pie.)

By the way, the public is invited to these events and they are free. Get the schedule here.

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Michigan City Added to Art Fair Schedule

2010-03-21T16:02:00.001-05:00

Michigan City, Indiana, is the art destination for me this August 21 and 22. This is where the Lubeznik Center for the Arts is conducting its 29th Lakefront Festival in Washington Park, on the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan. The park is accessible to motorists, cyclists, foot traffic and boaters alike. Thousands of visitors from surrounding states come to this festive, high-quality event. I hope you will, too, since I have added this festival to my schedule. Click for more info about the event.

-- Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

February is National Pie Month

2010-02-18T19:33:00.004-06:00

You know February is National Pie Month, don't you. You didn't? Well, it seems that it is. Not only that, some folks say it is National CHERRY Pie Month because Washington's birthday is in February. The facts on National Pie Month are a little vague. When I googled, I couldn't find any definitive information, just a lot of "In Honor of…" recipes and articles. So I don't know who started it, why they started it or how long it has been in force. If anyone comes up with a good link, pass it on, please.

No matter because it just so happens that I just completed a cherry pie painting this very month! And, I didn't even know it was National Pie Month until a couple of days ago!

This artwork is part of a small "glass" series I completed this winter. There are three paintings on three different types of glass plates (see them on the web site.) Glass is always a challenge but a fun one. In fact, I even like doing it! I always thought I wouldn't like it thinking it would be too tedious. But that is not the case at all.

This pie sits up proud and high on a tall glass plate. The background is textured with a soft yellow, a perfect back drop for the bluish glass and shadows. The pie filling drips over the sides of the pans. It is made with a gooey concoction of paints and syrup-y gels. The pie crust is a combination of thicker gels and modeling pastes to represent the stiff, baked crust. Color is dry brushed across the top for the "browning." The texture is very apparent in the close up (you can also double click on any photo for a larger view).
--Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

3 Chocolate Cupcakes

2010-01-28T17:38:00.005-06:00

Inspired by three cupcakes in the front row of a long tray in a bakery case, they appeared to be very merry and ready to dance together as if they were in a Disney movie.

The textured ground is the first step to give them a proper backdrop. The paper cups are created with modeling paste applied with a long, shape palette knife. The knife is sliced through the paste to make the ridges. A heavy gel is selected for the frosting. Then, very carefully, I drag a saw-toothed edge across the surface to create the swirls. This is topped with a star-like decoration. Shadows and highlights provide depth and more color adds interest to background. You can really see the texture in the close up. (Click on the photo for a larger view.)
--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

How did you start doing desserts? (FAQ)

2010-01-27T18:21:00.002-06:00

I have a history of using various textures in artwork. In fact, I have a 3-D piece that features an old door with a key collection. Another is created with socks -- the mateless ones that you find in the dryer.

A third is an abstract figure created with painted tissue paper. But that is not what immediately attracted me to the bakery items.

That started when I visited an Argentine grocery in Miami. In the back, the bakery case burst with colors and repeating rhythms of mounds and circles and other shapes. The scene was quite mesmerizing. Inspired, I whipped out my camera (film was still common at the time), and snapped several pictures. (The staff thought I was nutty tourist. I guess I was.) When I got back to town, I couldn't wait to have the film developed and start painting. The first artwork I did won an award in a local show so I was inspired to keep going.

While I was working on a cake piece, I thicken up the paint to better show the icing. That was first step in my journey on my way to gels, pastes, molding compounds and large variety of media to achieve new directions.

--Barb

Above left, a close up view of Grand Fruit Tart; above right, artist shown with Decision Points; right, Interdimensional Portal on the Space-Time Continuum; all are © B. Sistak Baur. All rights reserved.

www.SistakBaur.com

Why Don't You Weigh 300 Pounds? (FAQ)

2010-01-21T13:08:00.011-06:00

I've had great conversations with people over the last 2 summers. And there are common threads among them. I thought I would gather up many of the frequently asked questions I hear and answer them here. If you don't see your question, email me or post a comment with your question, and I will try to answer it. Here is one I hear a lot and it amuses me. I will post others as I think of them. Check the FAQs link (left) to see others (but this is the first one so wait a day or two so I can get more up here).

Why don't you weigh 300 pounds?
Well, I don't actually have the pastry in front of me while I am working. Generally, I take photos of pastries when visiting restaurants, delis, cafes, specialty shops and, of course, bakeries. Sometimes I work from the photos or sometimes from memory or sometimes I just make them up.

When I do have the actual item in front of me, as with a commission, I take many reference photos of the pastry when it is fresh and moist so I have the best representation. Then I put the pastry in the freezer for safe keeping and later reference, if needed (and later eating).

I have tried painting a pastry while it is front of me -- but it is usually SOMEONE ELSE who comes along and snags a bite. I replaced a whole plate of cookies one time and had to redo the whole painting!

(This is that painting).

-- Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

New Year and New Work

2010-01-15T21:01:00.007-06:00

2010 is underway! Re-energized and invigorated, a new year is my opportunity to stretch my skills while creating new works. I have much new work underway in preparation for the new art fair season. Here is a sample:

On a Triangular Plate, 9"x12", acrylic, framed, $300 © B. Sistak Baur

Inspired by a friend who brought me these cookies, I arranged them on a lovely glass plate that I found in a rarely-opened cabinet. The foundation of the cookies is a mixture of molding pastes. After they are formed and dried, I work on the toppings. The fruit fillings are created from media is that carefully mixed to achieve the right consistency -- creamy and thick. The whole painting is covered up except for the cookies, so I can "sprinkle" paint to create the powdered sugar. More details can be seen in the close up below.

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

2010 Art Fair Schedule is Shaping Up

2010-01-13T20:40:00.001-06:00

I certainly miss seeing everyone and eager to get started again at the summer art festivals. As you may know, art fair artists start the application process in the fall for following summer. Most of the festivals I attend are "juried." This means that my paintings are placed along side paintings by other artists and a "jury" rates them. The artists with higher scores are invited to participate in the festival. I have 90% of my applications submitted -- and invitations are trickling in. So far I have been invited to the following shows;

• May 22-23, Riverside Art Festival, Burlington Ave., Riverside, IL
• June 5-6, 57th Street Art Fair, Hyde Park, Chicago
* Sept. 4-5, Oakbrook Center Invitational Fine Art Exhibition, Oak Brook, IL

This list will grow as I hear from festival organizers. I will update my schedule as I learn of the results. I hope your favorite art festival shows up on the list. If not, I hope you visit a new festival.
--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Purchasing Information

2010-01-01T06:06:00.000-06:00

Select the piece you want.
Contact me via email, phone or US Mail.
Studio: Barbara Sistak Baur
3405 Highland Dr.
Island Lake, IL 60042
Email: bsistakbaur(at)comcast[dot]net
Phone: 847-526-1787

Payment options: Cash, money order, personal check, all major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard.

Delivery options: US Mail, UPS, Pick up from my studio, delivery to your home or business (location dependent), delivery at a scheduled art event.

Guarantee: If, after you take a painting home, you are not satisfied for any reason, contact me for the return of the painting and a full refund (less shipping).

Home Preview: If you would like to see a painting in your home before you purchase, contact me for arrangements.

Art Festivals: If there is a painting on my web site you would like to see, let me know and I will bring it to one of my scheduled art festival for your viewing.

Most paintings are*
framed in a contemporary black frame
painted on a rigid panel
protected by a UV varnish
priced as follows

Mini Paintings
3"x4" $49
4"x6" $89

Small Paintings
6"x8" $159
8"x7" $169

Medium Paintings
9"x12" $300
11"x14" $400

Larger Paintings
Prices are noted in the galleries

If you live in Illinois, 7.5% is the sales tax.
* Subject to change and exceptions.

