Introducing Fine Art Rental

Introducing Art Rentals

Anderson Rentals is a pioneer in the equipment rental industry. Back in the 50s Raymond "Andy" Anderson along with some other Kansas City businessmen formed what would later become the American Rental Association, which today is one of the largest trade organizations in the world. Back then the goal was bringing professional grade quality equipment to homeowners and other markets, who had no choice but to buy. Today Anderson Rentals is pleased to introduce the availability of fine art in it's rental products that also were hereto only available in museums and high-end art galleries for purchase.

Renting Art

People rent art for many reasons. They may need art to stage for a special event or to attract buyers in a home sale. They may simply like the variety of renting instead of owning, or how much further their budget goes with rental instead of sales. Or they many find renting-to-own as their way to collect art. For this reason then we offer both short-term and long term rates, as well as rent-to-own programs. The most common reason for renting, among all types of art renters, is to have pieces rotating in and out of their space that enables them to spark up conversations with guests either on a continuous basis or just for special occasions at a lower cost.

Why Individuals Rent Art:
• People choosing art for their homes are often intimidated by the thought of making a major investment in art. Renting allows the customer to “try” before they buy. Want to check if your art matches your couch cushions? Rent it for a week and see. The vast majority of renters do end up purchasing but renting allows buyers to spread this cost out, afford more art, and allow them to fine tune their collection.
• Renting artwork allows home owners to have beautiful art in their home at any time (maybe they are staging their home for sale, or trying to impress visitors for a party, need ‘props’ for wedding pictures or family portraits, etc), and when they want a new look they can simply rent a different piece.
• Apartment renters and student housing residents like rental because their space may change frequently.
• As your taste change so can your art, or maybe you have limited space. Keep it at least 3 months at low LT rates and you can return it or swap it for new art. Just perfect for a new look each season of the year.
• Just got to have the original or commissioned piece but need to make payments, rent-to-own is for you.

Why Companies Rent Art:
• Many businesses are choosing art rentals instead of purchasing because it allows them to keep their decor fresh without having to invest a lot of money into new art.
• Changing the artwork regularly enables employers to set the tone of the room(s) depending on how they want to be seen by their clients or create an atmosphere for their employees.

Find out for yourself how practical and easy renting art is at MEA Fine Art.

Rental Terms

Weekly short term rates are available on giclee reproductions and art prints. The short-term rates are perfect for the special occasion, or just to take it home and see if it matches the couch. Selling your house? Fine art can make you listing inspiring but it also makes you memorable. Fine art is extremely memorable, people looking at open houses will get confused on which house had what features, but they’re sure to recall the one that had the great art. Are you having a wedding or family portrait taken? Dress up the occasion and your guests’ enjoyment with great art for the occasion. Fine Art is an amazing conversation starter. Even film makers commonly need art on a short-term rental basis. Because we are real fine artists and not just an internet brand, we can advise you on what art is suitable for you needs, and help make your event and space say what you mean and get noticed.

Long-term rates aren't really long-term, just 3 months, and available on original paintings as well as all prints and special orders. How you can rent original fine art at unbelievably low rates and after 3 months return it or swap it out for something new. Our rent to own rates on originals are even lower. Try it before you buy by renting. 50% of the rental fees paid can be applied against the purchase price. Fine turn your collection to perfection with the versatility of our rental programs.

Purchase prices for the originals, prints and merchandise available on the artwork are listed in the “add to cart” dropdowns on the artworks page. Rental rates posted are for a museum wrapped giclee reproduction on canvas, with solid black sides, in the size of the original artwork. The ST minimum weekly rate and LT 4-wks rates are for renting the reproduction. LT Rent-to-own rates on originals are 1/10th the purchase price.

Rentals can be converted into purchase at anytime. 50% of rental fees paid can be applied on up to 80% of purchase price at renter’s request. Purchase credits are not transferable between artworks. Conversions are not automatic or reversible after the fact. Although, we make every effort to notify renters if they have reached the 80% ceiling on purchase credits or qualify to convert the account to long-term rates (rentals > 4 wks), you are responsible for notifying us of any term changes you desire.

Paintings are photographed and condition noted with customer on renting. Customer is responsible for all losses, damages and liabilities on the artwork or other personal, private, or public property while out on rent (including transporting and hanging). Appropriate proof of insurance is required on all original and enhanced giclees, and recommended for all collectors.

A security deposit is required on all art rentals. Security deposits are higher the shorter the term. This is because the wear and tear damages, losses, costs, and risks are higher on ST frequently turned art. Security deposits on LT or RTO rentals are 25% of purchase cost, and abt 50% on ST rentals. Special orders (size and configurations not in stock) can require 3-5 weeks lead time. A 50% cancellation charge applies on all special orders. A full refund is issued on cancelation of in stock items prior to delivery or shipping. Early cancellation fees apply to LT and RTO contracts cancelled during the required term of 3 mos.

MEA Fine Art also accepts credit cards and PayPal financing is available on qualified purchases. Shipping or delivery charges are additional. Shipping is an actual cost and sites that offer free shipping have built this cost into their pricing; please call for shipping quotes as we are happy to work with you to reduce these costs. The shipping calculator on our website is the highest estimates of shipping. Actual shipping and handling charges will depend on your method of shipping desired. Call (785) 843-2044.

New advances in printing technologies, bring fine art into everyone's reach.

Making Fine Art Available for Everyone.

Just about everyone loves art and recognizes how fine art is different and the personal connection you have with these one-of-a-kind artworks. The thrill of collecting your favorite artist is the same as the first car you bought with your own money when you were a kid. Years later you’ll still remember when you first saw it or who you were with. Because the artwork is a one-of-a-kind, it’s just yours. This is the joy of buying and gifting things you love.

Why buy Fine Art Prints?

