Unleashing the Vibrant Energy of Color: Discover the Captivating Artistry of Annemarie Adams

Immerse Yourself in a Kaleidoscope of Colors as Annemarie Adams Transforms Photography into Captivating Digital Paintings

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Annemarie Adams, a talented artist who has a unique approach to transforming photography into vibrant digital paintings. With a captivating portfolio of stunning artwork, Annemarie's innovative and user-friendly website offers a seamless experience for art enthusiasts looking for vibrant and colorful artistic gems.

Single Sunflower

As a photographer and freelancer, Annemarie embarked on a new artistic venture, utilizing her collection of photographs from her travels and every day life to create captivating digital paintings. Her artistry breathes life into each photo, encompassing elements reminiscent of various painting styles. From floral compositions to peaceful bodies of water, her subjects come to life with vibrant hues and dynamic brushstrokes.

Art lovers will also find a selection of travel art and photography featuring captivating destinations such as New Orleans, Hawaii, Florida, Arizona, and Colorado. And if you share my love for trees, you'll be delighted to explore the collection of tree and house-themed artwork as well.

North Mendota Hiding Spot on tote bag

What sets Annemarie apart is her website, which goes beyond traditional art browsing. It allows visitors to explore and shop for art based on color and subject, while also offering customization options. Whether it's a canvas, coaster, greeting card, tote bag, or even a mug, her pieces can grace a variety of products, offering many ways to incorporate artwork into everyday life, as well as gifting choices too.

Annemarie's talent has garnered recognition, with her artwork being showcased at the Madison Brain Center and the Exhibition Hall at the Alliant Energy Center. She is eagerly preparing for her sales booth at the bustling Fort Atkinson Farmers' Market on Sept 30 and Oct. 14, 2023, further solidifying her place in the art community.

Stone Home with Pink Desert Flowers

In addition, Annemarie donates a portion of her profits to charitable organizations that hold special meaning for her. She has chosen to support the Madison Youth Choir, and the Save the Music Foundation. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of New Orleans art goes to Youth Rebuilding New Orleans.

 

Residing in Madison, Wisconsin, Annemarie's diverse background in directing commercial photo shoots, voice-over acting, and writing lends an added layer of creativity to her artistic endeavors.

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Annemarie, who also happens to be my sister, to delve deeper into her captivating and distinctive art.

Sunset Grill on Canvas

Questions for the artist:

Can you share your inspiration behind creating artwork that transforms photographs into vibrant, energetic, and beautiful paintings?

So as a photographer and digital artist, my focus is always first on framing and composing a beautiful shot for the camera. It must be a beautiful photo first. The artwork can enhance a beautiful photo, but it’s much harder to make up for a bad one. I also imagine the piece of art when I’m composing the photo. I can usually see a piece of art even when it’s still just a photo.

How do you approach the process of selecting and editing photographs to achieve the desired impact and intensity of color in your artwork?

Great question. A photographer I used to work with once said that the main difference between professional photographers and everyone else who uses a camera, is that the professional knows which ones to throw away. For me it comes back to framing and composition. Do I have interesting elements and perspective? Some of it is process too…I’ve had photos in which I saw a piece of art when I took it, but after working on it in many different styles, I just don’t come up with something that is better than, and still true to, the photo. Then I let those go.

Tropical Island Sunset 2 print framed

What message or emotions do you hope to convey to viewers through your artwork, particularly in terms of the dynamic use of color and energy?

I hope my artwork gives people pause, in a good way. Think of the last time you saw or heard something you felt was really overwhelmingly beautiful: it probably stopped you for a moment, right? This kind of encounter pulls us out of our heads, into the present moment, to the state of wonder.

I also take the use of color as far as I can, because color is energy. Sometimes I feel like I live in a context that has gone all in on beige and neutrals, with maybe one statement piece; or on tamping energy down and not being “too much.” And I find it so stilted.  So many cultures are just full of big bright colors and textures and art being as big as life. I think of cities like New Orleans and Oaxaca, Mexico and Havana, Cuba. I want to bring out art, color, energy, and vitality and for me, vibrant use of color (assuming the image calls for it), is really important.