I am happy to ship any work.
Insurance and delivery confirmation included
Mini Paintings $5
Small Paintings $15
Medium Paintings $25
Larger Paintings, determined at the time of shipping

A Painting for a Gift

2009-11-01T22:08:00.000-06:00

Gifts for the Holiday
Over the summer, several of you mentioned to me the idea of giving a painting as a gift for the holidays. If you are thinking about that, this is the time to get something started, especially if you would like a custom painting. I would be happy to give you information – just email or call me.
--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Strawberries and Kiwis

2009-11-01T21:58:00.003-06:00

The cool weather is putting me in the holiday mood – or maybe it’s the holiday arts and crafts shows that are starting up. Whatever the reason, I decided to feature this festive red and green painting of a strawberry and kiwi tart.

Strawberries and Kiwis, 11"x14", acrylic, framed. $400. © B. Sistak Baur

If you look at this painting up close (double click the image to enlarge), you’ll see that the paint is lavishly applied. The challenge I had was painting on top of the textured background. The background was applied first so it impacted all the following layers. I resolved it by continuing the loose style over the entire painting.
--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Arts Showcase – Barrington (IL) - 11/7-11/8

2009-11-01T21:53:00.002-06:00

I am joining the Barrington Park District for its 8th Annual Showcase of Arts and Crafts this Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 7 and 8. The hours are 11am to 5pm on Sat. and 10am-4pm, Sun. It takes place at Landendorf Park, 235 Lions Dr. I looked at the list of exhibitors scheduled for this event and noted that they are quality artisans. For more info call, 847-381-0687. Here is the poster about the event. Double click it to enlarge.
--Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Autumn Showcase – Crystal Lake (IL) - 11/5-11/29

2009-11-01T21:51:00.003-06:00

Autumn Showcase – Crystal Lake
The artists of the Northwest Area Arts Council have joined together for a group exhibition from Nov. 5-29, at the Brink Street Market, downtown Crystal Lake, IL. More than 40 members are showing works in oil, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, photography, jewelry, fiber, pottery and sculpture. 20% of all sales is donated to the Northern Illinois Food Bank. There will be an artists’ reception, Sat., Nov 7, 7-9 pm. I hope to see you there. Otherwise, the show is open Wednesdays-Sundays, 10am to 4pm.

I am showing my "Chocolate Cake" at this exhibition.

Chocolate Cake, 9"x12", acrylic, framed. $360. © B. Sistak Baur

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Art Fair -- Last Call Art Fair in Highwood

2009-10-12T07:20:00.002-05:00

The Highwood Last Call Art Fair is this weekend, October 17-18, 10 am to 4 pm each day. It is located at Sheridan Rd and Highwood Ave., in downtown Highwood. Yes, it will be chilly but it is looking like there will be a bit of sunshine. This is a new Amy Amdur production who is renowned in the Chicago area for the art fairs she produces. They are always very professionally run and well-attended. Don’t miss this last chance to stroll around the art booths and maybe pick up some good end-of-the-season deals! Click to go to the event website.
--Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Algonquin Public Art Display Acceptance

2009-10-12T07:15:00.005-05:00

I am very pleased that the Village of Algonquin has accepted two works of mine for inclusion in the 2009-2010 year-long display. The Village of Algonquin started this program in 2005-2006 in the belief that art in the village enhances the quality of life for residents and business. It solicits applications from artists to apply for the program. Accepted works are loaned to the village for one year. They are displayed throughout the village. I have participated in the program several times and am pleased to have been invited to participate for this season. The two works accepted are Grand Bakery and Three Cakes. I will post a notice when I know the where these pieces are displayed. By the way, there is an Open House at the Village offices this Thursday evening, October 15, 6-8 pm, 2200 Harnish Dr., Algonquin.
-- Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Red Berry Tart

2009-10-12T06:46:00.002-05:00

A sweet little painting with plenty of poppin’ berries. Each berry is created with red acrylic paint mixed with a textured media that has ground stone in it. Each berry is dolloped into place. After they harden, a drizzly creation is made that is dribbled over the top of each berry. Each berry sits in a custard-like cream that holds them to the the cookie-like crust (with is made with a modeling paste.) Sounds good. $300.

Quiche

2009-09-21T16:53:00.004-05:00

This painting has a touch of expressionism to it. Expressionism, loosely, is a style in which the artist attempts to depict the internal emotions and responses that are evoked instead of an object's reality. Here are some links on expressionism -- wikipedia, WebMuseum in Paris, Art Movements

With this painting, I go away from the actual item and work more on depicting what I think is going inside it. Continuing the use of heavy impasto, the crust is created with an acrylic paste so that it can hold the interior liquid, capturing what an actual crust would do. The top of the crust rolls over on itself, identifying it as hand made and with the baker's own style. The interior part is made of the more fluid paints and the colors represent ingredients. It is churned a bit to represent how they are loosely combined. You can see some of the interior bubble-up over the crust.

--Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Art Fair - Lakeview East in Chicago, 9/26 & 9/27

2009-09-21T16:50:00.003-05:00

We are officially into fall -- warm afternoons, cool nights, it is a great time of year. Truth be told, for our area, our days may be warmer now than they have been most of the summer! And that makes it is perfect for the beautiful fall art fairs.

This weekend is the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts in Chicago. Lakeview East is a neighborhood on the north side not far from the Wrigley field area. There will be 150 artists, food and musical entertainment. This fair is sponsored by the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce which they are working very hard to create a fun experience. I am sure the folks there will be gracious hosts. It is Saturday and Sunday, Sept 26 & 27, on Broadway from Belmont to Roscoe. Look for me in booth 119.

--Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Art Work on Display at The Bistro on the Boulevard in St. Joe, MI

2009-09-21T16:43:00.002-05:00

This is an elegant bistro overlooking Lake Michigan. The chef there invited several artists from the KRASL Art Festival to display art work. I have two paintings on display - Carrot Cake and Marble Cake. These two paintings, as well as the others on display there, may be purchased at the bistro.

If you are in that area, stop by and take a look. Tell Chef Ryan Thornburg you are a friend of one the artists there. By the way, I spotted a lovely outdoor deck and if you catch an autumn-warm afternoon, you might be able to enjoy it.

-- Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Mini Paintings

2009-08-31T19:22:00.009-05:00

Fruit Tart 3"x4", acrylic, $49, and Red Cupcake, 6"x4", acrylic, $89

I just want you to know that little paintings require no small effort -- like I thought they would.

I have added three small sizes of mini paintings to my body of work -- 3"x4", 4"x6" and 6"x8". I decided to do them because I thought it would be a fun way to offer inexpensive art work in my booth so that anyone could take something home. Well, as it turns out, they are inexpensive and they are fun to do. But, I start out on these little adventures with a perfect little plan on how it is going to be. And, then I find myself on a completely different path all together.

I thought I was going to do quick little alla prima paintings. Alla prima means you finish all in one sitting. It means you work "wet into wet" -- you apply the wet paint on your brush into paint that is still wet on the canvas. Alla Prima is Italian for "at once."

These paintings are satisfying for the artist and the result is much expressiveness and color. The downside is that they are really no do-overs. Once the paint is down, its down. But I am used to that. The little fruit tarts, shown here, are done alla prima and they come out great.

Little Carrot Cake, 3"x4", acrylic, $49, and 2 Fruit Tarts, 6"x4", acrylic, $89

But there are other little paintings that take on a life of their own. I have a little carrot cake. It is on the 2-day plan. First day is background, the cake, nut sprinkles and carrots on top. The next day is shading, highlights and shadows. Done.

