American Art Invitational

Announcement of Awards for Small Gems American Art Invitational

2011-12-06T14:50:00.000-08:00

Announces the Awardees

"Small Gems 2011"

Best of Show

Gordon Brown

funded by Saks Galleries

Gordon Brown "Ocean Breeze" 6 x 8 oil

Dean Mitchell "Winter Sunburst"
10 x 7.5 watercolor

Dean Mitchell "French Quarter Corner"
10 z 7.5 watercolor

Dean Mitchell

Collectors Award

funded by Saks Galleries

Dean Mitchell "Crescent City Trumpter" 11 x 7.5 watercolor

Stephanie Birdsall

Collectors Award

funded by Saks Galleries

Stephanie Birdsall "Plums and Cherries" 11 x 14 pastel Stephanie Birdsall "Persian Bowl with Hydrangeas" 11 x 14 oil

SWA Award of Excellence

Ray Roberts

funded by Southwest Art Magazine

Ray Roberts "Back Bay Light" 8 x 10 oil

Congratulations to all the participants of "Small Gems 2011"

Exquisite sculpture and paintings are still available for holiday gift giving.

Shop online or visit Saks Galleries Cherry Creek Denver

3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206 303.333.4144

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.co m

Saks Galleries Presents American Art Invitational Small Gems Exhibition Opening Saturday Dec 3rd.

2011-12-02T16:10:00.000-08:00

Awards Presentation and Opening Reception

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5:pm - 8:pm

Extraordinary Small Works

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

303.333.4144 www.saksgalleries.com

T. D. Kelsey "Spooks Everywhere" 10 x 7 x 7 bronze

co-sponsored by

Join Us for a Gala Weekend of Events

Meet the Artists at Coffee

Sunday, December 4, 2011 10:am - 1:pm

Participating Artists

William Acheff, Edward Aldrich, Kathy Anderson, William Berra, Stephanie Birdsall, Gordon Brown, G. Russell Case, Chapel, Tim Chapman, Nicolas Coleman, C. Michael Dudash, Molly Davis, Barry Eisenach, Josh Elliott, Kim English, David Gray, Daniel Glanz, Michael Godfrey, Walt Gonske, David Gray, Ron Hicks, Quang Ho, William Hook, Olga and Aleksey Ivanov, T.D. Kelsey, Andrea T. Kemp, Daniel Keys, Joseph Lorusso, Kim Mackey, Kevin Macpherson, Jerry Markham, Andi “Nura” Mascareñas, Dean Mitchell, Jay Moore, Dan Ostermiller, Mary Qian, Ray Roberts, Wayne Salge, Sherry Salari Sander, Tim Shinabarger, Sallie K. Smith, Jill Soukup, Pati Stajcar, Michelle Torrez, John Traynor, Karen Vance and Jie Wei Zhou.

www.saksgalleries.com or www.americanartinvitational.com

<< For more information on T.D. Kelsey use this quick link

Meet C. Michael Dudash at the Small Gems Gala Opening Weekend December 3 and 4

2011-11-28T14:46:00.000-08:00

Meet Award Wining Master Artist

C. Michael Dudash

Gala Weekend Events

hosted by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

3019 East Second Avenue Denver, Colorado 80206

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Sunday, December 4, 2011 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

American Art Invitational

Small Gems

C. Michael Dudash "A Gentle Spirit"14 x 11 oil

In the past 32 years, Michael has completed over 1800 oil paintings and assignments for clients world-wide. His earlier illustration career focused on creating artwork for the movie industry, advertisers, publishers, books, magazines, design firms, corporations and institutions such as the United Nations, and the US Postal Service. They have won him a national reputation and numerous awards, from the Society of Illustrators (NYC & LA), the Society of Publication Designers, Communications Arts and HOW Magazine.

<< to learn more about C. Michael Dudash

All works are available prior to the opening reception

To purchase this C. Michael Dudash painting or any other small gem please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144

Small Gems by Colorado Watercolorist Molly Davis at Saks Galleries

2011-11-26T14:46:00.000-08:00

"Small Gems"

American Art Invitational Exhibition

hosted by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

December 3 - 31, 2011

Gala Opening Weekend

Opening Night Reception

Saturday, December 3rd 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Artists and Patron Coffee

Sunday, December 4th, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Join us for an extraordinary holiday exhibition

Molly Davis

Molly Davis "Hoorne Harbour Plein Aire" 5.5 x 9 watercolor

Molly Davis "San Miquel Sliding Board" 10 x 7.75 watercolor

Molly is a world traveler and she has captured images from every part of the globe. Besides the international images, her subjects range from brilliantly-colored florals to nostalgic still lifes.

