Green art is an excellent way to bring life into your home, and what better time to do so than one of the liveliest days of the year, St. Patrick’s Day? The color green differs in quality and mood depending on shade, creating an array of decoration possibilities that is practically infinite. Maybe you’re a St. Patrick’s Day fanatic or into the peaceful vibe nature brings, or maybe you just love the color. Whatever your motivation, adding green to your home décor adds a fresh note to even the drabbest of walls. It is a choice you won’t regret.

Quite a versatile color, green can evoke life in medium to dark shades or convey a more whimsical quality in brighter hues, such as lime. St. Patrick’s Day embraces green’s entire spectrum, with art offerings including a variety of colors that can all be considered called green. You’re not just limited to art, however—something as simple as adding a plant or two can do wonders on its own. Life speaks to life, and plants will surely bring the energy level in a room way up. If trying to engage family members in a lively discussion, place plants in your dining or living room. Each is a setting designed to put people at ease and socialize.

Born Lucky

What happens if you are a notorious plant neglector? Don’t let go of the lively family discussion ideal just yet—many things resemble or remind people of plants and don’t need to be watered twice a week. Check out plant-inspired artwork. For Saint Patrick’s day, this is easy—just sample any one of the many prints with four-leaf clovers and rainbows. Or, if you want a lot more green and a lot less rainbow, check out simpler art pieces that focus on that single color spectrum. Search for prints that convey only four-leaf clovers or prints with four-leaf clovers and other green items in the background (they exist—you don’t need to look hard to find them).

If you’re more career-oriented than family oriented, green is still a wonderful choice for you. Plants can make your study a more productive area, inspiring you to push through that last bit of work you’re sure you don’t have the energy to complete. If you dream of pots of gold, look for festive St. Patrick’s Day prints that incorporate them. Toss some good luck into your equation, too, with a bonus four-leaf clover or two. Some prints out there are stuffed with as many St. Patrick’s Day items as possible, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a print with your preferred combination. 

No matter what kind of a person you are, you’re likely to respond well to your greener environment. This is because green has so many qualities that work in different ways. Research has proven that green has an array of positive effects. Bring green into your home and note the effects on your mood.

We already said hello to 2016, but not many people have ushered in the colors of the year, serenity blue and rose quartz. In a world of political turmoil and everyday stress, these pastel colors can calm us down and speak peace into our lives. Now is the best time to incorporate the colors of the year into your home décor. Moreover, this is an ideal year for colors because there is not just one but two colors of the year for 2016!

Tranquility And Warmth

Rose quartz and serenity blue were chosen as 2016’s colors of the year for the feelings of tranquility and warmth that they evoke. We can all use a little more peace in our lives, so serenity blue is a timely color for the year. If the winter blues are getting to you, a touch of rose quartz will cheer you right up. Add these colors to your home décor for a greater sense of order and calmness. If you are looking forward to spring, or if you are looking for a piece of art that majors on the colors of the year, check out Sung Kim’s “Covered Bridge in Spring.” Blossoming trees highlight shades of rose in the distant Blue Mountains, and a silver-blue river flows peacefully under a covered wooden bridge.

A Duo For Relaxation

It is a bit unusual for there to be two colors of the year, but when you look at rose quartz and serenity blue together you will understand why they were chosen as a duo. These two colors complement each other perfectly, and together they accomplish more than they could alone. This is illustrated in Klaus Strubel’s “Paradise Dawn,” a glorious painting of a beachside sunrise. Swirls of rose quartz and serenity blue invite you to relax in the Adirondack chairs at the water’s edge and soak in the beauty of nature.

Accent With Frames

Since the colors of the year are so light, it is best to accentuate them with a frame. A gold frame will draw attention to the artwork and can be added to either of the pictures mentioned above as well as most of the artwork available from Fulcrum Gallery. You may also consider a black frame for a sleek finishing touch.