I added little cupcakes, 6"x4". 2 days minimum. Let's see -- day 1 -- background base, paper cup, chocolate topping, whipped topping -- if I am lucky. Day 2, tone the paper cup, highlight the chocolate topping, add shadows, and work up the background.

A Slice, 3"x4", acrylic, $49

The little berry pie slice (seen on my web site) -- this is the biggy. Would you believe this little 3"x4" painting takes a minimum of 4 days? Here are the days --
Day 1 - Background. It is very textural itself so it cannot be painted over until it is dry, dry. Day 2 - Crust and chocolate layer. That's it. I can go no further until that is set.
Day 3 - Berries.
Day 4 - Highlights and shadows. Done.

And the next size up -- 6"x8" pastry paintings? Don't even get me started.

So as you can see, even though they paintings are little and look very easy, there is no shortage of effort involved.

By the way, mini paintings are available for purchase at my art fairs. Or, you can just email me and I will be happy to ship them to you. Since they are so little, they are easy to pop in the mail.

See my web site for the latest offerings in mini-paintings. I update it whenever a new "batch" of minis are ready.

-- Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Art Fairs -- Oak Brook Center and Penrod in Indianapolis

2009-08-31T19:19:00.001-05:00

This weekend, I will be at Oakbrook Center Invitational Fine Art Exhibition weekend. My booth will be right in front of Bloomingdale's Home Store. More than 150 artists participate in this outdoor gallery set amidst the park-like grounds of Oakbrook Center. Saturday, Sept 5, from 10 am to 7 pm. Sunday, Sept 6, from 11 am to 6 pm. Maybe you can stop by.

On Saturday, Sept 12, I will be participating in The Penrod Arts Fair in Indianapolis on the grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Billed as "Indiana's nicest day," there will be 300 artists, 6 stages of entertainment, extensive children's area and plenty of food and beverage. It opens at 9 am and you can enjoy yourself until 5 pm. This is the first time I have been here and I am really looking forward to it.

---Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Friend me on Facebook

2009-08-31T19:18:00.001-05:00

Are you on Facebook?
I am. Let's be friends. Because of my unique, Bohemia name, it will be easy for you to search for me. Search for "Barb Sistak" and I will be the only one!! Send me a friend request and I will respond right away.
-- Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Gala Reception at Real People

2009-08-31T19:12:00.004-05:00

The weekend of Aug 22, I attended the gala reception for the Real People 2009 exhibition. My husband was nice enough to take this photo. I am standing in front of my 25 little paintings that are gathered together for one display. There are all figure paintings done during my life-drawing workshop. To read more about this event, see the original post.
---Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Mosaic Bande

2009-08-17T17:10:00.004-05:00

Mosaic Bande, Acrylic on board, 9”x12”, $300 © B. Sistak Baur

Do you know what Mosaic Bande is?

I didn't (you know that doesn't mean much if you read my post about cupcakes). You see, I am not a baker and I don't know a lot about it. But I do like bakeries and know what looks good enough to paint -- and that is Mosaic Bande. I found this delight in an old-style bakery in Milwaukee.

So, for those of you that don't know, and I wouldn't blame you if you didn't since I can't even find a decent reference for it on the internet, here in one definition I found. Mosaic Bande is layers of chocolate mousses (one chocoloate and one vanilla marscarpone) layered on a dark chocolate sponge and topped with a mosaic of geometric shapes in different shades of chocolate.

What attracted me to this piece was the geometric pattern of the chocolate. I think it appealed to the left side of my brain (that's the logical side, not the art side -- in painting pastries, you don't have too many opportunities for straight lines so I decided to go for it). As soon as I saw it, I knew exactly how I wanted to recreate it. I dreamed about creating broken chocolate shapes and placing them adoringly on the pastry. Well, it turned out to be much more of a puzzle than I anticipated, of course.

If you get a chance to see this painting in person, you will notice that each color is an individual strip of paint. Each strip was created on the palette, allowed to dry, sliced and then placed on the painting. Each piece of Mosaic Bande was "built" from the bottom up. It was an interesting challenge which I may try again in another painting -- when my brain stops hurting.

-- Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Real People 2009

2009-08-17T15:31:00.011-05:00

"Do you only paint desserts?" I am often asked. The answer is no, I can and do paint many things and practice in many disciplines. One of those is figure drawing. From Fall to Spring, I spend several evenings with my life drawing group. We are a group of artists that get together a couple of times a month and hire a model to sketch, draw or paint. I create little paintings of the models. The interesting part is that each painting is complete in 25 minutes or less because this is as long as the model poses. And some poses are much shorter.

Having accumulated quite a collection of 25-minute paintings (some of which I really like), I decided to enter Real People 2009, a national juried exhibition. I pulled together 25 paintings (each one is 8"x10") and arranged them into one display, shown here. The title of the complete display is 25 in 25 Minutes or Less.

25 in 25 Minutes or Less, acrylic on 8"x10" panels, $2500

Happily, this work has been accepted. Real People 2009 which is sponsored by the Old Court House Figurative Art League, runs from August 6 to September 27. A Gala reception is this Saturday, August 22, from 6 pm to 9:30 pm. It is located in the Old Court House Arts Center, in Woodstock, "on the square."

This show is featuring artists from around the country. The organizers told me that artists drive in from Tennessee, Florida and other states to bring their artwork. It is a wonderfully diverse show of very high quality. Jurors for this show (jurors are the professionals who select the artwork for display) were Michael Vanzeyl, a portrait artist and teacher at the Palette and Chisel in Chicago; and Marion Kryczka, an associate professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

--Barb
www.SistakBaur.com

Art Fairs -- 2009 Gold Coast, Chicago, 7/31, 8/1, 8/2

2009-07-27T19:17:00.002-05:00

If you are going the Gold Coast Art Fair, I am on Erie St., right in the middle somewhere. Booth number 234. It is this weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 31, August 1 and 2. It is located at Superior, Huron and Erie between Clark and Wells.

From the website: Heralded as the “Grand Daddy” of American art festivals, the Gold Coast Art Fair is celebrating more than 50 years of wowing Chicago. As one of the most highly attended art fairs in the city, The Gold Coast River North Art Fair annually attracts over 300 juried artists and 600,000 visitors from locations around the world. The free festival is set along city streets and sidewalks in the gallery-filled neighborhood; a world-class creative and cultural experience.
I am in booth number 234.
--Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

The 15 Unforgettable Life-Lessons I Learned During My First Art Fair Season

2009-07-23T19:19:00.009-05:00

Some of you may know that last year was my first year in the Art Fair business. It has been quite an experience. Recently, a friend of mine asked me to “report in” on how my first year in the art fair business went. So, I decided to give it a go. Here it is – “The 15 Unforgettable Life-Lessons I Learned During My First Art Fair Season”.

1. How when I saw the truck fully loaded with panels, chairs, the tent, tubs of equipment and a few paintings thrown in on top of it all, is when I truly grasped the concept of “overhead.”

2. How you shouldn’t make the 500-artist show your first show. By yourself. Far away from home. ( I didn’t mean to, but I was “blown out” of my first, first show.)

3. What is feels like to be trapped under a blown-over tent and debris during a micro-burst. (Or, when someone tells you to take the artwork off the walls because a storm is coming, leave immediately.)

4. How easy is it to get a “free” charge card merchant account (and then find out how much it really costs you).

5. How heavy those tent weights really are. (And, I still don’t have enough of them.)

6. That 6 feet 7 inches is truly out of reach. (Even on my toes, no matter how hard I stretch.)

7. How little sleep you can get and still put up a display and talk to customers. (Note to self: don’t try that again.)

8. What a hard, 16-hour day really feels like. (It ain’t like the office!)

9. How April, May, June and ½ of July were a nightmare. (But how during the second half of July, August and Sept, I felt like a pro.)