But original fine art is costly. Without digital and printing technologies than in the past artists were limited to just selling originals. Because the entire artist’s cost and expenses had to be recovered in just a few sales a year, than they were very expensive. The more popular an artist got the more expensive their originals became because they were each hand painted custom pieces and therefore rare. For the novice collectors with small budgets, limited art knowledge and no appetite for the intimidating atmosphere at many established art galleries there were few options.

But with Giclee Art Reproductions, artist’s can now offer reproductions at a fraction of the original artwork. Producing Giclee art reproductions is a great way for artists to make their art more widely available at lower prices, and increasing their collector bases by offering affordable alternatives to more expensively priced originals. If someone loves a particular image, and the only way they can own it is by buying it in the form of a print or even as a t-shirt than that's absolutely OK. MEA Fine Art makes these new technology available to some of the best fine artists around the world so that contemporary fine art can now be available to anyone.

Technology has also increased buyers options. Buyers now have many choices in size and configuration of their art, and can order through POD(print-on-demand)services to best fit their available space and budget.

• Prices, are based on material cost not artist’s originals prices. MEA fine artists want to make their art available to even new collectors on a budget. No matter how expensive your favorite artist originals are for a limited time you can buy prints at a flat rate for all MEA artist. Collecting great art has never been so affordable. Now collecting even ‘blue chip’ artists is the same cost as an unknown but personal favorite. Discover your own taste in art with these affordable prints. This is the joy of art collecting or shopping; looking for that perfect piece. How you can afford to explore your taste in art with minimum investment risk. Do your own research and avoid the frustrating, confusing, and intimidating "talk" of high-end galleries? Take advantage of the special limited time offer of cost based pricing on our prints and merchandise to start building your collection with amazing values and your own style.
• Flat Rate pricing. We're serious about wanting to help new collectors experience the joy of collecting fine art, so we're currently pricing our giclee reproductions at flat rates for all artists (as opposed to the traditional way of basing pricing on the prices of the artist’s originals). MEA fine artists want to make their art available to even new collectors on a budget. No matter how expensive your favorite artist originals are for a limited time you can buy prints at a flat rate for all MEA artist. Collecting great art has never been so affordable.
• Lower investment risk.
• Configurations and POD selections
• Commercial uses (resale and licensing)

But the advances in digitizing and printing technologies has given us more than just inexpensive reproductions of fine art that are almost indistinguishable from the original. It has also led to a new original painting called an Enhanced Giclee. This is a print of the original painting on canvas that has been repainted by hand and signed by the original artist. Although pricing on Enhanced Giclee Originals is based on the artist labor rates, the artist is passing through to the buyer the inherent time saving obtained from current printing and digital technologies. Personalize customization is available; want the boy in the original painting to be a girl in your painting, or your signature bike painted into the shop scene? Then an Enhanced Giclee might be for you. In the end you have an original custom painting by your favorite artists for about ½ the price of an original work by that artist. And because it’s just yours and unique than it’s truly an original with the same feeling of connection and proud ownership that was hereto only available in original and limited editions offered through high-end galleries, auctions houses, and museums. Increase the collectibility of your art prints by having it enhanced into a brand new original or having it signed or personalized by the artist.

MEA Fine Art also uses advances in printing technologies to offer unique products based on artist original paintings. Think how amazing a wet bar or kitchen sink looks accented in custom ceramic tiles. MEA Fine Art is much more than just wall art. Use fine art anywhere you’d use any art. Fine art adds a richness and specialness to any card or merchandise. Don’t miss MEA Fine Art Collectibles - a unique line of artist designed gifts and ornaments. See how many ways we have for indulging your love of beauty.

If that’s not enough to get you to take the fine art plunge, than consider renting art. The most common reason for renting among all types of art renters is to have pieces rotating in and out of their space that enables them to spark up conversations with guests either on a continuous basis or just for special occasions at a lower cost. Why Individuals Rent Art:
• People choosing art for their homes are often intimidated by the thought of making a major investment in art. Renting allows the customer to “try” before they buy. Want to check if your art matches your couch cushions? Rent it for a week and see. The vast majority of renters do end up purchasing but renting allows buyers to spread this cost out, afford more art, and allow them to fine tune their collection.
• Renting artwork allows home owners to have beautiful art in their home at any time (maybe they are staging their home for sale, or trying to impress visitors for a party, need ‘props’ for wedding pictures or family portraits, etc), and when they want a new look they can simply rent a different piece.
• Apartment renters and student housing residents like rental because their space may change frequently.
• As your taste change so can your art, or maybe you have limited space. Keep it at least 3 months at low LT rates and you can return it or swap it for new art. Just perfect for a new look each season of the year.
• Just got to have the original or commissioned piece but need to make payments, rent-to-own is for you.
Why Companies Rent Art:
• Many businesses are choosing art rentals instead of purchasing because it allows them to keep their decor fresh without having to invest a lot of money into new art.
• Changing the artwork regularly enables employers to set the tone of the room(s) depending on how they want to be seen by their clients or create an atmosphere for their employees.

How is Fine Art Different Than Other Art?

How is fine art different than other art?

The line between 'fine art' and 'commercial art' is often hotly debated. Often these debates center on a subjective list of criteria that can be applied to a body of art and judged. Certainly there are such lists, it’s just that each “expert’s list” is different, but this doesn't mean that there isn't some commonality.

Four ways fine art is different.

1. Deeper and more unique interpretation. There have been many ways of describing that eye-catching quality of fine art but perhaps the simple “something you just love” describes it best. Fine art is a sharing of the human experience; it creates a connection with the viewer that is very personal, moving and memorable. From the moment you connect with a piece of art you start a unique connection, years later you will remember the first time you saw the painting, like the first time you heard a favorite song. You’ll remember who you were with and reconnect with what originally drew you. You might wonder about the artist and the meaning. You’ll associate your lives moments that the art was part of. All these connections, this increasing appreciation and involvement are the fine art difference.