<< to learn more about Molly Davis click here

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

All paintings are available prior to the opening night reception. To purchase one of Molly's watercolors or any other "Small Gem" in the exhibition please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.3144

Co-sponsored by

American Art Invitational Presents Small Gems by Internationally Recognized Karen Vance and More Opening December 3, 2011 Denver

2011-11-25T16:34:00.000-08:00

"Small Gems"

American Art Invitational

An Exhibition and Sale of Small Works By Past and Present AAI Artist

December 3 - December 31, 2011

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

and by

Southwest Art Magazine

Opening Night Reception

Saturday, December 3rd 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Artist and Patron Coffee

Sunday, December 4th, 10:00am - 1:00pm

3019 East Second Avenue Denver, Colorado 80206

Karen Vance

Karen Vance "Quiet of Winter" 10 x 12 oil on Belgian linen

Karen Vance was born in Chicago into the Swartwout family of artists, of six generations. Her upbringing and education; the Art Institute of Chicago, Village Art School with the late Joe Abbrescia, in Skokie, Illinois, Northern Illinois University, Denver Art Student's League and numerous studies with many of the finest living painters; Carolyn Anderson, Clyde Aspevig, Scott Christensen, Mark Daley, Quang Ho, David Leffel, T.L. Lawson, Michael Lynch, William Reese, Richard Schmid, Burton Silverman and Michael Workman, to name a few, brought her to her passion and profession.

<<To read more about Karen Vance.

To purchase this beautiful original oil painting by Karen Vance or any other extraordinary small gem contact karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144 for assistance

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

Small Gem Jill Soukup's "Ramblin' Rouser" for December Opening!

2011-11-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

Jill Soukup "Rambling Rouser" 13.5 x 13.5 oil

Small Gems Exhibition
December 3, - 31, 2011
presented by
Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

3019 East Second Avenue Denver Colorado 80206 www.saksgalleries.com 303.333.4144

Jill Soukup

Jill Soukup was born in Buffalo, New York. Shortly thereafter, her family moved to Colorado, where she still resides. Jill's affinity for horses as a young girl resulted in countless drawings and studies of them, which made for a strong drawing foundation. Jill will presented in a solo exhibition at Saks Galleries opening January 13, 2012. For more information on Jill's exhibition and the 2012 year at a glance go to

www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to the American Art Invitational Artist List

Michael Godfrey's "Small Gems" American Art Invitational December

2011-11-19T14:42:00.000-08:00

Small Gems Exhibition

December 3 - December 31, 2011

Opening Night Reception

Saturday, December 3rd 5:pm - 8:pm

Artist and Patron Coffee

Sunday, December 4th, 10:am - 1:pm

hosted by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

3019 East Second Avenue Denver Colorado 80206

303.333.4144

Michael Godfrey "Teton Fall" 8 x8 oil

Michael Godfrey

Michael Godfrey "First Snow" 8 x 10 oil

Michael Godfrey is an award-winning landscape artist whose work hangs in many private and corporate collections. Born in Germany in 1958 and raised in North Carolina, he earned a BA in Fine Arts and began his painting career in oils and watercolors. He spends hours photographing and sketching, preparing for a well thought out painting. Michael describes his style as a combination of George Inness' impressionism with the moods of an Albert Bierstadt paintings.ti

All Works are Available Prior to the Opening Reception.

To Purchase any of Michael Godfrey's four small gems or any other works please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144.

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist pages

Grumbacher Gold Medalist John C. Traynor Dramatic Florals at Small Gems Denver Colorado

2011-11-19T11:01:00.000-08:00

John C. Traynor "Flowers" 11 x 14 oil

Saks Galleries
presents

American Art Invitational
Small Gems

December 3 - 31, 2011
OPening Reception, Saturday, December 3rd 5:pm - 8:pm
Artist and Patron Coffee, Sunday, December 4th 10:am - 1:pm

John C. Traynor
John C. Traynor has received over two hundred awards of merit for his art, including the Grumbacher Gold Medal, the Robb Sagendorph award, and the Frank Dumond Memorial Award for best light and atmospheric effect in a painting.