White Blossom Sunlight greeting card

What do you think draws people to your distinct artistic style?

Honestly, I’m still learning what appeals to different people. Ask me that a few years from now, lol.

What should people who decorate following feng shui techniques know about your art and how they can incorporate it into their decor?

I’ve worked with feng shui experts for many years now and I find real value in the lens they use. They look at energy flows in the home and its surroundings as well as in the person living there. And they raise what is too low and tamp down what is too fast, using color and a balance of the elements (wood, water, air, fire and metal). So, I take photos to capture these elements (lakes, bamboo, etc.) and bring energy to the room. The images can be searched and coordinated by a wall’s paint color on my website. I love being a small part of feng shui makeovers of homes and offices.

Purple Irises Greeting Card

What painting styles would you say your works draw inspiration from? 

I’m not sure I have one style. I do tend to prefer the look of oil paint, but I use pencil and watercolor as well. My line of inquiry is to always ask myself, “what is the essence of this image,” and then use whatever style I need to, to bring that out. 

 

If you're seeking vibrant, captivating art that bridges the gap between photography and painting, be sure to explore Annemarie Adams' extraordinary portfolio on her website Annemarie Adams Gallery of Photography Art, and bring the energy and beauty of her artwork into your life. 

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of her art and explore the unique and creative offerings available.

Some images are the property of the Annemarie Adams Gallery.

Discover the Most Amazing Mother's Day Gifts that Your Mom Will Cherish Forever, Available Exclusively on Etsy!

Do you love Mother's Day? As we get closer to this special day dedicated to our mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures, the pressure of finding the perfect gift can start to mount. But finding the perfect gift (or two!) will be a breeze, because I've got you covered.

For those who love to give unique and personal gifts, Etsy offers a wide variety of handmade items that are sure to put a smile on any mother's face. From accessories, to kitchen items, to home decor, you are guaranteed to find something that fits your mom's taste and personality perfectly.

I'm an Etsy affiliate and I earn small commission at no extra cost to you. #ad

Here are some of my favorite handmade gift ideas from Etsy that your mom is sure to love: (You can see the entire collection here).

1. Spoil your mom this Mother's Day with a stylish and functional makeup bag. Crafted with love and made to last, this makeup bag is not just a gift, it's a symbol of appreciation for all the things your mom does to make you feel beautiful every day. Rifle Paper Makeup Bag

2. This beautiful and sentimental handcrafted keychain not only adds a personal touch to your mom's keys, but it also serves as a daily reminder of the love and joy her children bring to her life. Give her a Mother's Day gift she can carry with her everywhere she goes. Personalize it with her kids' birthstones! Tree of Life Keyring with Children's Birthstones

3. Make Mom feel loved this Mother's Day with a stunning wooden wall sign that spells out 'Mom' in your choice of colors. Personalize the sign by adding the names of her children with little hearts, creating a unique and sentimental piece of art that she'll proudly display in her home. Mother's Day Gift Mom Wood Sign.

4. Treat your mom to a sentimental and stylish gift this Mother's Day with a mug that showcases the beauty of your family. With the birth flowers of each of her beloved children gracefully intertwined with their names in a chic script, this mug is not only a functional way for her to enjoy her favorite hot beverage, but a daily reminder of the love she shares with her children. Custom Birth Month Birth Flower Mug.

5. Capture the essence of family traditions and cherished recipes with a beautiful and functional blank cookbook. Perfect for organizing all of your mom's favorite dishes in one place, this cookbook is not only a thoughtful gift, but also a legacy that can be passed down from generation to generation."

Personalize the cover with text and design of your choice and enjoy the durability of a water-resistant surface. With six cover styles to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect match for your mom's unique taste and style. Personalized Cookbook Blank Recipe Book for Mom

6. Wrap your mom in love and warmth this Mother's Day with a soft, personalized blanket featuring her favorite photo and a heartfelt message from you. Choose from a range of colors to make it truly unique and let her know just how much she means to you and your family Photo Blanket Gift "I Love You Mom".