Art is our companions in our minds; haunting melodies that are always in your heart. Your collection of fine art becomes a personal statement of your individuality and identity. It sooths you and creates your space. Others remember you by your art for a signature style. Every time someone admires your collection, it’s a personal affirmation of you too. It’s that restorative and reaffirming connection.

2. Master artists are trained and experienced artists. Fine artists are working artists. In all things, including art, there is a road to proficiency that will hone and challenge the artists to reach the limits of their talent. The methods of development will vary (some artists are self-taught, some are college educated) but there is a sincere dedication to ethical growth and artistic improvement built on long records of practice and achievements.

3. Not commercially created. By this I mean two things:
a. That the work is not created solely for commercial or fad goals. That the artist’s motivation was providing that “deeper and more unique interpretation” and not just something that will sell or is popular. This is the basis behind the stereotype that a fine artist must live like a monk and produce art untainted by consumer demand. But an artist must be part of life in order to interpret it, and the success or failure at obtaining a fine art status rest in the actual paintings under consideration not in the lifestyle of the artist.
b. What I don’t mean is that fine art must be a certain discipline or substrate, like a painting and not a photograph or a t-shirt. It’s not the substrate that art is on that defines whether it’s fine art, or the type of artists (photographer, painter, sculpture, etc.), but it does mean that there was an original artist that makes a unique original work. The work was not made from kits or other artists work, and is produced in limited quantities on exclusive original designs.

4. Collectable and Archival
Many factors will influence the value of an individual piece of art and the collectibility of an artist. But in order to be collectible than an artist’s must have gotten their work out there, had it seen and a reputation established. Besides being working artists than fine artists often participate in juried shows and contest, and hold active memberships in professional organizations and acclaimed art guilds. You might not understand what an art judge sees in a particular artists work but you can understand that it’s between the artists that entered the contest. Likewise, you might not understand why an artist is popular, but you do understand that you see it everywhere. If the artist, you’re collecting isn't out there working on building a reputation, than it’s unlikely that the collectibility of their work will increase.

Collectible art also requires archival methods and materials involved in creating the artwork to ensure longevity for the work. Only quality materials and substrates are used. Collectible work will be passed down for generations, and with proper care will stay beautiful indefinitely.

Collecting fine art is the ultimate personal statement. New technologies have made collecting fine art more affordable and versatile than ever before. Giclee reproductions are almost indistinguishable from the original, and at a fraction of the cost of original work. Having the entire collection of your favorite artist's works is now possible for all. Signed and dated prints are highly collectible, and enhanced giclees are custom new originals. Nor are you limited by size and configuration of the original or just to wall art. Wallpapers, ceramic tiles, apparel, even cards and stationary don't have to be limited to mass produced choices. Fine art is available today on almost every substrate but was first created as a unique fine art original (even if the original is digital) that succeeds in connecting with the viewer. Bringing the deeper connection that you have with fine art into all aspects of your life has never been more possible.

Defining your home and business with affordable, collectible and unique original fine art by contemporary (living) artists is new and exciting. Artists don't have to be dead to be collectible; contemporary artists with growing reputations are both the most appreciable but also your personal discoveries.

DISCOVER THE FINE ART DIFFERENCE! MEA Fine Art Website:

Online AW Gallery

Artist’s Designed Merchandise Store Links:
• Zazzle
• Spoonflower

MEA Fine Art Collectibles

Making fine art available to everyone is a mutual goal of MEA Fine Art artists. So we challenged our artists to design a unique line of one-of-a-kind gifts and ornaments for the 2013 holiday season and are proud to announce MEA Fine Art Collectibles.

Master artists have recreated the charm, variety, and skill lost in the mass production process and with these wonderfully unique designs and original fine art. An artist's eye can capture so much more than a machine or camera. Art should be personal and individual, and now it can be. Each gift comes gift boxed with a Certificate of Authenticity. New works are arriving daily, and commissioned work is still being accepted for the holiday season. We don't get every piece posted on the web so call or come by our gallery for current selections. Check back regularly or follow us on social media as new pieces are posted.

MEA Fine Art are licensed artist with the University of Kansas and is offering its first ever 2013 KU Christmas Tree Ornament for all our Jayhawk fans. On one side the WWI memorial campanile against a striking KU blue winter sky. On the other side the Jayhawk logo (see Jayhawk Christmas below).

Each ornament is an original unique piece of art and a truly special keepsake and collectible. Comes in a stunning gift box with a Certificate of Authenticity.

4" diameter glass or plastic ball. Custom, personalized, and commissioned work available. See website for all ornaments and gifts by MEA Fine Art Artists.

Start making fine art a part of your style, with truly unique designs and products by master artists. MEA Fine Art is more than a traditional gallery selling originals. The gallery has teamed with different POD (print on demand) services to offer a wide range of products based on our artists professional and award winning work. Our Giclee reproductions are the finest quality and produced in North America. Collecting fine art has never been such a value, so versatile, and so affordable.

Please note: Photography doesn't do justice to these beautiful ornaments, due to distortion of curved surface and reflection.

Please join us at the Maple Leaf Festival in Baldwin City, KS on October 19 & 20, 2013. MEA Fine Art is proud to be a part of this annual historic fair. Artists will be present during the fair, so we welcome you to come by and browse. Our booth is located in the school gym. We will also be introducing our latest gallery artist, Monty Sneegas latest line of benches, tables, and home furnishings.

Anderson Rentals, Inc. - Ornament - Jayhawk Christmas

Start off the holiday season with this wonderful hand-painted original ornament by MEA Fine Art. Sure to please every Jayhawk fan, comes wrapped in stunning gift box with Certificate of Authenticity. Anderson Rentals, Inc. - Ornament - Jayhawk Christmas

WIP - Historical event art - Quantrill's Raid

Occasionally then I do story paintings. In this case the eyewitness account by my ancestors of Quantrill's Raid on Lawrence, KS on August 21, 1863 that sparked off the American Civil War.