All Works are Available to Purchase Prior to the Reception

Contact karen@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

<< to return to American Art Invitational use this quick link

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue Denver Colorado 80206

303.333.4144 or www.saksgalleries.com

Beautiful Landscapes by Sallie K. Smith at the Small Gems Exhibition

2011-11-18T15:55:00.000-08:00

Sallie K. Smith "Golden Banner" 6 x 18 oil

Saks Galleries
presents
American Art Invitational
Small Gems

December 3 - 31 , 2011
Opening Reception Saturday, Dec. 3rd 5:pm - 8:pm
Artist and Patron Coffee Sunday, Dec. 4th 10:am - 1:pm

Sallie K. Smith

Though Smith paints other subjects, she prefers landscapes, and enjoys letting the work speak for her. The gentle yet vibrant images she depicts are inspired by her favorite vistas—most notably, the mountainous views that surround her home—and reflect her reverent admiration for the land. "Nature, to me, is so perfect in every detail; it gives me peace and, at the same time, is exhilarating. I am trying to capture that ethereal sensibility in my work, knowing that these moments of solitude are often fleeting. I invite the viewer to step inside my paintings and enjoy with me these special places."

<< to see all three Sallie K. Smith's "Small Gems" use this quick link

All Works are Available to Purchase Prior to the Reception
Please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

Saks Galleries 3019 East Second Avenue Denver Colorado 80206
www.saksgalleries.com

Award Winning Dean L. Mitchell at Saks Galleries Denver Colorado in December - Three Outstanding Gems

2011-11-18T15:14:00.000-08:00

Dean Mitchell "French Quarter Corner" 10 x 7.5 WC

Saks Galleries

hosts

The American Art Invitational

Small Gems

December 3 - 31, 2011

Opening Reception Saturday, Dec. 3rd

5:pm - 8:pm

Artist and Patron Coffee Sunday, Dec. 4th

10:am - 1:pm

Dean L. Mitchell

Three Gems

Dean Mitchell "Crescent City Trumpeter" 11 x 7.5 WC

Dean L. Mitchell is well known for his figurative works, landscapes and still-lifes. In addition to watercolors, he is accomplished in other mediums, including egg temperas, oils and pastels. Mitchell has been featured in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Christian Science Monitor, American Artist, Artist Magazine, Fine Art International and Art News.

Mr. Mitchell has received the American Watercolor Society Gold Medal, Allied Artist of American Gold Medal in Watercolor and Oil, Thomas Moran Award from the Salmagundi Club in New York, Remington Professional League, and for three years in a row the Best in Show Award from the Mississippi Watercolor Society Grand National Competition. He received the Autry National Center Award for Watercolor at the Masters of the American West Fine Art Exhibition and Sale.

Dean Mitchell "Winter Sunburst" 10 x 7.5 W

Dean is a member of several professional societies, including the American Watercolor Society and the National Watercolor Society.

All works are available prior to reception

If you would like to purchase paintings by Dean L. Mitchell or any of the"Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational

please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

3019 East Second Avenue Denver Colorado 80206

www.saksgalleries.com or www.americanartinvitational.com

<< to return to the American Art Invitational Art List

Exquisite Small Gems by Wildlife Sculptor Tim Shinabarger

2011-11-17T12:42:00.000-08:00

Tim Shinabarger "Bear, Grass and Blossoms"
7.5Hx4Wx4D Bronze, Edition of 150

Wildlife Sculptor Tim Shinabarger

enjoy new works presented at

American Art Invitational

Small Gems

December 3 - 31, 2011

opening reception, Saturday, December 3, 2011

all works available prior to reception

contact karen@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

Following in the footsteps of artistic pathfinders such as Carl Rungius and Belmore Brown, Shinabarger makes pilgrimages into the wilderness to gather ideas for new work. In order to convey the essence of his elusive subjects, Shinabarger finds it essential to observe them in the wild. His paintings and bronzes convey a sense of light and atmosphere. Shinabarger does not consider every detail, but rather attempts to capture the spirit of the scene in an impressionistic manner. The surfaces of his paintings and bronzes alike are tactile and spontaneous.