10. The shock I felt when other artists started asking ME for advice (They must have mistaken my “finally, I know how to put this thing up in less than 3 hours” look for “seasoned.”)

11. How gratified I felt when the local museum purchased a painting. (It was the only sale that day but what a good one!)

12. How my fear of talking to people who came into my booth morphed into a steady sales prattle. (I don’t know how many customers I scared away!)

13. How confused I am when people comment to me, “how relaxing you must find painting.” (I fret over ever piece!)

14. How it feels to be not “just” an artist, but, rather, an art business entrepreneur.

15. Most unforgettable are the people that helped along the way. And, of course, my husband, who -- I can’t believe it -- actually fixes mangled display panels, builds shelves for the art truck and encourages me to keep going.

I hope to see and meet many of you this summer -- my second year in the art fair business!
And don't forget to visit my website: www.sistakbaur.com

What is Art?

2009-07-09T17:40:00.002-05:00

Having thought about this over the years, I am going with this definition for the time being --

Art is a commentary. It is a comment on something. That comment may speak to someone else -- and that is the connection whether it is joy, insight, mystery, enlightenment, delight, sorrow and so on. It can be executed with any method. We don't always understand the comment. Sometimes, we do not value the comment.

I am less sure on the "skill" side of art. Here is my shot at it --
Skill, craftsman-ship, elements of drawing, handling of materials- all of these are the tools of the artist just as hammers and saws are tools for the carpenter. The better-skilled artist may be able to execute the art/comment to a higher degree of quality/clarity/intent.

That's my very short, 2 cents.

How this fits into art fairs is my current ideological struggle. Art fairs are all about money which is good because we need money to survive. When does art become "product" and no longer art? I don't know. I do find this troubling. When I am overwhelmed by the question, I look to my personal models who do create art and do very well at it. I achieve some clarity from that reflection.

That's my other 2 cents.

--Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Art Fairs -- St. Joe, MI and Geneva, IL

2009-07-06T20:54:00.002-05:00

There are two Art Fairs coming up in July 2009 that I will be a part of --

KRASL Art Fair on the Bluff in St. Joseph, Michigan, July 11 and 12. This art fair is produced by the KRASL Art Center and is in the top 100 art fairs rated by Sunshine Artist magazine. I have never been to St. Joe but have heard wonderful things about it. The art fair is along the lake front so that should be beautiful. And there is great shopping in the quaint downtown. I am looking forward to it.

Geneva Arts Fair in Geneva, IL, July 25-26. The Geneva Chamber of Commerce sponsors this art fair. Geneva is a popular destination. Victorian homes-turned-businesses in the downtown historic district serve as a picturesque backdrop for shopping at the fine arts show. Voted “Best Craft or Art Show” in 2008 by West Suburban Living magazine, this is the 7th year for this art fair.

Cupcake Field II

2009-07-06T20:47:00.003-05:00

Cupcake Field II, 9"x12", $300

Maybe you've heard -- cupcakes are all the rage. This all started when a mosaic artist created a portrait of Barrack Obama and Abraham Lincoln with cupcakes. Now, nearly everywhere you look, you see cupcakes evoking President Obama by some means. And, it was reported in all the major news outlets that Michelle actually served cupcakes (made with honey, not sugar, I understand) along side her veggies.

Call me obtuse or just very busy but this whole cupcake frenzy passed me by -- until I got to the art fairs. People come into my booth and insist on seeing the cupcake paintings. "Excuse me?," I'd respond. It took me a while to catch on.

Now, the fact of the matter is, I have several cupcake paintings. But I painted them (or at least started them) last fall as a step in my progression through my painting series --- way before the cupcake-mania hit. And frankly, I didn't always show them, not having room for every painting. Well, I guess that will change now. Shown here is one my cupcake paintings (I have more online). It is called Cupcake Field II. There is a II in the name because, in fact, I have created more than one. The reason is that I like the process I used and wanted to experience it again (I often do that) -- not because of the popularity of cupcakes.

I was attracted to this scene because of the rhythm, repetition and endlessness of the cupcakes. It is actually the cupcake tops that are featured as they swirl through the scene with no end in sight. The tops are the most interesting part. I used heavy impasto paint. The thickener I used is slightly granular, reminding me of the icing I created as a child, mistakenly using regular sugar instead of the powdered variety.

Art-Throb™--Art Buying Boot Camp

2009-06-04T14:28:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone--
In a previous post, I promised to forward information on the Art Buying Boot Camp held this weekend at the 57th Street Art Fair in Chicago. Here is some info:

Art Buying Boot Camp is a guided tour lead by local artists and art experts. Open to the public on Saturday and Sunday June 6 & 7, at 11:30 a.m. and at noon, Boot Camp participants will meet at the information booth at 56th and Kimbark Avenue. WGN has some a small video on it as well.

I hope you can visit the 57th Street Art Fair this weekend in Chicago’s historic Hyde Park neighborhood. Yes, I will be there in booth 318, near 56th Street. Stop by.
Art-Throb is a trademark of Barbara Baur Art, a business representing Barbara Sistak Baur.

New Web Site!

2009-05-28T16:36:00.002-05:00

www.sistakbaur.com

Better organized, a cleaner look and a more pleasant experience visiting it -- these are the reasons I created my new website. (Yes, I do all the work myself so be kind.) I have been online with my blog for a long time but that always presented organizational and presentation challenges.

Here is what you can find at the website. All art is posted to together in neat and tidy galleries. Images enlarge for better viewing. The pages are easy to navigate. Schedules and news are easy to find. There is a newsletter sign-up (if you have friends that like art, be sure to direct them to my new site). Also I have introduced new "mini" paintings. The smallest of which is 3"x4". Have a look-see. They cute.

I will continue my blog but will use it more for ramblings and musings than art presentation, which is better on the web site. One nice thing about websites and the internet in general, is that you can add items and change things endlessly. So my website will be such a place. For now, it is just getting started and it will grow and grow.

57th Street Art Fair

2009-05-28T16:30:00.002-05:00

Here is a video about the 57th Street Art Fair, June 6 & 7, in Hyde Park, Chicago. Look for me in booth 813 if you go!

The 57th Street Art Fair takes place on 57th Street in the historic Hyde Park neighborhood, six miles south of the Chicago Loop off Lake Shore Drive. The Art Fair is FREE and open to the public. In addition to over 250 artist booths, visitors will find a family friendly and alcohol free environment. There are hands on activities and playgrounds for the kids along with food to please everyone’s palate available for purchase at multiple venues.

Hyde Park is home to the University of Chicago as well as many unique independent bookshops, cafes and a plethora of other cultural events, activities and venues. Hyde Park is a lovely neighborhood setting for the Midwest’s oldest art fair!

Gem of a Painting

2009-05-28T16:17:00.003-05:00

A Slice, 9"x12", acrylic on board, framed. © B Sistak Baur

You could say this new work is a "gem." Not because it is so wonderful (it is but that's not the reason), but because the berries are created from a medium that has actual ground garnet in it. This not only gives it a great berry texture but it also contributes to the berry color. The crust is created with a modeling paste to provide the heft it needs for the berries. The chocolate layer on the bottom is a "poured" syrupy mixture that I create myself. I was inspired to do this painting because it has a pop-culture look and recalls some of the famous pop-culture artists of the 50's and 60s. I combined that look with my textural techniques. You can see a larger image of this painting at my new website.