Conceptualizing:
Conceptualizing a scene you've never witnessed is a challenge. Finding that single iconic image that will incorporate the event. I start very similarly to a writer in that I start putting together a visual outline of my story. I list or sketch out the characters, location, date, etc. that I know about the event. It is from these sketches that I determine perspective (view), size of canvas, and importance of elements in the painting.

background - Quantrill's Raid on Lawrence, KS on August 21, 1863. This event became part of "Bleeding Kansas" which triggered the American Civil War. This painting is the rendering of my ancestors eye-witness account of the raid. Although to young to fight the boy is drafted by the local freight wagon driver to leave his boyhood behind and take over the duties of delivering the freight so the driver can help and fight his neighbors in this guerrilla war. The deep ideological differences that erupted in violence on this day and split the nation still exist in the people today.

In this sketch you can see the wagon and people, Lawrence, KS in the background, etc. This sketch will mean little to anyone but the artist, but it really is critical in keeping your focused on your vision.



References:
References like this map of Lawrence, KS in 1869 are very helpful. This is close to the view of Lawrence I used. I want to be historically accurate as possible for this paint. This event took place at dawn, at specific location. Landmarks in existence today will be different then in 1863. What did the clothing, vehicles, landscape look like. What technology wasn't invented yet, like barbed-wire, metal buckets, guns, etc. There is little photographic records of this event and period. Paintings and drawings are interpretations, and are not necessarily accurate. The more research you do the more richer both the painting and your artistic experience.









Perspective:
Starting with a blank canvas I just place and size my sketches in accordance with the image in my head. Perspective is my focus. Get everything to fit on the canvas with some plan to compensate for required disproportionality (sometime you intend to make things bigger than life). As I develop individual elements I have to pose them in relation to the viewer's perspective, but at this time I'm just fine with stick-figures and area outlines. It's critical that you transfer your planned perspective.









Composition:
Now that I have the basics of my story (raid, kid, fright driver),I start developing elements. Artwise the sky is the most important single element in my painting because it will establish my color palette and establish my light source. The sky is the interactive artistic element that unites the story elements in the painting. It will unite the scene; the background clouds, the middle ground smoke, and the foreground tree are all in the same sky. The sky is revisited later in the creation process as it creates the mood and drama of the painting. But at this time my colors are anything that is close in the box. I work on the unity first and then colors. In this painting sky is also an important story element as the raid happened at dawn.







Telling the Story
After I've placed my horizon and my basic characters, then I start adding outlines of elements that I need to tell my story. Why are the characters there and what are they doing? I don't worry about colors, detail, pose, or anything else but composition placement. At this point most paintings (including this one) start taking on their own personalities; how you imagined it would look is different than it does. It's this painting personality that ends up determining my other mechanics: color, pose, etc.












Light:
At this point than most of my story elements are incorporated and I start thinking about light. Light is essential in my painting (or any painting)to establish mood and drama. I want an epic feel to this painting. Color mixing is an art in itself. Color and light are normally developed in overlays of glazes and paint. Color, light and mood foundations are started here but will be continually developed as the painting progresses.













Pose:
We have establish the story elements but now we have to pose them. How are the characters in my painting able to convey action and reaction? This is a detail of my original compilation sketch; how the element would look to the paintings viewer. In this sketch then the figures are climbing into the wagon. By the time I was working on canvas (see pose 2) I had already changed the positions of the figures. Eventually then the pose of the figures also changes in order to focus the story. I want to portray more defense than aggression, so I lowered the driver's arm and changed his pose. The boy is barefoot and doing chores (youth and naivety). As I research costume then figures will change; I have the antique shotgun that research shows is more likely the driver carried to use as a model, rather then a sword. Pose is determined both by the viewers perspective but also the required communication with the action of the story (get your faces looking where they should).




Story:
I've added elements to enhance the story. A dropped bucket of chicken feed tells why the boy was there and portrays the change in life (chores are abandoned for adult work). Likewise the driver is laying down his whip and taking up arms. As you fill in elements in historical work then you need to research each element you add. Barbed wire fencing was not yet available, horse tack, landmarks, clothing, tools, weapons, etc. will all need to be research.


At this point then I'm about 1/3 the way through the painting process. The story line, scene, light, etc. are all established and just need to be developed. But you should now have a good idea of where I'm trying to go with this painting. It's still too early to see if I can pull off the image I'm trying for, but check back for updates.




Update1 - Shadows
Pose and shadow work to emphasize dawns streaking light and bring eye-movement and a sense of action into painting. Color and detail is developing in overlays. Light is used to highlight abandoned chores and figures.


















Details
Scenes within scenes, detail. Detail is built in layers. Here you can see I have started adding fine detail like expression, and costume detail to my figures. Have started adding a tarp to wagon and changed the sword into a shotgun (or will be, takes a few layers). Details add interest and story to painting.












Detail2 - Lawrence Burning
Continuing to work on my details; here the burning of the city of Lawrence, I intentionally use different disciplines in my sub-scenes to more closely interact like natural sight. Here an abstract of the burning city allows detail to be created by the viewer, while still appearing impressionistic in the overall painting.

The realistic foreground is countered against the abstract with impressionistic work. Disciplines are mixed to give maximum utilization of the painting to provide different views (sub-pictures), eye-movement, and natural perspective.

In the impressionistic middle-ground, then known landmarks of the period are added; the planning for the University of Kansas (scaffolded building), the windmill, Railroad bridge, Ferry, Plymouth Congregational Church, chalk quarry and other geography of the area.