Small Gems Exhibition hosted by Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206 www.saksgalleries.com 303.333.4144

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

Small Gems by Sculptor - Painter Andi "Nura" Mascareñas

2011-11-17T12:08:00.000-08:00

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

presents

American Art Invitational

Small Gems

December 3 - 31, 2011

Andi "Nura" Mascareñas

Nura travels with her husband, Master oil painter, Kim English, enjoying both sculpturing in clay when possible but also oil painting. Being a diverse artist, Nura's oil paintings show the enjoyment she has in painting boats, landscapes and harbors. However, painting the figure is always central in her work. "Painting on location is exhilarating for me. It gives me the ability to feel the energy of another culture in a different manner than sculpture. But I have found that painting gives energy to my sculpture and sculpting gives energy to my paintings, how I experience my world with form and color," says Nura."

<< to learn more about Andi "Nura" Mascareñas use this quick link

If you would like to purchase this painting by Nura or any of the paintings in "Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or aai@saksgalleries.com

303.333.4144

Small Gems Opening Reception December 3, 2011 5:pm - 8:pm

All works are available prior to the reception

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206 www.saksgalleries.com 303.333.4144

National Acclaimed Cowboy Artist Kim Mackey, OPA

2011-11-17T11:30:00.000-08:00

Kim Mackey "Fisher's Peak" 9 x 12 oil

American Art Invitational Small Gems Exhibition

all works available prior to the reception

December 3, 2011

hosted by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

3019 East Second Avenue Denver Colorado 80206

303.333.4144 www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

Kim Mackey

Mackey is one of only a handful of western genre artists in the United States to be selected as a signature member of the Oil Painters of America, and has been featured in Art Revue, Art Talk, The Artist's Magazine, Southwest Art, Art Of The West, Western Horseman, American Art Collector and Cowboys And Indians magazine. The Denver Post has called him "a master of (his) genre," and Southwest Art has acknowledged him as a traditional cowboy artist in the finest sense of the word.

Please join us for the Small Gems Exhibition December 3 - 31, 2011

Exquisite Small Gem by Joseph Lorusso

2011-11-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

Joseph Lorusso "Resting" 12 x 16 oil

Exquisite Small Gems Exhibition

at Saks Galleries Denver Colorado

December 3 - 31, 2011

All art available prior to the reception

Joseph Lorusso creates landscapes and figurative works. In painting these subjects, Lorusso has concentrated on honing his powers of observation, especially as it concerns to color, texture, form and composition. Lorusso's paintings have been described as warm and dreamlike, places of restful escape with a sense of spirituality, and share timelessness with the works of other eras.

to learn more about Joseph Lorusso use this quick

Saks Galleries 3019 East Second Avenue. Denver Colorado. 303.333.4144

Meet the Artists of Small Gems at "The Coffee" hosted By Saks Galleries

2011-11-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

December 3 - December 31, 2011

Opening Night Reception

Saturday, December 3rd 5:pm - 8:pm

The Coffee

Sunday, December 4th 10:am- 1:pm

hosted by Saks Galleries Cherry Creek Denver

3019 East Second Avenue. Denver, Colorado 80206

303.333.4144

Joseph Lorusso "Red Wine Glaze" 14 x 14 oil

All Small Gems are available prior to the reception

Participating Artists

William Acheff, Edward Aldrich, Kathy Anderson, Michael Bergt, William Berra, Stephanie Birdsall, Gordon Brown, G. Russell Case, Chapel, Tim Chapman, Nicolas Coleman, C. Michael Dudash, Molly Davis, Barry Eisenach, Josh Elliott, Kim English, David Gray, Daniel Glanz, Michael Godfrey, Walt Gonske, David Gray, Ron Hicks, Quang Ho, William Hook, Olga and Aleksey Ivanov, T.D. Kelsey, Andrea T. Kemp, Daniel Keys, Joseph Lorusso, Kim Mackey, Kevin Macpherson, Jerry Markham, Andi “Nura” Mascareñas, Dean Mitchell, Jay Moore, Dan Ostermiller, Mary Qian, Ray Roberts, Wayne Salge, Sherry Salari Sander, Tim Shinabarger, Sallie K. Smith, Jill Soukup, Pati Stajcar, Michelle Torrez, John Traynor and Karen Vance

