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.

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.

Marion Dutton’s art is as inspiring as she is. At our upcoming Open House, you’ll be able to see her original Winter Creek — a 2023 acrylic landscape that captures the calm beauty of a snowy stream. Marion’s warmth and creativity shine through not only her paintings but also her teaching with MazArt Academy . Explore Winter Creek and other originals like Golden Meadow, Gentle Eyes, and Golden Winter Whispers in person.

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.