Mood and Drama An overall view of the details so far. Lot's more detail to finish but I'm now shifting my focus to mood and drama. When developing details I focus more on developing the mood, and drama of the scene and in getting the elements to look seated, then I do on tiny detail. I can't get an overall epic proportionality of the event if I rely only on impossible to see detail to tell my story. Even if the paintings viewer can't see the expression on the drivers face or bodies of people in the town from a distance, I still want them to have the overall impact first. Details fill out the painting and reward interested views, but are just intended to be the lyrics not the melody of the painting.








The Finish: Thought I'd add title and descriptions that will be on original.




Title: Bleeding Kansas - A life and Nation Changing Event
Oil on Canvas, 28" x 34" (unframed)
Artist: Mary Ellen Anderson
Original and Prints available for sale Originals and Artist Edition Prints
POD Giclee and Fine Art Prints

This painting is inspired from the oral history that has been passed down in my family of my ancestor's eyewitness account of Quantrill's Raid on Lawrence, Kansas during the American Civil War. I have endeavored to be as geographically and historically accurate as possible, while still taking the necessary artistic license to tell the story.

At dawn on August 21, 1863, 12 year old David Anderson's life and world changed forever when war came to his home, just outside of Lawrence, Kansas. Although too young to fight in the guerrilla war that became known as "Bleeding Kansas", David was drafted by the local freight man to take over his delivery route, so that the driver could fight in this war of neighbor against neighbor.

Leaving his childhood behind, David climbed into the freight wagon and in an actual 'rites of passage' successfully delivered his cargo to Salt Lake City, Utah. This triumphant arrival occurred just as the local Methodists minister's daughter was crossing the street and young David was immediately smitten. Her name was Rose and David called her his "Rose of the Valley". One thing leads to another and the former Irish Catholic boy returned home a man, with a new career (freight driver), a new bride and a new religion, changing forever not only his life but the lives of all his decedents including myself.

War changes all of us forever but rarely in the way we expect. Ideological differences that you assume war will settle still exist today and are even compounded by the scars of events like this raid. But inevitably in war boyhoods are lost, and futures are changed forever.

--Mary Ellen Anderson
WIP fb gallery on this painting: http://tinyurl.com/lve3pwa.

Selling and Buying Art - Does your wall art match your sofa pillows?

Selling and Buying Art - Does your wall art match your sofa pillows?


Often time’s artists and gallery staff scoff at decorators that want art that matches their sofa pillows. It seems so silly that someone would want to furnish and decorate a room around a $20 throw pillow, but that’s not what’s going on here. That pillow represents the decorator’s artistic view. A decorator is creating a new original artwork, the actual room or setting. That pillow is a memory-aid to this work-in-progress. It keeps the decorator focused on the colors, themes, space and light of their vision.

Artists that fail to understand the true needs of the decorators are missing an opportunity to serve them. As artists, most of us love collaborations on our works-in-progress. We're all more receptive to advice and change during the creation process, and so are decorators. Decorators as artists have the same creative spirit as painters, photographers, or any other artists. They want to explore their medium, be creative, and get feedback. Help them wade through the overwhelming selection of artwork, frames, etc. that are available to them. Help them avoid the newbie or common mistakes. These can be great opportunities to get a following and for custom or commissioned work. Even the decorator may not be used to thinking of themselves as an artist. Help them see that artist in themselves and what they are really looking for; it’s more than a color match.

Sofa pillows should make you excited because someone is going to show you a WIP. Try to understand it just as you would any other piece of art; ask questions and get involved in their vision (did they take any cell-phone pictures of the space?). Treat pillow-carrying decorators as you would want your own artistic efforts treated; with respect and appreciation. Even if your work doesn't have a place in this particular WIP, then just the understanding you show for that decorator’s vision will bring them back the next time. It also gives your real insight into what’s selling. Decorators are artistic peers; as artists their visions is MORE valid then yours because it’s their artwork. As a professional, you offer your experience to help them achieve that vision, not defeat it. If you talk someone into something they hate then they (and anyone who listens to them) will never come back.

But here is the final reason why you want your art to match the sofa pillow, because just as the pillow is the overall connector on the WIP stage, then your art will hopefully become that connector to the finished project. It is you art that now says what the space is about, and connects the furnishings; your physical art has replaced what was just an artistic vision in the decorators mind into a new original work that’s incomplete without it.

What is Giclee? What makes it a Fine Art Print?

Giclee Prints

What is GICLEE? What makes it a Fine Art Print?

Giclee – pronounced (zhee-klay) - The French word ’giclée’ means a ‘spray’ or a ‘spurt of liquid.’ Giclée is a process not a brand or a product. When a print is created using the Giclée process, it is most often referred to as a Giclée print.

What is a Giclée Print? The term "Giclée print" represents a modern advanced elevation in printmaking technology. Images are generated from the highest resolution digital scans possible and printed with archival quality inks onto various high quality substrates including canvas, fine art, and photo-base paper. The Giclee printing process provides a higher degree of color accuracy than any other means of art print creations.

The prints that results from the Giclée process are considered reproductions if there is a traditional fine art original (oil, acrylic, pencil, pastel painting or drawing) that was digitally captured, thus creating the original digital master file. The colors are rich, seamless and amazingly vivid. The archival inks, papers and practices allow them to last for generations. This will allow you to pass them down generation after generation to your contemporary art admirers. Giclee prints will exceed your expectations in quality, color and presentation.

Giclese are not mass edition reproductions such as a quality lithograph that easily runs into the tens of thousands and posters (usually cheaper paper and ink are used). The owners of open and limited edition Giclée original reproductions, know that they have the highest quality reproduction possible. They are almost indistinguishable from the original and with proper care will last for generations.

Giclee is an exciting new medium for both artists and art print buyers because it has unparalleled quality, longevity and the much sought after desirability of custom art printing.