Join us in celebrating the extraordinary collection of small works

2011-11-12T13:52:00.000-08:00

Small Gems

hosted by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

December 3 - 31, 2011

Gordon Brown

Gordon Brown "Ocean Breeze" 6 x 8 oil

Gordon Brown made his first foray into art when he bought a set of oil paints while in high school. Although he had not painted until then, two of his oils won best of show and first place, respectively, in a high school art contest. This early recognition sparked his interest in art and his desire to pursue a career as an artist. Brown also received encouragement from several established artists in the area. Shortly after graduating from high school, he was introduced to Mark Rohrig, who invited Brown to his one-man show in Aspen, Colorado. From this experience in the professional art world, Brown learned that it was possible to earn a living as a painter.

to learn more about Gordon Brown us this quick link

If you would like to purchase this painting by Gordon Brown or any of the other

"Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational

please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or aai@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

American Art Invitational "Small Gems" Opening Reception,

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

Just Arrived New Works by Mary Qian for Small Gems Exhibition Opening December 3 - 31, 2011

2011-11-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

Small Gems

hosted by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek

December 3 - 31, 2011

Mary Qian

Recent Silver Medal Awardee Oil Painters of America

Mary Qian "Backstage" 14 x 11 oil

Mary Qian "Lisa" 14 x 11 oil

Originally from Shanghai, China, Mary went through the traditional Chinese educational system focusing on the sciences while studying Chinese painting and calligraphy on her own. Before coming to the U.S., she admired the ancient Chinese painters but found her true voice for painting when she discovered the western artists. It was the realism of Rembrandt, Velazquez, Repin, her particular favorites that she found to be the artistic style that she had been looking for. Mary attended Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah where she earned her BFA in Fine Arts and Illustration.

to learn more about Mary Qian use this quick link

If you would like to purchase this painting by Mary Qian or any of the other

"Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational

please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or aai@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

American Art Invitational "Small Gems" Opening Reception,

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

Olga and Aleksey Ivanov Create Exquisite "Small Gems" for American Art Invitational Held in December

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

Small Gems

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek Denver, Colorado

Olga and Aleksey Ivanov "Convertible" 8.5 x 8.5 Egg Tempera on Marble Gesso Panel

Olga and Aleksey Ivanov

Olga and Aleksey Ivanov "Golden Trumpets" 9 x 14 Egg Tempera on Marble Gesso Panel

The Moscow born Ivanov's began their creative lives together as artists working individually. Now all of their works are collaborative. To achieve their goal, the work start at Olga's easel, then travel to Aleksey's and back. The Ivanovs' are unique storytellers employing the ancient and temperamental medium of egg tempera to create stories that are inventive, playful and often ironic icons of our times.

to learn more about The Ivanov's use this quick link

Olga and Aleksey Ivanov "Portobello" 8 x 10 Egg Tempera on Marble Gesso

If you would like to purchase the paintings by Olga and Aleksey Ivanov or any of the other

"Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational

please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or aai@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

American Art Invitational "Small Gems" Opening Reception,

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

American Art Invitational Presents William Hook's Small Gems for December

2011-11-10T20:06:00.000-08:00

Small Gems

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek Denver, Colorado

William Hook

William Hook "Autumn Artist" 12 x 12 acrylic

The American landscape is William Hook's inspiration. Large skies, low horizons, distant mountains and textured foregrounds are expressed in his paintings with broad brushstrokes of vivid color. The magazines Southwest Art, Art of the West, U.S. Art, American Artist and Focus Santa Fe have featured Hook's work in cover articles, and the book, Leading the West by Donald Hagerty, references William Hook as one of the notable influences on the western art scene. In addition, publishers Harper-Collins and North Light have included his work in numerous books written about the contemporary art process in Europe and America.

Mr. Hook's paintings can be found in the permanent collections of the Denver Art Museum, the Tucson Art Museum, the University of New Mexico, the FORBES Museum, NYC, and the Genesee Museum, New York. In addition, Hook's work is featured in prints for the New Mexico Symphony, Music from Angel Fire and the Santa Fe Opera.

to learn more about William Hook use this quick link

If you would like to purchase this painting by William Hook or any of the other

"Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational

please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or aai@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

American Art Invitational "Small Gems" Opening Reception,

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

William Berra's "First One In" for Small Gems American Art Invitational Opening December

2011-11-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

Small Gems

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek Denver, Colorado

William Berra

William Berra "First One In" 12 x 12 oil on linen

William Berra lives in Santa Fe and has gained recognition for his unique use of oils. Subject matter ranges from the Western desert to Avignon, France to the American seashore. His work is strongly influenced by the Italian Macchiaioli School of the 1850's. He is equally comfortable and artistically accomplished with large canvases as well as miniatures.

