With Oktoberfest kickoff closing in, we wanted to talk about decorating home bars and entertaining areas with animal art, specifically. It’s a great, subtle way to convey the feel of Old World Germany traditions year round. Of course one of the animals that should be at the center of the decorating scheme is the dachshund.

Dachshunds have been a part of German culture for centuries, and according to the American Kennel Club, their roots go back to the 1600's. At the time, many German huntsmen used the dogs to capture foxes, badgers, rabbits and feral pigs. In later years, they were entered into dachshund races during October celebrations and other competitive events, which continue around the world to this day.

On top of that, there are companies that manufacture dachshund themed wine, beer and bar supplies. Among them are Dachshund Riesling, III Dachshunds Beer and Maitland-Smith. The dog themed bar supplies include brass wine holders, shot glasses, steins, highball glasses, bottle openers, coasters and more. Thus, incorporating wiener dog themed animal art into a home bar or Oktoberfest décor scheme makes sense.

There are two pieces of animal art that must be mentioned when talking about Oktoberfest and home bar decor. One is Stephen Fowler’s Dachshund Wine print and the other is Ryan Fowler’s Dachshund Brewing Co. print. They both resemble vintage advertising signs and prominently feature the dog's image. Because they do have the appearance of commercial art, they could be paired with artist Brian Rubenacker's Dachshund Wieners.

 For a more whimsical look, there is also Tracy Flickinger’s Hot Dog. It features a cartoon image of a female dachshund enjoying a cocktail while dressed in a pink feather boa. Additional decorating options include actual photos of wiener dogs and work by artists like Dean Russo and Serena Bowman. A combination of these prints will make the perfect décor for Oktoberfest as well as everyday décor for your home bar.

Thinking of using children’s art to add vitality and dimension to your kid’s room? Or perhaps you’re looking to dress up a nursery or a space that’s kid’s friendly? Finding children’s art that conveys a sense of wonder and the whimsical can be challenging but not impossible. If you’re looking for children’s art that is fun, delightful and interesting, why not consider Nancy Lee’s children art?

Nancy Lee is not foreign to the art community. She has left trails of glory in various aesthetic endeavors. A nationally acclaimed Jewish artist, she also made major contributions as an editor and a poet. Her sculpture and liturgical works made her more than a one-dimensional artist; she shines in various media and no less when she creates children’s art.

She began her career as a painter, having her art training at the DeCordova Museum School in Massachusetts. Over time, her paintings have become more and more sculptural and her “found metal” sculptures received national attention. Her paintings and artwork have been featured in museums, galleries and selected juried exhibits across the United States. In due recognition, she was named a “Copley Artist” by the Copley Society of Art, the highly prestigious and the oldest art association in America.

Her short stint as the editor of Child’s Life Magazine may have given her an added edge when it comes to creating children’s art. Looking at her children’s artwork, her artistic genius in representing art that appeals to children is pristine. Her animal themes—whether they are owls, elephants, squirrels or horses—are whimsical, fun and convey a sense of wonder. She presents her animals in various playful settings, for instance, an owl in a tutu or a playful elephant taking a bath in a bathtub. Her color schemes flow and the overall effect is one of wonderment, as befitting children’s art.