Ever since the creation of the first camera in the 1800’s the new art form of photography has been rapidly growing in popularity. Once a cumbersome and difficult device to use, camera’s have advanced well beyond their original design and purpose. Photography has given way to allowing artists to capture real life instances and things that gather and evoke just as much emotion, if not more so, that paintings can produce. Photography is not limited to a canvas, as it opens up the possibilities of capturing the world as it is, documenting historical events, and offering human reflection as a picture is worth a thousand words.

Captures The World As It Is

Photography captures the wonder and beauty of the world and offers it to everyone to experience and see. World wide traveling photographers offer windows into exciting new places and environments by shrinking the world and making it more accessible. Ansel Adams was known for photographing the natural wonders of the United States in breath taking photographs that pull the viewer right into the scenery of winding canyons, as in his stunning black and white nature photograph, “Canyon de Chelly National Monument.” Wildlife photographs like Ron D’Raine’s endearing photo of two Giraffes entitled “Makulu” captures the tender heartedness of the animal kingdom.

Tropical Sunset

Documents Historical Events

Photography has aided in capturing some of the most profound moments in history so that those who may not have been able to experience that moment may see for themselves the historical gravity of the time. One of the most famous photographs ever taken, Charles C. Ebbets photo, “Lunchtime Atop a Skyscraper, c.1932,” forever stiles a moment in time, as construction workers take a lunch break from atop the unfinished Rockefeller Center, their feet dangling over the city of New York far below during the Great Depression. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential and inspiring men in history, and his speeches were captured on film like in the black and white photograph “Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Speaking (#8)”.  There are so many more important and breathtaking historical photographs that inspire and evoke change.

New York Firefighters/Ground Zero

A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words

As cliché of a saying as it is, photography produces pictures that raise question and wonder about the movement and found within a photograph. Photography has documented the human condition in its rawest and purest form. Captured in a hotel room, the scene backlit through bright curtained windows, the photograph “John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy” by Hank Wlaker, conveys the late President sitting on the edge of a bed across from Robert F. Kennedy, both shrouded in the moody dimness of a shadow. The photograph, “Hot Italian Pizza,” by artist unknown, is a beautiful representation of humanity, as an Italian pizza shop owner is captured through the neon lit and advertised window of his pizza parlor, a young woman looking over his shoulder as he works. The collection of black and white photographs is certainly worth a thousand words.

Hot Italian Pizza

It is clear that photography is a vast and encompassing art form. It has no limitations, capturing some of the most breathtaking scenery and wildlife from around the world, to documenting key scenes from important events in history. The greatest part though, is that each picture  is worth a thousands words and allows for endless wonder and interpretation to abound. No matter what style of photography you prefer, there is sure to be a photograph that you will want to proudly display.

When it comes to French commercial artists from the Art Nouveau period, one would be remiss to skip over Jules Cheret. Despite having passed away in the fall of 1932, his work continues to mesmerize art and advertising students alike. Here’s a snapshot of his career and some of his famous framed art:

Born in the late spring of 1836, Cheret officially began his artistic career in 1849. He started with a brief apprenticeship in France and later moved on to England. Once there, he focused his attention on London’s most famous entertainment venues. Among them were the now iconic Moulin Rouge, Olympia, Palais Garnier and Folies Bergere. During that time, he created a highly visible and coveted series of posters. Many of them featured dancing girls designed to promote the venues’ assorted shows. The collection of framed art produced for such venues includes the following prints:

• Folies-Bergere Le Miroir
• Pantomimes Lumineusses Theatre Optique of E. Reynaud
• Folies Bergere La Loie Fuller
• Alcazar d’ Ete Kanjarowa

The much sought after posters were not the only works he produced throughout his career. Cheret was also known for his paintings, book jackets and extensive advertising work with a variety of commercial enterprises. They often included elements like great coloring, watercolor washed backgrounds, floral designs and engaging subjects like actresses. Among the ones immortalized in Cheret’s works are Rene Maizeroy and Sarah Bernhardt. Examples of his commercial work include advertisements for the following companies:

• Monaco Parfumerie Distillerie, Iris Villa Monte-Carlo
• Quinquina Dubonnet Aperitif
• Saxoleine, Petrole de Surete
•  Vin Mariani, French Tonic Wine

Because of his large body of impressive artwork, he later went on to win the prestigious Legion d’honneur (1890).

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.