Berra's work has been shown in over 40 competitions and shows, including group and solo exhibitions. Berra's paintings have been exhibited extensively in the United States and are represented in private and public collections around the world, including Taiwan, Spain, the U.S. State Department, Bell South, and the University of Texas.

<< to learn more about William Berra click this quick link

If you would like to purchase this painting by William Berra or any of the other

"Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational

please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or aai@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

American Art Invitational "Small Gems" Opening Reception,

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

Exquisite Small Gem by Critically Acclaimed Artist William Acheff

2011-10-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

Small Gems

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek Denver, Colorado

William Acheff

William Acheff "Blackfoot Mocs" 6 x 8 oil

In 1973, William Acheff moved to Taos, New Mexico to separate himself from the influences during his apprenticeship with Italian artist Roberto Lupetti. It was in Taos that Acheff found his niche. Acheff, who is of Alaskan Athabascan heritage, has a special affinity for the historical and cultural artifacts that he chooses to paint. The appealing forms and designs of the Indian pots and artifacts are intertwined with Acheff's preference for painting textures from nature. The vintage photographs that often appear in Acheff's compositions help the artist set a mood. Each article in relation to the others becomes integral to the composition as a whole. The results invite lasting contemplation.

To learn more about William Acheff click this quick link

If you would like to purchase this painting by William Acheff or any of the other

"Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational

please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or aai@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

American Art Invitational "Small Gems" Opening Reception,

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

New Sculpture from Pati Stajcar for Small Gems

2011-10-28T14:05:00.000-07:00

Small Gems Exhibition

hosted by Saks Galleries, Cherry Creek, Denver, Colorado

December 3 - 31, 2011

Pati Stajcar

Pati Stajcar "Chickadeer" 13H x 7W x 4D bronze

"Life's experiences reflect themselves in my sculpture. Energy, flowing from and around each form, guides the gift I present to you. Each design begins and ends in abstract but blends with the representation. Flow and balance are my subject matter expressed through nature. I encourage you to run your hands over my work to understand the feeling I have when I create a piece. I hope you share in the experience from my heart to yours." ...Pati

To learn more about Pati Stajcar click this quick link

If you would like to purchase one of these sculptures by Pati Stajcar or any of the other

"Small Gems" in the American Art Invitational

please contact karen@saksgalleries.com or aai@saksgalleries.com or 303.333.4144

American Art Invitational "Small Gems" Opening Reception,

Saturday, December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

presented by

Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

<< to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

Barry Eisenach's Small Gems Just Arrived

2011-10-27T15:30:00.000-07:00

Small Gems

American Art Invitational

hosted by Saks Galleries Denver Colorado

December 3 - 31, 2011

Sculptor Painter Barry Eisenach

Barry Eisenach "Anticipation" 14 x 11 oil

Painter and sculptor Barry Eisenach works out of his studio in Arvada, Colorado. After two years at Colorado State University he attended and graduated from Colorado Institute of Art. After 24 years as an illustrator and graphic designer he turned his attention to sculpting and painting. Mr. Eisenach has been featured in Southwest Art Magazine, Art of the West and American Art Collector. He was elected to membership in the Northwest Rendezvous Group in 2003 and is a juried Sculptor Member of the National Sculpture Society.

If you would like to purchase this painting by Barry Eisenach or any of the other "Small Gems"

in the American Art Invitational

please contact aai@saksgalleries.com, karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144

American Art Invitation "Small Gems" Opening Reception, Saturday December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

hosted at Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

Small Gems is pleased to present Ron Hicks "Diva in White"

2011-10-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

Small Gems

American Art Invitational

hosted by Saks Galleries Denver Colorado

December 3 - 31, 2011

Ron Hicks

Ron Hicks "Diva in White" 18 x 11 oil

Ron Hicks was once asked about his favorite subject matter, he replied without hesitation, "...figures and interiors." But he quickly qualified "figures" by saying that painting them is really about painting shapes of color. "I am a shape guy. By that, I mean, I see things more in terms of shape rather than the objects or people," he says. "Everything is about shape, medium shape vs. large shape, lighter shape vs. darker shape."