The Giclee Process
Giclée is a process that results in a print that is called a Giclée art print. It is a new type of original that is reproduced on-demand from a master digital image file that is the digital scanned version of an original piece of art. The art is scanned, digitized, and color proofed with systems that are tightly calibrated to create true fine art print representation of the originals, all under the original artist’s supervision.

Professional grade large format printers are used with archival pigment inks. This printing method results in an extensive color gamut allowing the prints true colors to be representation. They look stunning and will last for years. Whether you choose giclee prints on paper substrates or canvas, the quality remains outstanding. Just like the ones found in art galleries & art museums.

A Giclee Print is simply the closest replication of original artwork that is currently possible. The result is brilliant, eye-catching prints that you’ll enjoy viewing every day in your home or office with your family, friends, employees and colleagues. Your art will be admired by everyone who sees it and you’ll feel good that you made a smart decision, buying quality art prints at an affordable price.

Giclee Advantages
Fine Art
These fine art reproductions are no ordinary pieces and make exceptional gifts. Giclee art reproductions are the closest prints possible of the original art and also the most affordable way to own and collect fine art. Fine art is a sharing of the human experience. Art is very personal, moving and memorable. These fine art prints will make you or the recipient feel like they are the most important person in the world. You'll be remembered for giving a personal gift unlike any other. Just think how great it will feel every time you or they proudly show off their unique gift to their friends and family.

YOUR CHOICE – GICLEE SIZE, PAPERS, CANVAS, FRAMING
Another tremendous advantage of Giclee printing is that they can be custom printed in many different sizes and onto various paper or canvas substrates, while maintaining the highest quality. This gives the artist and art print buyer the ability to customize prints for their own specific needs and desires. What all of us want is to have a wide selection available and choose our own configuration of an art print. We want quality art prints that are affordable. We can choose exactly what we want, without being limited to size and type of art in stock at stores and gallery.

Giclee Longevity
What distinguishes Giclees from other print methods is that much attention is paid to using archival materials and practices. Now Giclee prints can be created using pigmented inks and papers developed specifically for fine art prints. With this in mind, giclee that are properly cared for can last a lifetime or more.

Collectable - Giclee’s in Museums, Galleries, Famous Artists
Giclee prints are widely accepted at many museums and galleries. Many museums in the United States and abroad have mounted exhibitions of Giclée prints or purchased prints in their permanent collections. Those include the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York), the Guggenheim (New York), The Museum of Fine Art (Boston), The Philadelphia Museum, and The Smithsonian Institute. Many distinguished photographers and artists, produce works that are Giclee art prints. There have been recent auctions of Giclee prints that have fetched tens of thousands of dollars.

Why are our Giclees better?

Because of our product

Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Art prints are produced using the latest technology, under the original artists supervision and simply astound our clients. Is it the original or only a print? These prints are made from superior Giclee technology, and creates reproductions heretofore not thought possible. Look, touch, see for yourself. Thanks to this new production technology, we can produce domestically a better product at a better price then our Asian competition. Seeing is believing.

Because we use only the best materials available

We use only top quality materials all made in America. No inexpensive, under performing materials from China.

-Archival poly-cotton canvas and paper
Created on high quality artist’s canvas our canvas prints can be mounted with a gallery or museum wrap that can be hung on the wall with no frame or you can have it produced with the intent to frame.
-Pigmented inks
Our prints are made using aqueous pigmented inks rated at 200 years.
We don't use solvent inks for they emit harmful VOC (volatile organic compounds) into the air that may be harmful to your health.
-Superior coating
We offer only one coating surface which is somewhere between gloss and semi-gloss. In our opinion it is the surface that offers the best saturation and contrast but without the drawbacks of high gloss. It is enhanced UV, water and abrasion resistant. A machine is used to coat the canvas.

Art: Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Art Gallery is proud to ...

Art: Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Art Gallery is proud to ...: Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Art Gallery is proud to announce our newest artist, Kathy Brecheisen . Here colors of Spring abound in one of he...

Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Art Gallery is proud to announce our newest artist, Kathy Brecheisen. Here colors of Spring abound in one of her newest works "The Lilly Pond". This and other exciting works by Kathy are featured in our:
Physical Gallery
(Inside the Anderson Rentals Building)
1312 W. 6th. Street
Lawrence, Kansas 66044
(785) 843-2044

Visit Online Gallery Exclusive Giclee prints and artist designed gift items at up to 35% off. Commissioned work accepted.



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Art: Mother nature has given us a last few days to enjo...

Art: Mother nature has given us a last few days to enjo...: Mother nature has given us a last few days to enjoy the snow. Here are some snowy favorites to enjoy. Original Oil Painting so realisti...

Mother nature has given us a last few days to enjoy the snow. Here are some snowy favorites to enjoy.

Original Oil Painting so realistic it feels like you're there.
The Cascade Mountains of Western Canada host some of the world most spectacular mountain lakes. Here bright fall foliage and clear mountain air provide a breath-taking view of the stately peaks that are mirrored across the surface of the blue-cold lake. A place of both scenic and personal reflections.

Giclee prints available. Visit Online Gallery

.....................................Wikipedia................................................
The Cascade Range (or Cascades) is a major mountain range of western North America, extending from southern British Columbia through Washington and Oregon to Northern California. The Cascades are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, the ring of volcanoes and associated mountains around the Pacific Ocean. All of the eruptions in the contiguous United States over the last 200 years have been from Cascade volcanoes. The two most recent were Lassen Peak in 1914 to 1921 and a major eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980.

Freshly fallen snow weights heavily on the branches of the Larch Pine trees that line the now impassible road. Light streams through trees, drawing geometrical patterns. It's so quiet you can hear the earth awakening to its new blanket. It's a world and moment where you are unprotected by man's innovations; beautiful and worthy of respect.

