"I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for the beautiful portrait you painted of me and my husband! My colleagues here at AECF, spearheaded no doubt by Malik Jordan, gave it to me today, and I must say it took my breath away! I think my husband and I actually look better on the portrait than we do in real life! Anyway, thanks for such a beautiful piece. I plan to hang it prominently in my den at my home. And I also plan to look you up the next time I want to give a nice gift to someone I care about!!"
Thanks again,
Audrey D. Jordan Ph.D. , The Annie E. Casey Foundation
WHY ART
Some say a picture is worth a thousand words.
Some say art is dead.
You just know you like it, and that, is the main consideration. Maybe you’re already familiar with the value of art or a collector already, with beautiful work proudly displayed throughout your home or office. On the other hand, maybe you’ve stopped in front of a gallery window or stared art paintings or sculpture in the latest upscale magazine. Maybe you feel uninitiated. Don’t.
Art is not unobtainable and at this time in your life you deserve it. You’ve spent considerable time achieving success in your chosen field. You’ve had to
sacrifice much. You’ve crossed personal milestones and reached levels of accomplishment worthy of praise and recognition- it’s time to reward yourself. A quality oil painting says you’ve made it. It is the perfect combination of taste and value.
How? Why? Allow me to explain
Art Is Emotionally Moving
Art should create a feeling in yourself. Perhaps a feeling you can’t explain. Whether because of its aesthetic or emotional qualities, the piece draws you back
Art Is Forever
Oil paint is the material of choice for expert artists and knowledgeable customers. Its structural qualities allow, not only for the most beautiful surface aesthetics, but also for near indestructibility. The world famous Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo Da Vinci, is 500 years old. Actually, in many top
museums across the world, including the Metropolitan Museum in New York, you will find paintings approaching 800 years of age and sculptures even older. These works are as beautiful as the day they were created. A quality oil painting will not only provide you with great satisfaction but, as a family heirloom, future generations as well. Art work appreciates in value and is an investment in your family’s future.
Art Is An Investment
An art photograph by Thomas Struth, contemporary German artist, sold at auction in 2001 for $4,200; later in 2006 it resold for $20,400! Not to imply a get rich quick scheme, though there are mutual funds where investors can buy shares of works of art, but art is a viable investment tool with a proven track record. With recent sales of single paintings garnering hundreds of millions of dollars, its safe to say that the market won’t be going away anytime soon.
Art Is Prestige
Throughout history, works of art have been commissioned to punctuate special events. Churches often had wall murals created upon dedication of the building. Portraits were painted of kings and popes. This tradition continues today with the official portraits of every president since Washington, placed in the White House, National Portrait Gallery, and presidential libraries. Art is placed in corner offices and private residences, waiting rooms and board rooms. There are many family owned collections that rival top museums. In fact, many museums, such as the Walters art Museum, actually were family
collections!
A Question Of Choice
I specialize in genre paintings as well as portraiture. Genre paintings are original compositions that show individuals involved in an activity. The focus is a narrative, a story caught in freeze frame. While specific characters are present, their identities play second fiddle to their actions.Of course the opposite is true in portraiture where the focus is entirely on one’s self or family. I hope that you will consider an oil painting to mark your special occasions and achievements.
Studio Baltimore is located in Baltimore, Maryland - a short distance from anywhere when it comes time to fulfil your special needs.
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"Derek's talent astounds me! His work is first rate and worthy of anyone's private or corporate collection. I am proud to have his work in my home and I look forward to supporting his career and collecting pieces as his work becomes available." -Vic Carter, Anchor CBS WJZ-TV