Color Pairings

What other shades can be paired with the colors of the year? Serenity blue stands out against dark blue and black; it can also be used with white or dark grey. For a different flavor, rose quartz can be matched with various shades of pink and red. Both serenity blue and rose quartz can be used with other pastel shades, such as green and yellow. Of course, the color combinations you choose will affect the mood of your environment. For example, a room done in pale yellow with the colors of the year will have a light and cheery air, while a room with white and pastel blue will seem nautical, and a room that adds the colors of the year to black or navy blue will feel serious and professional. Any of these combinations is magnificent; the choice is up to you and what atmosphere you want to create. Have fun and be creative with serenity blue and rose quartz this year!

Valentine’s Day, a holiday with a long history and great contemporary relevance, is just around the corner! February 14^th is celebrated as love day, but it was not always a holiday like it is today. Are you ready for Valentine’s Day? Traditionally, people send valentines, or love notes, to show their love at this time of the year, but you can also show love by changing your décor at home or in your work place. Artwork is a perfect way to celebrate this holiday that dates back to the early centuries A.D.

About Valentine’s Day

In ancient Rome, February was the month for the fertility festival called Lupercalia. At some point around the third century A.D., the Christian church began to observe Valentine’s Day, either as a way to Christianize the pagan Roman festival, or to commemorate the martyr Saint Valentine. The history is murky, but eventually February 14^th was established as the day of love, which we still celebrate today.

Inspirational Decorations

February 14^th is recognized as a special day for love, but it is by no means the only day for love. You can get your décor ready for the special day by changing your wall art. At Fulcrum Gallery, you can find dozens of inspirational posters on the theme of love. “Love Conquers All Things” and “Love Is All You Need” are just two of the beautiful sayings you can find here.

Birds

One poster you may like in particular is Alan Pelletier’s “Birds on a Wire – Love,” an evocative yet simple depiction of two birds together in space, balanced on a wire supporting the letters L O V E.  Birds are a fitting motif for Valentine’s Day because of the historic association between romance and birds. During the Middle Ages, when the celebration of Valentine’s Day was developing into its modern form, February was thought of as birds’ mating season, hence the connection between birds and romance. If the birds like February, it must be a romantic month!

Romantic

If you feel that there is nothing more romantic than Paris, Fulcrum Gallery has plenty of selections in its Romantic Art section. From prints called “Paris Romance” to Gustav Klimt’s well-known “The Kiss,” there is something sure to please your loved one this Valentine’s Day. If you or your loved one is more of a daredevil, or if you are a fan of Marilyn Monroe and James Dean, the black and white “Speedbound Red” may be what you are looking for.

Lips, Kissing

Decorations are great way to get into the spirit of Valentine’s Day, and Fulcrum Gallery also has lips- and kissing-themed posters in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles. These posters can be given as gifts, but using them as decorations leading up to Valentine’s Day can make the holiday even more special.

It’s All About Love

We love people every day, but Valentine’s Day gives us a special opportunity to make people feel loved. Let’s get into the spirit and make the most of the holiday!

Christmas is a joyous time of year; it has evolved from a strictly religious holiday to a worldwide holiday of giving and charity. It is one of the most recognizable holidays with many iconic symbols and themes. From Santa, to snowmen, to Christmas trees. Christmas art is both stunning and special to many during the holidays. Decorating your house and trimming the tree and time honored traditions passed down from generation to generation.

Santa Claus

What rich history and fond memories come from the image of Santa Claus. No Christmas is complete without Santa, and what is more endearing than Santa art from Peggy Abrams to Donna Race some of the most renowned artists of our time, and their detailed renditions of Santa in all his glory. He brings us presents in the night with his sleigh and rain-deer shimmying down the chimney and feasting on our milk and cookies to fuel him for the rest of his journey.

Christmas Tree

Under the tree come presents. And in the stockings come treats, and that a lovely piece of art “Santa's Stocking” by Peggy Abrams fine art print is, when we think of presents and the tree we think of that big box of special dreams we asked Santa to bring us, and dream at night in hopes of getting what we so desired. Stocking hung are an age-old tradition.