Death by Chocolate

2009-04-11T14:02:00.005-05:00

Death by Chocolate, 11"x14", acrylic, framed, $400 © B. Sistak Baur

Here is chocolate on top of chocolate. When I saw this in the bakery, I knew I had to paint it (and I almost ate it, but didn't!) First, the cheesecake is rendered with textured paint. On top of that are rich brownies created with impasto acrylic paint. Finally, chocolate-colored syrup-y paint is poured over the top. A little over the top with chocolate, I'd say!

Art-Throb™--Juried Art Fairs

2009-04-06T16:03:00.007-05:00

How Artists Get into Art Fairs
Art festivals are a summertime ritual in the Midwest and a great way to spend a day. You enjoy the fresh air, great art and you may come home with a treasure. Very relaxing. But for artists, it is anything but. In fact, for artists, the season starts the previous fall when a grueling series of competitions begins – these competitions are among the artists themselves to see who will be awarded booth space at the best art fairs in the region and, even, the nation.
(above: Barb in her Art Booth, Summer 2008)

How does this work?
Art festival promoters/organizers are right in the middle of it. They organize art festivals to attract art patrons. To attract art patrons, they need top artists. So they advertise far and wide for artists to apply to their show. And if it is a really good show, hundreds, if not thousands, of artists apply. I applied to a festival that had 125 openings but received 1200 applications.

This is good for patrons because it means that the best artists available are displaying at the festival. Patrons interested in purchasing art can be assured that a rigorous selection process has been applied. This is also good for artists because it means that serious art patrons who are interested in purchasing art are attracted to the show.

What do artists have to do be selected?
Artists apply to art shows with a large packet of materials. They submit anywhere from 3 to 5 pictures of their work (which they take themselves), an picture of their art booth, art statements and/or a resume, business information such as tax numbers, a variety of application forms and, of course, a fee for applying. Fortunately, much of this is done electronically today, making it a much smoother process that having slides made (remember them?), submitting paper forms and snail-mailing the package. But, not everyone is digital and I did a complete a number of these manual packages this year.

All of this material arrives at the art show office by a stated deadline. Then the show organizers have the job of reviewing each and every one of the applications to make the selection of artists to invite. Often, a jury of 3 or 4 respected art experts is assembled for a day. Art images are projected on a large screen for all to view at once. The jury scores each presentation. At the end of the day, the highest scoring artists in selected categories are invited to the show. Those that are invited, pay the exhibition fees to be in the show. Those that are not, enter into competitions for other shows. Artists apply to several shows, knowing they will not be invited to all of them.

Not every art show is like this – but the big ones have processes like this – shows that you have heard of – the Old Town Art Fair in Chicago, for instance.

So, in June, as you stroll among the fine art booths at your favorite fair, and you talk to artists and perhaps make a purchase, know that the artist has been working to be at your fair since last fall. It is a very competitive process. The happy result is that art patrons are offered the best art available.

So far, my art fair schedule looks like this –

April 17-19, Great Lakes Art Fair, Spring 2008, Rock Financial Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi, MI
May 9-10, National City Art Birmingham, Shain Park, Birmingham, MI
May 15-16, Riverside Art Festival, on Burlington Ave., Riverside, IL
June 6-7, 57th Street Art Fair, Hyde Park, Chicago
July 11-12, KRASL Art Fair on the Bluff, St. Joe, MI
July 25-26, Geneva Art Festival, downtown Geneva, IL
July 31-Aug 02, Gold Coast Art Festival, LaSalle Street, at the intersections of Erie, Huron, and Superior, Chicago
Sept. 26-27, Lakeview East Art fair, north side of Chicago, near Wrigley Field, Halsted and Lincoln Park.

I am waiting to hear about several other applications. Plus, I am on the “Wait List” for other fairs—the Lakefront Festivals of the Arts in Milwaukee and Port Clinton Art Festival in Highland Park. The Wait List is like the “reserve” list. If an invited artist chooses not to participate in an event, the organizers go to their “wait list” and invite another artist to fill that spot. As an artist, that kind of puts you in a spot –should you try to the book that weekend somewhere else or should you leave it open and “hope” you get called?

Note: Art-Throb™ is the term I use to describe a great place or places to enjoy an art experience.

Cupcake Field II

2009-04-06T15:26:00.004-05:00

Cupcake Field I, Acrylic on board, 9”x12”, $300 © B. Sistak Baur

Cupcake tops are the best part anyway so they are featured in rows and rows. Thick paint shapes the tops and granular-paint is used for the sprinkles.

Fruit Tart Rows

2009-04-06T15:23:00.001-05:00

Fruit Tart Rows, Acrylic on board, 9”x12”, $300 © B. Sistak Baur

Color and pattern is the central focus set upon the textured background

Pies on Shelves Study

2009-04-06T15:18:00.003-05:00

Pies on Shelves Study, Acrylic on board, 11”x14”, $400 ©B. Sistak Baur

A mixture of impasto paints are worked together with palette knives to create the pie tops.

Kiwis and Strawberries

2009-04-06T15:13:00.003-05:00

The textured field sets off the fruit tart that features textured strawberries contrasted with calm kiwis.

Sweet Bun II & III

2009-04-06T15:00:00.004-05:00

Raw canvas is cut a single bakery shape which sits on an abstract shelf also make of canvas. All is of is painted abstractly and other medium is drizzled for the “glazing.”

Marble Cake with Chocolate Leaves

2009-04-06T14:57:00.002-05:00

Modeling paste mixed with paint and other mediums create the leaves on this marble cake. Do you think it will fly away?

Art-Throb™--Dole Mansion

2009-04-05T13:58:00.001-05:00

My life-drawing group, Valley Art Club, has a show of work created during workshop time. It is at the Dole Mansion in Crystal Lake, IL. It will be on display the month of April, 2009. The Dole Mansion is now an art center with studios and galleries throughout.

First Friday
The Dole Mansion is a great place to visit, especially on first Fridays of the month when the artists there host a reception around the current exhibits. It is complete with good, drink and a festive atmosphere.

It is actually called the Lakeside Legacy Arts Park but everyone just calls it the Dole.

By the way, Art-Throb™ is the term I use to describe a great place or places to enjoy an art experience. I hope to see you at an art event soon.

Large Fruit Tart

2009-01-26T15:53:00.004-06:00

The colors of the bright fruits beckoned me to do this painting. They are so distinctive and placed so beautifully. I found the inspiration for this piece in a bountiful French bakery where color and presentation are paramount.

Each fruit piece is individually sculpted with impasto acrylic paint using painting knives. They are shaped directly on the painting support so they are applied in the layers and allowed to dry before going on. The exception are the berries which are created separate from the painting, dried and later placed on the painting.

French Apple Tart

2009-01-26T15:50:00.000-06:00

Circles in circles is what inspired me to do this painting. The curves of the apple slices are layered one upon one another and become a larger curve. This, in turn, is contained within the surrounding curve of the pie crust.

Pieces of raw painting canvas were cut into the shape of apple slices, arranged in the painted pie crust and adhered to the painting support. Color was added with acrylic paint. Then berries were dropped on top.

Guava Cheese Tart I

2009-01-26T15:49:00.005-06:00

I was fascinated by the way the strawberry-colored decoration blended with the creamy cheese filling. I was inspired to find a way to duplicate it.

Mixing acrylic paint and very loose medium created a syrup-like consistency that was appropriate for the task.
--Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Guava Cheese Tart II

2009-01-26T15:45:00.005-06:00

I enjoyed creating this piece so much that I did it again. This is the second painting of this item. I wanted to change a couple of things. I worked on the shawdows more and the swirls are a bit different.
-- Barb
www.sistakbaur.com

Iced Cake with Chocolate Sprinkles

2009-01-26T15:29:00.006-06:00

I have painted this cake before but always in a different color (I often change the color of what I paint). I finally decided to do this little cake portrait in its actual hue.