Holland Lake Lodge is located near Missoula, Montana. It is an entrance into the Bob Marshall Wilderness, where my brother was an outfitter. "The Bob", as it is known by locals and nicknamed by the U.S. Forest Service employees, ranges in altitudes of 4,000 to over 9,000 feet (1,220 to 2750 m). A long escarpment known as the Chinese Wall averages 1,000 feet (300 m) high from its base and extends for 40 miles (64 km). Aside from numerous waterfalls, lakes, and dense forests, the wilderness is also prime Grizzly bear habitat and the U.S. Forest Service claims that the population density of this species is higher than can be found anywhere else in the U.S. outside of Alaska. The Bob is also home to many other large mammals such as moose, elk, black bear, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, wolverine, mountain lion, lynx, and wolf. Bald eagles, osprey, pelican, and trumpeter swan are just a few of the bird species found. The dense old growth forests are dominated by Douglas fir, larch, and spruce. Forest fires have changed large areas in the wilderness complex in recent years.
Wilderness areas do not allow motorized or mechanical equipment including bicycles or hang gliders. Camping and fishing are allowed; fishing requires a state license; no roads are present and there is also no logging or mining in compliance with the Wilderness Act. Some administrative cabins constructed in the early 1920s afford refuge for trail crews and wilderness rangers. Wilderness areas within National Forests and Bureau of Land Management areas also allow hunting in season.

Blue, crisp, and wet cold; it was the sounds of natures melody that originally drew me to this scene. The sounds of the creek from melting snow and the crisp blues emerging after days of gray make this a painting of renewal. It's the freshness after a storm or the first signs of the coming spring. Painted en plein air outside Allenspark, Colorado accounts for the small size of the original, but this breath-taking crisp morning is now a warm and treasured memory.
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Mary Ellen Anderson is a contemporary American oil painter residing in Lawrence, Kansas USA. She is known for her oil paintings that blend ultra-realism and impressionism into a unique style that is reminiscent of Renaissance masters. Common themes are mid-west and western landscapes, portraits, and nature.


Gallery: Open Mon - Sat.
(inside the Anderson Rentals Building)
1312 W. 6th. Street
Lawrence, Kansas 66044

Art: Spring is here in these fresh new paintings from '...

Art: Spring is here in these fresh new paintings from '...: Spring is here in these fresh new paintings from 'The Backyard Artist", Kathy Brecheisen. Discover the world below the surface of...

Spring is here in these fresh new paintings from 'The Backyard Artist", Kathy Brecheisen. Discover the world below the surface of 'The Koi Pond'. Light shines through a dark pool revealing brilliantly colored Koi. The fish frolic happily through ribbons of water-plants creating a dance of orange and white against the sapphire-blue shadows. Feathery fins and tails flow in hidden currents. A new and delightful world by "The Backyard Artist", Kathy Brecheisen. ............................................Artists...........................................................
Known as the "Backyard Artist", Kathy Brecheisen takes her inspiration from plants, insects, animals and ecosystems in her own backyard. Her use of vibrant realistic color and charming posing show a deep love and connection with nature. Kathy resides in Eudora, Kansas.

Giclee prints available. Visit Online Gallery

Lush foliage does little to conceal the towering eye-spotted plumes of the stately peacock. Revealed in profile, the crested head and slender silvery neck are framed in iridescent blue-green plumage that entices you for a closer peak.

.............................Wikipedia........................
Peacock as with many birds, vibrant iridescent plumage colors are not primarily pigments, but structural coloration. Such structural coloration causes the iridescence of the peacock's hues, since unlike pigments, interference effects depend on light angle.


Gallery: Open Mon - Sat.
(inside the Anderson Rentals Building)
1312 W. 6th. Street
Lawrence, Kansas 66044

Thanks to everyone for stopping by and making our gallery opening such a wonderful success. It was truly an honor to be able to show you all our new art. Here is a picture Cindi took of Addy (my 5 mo. old German Shepherd) and me at the opening. Since we were serving hotdog, Addy had a particularly good time.


Special thanks to my fellow exhibiting artists: Kathy Brecheisen, Lynne Wright, Doreta Boyd, Don Wright, and Talya Johnson. We are getting new and exciting works in everyday from these exceptional artist. Please follow us on here and facebook, it helps us get seen.

Card - Flowers of Light by RealisticOilPainting
Add your text to this and other unique blank greeting cards by RealisticOilPainting at Zazzle.

Spring flowers and a touch of the nostalgic shine in this painting by Mary Ellen Anderson. Available as greeting cards, that will add elegance to any Easter basket or Spring greeting. These and other unique cards and gifts are in stock now at:

Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Art
(Inside Anderson Rentals Building)
1312 W. 6th. Street
Lawrence, Ks. 66044
Gallery Website

Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Art Gallery is proud to announce our newest artist, Kathy Brecheisen. Here colors of Spring abound in one of her newest works. This and other exciting works by Kathy will be featured at the gallery opening on March 8 and 9th, and Kathy herself has promised to come by. Quality Giclee prints and artist designed gift items at up to 35% off. Commissioned work accepted.

Gallery Grand Opening
March 8th, 2013 - Friday
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
March 9th, 2013 - Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

1312 W. 6th. Street
Lawrence, Kansas 66044
(785) 843-2044

Fine Art Gallery Opening

Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Art is more a personal shopper service for fine art than a traditional gallery. The internet has made the availability of fine art limitless, but SEO has made that availability a joke. No matter whether you’re looking for a painting or that perfect card, we specialize in finding that unique perfect match for you. We have scoured the net for the best-of-the-best, and we really can find exactly what you’re looking for.

