The Perfect Painting: Commissions with Spa Fine Art

April 13, 2024 Susan Sheldon

Recreation commission from artist Beth Dacey

Choosing the right piece of artwork for your home can be a daunting task. First and foremost, Spa Fine Art encourages you to find artwork that you love. However, when factoring in color pallets, available space, and subjects this can prove to be a challenge.

The idea of a commission can be an intimidating concept. Whether you are trying to color match you decor, fill a hard to fit space, or create a sentimental memento; Spa Fine Art is well equipped to make this process an easy undertaking with the help of our experienced consultants and artists!

Step one is finding the perfect artist. Simply browse our Artist Section for a style and subject that catches your eye. We offer a large catalog of artists proficient in many different subjects and styles.

Once you find an artist or two that suits your needs, the next step is to reach out. Our staff will facilitate a conversation and help you come to a clear conclusion on budget, size, color, and concept. After your approval, it’s all in the competent hands of the artist! You will have your dream painting in no time, a perfect addition to your home and your decor.

Still a little hesitant about the process? Keep reading to see just a few of our many success stories and happy clients!

Sometimes matching your decor colors can be seem like an intimidating process. By providing swatches and pictures, our artists can utilize these resources to help design a custom piece that fits perfectly into you space. Providing sketches, or even drawing inspiration from past finished paintings.

Photoshopped proposal accepted by client

Finished Commission based off of photoshop proposal by C.E. Ross

Our staff was able to provide the client with a few options by artist C.E. Ross. Many of which were not preexisting pieces, but edited options and sketches. When an edited version of a preexisting piece was chosen, the artist was able to recreate the proposal perfectly to match the client’s unique and fun color pallet.

We understand that a commission isn’t always about matching just the right color swatches or size requirements. Sometimes its a meaningful memorialization of loved ones or a thoughtful gift. Our consultants and artists are well equipped to ensure that not only will your piece capture just the right personality, but is a beautiful and accurate recreation.

Once you approve the proposal your piece will be well on it’s way to completion and adorning the walls of your home. The exact process, completion time and price all vary depending on the artist, and we are happy to update you along the way to make everything as easy as possible.

Have a difficult space you’re looking to fill? Or maybe a something special you are looking to memorialize? We are more than happy to help you begin your journey to commissioning the perfect piece. Reach out and one of our consultants will be more than happy to get you started.

SpaFineArt@aol.com 518.587.2411

Meet the Artist: Exploring the Art and Process of Diane Kaylor

February 7, 2023 Susan Sheldon

More than 40 years ago Diane graduated from Parsons School of Design with a degree in illustration. She has worked in various aspects of the art world throughout her career: freelance illustrator, giftware designer, art director, decor designer and as the owner of her company, DK Designs.

DK Designs produces fun and functional handcrafted items derived from Diane’s mixed media collage work. Since the early 90’s she has traveled the country exhibiting these works at fine art and craft shows as well as maintaining her business online.

Her artwork has also been represented for licensing through her partnerships with giftware companies resulting in a wide range of products being made from her images including: wall calendars, ceramic tiles, fabrics, tote bags, mouse pads, puzzles, place mats and posters.

Over the years, Diane has been the recipient of various awards ranging from best new artist, 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in mixed media to best in show. While maintaining her work with DK Designs she has currently expanded her profile to include exhibiting her original collage work exclusively at some of the most prestigious fine art shows around the country.

Pushing to the edge of what is possible in paper medium. Diane is expanding the boundaries of fine art with paper fiber.

Throughout her art life, Diane has been exploring and developing different techniques for advancing the possibilities of paper fiber in her art.

Art is form, shape and pattern. Artists use physical, theoretical and visual means to observe, analyze, create and adapt.

Continue reading to explore the work of artist Diane Kaylor and to read our exclusive interview with the artist!

How did you get started as an artist?

I became an artist the day I learned to hold a crayon. In elementary school I was identified as having talent and enrolled in private art school lessons that I attended throughout middle school and into high school. By then I knew I wanted to persue a career in the arts. I went to Parsons School of Design and graduated with a degree in illustration. I worked as a freelance illustrator, giftware designer, art director, decor designer and in 1991 started my own business, D.K. Designs.

How did you find your unique style of art making?

At Parsons I began experimenting with paper collage. At first I created the collages using material from other print media. This led to creating my own papers beginning with making my own fabric designs on paper and turning them into paper quilts. From there it expanded to all kind of abstract painting techniques on various substrates creating different textures and making landscapes, seascapes and still lifes.

Tell us about the process of making your work from start to finish.

