A Painting for a Gift

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grand Bakery and Three Cakes, acrylic paintings, © B. Sistak Baur. All Rights Reserved.

Red Berry Tart

Red Berry Tart, 9"x12", acrylic, framed. © B. Sistak Baur. All rights reserved.

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.