Acrylic paint is mixed with heavy medium to achieve icing consistency. After it is “spread,” paint chips are sprinkled for the chocolate decoration.

15 Unforgettable Life-Lessons Learned in the Art Fair Business

2008-12-09T17:58:00.001-06:00

I purchased my very first display panels spring 2008 from Connie, an art fair doyenne. She is so gracious and she asked me to "report in" on my first year in the art fair business. So, here it goes – "The Unforgettable Life-Lessons I Learned During My First Art Fair Season". Ahem –

1. How when I saw the truck fully loaded with panels, chairs, the tent, tubs of equipment and a few paintings thrown in on top of it all, is when I truly grasped the concept of "overhead."

2. How you shouldn't make the 500-artist show your first show. By yourself. Far away from home. ( I didn't mean to, but I was "blown out" of my first, first show.)

4. How easy is it to get a "free" charge card merchant account (and then find out how much it really costs you).

5. How heavy those weights really are. (And, I still don't have enough of them.)

6. That 6 feet 7 inches is truly out of reach. (Even on my toes, no matter how hard I stretch.)

7. How little sleep you can get and still put up a display and talk to customers. (Note to self: don't try that again.)

8. What a hard, 16-hour day really feels like. (It ain't like the office!)

9. How April, May, June and ½ of July were a nightmare. (But how during the second half of July, August and Sept, I felt like a pro.)

10. The shock I felt when other artists started asking ME for advice (They must have mistaken my "finally, I know how to put this thing up in less than 3 hours" look for "seasoned.")

11. How gratified I felt when the local museum purchased a painting. (It was the only sale that day but what a good one!)

12. How my fear of talking to people who came into my booth morphed into a steady sales prattle. (I don't know how many customers I scared away!)

13. How (inwardly) irked I am when people comment to me, "how relaxing you must find painting." (Yeah, right.)

14. How it feels to be not "just" an artist, but, rather, an art business entrepreneur.

15. Most unforgettable are the people that helped along the way. A very special thank you to Kathy Eaton, who been an inspiration to me and a tremendous friend and wealth of knowledge. She has gone so far out of her way to point me in the right direction, subtly let me know when I am being an idiot and has given me great advice and insights. And, of course, my husband, who -- I can't believe it -- actually fixes mangled display panels, builds shelves for the art truck and encourages me to keep going.

I hope to see and meet many of you over the summer!

Marble Chocolate Cake

2008-11-29T21:35:00.001-06:00

Marble Chocolate Cake, reflects its name in many ways. You can see the white and chocolate in the cake itself. The marbling is reflected on the plate it sits on. A marbling technique is on the top surface of the cake. Finally, marbled ribbons of "chocolate" create a cake topping. This chocolate ribbon was created separately from the painting and placed there. It actually stands out from the surface (see picture below). It is drizzled with "white icing" to finish the effect. I have included close ups.

Art-Throb™ -- Freeark Gallery

2008-11-29T17:45:00.002-06:00

Art-Throb is the term I use to describe a great place, usually a little out-of-the-way, to enjoy an art experience. The Riverside Art Center houses the Freeark Gallery, an intimate venue that features area artists. Committed to the community, it recently completed a show of artwork, Opinion Pieces, by Ruth Freeark (yes, the gallery's namesake). That followed an exhibition of work by Riverside resident John Muntean, chemist/sculptor. His work is called Magic Angle Sculpture. Exhibits rotate on a regular basis so you can stop by often and find new adventures. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 1 pm to 5 pm and is located at 32 E. Quincy Rd., Riverside. The annual Riverside Art Center members show is being shown until Jan. 8, 2009, where a wide variety of work is on display. An open house is Friday evening, Dec 5, 2008.

11/20/08 - 2/28/09 Riverside Village Hall

2008-11-29T17:16:00.005-06:00

A selection of about 11 of my paintings grace the halls of the Riverside Village Hall. It is open Monday thru Friday during regular business hours. The address is 27 Riverside Rd., Riverside, Ill. 708-447-2700. More information about the lovely town of Riverside can be found on its website.

This art venue is organized and maintained by the Riverside Art Center. Garry Henderson is the Exhibitions Director there and he invited me for this show. Thank you, Garry.

11/27/08 - 1/08/09 Freeark Gallery

2008-11-29T16:24:00.003-06:00

A new painting (I don't even have a photo of it yet!), Marble Cake III, is part of the annual members show at the Freeark Gallery located in the Riverside Arts Center, 32 East Quincy, Riverside, IL. It is open Tuesday thru Saturday from 1 pm to 5 pm. An Open House is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 5. 2008.

Look for the painting that looks like a cake with wings!

Personal Delivery Just for You

2008-11-02T08:17:00.002-06:00

Over the past art fair season or even before that, you may have seen a painting that you liked but, alas, did not take home. Well, here is a chance to get your painting – from now until the end of the year (December 31, 2008), I will personally deliver the painting to your house or have it shipped to you at no charge. And remember, all paintings are guaranteed.

More Marble Cake and Freeark Gallery

2008-11-01T14:55:00.002-05:00

Art Friends, November 29, 2008
Art Friends is an e-letter that I compose for my artful friends from time to time. It features the inside story on new works, art shows and other art nuggets you might find interesting. Thank you for reading. -- Barbara Sistak Baur

Hello Everyone,
Fresh from the studio, Chocolate Marble Cake, was named for good reason. As you can see the white and chocolate in the cake itself. The marbling is reflected on the plate it sits on. Another marbling technique is on the top surface of the cake. Finally, marbled ribbons of "chocolate" create a cake topping. This chocolate ribbon was created separately from the painting and placed there. It actually stands out from the surface (see close ups online). It is drizzled with "white icing" to finish the effect.
Chocolate Marble Cake, 11”x14”, acrylic on panel, with a contemporary black frame, $400. © Barbara Sistak Baur

Art-Throb™ -- Freeark Gallery
Art-Throb is the term I use to describe a great place, usually a little out-of-the-way, to enjoy an art experience. The Riverside Art Center houses the Freeark Gallery, an intimate venue that features area artists. Committed to the community, it recently completed a show of artwork, Opinion Pieces, by Ruth Freeark (yes, the gallery's namesake). That followed an exhibition of work by Riverside resident John Muntean, chemist/sculptor. His work is called Magic Angle Sculpture. Exhibits rotate on a regular basis so you can stop by often and find new adventures. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 1 pm to 5 pm and is located at 32 E. Quincy Rd., Riverside. Currently, the annual Riverside Art Center members show is being shown until Jan. 8, where a wide variety of work is on display. An open house is Friday evening, Dec 5.

Put a Painting on Your Wish List
Here is an idea for you to get the art work you have been wanting -- put it on your wish list and tell your favorite gift-giver all about it and where to get it. And to make it really easy, from now until the end of the year, I will personally deliver the painting to your house or have it shipped to you at no charge. And remember, all paintings are guaranteed (which means if the painting you select doesn't work for you when you get it in your home or business, please return it for a refund).

On Display at Village Hall
A selection of 11 of my paintings will grace the halls of the Riverside Village Hall until the end of February. It is open Monday thru Friday during regular business hours. The address is 27 Riverside Rd., Riverside, Ill. This art venue is organized and maintained by the Riverside Art Center. Garry Henderson is the Exhibitions Director there and he invited me for this show. Thank you, Garry.

Well, the holidays are here already, there is no denying it. That means we all will be busier than ever. But it also a time of good cheer and seeing family and friends. That's what I will be doing in between stints in the studio.