7. Indulge your mother's senses with the perfect Mother's Day gift, a hand-poured candle in 19 comforting and delectable scents, not only to delight her nose but also to warm her heart with a heartfelt message from you. Candle for Mom on Mother's Day, Mother Definition

8. Adjustable crossbody purse makes a fun accessory for Mom. She will love this stylish and functional compact crossbody! The detachable front pocket can be turned into a mini crossbody or fanny pack. How cute is the sea turtle charm which doubles as a keychain? Choice of seven gorgeous colors.

With so many beautiful and unique gifts to choose from on Etsy, you're sure to find the perfect present for your wife, mom, mother-in-law or stepmom this Mother's Day. Not only will you give her a gift that she'll cherish, but you'll also be supporting small business owners and artists.

So, go ahead, start shopping, and show your mom how much you care this Mother's Day with a handmade gift from Etsy!

See all my handpicked gifts for Mom here: Mother's Day Gifts On Etsy 

Photos are property of individual Etsy shops.

From Bohemian Chic to Art Deco Elegance: 10 Creative Wedding Themes That Will Take Your Big Day to the Next Level!

If you're planning a wedding, you might be looking for ways to make your big day stand out from the rest. One of the best ways to do that is by choosing a creative wedding theme that reflects your personality and style. To help you get inspired, we've rounded up 10 of the most unique and creative wedding themes that will make your wedding unforgettable.

Bohemian Chic: If you love all things vintage, boho-chic might be the perfect theme for you. Think: floral crowns, flowy dresses, and lots of macramé.


Enchanted Garden: Turn your wedding venue into a magical garden with lots of greenery, twinkling lights, and whimsical touches.


Rustic Romance: Combine the best of both worlds with a rustic romance theme that incorporates natural elements like wood and burlap with romantic touches like candles and lace.


Modern Glam: If you're a fan of all things sleek and modern, go for a modern glam theme that features bold colors, metallic accents, and lots of glitter.


Vintage Hollywood: Bring old Hollywood glamour to your wedding with a vintage Hollywood theme that features classic black and white decor, red lipstick, and lots of champagne.


Festival Fun: Turn your wedding into a mini music festival with a festival fun theme that features bright colors, food trucks, and live music.


Nautical Nuptials: If you're getting married near the water, embrace a nautical theme with blue and white decor, boat-inspired touches, and seafood.


Urban Chic: For a wedding that's as cool as the city you live in, go for an urban chic theme that incorporates industrial elements like metal and concrete with chic touches like flowers and candles.


Art Deco Elegance: Transport your guests back in time with an art deco elegance theme that features geometric shapes, metallic accents, and lots of glitz and glamour.


Country Charm: If you love the country life, go for a country charm theme that incorporates rustic elements like hay bales and mason jars with charming touches like wildflowers and homemade pies.

I hope these 10 creative wedding themes inspire you to think outside the box and create a wedding that's uniquely you. Happy planning!

Say 'I Do' to Savings: A Comprehensive Guide to Creating a Wedding Budget That Works for You!

We all know that weddings can be expensive, but that doesn't mean you can't have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. The key is to create a wedding budget that works for you and your partner. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to creating a wedding budget that fits your needs and helps you prioritize your spending.

Step 1: Determine your total budget. Before you start planning anything, you need to figure out how much you can afford to spend. Take a look at your savings, talk to any family members who might be contributing to the wedding, and decide on a total budget that you're comfortable with.

Step 2: Decide on your top priorities. Once you have a total budget in mind, you need to decide what aspects of the wedding are most important to you. Do you want to spend more on the venue or the food? Are you willing to cut back on the flowers to splurge on the dress? Decide on your top priorities and allocate your budget accordingly.