April is National Decorating Month but that’s not the only reason to shop for wall art in the days ahead. There are a lot of funky holidays scheduled to take place throughout the month and we’ve got several framed art pieces that can help you celebrate them in style. We’ve picked out five unusual observances to help you get started:  

Straw Hat Month

It’s Straw Hat Month. So why not celebrate it by decorating your home or business with paintings featuring people wearing straw hats? Famous artists Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Gauguin and Pierre-Auguste Renoir have created several paintings that would blend into a straw hat theme. There are also full color photos that celebrate straw hats too. They include Susie Boyer’s Working Day is Done and Walter Bibikow/Danita Delimont’s Cuba, Sancti Spiritus, Trinidad, Cuban Straw Hats.

National Kite Month

National Kite Month is another reason to redecorate in April. Try setting up a display wall featuring artist Jack Sorenson’s Flying Kite with Friends or Paul Brent’s series, Beach Kites. Brent’s series would pair perfectly with artist Katharine Gracey’s Beach Houses collection or Michael Paraskevas’ My Seven Aunts. They feature flying kites too.

International Guitar Month

International Guitar Month also falls in April. That said, you might want to hang a series of guitar themed artwork throughout the house. The list of artists whose work contains great images of guitars includes, but doesn’t end with Pablo Picasso, Tang Ling, Edouard Manet, Adam Perez and Deann Hebert. Of those five, Tang Ling’s collection includes a series of black and white photos taken at a guitar factory. In our opinion, they’d look fantastic on display in a music room.

Car Care Month

Fans of vintage motor vehicles rejoice! It’s officially Car Care Month as well. So hang up framed photos of classic cars, racing posters, race drivers and more. We’ve got more than 700 pieces of car art to choose from, including works by artists Antonio Massa, Scott Westmoreland and Keith Mallett.

National Card and Letter Writing Month

Lastly, April is prime time to pay homage to the lost art of letter writing. Yes, it’s actually National Card and Letter Writing Month. Celebrate it with movie posters like Letters to Juliet or contemporary prints like Wild Apple Studio’s Letters Series. Other artists who’ve creating pictures featuring letters are Deam Millman, Albert Ludovici, Cristin Atria and Alma Lee.

If you have any questions about purchasing artwork that fits right in with these and any number of April’s funky holidays, please contact us!

"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 :-)

Before all the snow melts and the trees begin to sprout new leaves, you can feel Spring stirring within. It may start as a subtle smell in the air that growth is coming, or a warmth from your gut that just seems to know. Seasonal Art has a unique way of activating and enlivening these natural feelings. Consider some of the art options below, and then play with your imagination until you find the right fit for your home's new Spring ambiance!

All about Green

Perhaps the color most associated with Spring, green represents growth and newness. Green is also soothing to the mind! Add splashes of green to existing walls with small, economical art prints like “Summer Field II,” which is only $8.39 for a twelve-by-twelve print. Or, go big and add a green statement painting to your living room! The “Spring Leaves” fine art print by artist Teri Jonas looks fantastic in print or canvas.

Multi-Color Joys

Spring welcomes all colors! If your home is already beautified by many different colors, adding Spring vibes will be easy with fine art floral prints. Whether you're looking for a traditional touch with realistic flowers and landscapes, or a more modern style with abstract floral imagery, there are always many options to fit your home decor.

Purple Says It All

From lavender to deep plum, purple is a beautiful natural color, rarely seen during the colder months of the year. Purples often represent royalty and spirituality, and when artistically portrayed in your home, these tones create feelings of richness, within and without. “Spring Song 1” by artist Helena Alves is a great example of traditional meets modern with variant hues of purple!

Looking for a different color? Yellows often look amazing in the kitchen, while blues are great for bedrooms! Fulcrum Gallery online allows you to search for artwork by color, season, artist, price, and beyond! For more information, contact us for all of your fine art needs!

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.  

Christopher Bliss's photography is a great addition to any decor style. Growing up in the beautiful city of New York, Bliss's work reflects the architecture and skylines he grew up with. His work is mostly in black and white making the contrast able to work with most decor. The architecture and contrast of the photographs are striking and subtle allowing them to work in any environment. Architecture photographs are able to play off the light in any room, naturally or artificial lit. 

You have your choice of scenery in color or black and white and of architecture or nature, and even your choice of city. From a bedroom sanctuary to the busy kitchen, his work can fit right in. If you adore the city or nature, he has art to suit your home. Christopher Bliss finds inspiration in the invigorating city, and you can too with his photographs.