Santa And Snowman 3 by TheMacneil Studio

Christmas Scenes

Sledding in the park is one of the fun things that you can do in the snow Remembering your time out in the snow with your friends while you mom cooked the evening dinner, with the sun setting on the fine white snow your shivering fingers and toes.

Winter Art

The winter scenes portrayed by the legendary Ansel Adams, in “Pine Forest in the Snow, Yosimite Nation” is one of his most inspired photos and memorable themes in his trademark black and white the rich detail and flow will make you want his whole collection.

Snow

Lets build a snowman, or look at a great picture on the wall while we stay inside warm and cozy. Mary Ann June's “Snow Folk Faith” is a warm and inviting fine art print that is sure to become a family heirloom.

Christmas time is a wonderful time of the year, making your house a home with fine art and starting your own new traditions with your family and children is sure to create lasting memories that you kids will be able to talk about for years to come, and when they begin to have families of their own they can pass down your traditions and start a few of their own.

It has been said that finding a gift for a man is hard to do. That may be true, however, if you find creative ways to give, a lasting treasure can be found in the most obscure place. Men appreciate art in many ways, they adorn their offices, garages and man caves with art, not to mention their houses with works as complex and compelling as they are. The many ways that make a man tick are right in front of your eyes and can be as easy as buying him that six pack of beer. Don't shy away from a good art piece.

Sports Gifts

Men and sports are like bars and beer, they just go together, and are inseparable. Artwork is a solid gift that they he treasure for years to come. Our golf collection will land any gift giver on the good side of their man, and works by Ron Jenkins will make him dream of that day on the links far away from all his troubles and cares, “Azalea Hole Golf Course” will put him into a state of peace and relaxation to last all day. Go ahead and hit a hole in one with this fine gift.

Car Art

While your man may not be the next Henry Ford, there is no denying that he loves his car, and other cars. From the classics of days gone by to futuristic cars. Cars and road trips it is in his DNA and Dan Stambler's “Route 66 Diner” combines both love affairs with stunning beauty. Find some of the greatest car paintings to help the man in your life celebrate the genre. What a wonderful gift for your man. So drive home that gift with a framed work of art showcasing this American love.

Gifts To Fit That Theme

Gifts for him can be easy if you find that theme that runs through is life, is he into boating, skiing, hunting, finding that fit will make the search for the gift of art easy. And one that he will love. If you think he has everything already, then a framed picture of fine wall art will hit the spot, and a quality pic will be the final touch on that space he covets so much. In such fine photos as “Yacht Reliance at Full Sail, 1903”.  There are many framing options that can fit all different settings from the garage to the boathouse.

So remember that finding the right gift for him is not as hard as you may think. Many may think that art is not for the man in their lives, or is hard to pick something out for you man, however, that can't be more further from the truth. Find the perfect gift with our holiday gift guides. 

 Scenic artwork has been around for centuries and is a popular subject amongst artists and buyers. Regardless of the location, season, or lack of activity, this art subject never grows old.  Scenic art shows the beauty of nature through the perspective of the artist creating the piece. The places we pass everyday and don't even look twice at comes alive when put into art. These pieces make great decor for offices and bedrooms, they bring a peaceful feel to the room.

The Brain and Nature

It is a well-known fact that a natural environment promotes positive emotions.  Nature is non judgmental, always perfectly balanced, and as pure as a newborn baby.  While our lives evolve into the fast-paced technical world, it is soothing to know that some things never change.  Scenic art almost feels like going home again, before the craziness of adulthood began.

Bring Back Memories

Memories often have a lot to do with scenic painting selection.  Childhood visits to the beach or mountains can tap into that buried subconscious and open the senses of sounds, smells, and touch. Personal to individual tastes, scenes that recreate the past deliver peace in quiet, private areas, like bedrooms or dens.