Warmly,
Barbara Sistak Baur
Artist

P.S. If you know a friend who would enjoy my work, please feel free to forward this email. If this email has been forwarded to you, please let me know so that I can add you to my Art Friends directory.

Purchasing
Checks and all major credit cards accepted -- VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. All purchases are guaranteed. More info online.

Feedback and Correspondence
Always welcome. If you have comments or there is something you would like to see in Art Friends, please let me know.

New to Art Friends?
By the way, I continue to find friends that I think might enjoy Art Friends but may not be getting it. So I decided to send it to you. If this is the first time you have received this, I say "Welcome!" I hope you like it. However, if you would rather not receive it, please let me know (see the next paragraph).

Unsubscribe
If you would like to stop receiving Art Friends, I understand. Click reply to this email and just type “unsubscribe.” Thanks for your friendship!

Trademark & Copyright notice
Art-Throb is a trademark of Barbara Baur Art. Art Friends and all images are ©2008 Barbara Sistak Baur and all rights are reserved. If you wish to copy this material to other publications or mail lists, great!! Just let me know so I can give you permission. Thanks for your respect.

Barbara Baur Art
3405 Highland Dr.
Island Lake IL 60042
and
2944 S. Harlem #4
Riverside IL 60546
708-372-2798
barbarabaur@comcast.net
barbarabaur.blogspot.com

Marble Cake, The Pfister Hotel and Personal Delivery

2008-10-30T14:46:00.001-05:00

Art Friends, October 28, 2008
Art Friends is an e-letter that I compose for my artful friends from time to time. It features the inside story on new works, art shows and other art nuggets you might find interesting. Thank you for reading. -- Barbara Sistak Baur

Hello Everyone,
Fresh from the studio, Marble Cake, reflects its name in many ways. Yes, you can see the white and chocolate in the cake itself and it is also in the reflection. The marbleized top is most exciting to me because it is the result of a new technique. An acrylic medium is mixed with paint and spread on the top. More about the technique is explained online.
Marble Cake, 11”x14”, acrylic on panel, with a contemporary black frame, $400. © Barbara Sistak Baur

Art-Throb™ -- The Pfister Hotel
Art-Throb is the term I use when I discover a great place, usually a little out-of-the-way, to enjoy an art experience. I came across such as place this past weekend – the Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee. First of all, the Pfister is a turn-of-the-century restored beauty in itself. But on top of that, it boosts the largest Victorian art collection of any hotel. There are more than 80 pieces. Guido Pfister, the hotel founder, collected the works from about 1860 until 1895 (the concierge tells me). Victorian art typically features pleasant scenes and idealized people and animals. Sometimes Greek or Roman themes are employed. beautiful. Victorian paintings reflect the optimism of the turn of century. The director of the Milwaukee Art Museum writes, “Dating generally from the years surround the hotel’s founding (1893), the art collection is an exceptional example of late Victorian taste in America.”

The paintings are located throughout the lobby, mezzanine and 7th floor meeting and banquet rooms. You are free to roam and view. The gift store sells a $10 guide which is worth the price. To get there, set your GPS to 424 E. Wisconsin Ave. I placed a couple of photos online.

Personal Delivery Just for You
Over the past art fair season or even before that, you may have seen a painting that you liked but, alas, did not take home. Well, here is a chance to get your painting – from now until the end of the year, I will personally deliver the painting to your house or have it shipped to you at no charge. And remember, all paintings are guaranteed.

Well, it is back to the studio for me. Incredibly, I am preparing for the 2009 art fair season already which means I am busy creating painting after painting to fill my booth next year. I hope to get the new works posted on the site soon.

Warmly,
Barbara Sistak Baur
Artist

P.S. If you know a friend who would enjoy my work, please feel free to forward this email. If this email has been forwarded to you, please let me know so that I can add you to my Art Friends directory.

Photos Now Online
-- I took a few snapshots of friends as they stopped by my art booth at Art in the Barn. Take a peek!

Purchasing
Checks and all major credit cards accepted -- VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. All purchases are guaranteed. More info online.

Feedback and Correspondence
Always welcome. If you have comments or there is something you would like to see in Art Friends, please let me know.

New to Art Friends?
By the way, I continue to find friends that I think might enjoy Art Friends but may not be getting it. So I decided to send it to you. If this is the first time you have received this, I say "Welcome!" I hope you like it. However, if you would rather not receive it, please let me know (see the next paragraph).

Unsubscribe
If you would like to stop receiving Art Friends, I understand. Click reply to this email and just type “unsubscribe.” Thanks for your friendship!

Trademark & Copyright notice
Art-Throb is a trademark of Barbara Baur Art. Art Friends and all images are ©2008 Barbara Sistak Baur and all rights are reserved. If you wish to copy this material to other publications or mail lists, great!! Just let me know so I can give you permission. Thanks for your respect.

Barbara Baur Art
3405 Highland Dr.
Island Lake IL 60042
and
2944 S. Harlem #4
Riverside IL 60546
708-372-2798
barbarabaur@comcast.net
barbarabaur.blogspot.com

Marble Cake

2008-10-27T21:41:00.003-05:00

Marble Cake reflects its name in many ways. Yes, you can see the white and chocolate in the cake itself and it is also in the reflection. The marbleized top is most exciting to me because it is the result of a new technique I tried. An acrylic medium is mixed with paint and spread on the top. A second color solution is mixed and swirled into the first. After that, more medium is poured on to help the colors “float.” The topping really drives home that this is a true Marble Cake and helps give this painting its unique texture.

Art-Throb™ -- The Pfister Hotel

2008-10-27T21:30:00.004-05:00

The Dog, shown in perfect form, is typical of late Victorian art.

Art-Throb is the term I use when I discover a great place, usually a little out-of-the-way, to enjoy an art experience. I came across such as place this past weekend – the Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee. First of all, the Pfister is a turn-of-the-century restored beauty in itself. But on top of that, it boosts the largest Victorian art collection of any hotel. There are more than 80 pieces. Guido Pfister, the hotel founder, collected the works from about 1860 until 1895 (the concierge tells me). Victorian art typically features pleasant landscape, figures from Greek or Roman themes and/or mythology. The people in the paintings are idealized and beautiful. Victorian paintings reflect the optimism of the turn of century. The director of the Milwaukee Art Museum writes, “Dating generally from the years surround the hotel’s founding (1893), the art collection is an exceptional example of late Victorian taste in America.”

The paintings are located throughout the lobby, mezzanine and 7th floor meeting and banquet rooms. You are free to roam and view. The gift store sells a $10 guide which is worth the price. To get there, set your GPS to 242 E. Wisconsin St.

The painting behind me is named The Captive.

Art-Throb is a trademark of Barbara Baur Art.

Art in the Barn Visitors

2008-10-27T20:33:00.004-05:00

Art in the Barn in September was close to home so many friends stopped by. Here are Caty and Mike. Below, Lori (on left) stopped by to see me.
It was great to see Judith and George. Judith was one my first art teachers.
Lee Ratdke is from my life drawing workshop, Valley Art Club. Our group meets twice a month.

Let's get political for a moment

2008-10-05T08:45:00.001-05:00

If you believe supporting the arts in America is important, you might be interested in this information (You can click on this chart to make it larger/readable.) It outlines the Presidential Candidates' positions on the arts. This chart was posted by the Arts Vote organization which is part of the Americans for the Arts Action Fun. You can see each candidate's position statements on the Arts site.

Fruit Cookie I

2008-10-03T18:07:00.001-05:00

From a very colorful bakery case, it was fun to figure out what the central focus would be. Several of the central pieces are executed in a similar impasto style so the challenge here was to be sure I created the depth needed. My experiment on this was to use an impasto style that is slightly lower in depth and with many colors placed side by side. There are two paintings like this. ©2008 Barbara Sistak Baur, 11”x14”, acrylic. Sold.

