As both an artist and the owner of a framing gallery, I’ve worked with countless clients to help them transform their living spaces into personalized Art galleries. With a few thoughtful tips, you can elevate your space and create a cohesive, inspiring environment that tells your story.

I’m grateful to my parents for leaving their rural roots behind in pursuit of a better life in Northern Virginia. In their communities, during that time, imagining a career as an artist would have been nearly impossible. Growing up surrounded by art and artists allowed me to dream of what could be. Proximity to museums and galleries can be a powerful spark for a young mind, and it certainly was for me.

One of the hardest things for a young artist is finding your own voice. I wanted drama in my work—and life, as it happened, provided plenty. Going through a divorce was that pivotal moment, opening a well of raw emotion. During this time, I painted a series of self-portraits from a mirror, capturing a pain that pushed me deeper into myself than I’d ever been.

Last week, Maria and I set off for Maine, with a brief stop in Rhode Island. Many of you know that the majority of my landscapes are inspired by Maine, and these annual pilgrimages recharge my creative energy, offering fresh perspectives for next year's show at Artemis Gallery. Every year reveals something new, and this trip was no exception.

Normally, I use this space to talk about Art, but today I’m excited to introduce you to our framing studios and my business partner, fellow rock band member, and talented artist, Jeff Erickson. Together, we own Erickson & Ripper Framing and Del Ray Picture Framing. We also have some exciting news to share!

Last fall, I was commissioned to create a large landscape for a client’s home on the Eastern Shore, inspired by a small 18” x 18” study I had completed the year before. I was beyond excited. Not only was this client someone I’ve known for many years, but the study had always lingered in the back of my mind, almost whispering that it was destined for something greater.

I recently had the pleasure of completing two charcoal portraits and displaying them in my studio window. It was such a joy to overhear passersby exclaim, “Oh, I know who they are!” as they recognized the subjects. Children, in particular, are the ultimate judges of how well you’ve captured someone’s likeness—always brutally honest and refreshingly direct.

I have another muse in Maine, nestled in Winter Harbor. To get there, I have to walk down a meandering path through the woods until I hit the water. By the time I'm halfway down, I can hear the waves crashing in the distance and smell the salty air. Perched atop the large rocky edge of the water is a tiny one-room house...

I get asked this question at happy hour and cocktail parties all the time: “Does an Artist’s life really play out like those steamy sensual scenes from the movies?” Short answer is yes, it does! At least sometimes. At least enough to remind yourself of how great life is to feel such power. Whatever your muse is. This connection does not have to be a person, or even a noun, but rather a state of being.

Creating a portrait is not just about the technical skill; it’s about encapsulating the essence of the subject. Maria is more than a muse—she is a source of inspiration, a beacon of creativity. The challenge lies in translating her vibrant spirit onto the canvas. A tall order.