Aesthetic Appeal with Changing Seasons

Many artists are able to capture the vivid colors and feel of spring, summer, fall and winter.  Select a favorite style and redecorate living areas with appropriate seasons.  William Vanscoy, for instance, is an artist that weaves emotion into nature, making visitors stop and listen to their heart and soul.  Intriguing scenes of different seasons make these paintings perfect in living areas.

Kitchen Atmosphere

Everyone loves the comforting feel of a cozy kitchen.  Fruit and flower still life is not a necessity in bringing a natural goodness to this popular room.  Artist Diane Romanello brings an uplifting spirit of friendship in her natural exhibit of 'Among Friends I' for spring and summer, while Stephen Lyman is spectacular with the winter scene 'A Walk in the Woods.' 

Scenic artwork is the perfect touch to the decor in any room of your home. The colors range from black and white to earth tones to bright colors. This makes it easy to find a scenic art print to match your color scheme. Find the right emotion for each season with perfect paintings or prints. Contact Us to discover your own satisfying scenes of nature and display them proudly.

Showing your love for someone special during Couples Appreciation Month doesn't have to include fattening foods, overpowering perfumes and expensive flowers that eventually wilt and die. There is a better option, love art. Love art comes in different forms to match the personalities of those you appreciate the most. For instance, there are heart paintings, romantic art and love prints to choose from at our gallery. Created by a variety of accomplished artists, they’d fit into a wide array of interior designs too. Let’s take contemporary interiors and pop art fans as examples. They may enjoy art by Roy Lichtenstein.

Roy Lichtenstein’s artwork often features comic book characters kissing or pining away for a loved one. His romantic yet contemporary scenes may be placed on to canvas, framed or laminated to suit your loved one’s design sensibilities. We've even heard of couples who display the comic book lovers alongside of memory boxes filled with souvenirs of their first date, engagement or wedding.

Word art also tends to be quite popular among Couples Appreciation Month celebrants.

This is especially the case with prints that include romantic poems or sayings. Artist Louise Carey has several pieces of art that fall into that category. The sayings that she uses in her artwork often talk about unending love, true happiness and friendship. They tend to have a contemporary, youthful vibe that many people adore. Those that prefer a more mature feel to their artwork may prefer prints by artist Bonnie Mohr instead. Her paintings include complete romantic poems and verses that touch on issues like fate, spiritual love, marriage, new beginnings and the joy found in sharing life’s journey with another.

Those are just a few of the art themes lovers will find among our holidays collection.

"I learned a ton from exploring new techniques and making mistakes. Don't be afraid to try new things and fail. Make that a part of your development." ~ Michael Mullan. See more quotes by Michael Mullan by reading our Q&A interview with him. 

Michael Mullan is an artist who initially lived in Chicago. His artwork is a combination of digital and traditional media. He uses hand drawing and technology which makes his art unique from other styles. Although Mullan has now mastered his art technique, he hasn't always known his style. Mullan started out by going to an art school, he drew book series for an author. He went to Savvanah College of Art and Design to get his MFA in illustration, after that his career really took off. Mullan has worked with many big projects since, his art has been featured on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Walgreens in Chicago, the Wonderment Beer Label and many more places.  When asked what is his favorite advertising project he has done so far, he replied "I recently worked on branding for a new brewery in Vermont. This was a fun one because I love packaging, I love beer and it was for a local business. I cant wait to see my work on all sorts of beer swag!"  Michael Mullan believes that his unique style of art has developed through trial and error. He is always looking for new ways to improve his style and technique so he can stay current.

Mullan's work is featured in many well-known places as murals on the wall, artwork and products. His fun, colorful and inspirational art is motivation for many people including the staff here at FulcrumGallery.com! Michael Mullan is always excited when a new project comes his way, especially when the completed project turns out better than he expected.