Café Table

2008-10-02T18:03:00.001-05:00

With a friend, I was visiting cafes and bakeries to snap reference photos for upcoming paintings. This was in Andersonville in Chicago, an area well-known for its bakeries. I believe this was at A Taste or Heaven, 5401 N Clark St. Of course, we had to endulge. When I saw these treats sitting on their plates, I knew instantly that they would make a delightful little painting. The two treats have the rich impasto technique so they stand out from the rest of the scene. ©2008 Barbara Sistak Baur, 11”x14”, acrylic, framed. Sold.

Art in the Barn is Fall Classic

2008-09-20T13:23:00.002-05:00

Art Friends, Sept. 19, 2008
Art Friends is an e-letter that I compose for my friends from time to time. It features the inside story on new works, art shows and other art nuggets you might find interesting. Thank you for reading. -- Barbara Sistak Baur

Hello Everyone,
Fresh off the easel, Berries Are Tops!, will have its debut showing at the Art in the Barn art sale coming up September 27 &28 (see more below). There are several techniques used in this painting including assemblage of the berries, palette knife for the toppings and traditional blending techniques. More info is online.

Art in the Barn is Fall Classic
Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28, 2008
(on the campus of Good Shepherd Hospital, on Route 22, Barrington, IL)
Artists exhibit in actual old farm buildings that are holdovers from when the property was a working farm. It’s fun to roam through the barn’s upper and lower levels, the corn crib, the machine shed, the mill room. The artists are tucked into all sorts of nooks and crannies in the buildings – a charming tour of art. And if it rains, no problem, you simply dash from building to building. Good food is on hand as well as community entertainment on the central stage. It is a pleasant outing and a great place to purchase art to support the hospital and the artists. Last year's event drew more than 7,500 people and generated more than $2 million dollars for the hospital. (I am in the Mill Room, by the way.)

Art-Throb™ -- ArtFairCalendar.com
Art-Throb is a term I use for a great place to discover art. And ArtFairCalendar.com is such a place. This web site gives you all the info on the top Art Festivals and Craft Shows in Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Florida and, well, all across the country. If you enjoy spending time at art fairs, you must visit this site. “Art Fairs bring together in a unique manner the creators and the culturally aware to enrich one another's lives.” (quoted from ArtFairCalendar.com)
Wild Flamingo Lady
Just completed is a new art table with a whimsical flamingo theme. This is a commission I did for my flamingo-loving friend, Roxanne. Art tables have a fabulous painting on top, actual memorabilia attached to the painting and the whole surface is encased in high-gloss, protective resin. Go online now to see photos. And for more photos, click the Commissions topic.

Just Accepted
My painting of bread, Loaves, has been accepted at the Woman Made Gallery, 680 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, for the Objects of Desire exhibition, October 10 through November 13.

Well, I had better get back to the studio and keep working. There is so much to do.

Warmly,
Barbara Sistak Baur
Artist

P.S. Art-Throb is a term I use for a great place to discover art. It is usually a smaller or out-of-the-way event or place that you might not know about. From time to time I will include places or events I find out about.

Photos Now Online
-- I took a few snapshots of friends and family as they stopped by my art booth at art fairs this summer. Take a peek! Click on the Event Pics Topic.

Purchasing
Checks and all major credit cards accepted -- VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. All purchases are guaranteed. More info online.

Feedback and Correspondence
Always welcome. If you have comments or there is something you would like to see in Art Friends, please let me know.
Forward this Email
Yes, please go ahead and forward this to a friend. By the way, if this email has been forwarded to you, you are not automatically added to my e-letter list. If you would like to continue receiving Art Friends, please send me an email, and say "Yes, Art Friends." barbarabaur@comcast.net
New to Art Friends?
By the way, I continue to find friends that I think might enjoy Art Friends but may not be getting it. So I decided to send it to you. If this is the first time you have received this, I say "Welcome!" I hope you like it. However, if you would rather not receive it, please let me know (see the next paragraph).

Unsubscribe
If you would like to stop receiving Art Friends, I understand. Click reply to this email and just type “unsubscribe.” Thanks for your friendship!

Trademark & Copyright notice
Art-Throb is a trademark of Barbara Baur Art. Art Friends and all images are ©2008 Barbara Sistak Baur and all rights are reserved. If you wish to copy this material to other publications or mail lists, great!! Just let me know so I can give you permission. Thanks for your respect.

Barbara Baur Art
3405 Highland Dr.
Island Lake IL 60042
and
2944 S. Harlem #4
Riverside IL 60546
708-372-2798
barbarabaur@comcast.net
barbarabaur.blogspot.com

The Baker

2008-09-19T22:24:00.000-05:00

The person responsible for the delicious pie is actually in this painting -- we see a glimpse of the baker himself as he just placed the pie on its plate and is scurrying away to his next task. This is another painting where just one pastry has the 3-d impasto technique that I use and the rest of the painting is flat. In this case, we see the pie easily, but the baker comes into focus only after looking for a minute. 14"x11", acrylic, framed. Sold.

Berries Are Tops!

2008-09-18T21:25:00.004-05:00

There are several techniques used in this painting include assemblage, palette knife painting for the cake and bun toppings, and traditional blending techniques for the pans. All the berries are created off the painting and then applied to it. I also tried a new combination of modeling paste and tar gel. The result was a very think medium that dripped but held a solid-like shape (the berries). The same combo was used for the bun and custard topping but that was applied with a knife. Berries Are Tops!, 11”x14”, acrylic on panel, with a contemporary black frame. Sold.

West End Art Festival in LaGrange

2008-09-18T21:25:00.001-05:00

Look who stopped by my art booth in LaGrange, Il? It is Husband Tom and two granddaughters. They are Hannah (left) and Emily. They and their family were spending a nice afternoon at the fair. Tom was on hand to help out throughout the weekend. He is a good guy.

Objects of Desire

2008-09-18T21:10:00.000-05:00

Loaves, 16"x30", has been accepted for the exhibition named, Objects of Desire, at the Woman Made Gallery, 680 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL.

The jurer for this show was Clair Wolf Krantz, an art critic who contributes to Art in America, Sculpture, Flash Art, ArtPapers and others. She also exhibits her own work at the State of Illinoi Museum among others.

Objects of Desire runs from Oct 10 through Nov 13, 2008

Wild Flamingo Lady

2008-09-18T21:00:00.001-05:00

Here is a new art table that I just completed for my good friend, Roxanne! She is wild about flamingos and collects all things flamingo (so long are they are whimsical). The art table has a painting on the top surface. Then, small pieces of memorabilia are adhered to the surface of the painting. It is edged with trim and the final step is to flood the entire surface with a high gloss resin. This encases the painting and objects and creates a durable surface. The table can be placed into use as a coffee table or end table. It is okay to place your drinks right on the table -- it wipes clean every time!

Scroll down for more photos.

And there are more photos if you click the Commissions topic to the right

Here is the tabletop. You can see the whole painting and the many fun objects. This flamingo lady is having a wild time with her friends at the tiki bar. She is a fabulous gal!

All dressed up to go out. And what a great hat! There are little dancing flamingos around the brim. Don't you love the earring?

Close Ups

2008-09-18T20:50:00.002-05:00

High Gloss Top

2008-09-18T20:41:00.006-05:00

Highwood Fine Art Festival

2008-09-17T21:25:00.004-05:00

My friend, Angela, and her friend, John, stopped in at my art booth at the Highwood Art Festival recently. It was great to see them!