Step 3: Break down your budget by category. To keep your spending on track, it's helpful to break down your budget by category, such as venue, catering, flowers, attire, and photography. Allocate a specific amount of your budget to each category and stick to it.

Step 4: Research costs and negotiate. Once you have your budget broken down by category, it's time to start researching costs. Look at multiple vendors and compare prices. Don't be afraid to negotiate with vendors to try to get the best price possible.

Step 5: Keep track of your spending. Throughout the planning process, it's important to keep track of your spending and make adjustments as needed. Use a budget tracker or spreadsheet to keep track of all your expenses and make sure you're staying within your budget.

Creating a wedding budget can be overwhelming, but with these steps, you'll be able to create a budget that works for you and your partner. Remember, the most important thing is that you're getting married to the person you love, and that's priceless.

Say Yes to the Perfect Dress: Your Ultimate Guide to Nailing Your Wedding Dress Appointment

I used to work as a wedding dress consultant, and I just loved that job. I helped brides find their dream dress and picked up some interesting insights along the way.
Trust me, I know how overwhelming dress shopping can be, but with my insider tips, you'll be able to breeze through your appointment and snag the perfect dress that you've been dreaming of. I've got some pointers that aren't usually mentioned in similar articles.
Let's chat and make your dress shopping experience as enjoyable as possible!

Before the appointment:

FINDING A WEDDING DRESS SHOP: Start with stores closer to your home, then expand your search if necessary. Remember, you'll likely visit the store 5 or 6 times between the first visit, the try on, the alterations, an accessories appointment and the pick up, so find the dress shops near you to make it easy on yourself. If you don't find the dress at the closer shops, you can go visit some that are further away. 

SET A BUDGET: Call the stores ahead of time to get an idea of costs. Different stores carry different dress lines with varying price tiers, so it's important to know before you go. Also, remember to budget for alterations. The cost can vary but count on spending at least $300 on alterations once the dress you order comes in.

PLAN AHEAD: Ordering a dress can take 8 months or more to have it made in your size, and they are often made overseas. Start your wedding dress shopping well in advance (at least 10 months) and remember to add 2 months for alterations after receiving your dress. With supply chain issues, you may need to start even earlier.

If you need a dress for a wedding in less than 4 months, call and ask if the store has off-the-rack options available, or if they have some "rush" options; some designers have dresses that have a quick turnaround time.

Check if the wedding dress shop has a seamstress available for alterations and ask about storage fees if you need to keep your dress at the store before the wedding. If the shop doesn't have a seamstress, you'll need to find one who can do your alterations.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT: Let your chosen store know how many people will be accompanying you. The shop will be less crowded during the week, and super crazy on the weekend. During your phone call, the staff will provide you with any relevant details regarding their store.

UNDERGARMENTS: Wear a strapless bra and "good" undies. The store associate will be helping you get in and out of the bridal gowns so don't wear any underwear you would be embarrassed being seen in. The bridal salon will have a strapless bra to wear during the appointment if you forget yours. The wedding dress shop I worked at never washed the bras that customers wore. I always thought that was disgusting, so that's why you definitely want to bring your own!

SHOES: It doesn't hurt to bring along shoes in the height that you would probably wear on your wedding day (they don't have to be white, you're just considering the height) but you really don't need them. You won't have time to try on your shoes with every dress, but for your favorite choice, you can slip the shoes on. 

LOOKIN' CUTE: Doing your makeup before you arrive ensures you look your best in pictures. Most stores don't mind if your "TeamBride" takes photos of you in the dresses. Also, take a little time to fix your hair the way you may wear it on your wedding day. Having it up or down can really make a big difference in the overall look. If you have very long hair though, having it in a ponytail or bun will make it easier to get in and out of the dresses.

At the Appointment (make sure you are on time!):

LEAVE THE COFFEE IN THE CAR: Avoid bringing food or drinks into the store. Most bridal shops prefer to keep food and drinks, even water, away from the dresses. If you want to bring champagne, be sure to ask first and bring glasses or cups too, so you come prepared, if they allow it.