In his future, Mullan hopes to still be creating art. He aspires to get into new illustration markets that he hasn't gotten into yet. For example, handmade goods. Michael Mullan is also interested in expanding his art skills like getting into painting so he can take on gallery work. 

We are currently running a giveaway for a signed print by Michael Mullan. Two lucky winners will be picked by entering our giveaway on Facebook and two lucky winners will win by pinning their favorite Mullan prints from his artist page. Good Luck :-)

Black & white photography is timeless. It adds depth to its surroundings and can bring an instant element of class and elegance to a room. However some people shy away from the idea of using black and white photos for decorating, afraid it will look dull and lack creativity. This could not be more untrue. Black and white is the perfect medium for decorating with pictures in any room in the house; even a child’s bedroom. The key is in knowing how to use it.

 Tips for decorating with black and white photography:

Tip 1: Black and white photos are ideal for decorating brightly colored walls because they won’t conflict with the surrounding color. Use the same frame style and color for every picture to prevent competition, while drawing one’s eye to the subject of the photo. Solid black or white frames with white matting work well with vivid backgrounds. 

Tip 2: Adorn a child’s room with black and white prints of a subject they love. Baseball fans will be thrilled by the variety of vintage shots featuring famous sluggers and well-known stadiums. For a child who adores animals, black and white pictures of puppies, kittens or horses play well against pale blue or pink walls. 

Tip 3: Teenage girls enjoy themed decor such as Paris, glamorous movie stars or dance. Paired in brightly colored or black frames against white or cream walls, black and white photos will blend in beautifully with her inspiration.

Tip 4: Neutral colored walls in a living space form the perfect pallet for black and white art. Photos of the beach or ocean framed in distressed white, light blue or natural wood give a special touch to a coastal themed room. A more modern and chic look can be achieved by combining photos in both black and white frames in a beige room with white trim and shelves and black wrought iron wall hangings, candle holders and lamps.  

Black and white photos can be dramatic, playful, elegant or glamorous, bringing tremendous beauty and infinite possibilities for decorating to a home. Consider the possibilities in your own home and then browse our large selection of black and white photography.  

Is a canvas finish always the best option for art? No. When choosing the finish for art, there are a number of important aesthetic factors to consider, including colors, details, and style.

 Colors

Think about the texture of a canvas. It has fine grooves that seem to disappear at a certain distance, yet are very noticeable up-close. The distance point of this seemingly disappearance is largely related to the amount of colors in a given art work.

When art works have chunks of clearly defined colors, the texture of canvas stops leaving an impression on the eyes at a short distance. In other words, the bolder the colors, the less the canvas texture stands out. Even though some of the most amazing artworks in history were created on canvas, the recreations of these artworks often look much better when printed on high quality art paper.

Renaissance, neoclassical, and romanticism in particular have exorbitant amounts of gradient colors that blend into one another. These blended colors become muted and far less noticeable when the texture of canvas comes into play, which creates a blurred rather than a detailed image.

 Details

 Artworks with bold or simple colors and crisp details work best on canvas. Pop Art, vintage art, and photography are great examples of art that looks amazing on canvas. The bold colors and simple shapes of pop art are not lost in the texture of canvas. Similarly, the crisp details and colors of vintage art also look great on canvas, since the details are not at risk of being blurred or obscured by the texture of canvas.

 Photography also looks great on canvas because the crisp, almost perfect, details of reality are captured through the lens. When photographs are then transferred to canvas, it creates the less than perfect perception of reality that actually occurs with human vision, instead of the view of the objective lens.

Style

The colors and details of art certainly relate to style of art, but there are many artworks that are less defined by genre or artistic movement and more defined by the individual style of the artist.

Word art, for example, may or may not look best on canvas, depending on the colors, as well as the style. Curvy font, subtle shifts in color, and scroll-work would not be well-suited for canvas, while block font, bold colors, and a clean background would be well-suited for canvas.

Keep these elements in mind when choosing the medium to showcase art, and feel free to contact us about any questions you may have!