Originally trained as a concert pianist at the Vienna Academy of Music, the Manhattan School of Music, and the University of Southern California, and now turned photographer, Christopher Bliss's art is truly beautiful. Christopher Bliss Photography reflects this as the photographs are as detailed as a piece of beautiful music.

His photography is held in high esteem and he is often sought after. His work can be found in several galleries and even in two separate photography books, one of which is on the beautiful New York City. Some of his work is even in the permanent collection of the Museum of the City of New York.

Everyone loves popular color trends when they decide to remodel their home or renovate! It's fun to change your decor every once in a while to keep up with current popular color schemes. A very popular color for home decor, especially for this autumn season, is gold. Gold represents a meaning of success, achievement, and triumph. We often associate the color gold with money or wealth, but the color gold has so much more to tell us than just wealth. Many people have linked the color gold as a way to feel empowered and choose to think gold can give off a vibe of positive energy. Some also believe that gold can bring good wisdom, understanding, and enlightenment.

 Represents a Meaning of Success, Achievement, and Triumph!

Often we see gold metals for the winner of a race so we connect the color gold and it's meaning to the winner's metal. This color draws attention to itself, it is eye-catching, passionate, and confident. Gold is a color that is often overlooked when choosing decor because of the flashy and wealthy vibe it shows. Decorating an office with gold art, or neutral colored prints with a gold frame, can give one a sense of empowerment and success. Getting gold art, art with a gold frame, or art on canvas with gold painted sides is not only suitable for your office. These will also raise your feeling of success in a library or study room. 

Perfect Decor for Autumn Season!

Not only is gold great decor for offices, classrooms, libraries, and study rooms, but it is also great for general home decor during autumn season! Decorating your home with paintings and photographs of golden autumn trees and the golden kissed sky during sunset is a great way to bring the beauty of autumn into your home with out having crunchy leaves. Gold autumn decor helps a room pop with color and come to life. Golden touched autumn art is especially a great decor choice for those who find themselves who favor autumn over other seasons. If autumn season is your favorite, why not leave the autumn decor up year round to keep your favorite season around!

Although gold is a popular color to decorate, you want to make sure to not overdo it. Having too much gold decor in your home can be overwhelming since gold is such a bold color. If the room is painted a solid color that compliments gold, just decorating with gold is perfectly fine! But remember, gold is a loud color that does not need help standing out and making a statement. Too much gold decor can ruin the statement you want to make. If done correctly, gold decor can be the perfect inspirational art, or the perfect seasonal art!

Fall is almost here! As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, nature follows suit with a change of colors. Yellow, orange, gold, rust and red take over the landscape, diffusing autumnal spell. An irresistible spell. A spell you want to bring inside your home and spread the magic all around. Here’s how you can bring the colors of fall into your home:

Celebrate the Colors of Fall

Fall means the orange of pumpkin, the red of corn, yellow of gourds and the rust of fallen leaves. Often, they don’t come in one shade but myriads of shades and hues – a subtle yellow, a bold red or deep burgundy. Fall celebrate colors, perhaps nature’s way of cheering the beginning of colder weather. Fall colors are warm and inviting and what better way of duplicating these hues than inviting them into your home. How? By using fall art and prints that capture the essence of the season. For instance Bright Autumn Day showcases trees touched by the glow of orange and red while Autumn Embers captures a more subdued autumn. What you pick depends on the mood and feel you’re going for.

Celebrate the Season 

In America, fall calls for celebration – pumpkin patch, hayrides, harvest fest, Halloween and Thanksgiving. Often, fall décor is employed to amp up the ambience. Apart from using pumpkins and gourds and fall flowers to build the atmosphere, consider using fall art and prints to add layers of interest. Transform the kitchen into an autumnal landscape of irresistible warmth and colors. Consider pictures of fall harvest such as playful Sharing the Harvest or thoughtful Harvest Blessings. Choices abound with pictures of wine, olives, prairie landscape and Tuscany harvest. 

Celebrate Fall One Room at a Time

Think of how many ways you can use fall décor and how many places you can go with that. We’re talking rooms in your house. The kitchen may be the most obvious place to deck out fall décor but don’t limit your fall magic to just one room. Cozy up your family room with autumn flowers or autumn landscapes or abstract art. Or the living room or the den for that matter. Follow your fancy and allow fall magic to invade your living spaces.

Use art to celebrate fall in all its glories!