Hicks has been interested in art since he was 4 years old growing up in Columbus, Ohio. His mother pursued art as a hobby and took correspondence courses. The young Hicks would scan the critiques of his mother's works and then trace some of the assignments himself.

for more information on Ron Hicks click this quick link or visit www. American Art Invitational.com

If you would like to purchase this painting by Ron Hicks or any of the other "Small Gems"

in the American Art Invitational

please contact aai@saksgalleries.com, karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144

American Art Invitation "Small Gems" Opening Reception, Saturday December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

hosted at Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver Colorado 80206

Participating Artists

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

Two Small Gems by Master Artist Jerry Markham

2011-10-25T15:18:00.000-07:00

Small Gems Exhibition

hosted by Saks Galleries. Cherry Creek. Denver Colorado

December 3 - 31, 2011

Enjoy these new works by artist

Jerry Markham

Jerry Markham "Colors of an Old Tin Roof" 9 x 12 oil

Award winning artist Jerry Markham primarily paints landscapes though he enjoys painting anything that captures his interest. He feels a landscape painting is a window into three worlds—the place itself, the way the artist saw and rendered it, and how the viewer sees and relates to the final painting. Jerry feels the best way to create paintings with passion and feeling is to get out and experience the outdoors—paint in the snow, get caught in the rain, and feel the surroundings. The result will bear a unique sense of not only the place but of the artist's experience. Jerry's work has been in numerous magazines, seen recognition through awards and can be found in galleries across North America. These precious Gems may be purchased now through the American Art Invitational Small Gems exhibition in Denver, Colorado. To learn more about Jerry Markham click quick here.

Jerry Markham "Profile of a Cowboy" 14 x 11 oil

If you would like to purchase one of theses paintings by Jerry Markham or any of the other "Small Gems"

in the American Art Invitational

please contact aai@saksgalleries.com, karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144

American Art Invitation "Small Gems" Opening Reception,

Saturday December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

hosted at Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

<<to return to American Art Invitational Artist List

"Small Gems" Arrived by Stephanie Birdsall

2011-10-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

Small Gems Exhibition

hosted by Saks Galleries

December 3 - 31, 2011

Enjoy these new works by Master Artist

Stephanie Birdsall

Stephanie Birdsall "Persian Bowl with Hydrangeas" 11 x 14 oil

A member of the Degas Pastel Society, the Pastel Society of America and the International Pastel Society, is it any wonder Stephanie Birdsall has received so many prestigious awards for her pastels? Ms. Birdsall is also a member of Oil Painters of America among other fine art organizations. Her work in both mediums is poignant - resonating sheer beauty.

Stephanie Birdsall received her formal training at the City and Guilds of London Art School in England. After graduation she spent time traveling through Europe honing her skills as a plein air painter. Upon her return to the United States, she studied with many American artists and has been fortunate to paint under the tutelage of Richard Schmid and the Putney Painters for the past three years.

Her work has garnered recognition and more than 30 major awards in national and international juried exhibitions. She has exhibited at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in London, England, Bargemon in France and at the National Arts Club in New York. Among the awards she has received are Best in Show at the Bridgeport Museum of Arts and Science, the Grumbacher Gold Medallion Award, the Degas Pastel Society Exceptional Merit Award, the Connecticut Pastel Society Herman Margulies Award and the Catherine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club, John Manship Award. In 2004 her work was selected by the National Academy of the Arts for inclusion in the Arts for the Parks National Exhibition.

Stephanie Birdsall "Plums and Cherries" 11 x 14 pastel

If you would like to purchase a painting by Stephanie Birdsall or any of the other "Small Gems"

in the American Art Invitational

please contact aai@saksgalleries.com, karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144

American Art Invitation "Small Gems" Opening Reception, Saturday December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

hosted at Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

Just Arrived "Small Gems" from Kathy Anderson

2011-10-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

Small Gems Exhibition

hosted by Saks Galleries

December 3 - 31, 2011

Enjoy these new works by Master Artist

Kathy Anderson

Kathy Anderson, "Azalea, Pansies and Lily of the Valley" 11 x 12 oil

"My passion for painting is rooted in my garden. I strive to translate my excitement about the experience of growth, light, and translucent colors from the earth to my canvas. Nature has always spoken to me whether it is the rushing of a waterfall or the burst of new green in the Spring. I am awed by the beauty around me and I love to share my vision through my paintings."...Kathy Anderson