My collages consist of thousands of pieces of paper which are cut, layered and overpainted. The type of paper collage I create is a balance of abstract images and realistic representation. First the papers are handprinted with a variety of abstract techniques including; rubbings, stenciling, scrapping, splattering and imprints of objects. I use watercolor and acrylic paints. In addition I have recently begun incorporating paper mache, paper clay and molding paste to create more sculptural relief elements. Working from photographs as well as from life I make a drawing and work in sections, cutting and layering the pieces. As the parts come together I do more painting to unify the whole work.

Are there any unique challenges that come with working with paper compared to more traditional mediums?

The challenge of working with paper is the thing that keeps this art continuously engaging. This technique is unique to me. Each piece offers a new opportunity to create ways of doing things brought about by the individual demands of the work. I am constantly coming up with new ways of doing things. In addition, I spent quite a long time finding a satisfactory presentation solution for the work. Each piece is framed in a custom made museum quality acrylic frame. This provides protection as well as an unencumbered way to view the art

How has your 40 years of experience in various art related industries affected your art making process?

My goal is to continue to further my career as a working artist. I want to produce work that engages me, that I am proud of and that people are interested in. My experience has taught me that as long as those criteria are being met I am on the right path.

How do you spend your free time outside of making art? Do you have any favorite hobbies?

My favorite thing to do right now is to spend time with my grandchildren. Watching them grow is a never ending source of joy. My husband and I enjoy visiting historical sites and museums. We love the Jersey shore, the Adirondacks and the NY Giants.

What is your favorite thing about being a working artist?

I make art because I am an artist. I would make it regardless of any other consideration. I am never bored. I am never looking for something to do. I always have a piece of art in the works.

View Diane Kaylors Complete works

2023 Color of the Year: Viva Magenta

January 7, 2023 Susan Sheldon

The color of the year is carefully decided upon by The Pantone Color Institute after consideration and thought regarding current trends and influences. As a result, the Pantone Color of the Year subsequently influences future trends in design, including those of interior design and fine art. This year especially, it’s easy to see how much care has been taken to reflect on global and cultural influence on color and it’s impact.

And so we are introduced to the 2023 Color of the Year: Viva Magenta. A color so deeply rooted in cultural and natural inspiration its easy to see it’s influences. Whether we reflect to the fashion of popular figures such as Florence Pugh and Zendaya who have been seen multiple times recently in head to toe Magenta looks. Or look to influences of nature specifically pigments like carmine which produces a rich and bright red, which Viva Magenta heavily reflects.

According to Pantone, “This year’s Color of The Year is powerful and empowering. It is an animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and a boundless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement. PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a color that is audacious, full of wit and inclusive of all.”

Continue reading to see how we’ve explored some of the endless possibilities Viva Magenta has to offer when it comes to interior design and incorporating fine art into your collection.

Viva Magenta boasts itself as a powerful color. Influenced from carmine red found from nature, this color both boldly stands on its own and packs a punch when paired with equally powerful colors. Viva Magenta can be the perfect color to influence a dynamic style choice for your living spaces.

Benot, “Aster”, 48x60

“PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a color that is audacious, full of wit and inclusive of all.” We find this color as a chance to have fun with your designs. Play around with patterns and adding fun pops of interest to your space.

Park, “Whimsical Chanel”, 40x40

Viva Magenta done subtly can be a great way to incorporate the trendy color into your décor. With a color so powerful, even in the smallest of accents packs a punch without overwhelming the visual senses.

Noalia, “Fiesta”, 40x40

Viva Magenta is described as embodying an expression of fierce grace by Pantone. We see this as an opportunity to use the color to explore combinations of colors, patterns, and styles to create a unique motif for your home. Combine neutrals with bright colors and contrast modern and traditional design styles.

Ross, “Autumn Morning”, 30x24

Explore more ways to embrace Viva Magenta:

Dennis Sheehan - American Tonalist

October 15, 2022 Susan Sheldon

Spa Fine Art Gallery is proud to present, an exhibition featuring a collection of paintings by renowned landscape artist Dennis Sheehan. This collection will be on display from from October 20th, 2022 – November 20th, 2022

Dennis Sheehan's work is often described as reminiscent of the great masters of the Barbizon School, in France in the 19th century, and the American Tonalist. Born in Boston in 1950, he has works in major public and private collections, including the White House. His work has been featured in many publications including the featured cover of American Artist.

Dennis Sheehan received his training in the best traditions of the Boston School, studying at the Vesper George School of Art and the Montserrat School of Visual Art. He also studied with two of R.H. Gammell's former students, Robert Cormier and Richard Whitney. Like his great nineteenth century predecessor George Inness, whose influence is consciously acknowledged, Sheehan employs the dark palette and thickly pigmented surfaces of the French Barbizon School. Sheehan, like Inness before him, eschews picturesque scenery in the interest of evoking atmospherics. Also like Inness, Sheehan's paintings are produced in the studio from his imagination. For all of the references to history and there are multiple there is no mistaking the artist's debt to the more recent past. Without the legacy of action painting, Sheehan's art would be less forceful and evocative than it is.

