Celebrate the season with art at the December Open House on Saturday, December 20th, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Enjoy a cozy day of last-minute holiday shopping, hand-painted ornaments, Christmas cards, and original art — many gifts under $25. Stop by to browse, visit, and share in the warmth of Yule as we close out another creative year at the Blakely Art Collection.

When a painting sells for millions, who really gets paid — the artist or the market? Many record-breaking sales, like Marlene Dumas’s Miss January at $16.9 million, earn the artist nothing. This post explores the truth behind galleries, auctions, and buying direct — and why supporting living artists makes every purchase more meaningful.

Visiting an artist open house is more than just looking at art — it’s stepping into the artist’s world. Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, open conversation, and the chance to see creativity up close. Whether you buy or browse, your visit supports the heart of the art community — connection, inspiration, and appreciation for the creative journey.

Photography and painting share the same visual language — balance, light, and emotion. In this guide, explore seven timeless rules of composition that make both photos and paintings come alive. Plus, learn how to take better reference photos for your own art, wherever inspiration strikes.

Celebrate the season at the Blakely Art Collection’s November 22 Open House in Arvada! Enjoy original art, light refreshments, and meet Hope Blakely in her studio. Holiday-themed ornaments, cards, and gifts priced at $25 or less will be available—perfect for collectors and art lovers alike.

Intensity in art is more than passion — it’s the saturation of color, the warmth or coolness of a scene, and the drama of light and dark. Learn the difference between intensity and value, why correct terminology matters, and how artists use intensity to make paintings whisper or blaze with energy. Featuring works from the Blakely Art Collection, this post reveals the hidden power behind every brushstroke.

The Blakely Art Collection celebrates fine realism—art that balances breathtaking detail with genuine emotion. From still lifes that shine with life, to landscapes that draw you into their atmosphere, to portraits that capture personality as well as likeness, each piece tells a story. Many even weave in impressionist touches, offering collectors timeless art that feels both familiar and fresh.

Dana Jester is more than an artist—he’s a living link to Bob Ross and a master of landscapes, portraits, and wildlife. From his Old Town Arvada gallery to his decades of teaching, Dana’s work carries both skill and soul. My own piece, Yellow Mountain, is a treasured reminder of the friendships and workshops that grew from knowing him. Collectors will find in his art not just beauty, but history and heart.

✨ Fine realism art captures more than detail — it captures emotion. Blending the precision of realism with the warmth of impressionism, these works invite viewers to step closer and connect with every brushstroke. Discover why collectors treasure these timeless pieces and why they remain a lasting investment in beauty.

The true “value” of a painting isn’t found on a price tag. It’s in the play of light and dark, the contrast that makes a canvas breathe. From the glow of moonlight to the drama of a fiery autumn tree, value gives art its impact. This post explores why value matters most—on the canvas and in the gallery—and how collectors can recognize its lasting importance.

Get a sneak peek at a few of the paintings you’ll see during the Blakely Art Collection Open House on Sept 18. Featured works include The Lazy Watcher, Golden Meadow by Marion Dutton, and The Enchanted Thaw. Join us at Hope’s Home Studio in Arvada to experience more than 100 original paintings, meet the artist, and enjoy a welcoming evening of art and community.

Solstice Memory is an 18x24 oil painting inspired by Bill Alexander’s techniques yet transformed into something deeply personal. With glowing skies, bold brushwork, and symbolic tones, this 2025 original captures the balance of change, light, and time. Available for $395, it’s a one-of-a-kind artwork that speaks to collectors and dreamers alike

Realism meets impressionism in the Blakely Art Collection. From detailed brushwork that feels alive to vibrant colors that capture fleeting moments, this exhibition highlights both precision and creativity. Whether you’re an art collector or simply love original paintings, discover works that bring everyday beauty into focus and connect on a deeply personal level

Sean Mullins is a Bob Ross instructor and Florida painter known for peaceful swamp and seascape scenes. He’s also the craftsman behind Rustic Oak Sawmill, where he creates handmade frames and woodwork. We’re excited to feature his painting Sunset on St. Johns River — available now.

Kevin Hill creates peaceful landscapes with bold brushwork and calm instruction. From painting at a young age to building a family-run art business, his journey is inspiring. We’re proud to feature an original work available now — plus a rare piece in our Special Collection. Discover the artist behind the brush and see why Kevin continues to inspire collectors and students alike.

ainted from a Kevin Hill workshop reference, Tuscan Lavender brings a quiet countryside to life with soft purples, warm light, and a sense of gentle age. Hope Blakely added her own voice to the scene by shifting the buildings, softening the palette, and letting the wall crumble just a bit — creating a piece that feels personal and timeless. Original oil on a 12x16 hard panel.

Think realism is boring? Think again. Fine realism art combines stunning detail with emotional storytelling to create pieces that look as real as life itself. From lifelike portraits to vivid still lifes, these paintings add timeless charm to any fine art collection. This post explores how realism and impressionism blend to create unforgettable masterpieces—and how to care for them so they last a lifetime.

Meet Marion Dutton — master painter, founder of MazArt Academy, and Bob Ross-certified instructor. She’s not just teaching the world to paint; she’s still creating stunning originals full of light, depth, and story. In this post, I share why I admire her, showcase a few of her available paintings, and invite you to explore the work of an artist who’s as inspiring as she is skilled.

Ever since I picked up a brush, I’ve looked for subjects that are bold, magnetic, and full of energy — and few people embody that like...