Kathy Anderson, "Dogwood Lilac and Lily of the Valley" 12 x 16 oil

If you would like to purchase a painting by Kathy Anderson or any of the other "Small Gems"

in the American Art Invitational

please contact aai@saksgalleries.com, karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144

American Art Invitation "Small Gems" Opening Reception, Saturday December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

hosted at Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

Just Arrived "Small Gems" from Sculptor Dan Ostermiller

2011-10-21T15:16:00.000-07:00

Small Gems Exhibition

hosted by Saks Galleries Denver Colorado

December 3 - 31, 2011

Wildlife Sculptor Dan Ostermiller

Dan Ostermiller "On Thin Ice" 2Hx5Wx5D Bronze Edition of 100

Considered one of the foremost wildlife sculptors working in the United States today, Ostermiller is admired for his thorough knowledge of animal anatomy, his deft manipulation of line, form and mass, and his tendency to approach his subjects with compassion and insight. One of America's foremost wildlife sculptors, Dan Ostermiller works in a realist style and is admired for his extensive knowledge of animal anatomy, high level of craftsmanship, and compassionate treatment of his subjects. He is committed to studying animals in their own environments and strives to put character into his pieces. His has a fluid style that conveys grace of motion, and he quite often works on fifteen to twenty pieces at a time. Ostermiller has also taught animal anatomy and the animal characteristics around the world.

To read more on Dan Ostermiller visit the American Art Invitational website or just click the link

If you would like to purchase this miniature sculpture by Dan Ostermiller or any of the other "Small Gems"

in the American Art Invitational

please contact aai@saksgalleries.com, karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144.

American Art Invitation "Small Gems" Opening Reception, Saturday December 3, 2011 5pm - 8pm

hosted at Saks Galleries Cherry Creek 3019 East Second Avenue, Denver Colorado 80206

www.americanartinvitational.com or www.saksgalleries.com

Just Arrived "Small Gems" from Walt Gonske

2011-10-20T15:03:00.000-07:00

Small Gems Exhibition

hosted by Saks Galleries

December 3 - 31, 2011

Enjoy these new works by Master Artist

Walt Gonske

Walt Gonske, "Ojo Sarco, New Mexico" 12 x 16 oil

Taos, New Mexico has long been a mecca for artists - a place where artists hung their easels as early as Joseph Henry Sharp in 1893. The local artists needed a social medium and in 1915, an organization developed of visual artists. It was based on a simple commercial venture concept which became known as the Taos Society of Artists. Disbanding just 12 years later in 1927, the organization left it's benchmark on the art world. The six founders of the society confirmed their place in history. The founders included Sharp, Ernest L. Blumenschein, W. Herbert Dunton, E.I. Crouse, Bert G. Phillips and Oscar E. Berninghaus.

These celebrated artists developed the gateway for future Taos painters.

Walt Gonske is the quintessential Taos painter, sometimes referred to as one of the "New Taos Six," other members included, Ron Barsano, Robert Daughters, Rod Goebel, Julian Robles and Ray Vinella. It is said by many, this principal group of artists helped to revitalize the Taos art market, enhancing public awareness and introducing a new generation of art patrons in the 1960's. Taos, Santa Fe and northern New Mexico are still considered as a gathering place for artists and patrons.

Walt moved to New Mexico shortly after visiting his little sister who was working at the Taos Ski Valley. Walt had been a fashion illustrator and as the times changed in his industry, so did Walt. He wanted more. He began his long-time painting career in Taos, New Mexico, never turning back. Walt is represented by Saks Galleries Cherry Creek Denver, Colorado.

To read more on Walt Gonske visit the American Art Invitational website or just click the link.

Walt Gonske, "San Jose, New Mexico" 12 x 16 oil

If you would like to purchase these paintings for your collection or any of the other "Small Gems" in the Invitational, please contact aai@saksgalleries.com, karen@saksgalleries.com or call 303.333.4144

Announcing "Small Gems" Artists 2011

2011-10-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

G. Russell Case "Passing Storm" 10 x 16

Extraodinary Small Gems

All works are available prior to the reception www.americanartinvitational.com

December 3 – 31, 2011

American Art Invitational

Hosted by Saks Galleries Denver, Colorado

Participating Artists