Sheehan's pastoral paintings evoke the moody beauty and deep peace of nature. His goal is to have the painting emanate light, rather than just a surface that records the reflections of light the power comes from the shadows. Mysterious and breathtaking, his paintings capture the beholder and transport them into serene landscapes that have reverence for nature's poetic and changing seasons.

Sheehan’s artwork will be on view and available for purchase for the duration of the month-long exhibit. For more information about the gallery or the artist please call 518-587-2411 or Spafineart@aol.com.

Click Here to View the Entire Collection

Big Red White and Blue

August 1, 2022 Susan Sheldon

Most people remember Secretariat from his historic Triple Crown campaign, but many forget that some of Big Red’s most memorable moments came at Saratoga, both at 2 and 3. This is where the legend was born. In the span of 27 days, Secretariat ran three times at the Spa and had to overcome the first major obstacle of his career in the form of the previously undefeated Linda’s Chief, who went into the Sanford Stakes having already won three Stakes. It would be the only time Secretariat was not the favorite. After appearing to be trapped he busted through a narrow opening and drew off to a three-length victory over Linda’s Chief. That paved the way for a spectacular last-to-first victory in the Hopeful Stakes. Big Red never looked back after that and ended the year as North America’s Horse of the Year.

Beginning on the evening of August 5 at the Spa Fine Art gallery on Broadway, Secretariat returns to Saratoga in a dazzling display of color from the brush strokes of talented artist Lisa Palombo who has made Big Red one of her favorite subjects and has shown him from every angle, from his magnificent stride and powerful shoulders to his alert eyes peering through his blinkers in classic head shots and drawing off to his five-length in the Hopeful Stakes. All these and her other paintings come alive in splashes of bright colors that enhance Secretariat’s overwhelming presence. As a change of pace there is an intimate black and white image of Big Red and exercise rider Charlie Davis on the track walking toward you with a blinker-free Secretariat showing off his exquisite face with its familiar markings that makes you feel as if you are right there watching him.

At the Friday reception, lasting from 7-9 p.m., not only will you be able to meet the artist, but also Hall of Fame racing journalist Steve Haskin, who will be signing a number of his photos of Secretariat that will also be on display. And you won’t want to miss a display of Secretariat memorabilia for purchase signed by the late Penny Chenery just weeks before her passing. They are among the final items signed by racing’s iconic First Lady.

So we hope to see you at this celebration of one of the greatest sports figures of the 20th century in the town where the legend began.

Continue reading for our exclusive interview with artist Lisa Palombo!

How did you get started as an artist?

When I was in grammar school, one of my dear aunts suggested I take Saturday art classes at the Rhode Island School of Design, because she saw that I liked to draw and had a knack for art. Even as a child, I loved animals, the outdoors, and the beauty of nature, which has never left me. I am pleased I was able to pursue my passion and foster my creativity from a very early age.

How did you get acquainted with the Secretariat Group?

I met Leonard Lusky, who's the CEO of Secretariat.com, at one of my solo exhibitions in Saratoga Springs, New York, several years ago. We realized that we happened to travel in similar circles and were on each other's radar, but just never had an opportunity to meet until serendipitously, Kate Chenery Tweedy (daughter of Secretariat’s owner, the late Penny Chenery) was signing her books next door. She visited the gallery and later requested that I be the official artist of the Secretariat 50th birthday celebration.

Can you tell us how process of creating your work has differed with this project compared to past collections?

Secretariat is one of the most widely known and loved racehorses of all time, so capturing his likeness and personality as well as getting his stride correct was extremely important to me. In addition, I poured through a large, unique collection of rare photographs and imagery and collaborated with the Secretariat team and narrowed down a selection of preferences before beginning.

I also wanted to capture a sense of motion and raw power that he embodied.

What has inspired you the most in the entire process and working with the Secretariat Group?

The entire story of Big Red is an inspiration to me and many others. In fact, the more I researched and learned about him, studied his photos, and talked with experts, the more I became dedicated to his excellence and legacy. I've painted many sketches and canvases of him, and yet with each new painting, I feel there’s so much more yet to see and record.

Do you have a favorite piece you’ve created for this collection?

That’s a tough one. If I had to choose one it would be “America’s Horse.” Secretariat achieved and accomplished the unimaginable at a time where the country needed hope and inspiration. To me it sums up what he meant to our country when we needed it. His story is remarkable.

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To Request more information about the work depicted in this article please contact the gallery:

spafineart@aol.com 518.587.2411