Make custom gifts at Zazzle
Mary Ellen Anderson is a real person with a half-century career in fine art. Our featured artists are personal choices representing some of the best contemporary (living) artist in the world. We offer a more personalized relationship with both our clients and artists. We strive to understand your fine art needs and match you with artists that specialize in those areas. Whether you are a collector, decorator, or just looking for that signature logo or gift idea we represent both established and emerging artist in all disciplines and medium. Abstract or realistic, painting or sculpture, local or international, we represent exceptional artist for all your fine art needs.

Personal contact with our artists is available through our social media and well as personal appearances, commission and consulting work. Art is so much richer if you feel a connection with the artist. Commissioned specialties include Estate Painting by Michael Swanson, Portraiture by Talya Johnson, and local artist Lynne Wright and Mary Ellen Anderson.

Picking art is harder than it looks, but especially challenging over the internet. Being actually able to see originals vs. prints in different configurations eliminates the guesswork. Experts can help you avoid the frustrations of printing mistakes, decorating blunders, poor quality products, and internet scams.

Need a last minute gift? In stock, many of our most popular artist prints and merchandise are in stock and available for personalized gift delivery. Our artist designed merchandise is unique and often with customization and personalizing available. In addition we offer expedited service on many products, all with 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Big savings and discounts over internet POD services. Because we deal directly with the artists we are able to offer you the very best in pricing and as a brick-n-mortar there is no shipping, handling, or packaging cost.

Visit Online Gallery!
Press Release
Painter Mary Ellen Anderson Gallery Opening
Dates: March 8-9
Location: Anderson Rentals Building
1312 W. 6th St.
Lawrence, Kansas 66044
Phone: (785) 843-2044
Website: http://andersonrentals.com/art.php/

Local artist Mary Ellen Anderson will be unveiling her first public offering in over twenty-five years on March 8 – 9 at her local business Anderson Rentals. Mary Ellen Anderson is a contemporary American oil painter residing in Lawrence, Kansas USA. She is known for her oil paintings that blend ultra-realism and impressionism into a unique style that is reminiscent of Renaissance masters. Common themes are mid-west and western landscapes, portraits, and nature. Although Anderson exhibited extensively in the 70s and 80s, 2013 will mark her return to professional art. The event will coincide with the grand opening of ‘Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Arts Gallery and Studio’ located at 1312 W. 6th Street; Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

The Grand Opening will premier completely new works as well as a collection of personal favorites never before offered for sale. In addition, then archival giclee prints and merchandise will be available of Anderson’s work. Please join the artist in an informal setting for some terrific art, refreshments, and BIG discounts at this long awaited event.

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Art: Help us make a selection! Want to make sure that y...

Art: Help us make a selection! Want to make sure that y...: Help us make a selection! Want to make sure that your favorite prints and canvases are available at huge discounts during our Grand Openin...

Help us make a selection! Want to make sure that your favorite prints and canvases are available at huge discounts during our Grand Opening? Vote for your favorite paintings and leave a comment of desired configuration (i.e. canvas, print, card, etc.) w/ sizes and quantities. We’ll pre-stock the favorites at our Grand Opening on March 8 - 9th, 2013 and pass on huge saving to you. Voting and favoring is easy, free and non-committal. Plus, it helps me spread the news of our opening. Voting, favoring and sharing buttons are located under each image at:

Online Artwork (fineartamerica)

  Even if you’re not buying art at this time then check out our uniquely design quality merchandise and vote; let us know your interest so we can better serve you. Please subscribe to my mailing list or follow me on social media as I resume our art adventures. Thanks to everyone for your tremendous support. See you on March 8 – 9.

Painter Mary Ellen Anderson Debuts First New Releases In Twenty-Five Years. Local artist Mary Ellen Anderson will be unveiling her first public offering in over twenty-five years on March 8 – 9 at her local business Anderson Rentals. Mary Ellen Anderson is a contemporary American oil painter residing in Lawrence, Kansas USA. She is known for her oil paintings that blend ultra-realism and impressionism into a unique style that is reminiscent of Renaissance masters. Common themes are mid-west and western landscapes, portraits, and nature. Although Anderson exhibited extensively in the 70s and 80s, 2013 will mark her return to professional art. The event will coincide with the grand opening of ‘Mary Ellen Anderson Fine Arts Gallery and Studio’ located at 1312 W. 6th Street; Lawrence, Kansas 66044. .............................................................................................................. The Grand Opening will premier completely new works as well as a collection of personal favorites never before offered for sale. In addition, then archival giclee prints and merchandise will be available of Anderson’s work. Please join the artist in an informal setting for some terrific art, refreshments, and BIG discounts at this long awaited event.

Reminiscing on My Art Career

In a group discussion today on Fine Art America we were talking about our art careers and reminiscing and I thought I’d share my response.

Castle on the Water
Oil on Canvas: 20 x 24 inch

I have to admit that I've always felt I had it easy. I was born into art utopia, but I've also always had so many options. There was a time when representational art was not just out of fad, it was illegitimate. But even then I had choices. I could probably have done marketable art, but I also have interest in science, business, engineering, and philosophy in which I could and did pursue as professional studies and careers (I think I have over 300 hours of college classes).  So I thought I had left art with an “oh well – sigh attitude. But my deciding not to exhibit was my greatest disappointment to my Dad. It also turned out to matter to my two kids, so last Thanksgiving I picked up a brush again.

I've been totally surprised at my emotional response. I’m incredibly touched (probably more for my Dad’s memory then my own sake) at the acceptance of representational art. I could almost weep at seeing these wonderful artists and their works on FAA. I’m really surprised at how deeply I had buried my love of art. But even now I think I have so many advantages over artist that took a different path or are just starting out. I've gotten to work at CERN (a particle accelerator in Switzerland), start several successful businesses, had two kids, traveled most of the world; I have some great stories to tell, and my paintings are my voice. It truly means more to me then I imagined to be able to sing again. 

Mary Ellen Anderson: Fine Art Store