SETTING EXPECTATIONS: Tell the store associate the shape, color, fabric and overall look you would like. You can bring pictures or show her on your phone the styles of dresses that you are interested in. She may ask you about the venue, wedding size, and time of day, to get a good idea of how formal the dress needs to be. Keep an open mind when choosing dresses. While you may have a style in mind, trying on a few dresses outside of your comfort zone may surprise you.

BUDGET FRIENDLY OPTIONS: Be sure to state your budget so she can steer you towards dresses in your price range. You can save money by purchasing a discontinued floor model dress. Ask to see what is in your size, or close to it, on their discount rack. The advantage of this is not just the price, but also you won't have to order your dress and wait several months for it to arrive. 

You can inquire about trunk shows too, where dresses by one designer are marked down for a short period of time.

CHOOSING DRESSES: Dress appointments are often around an hour and fifteen minutes. This goes by really fast so stay focused; pick just 3-4 dresses you like best to try on first before going back to the racks to find more. And again, you may want to grab a couple that are completely different styles. 5 or 6 dresses will be a good number to start. 

You might realize after the first few dresses that you actually prefer a different style than you had initially wanted, so you can always have your consultant pull some new choices for you.

When you look through the dresses on the rack, remember they look very different on the hanger. They look flat, for one thing, and the shape is completely different than when you have it on. They may also be hung on the rack in a clear plastic bag. It can be hard to envision the dress in this situation so ask the consultant if she has photos of the dress you can look at.

BRING ALONG TEAMBRIDE: Check with the store how many people you can bring with you. Keeping the group to 3-4 or less is easier, (1-2 guests makes it less complicated) and make sure the store has enough space for everyone. While friends and family may offer their opinions, it's important to follow your heart and choose the dress that feels right for you. Remember, the ultimate decision is yours. 

Don't let well-meaning friends or family members take control of your appointment and distract you with dresses you're not interested in. If TeamBride starts pulling you in different directions, ask the wedding dress associate to help steer them back on track. 

Once you and your consultant are back in the dressing room, you can tell her what dress or style you love and that you are trying to "tune out" the strong opinions to the contrary. She'll be your ally and make sure your vision is the main focus. Remember, it's your day and you get to choose the dress that makes you feel amazing! Chances are, TeamBride will support you in finding the dress you love.

When trying on dresses, the sizes the shop has on hand will likely be too big, and the consultant will use clamps to give you an idea of the dress's shape. These may look like something your dad keeps in the trunk of his car, but they do the job.

MODIFYING A DRESS: If you love a dress but want to tweak it a little bit, ask your consultant if they carry a sparkly belt, sleeves or straps you can try with the dress. A sparkly belt really can "bling up" the dress, and your seamstress can sew it right to the dress, so it stays in place. If you invest in a sparkly belt, be sure to remove it after the wedding and add it to your wardrobe. Trust me, you will love wearing it again with your favorite "normal" dresses.

The seamstress may also be able to add sleeves or straps to a dress. Investing in customizing your dream dress may come at an additional cost, but it guarantees a unique gown tailored to your specific preferences and style.

FABRIC CONSIDERATIONS: Keep in mind the wedding location when selecting your dress. If you have a spot chosen outside in the summer, stay away from tulle dresses with lots of layers. Bugs will get stuck in there and it is a real pain to pick them out.

For a beachy wedding, consider if you want your dress blowing away in the wind. While many beach brides gravitate towards a soft light flowy dress, you may want something a little heavier or form fitting that isn't going to be blowing around as much.

But don't go too heavy. Dresses with lots of beading and rhinestones will be really heavy. You'll be wearing it for a long time on your big day, and you want to be comfortable.

At the end of the appointment: 

ACCESSORIES: The store associate may bring in a veil and jewelry to try on once you have narrowed down your choices and you have a favorite dress. Keep in mind you can buy wedding accessories online for much cheaper. Even Amazon has beautiful wedding veils for a fraction of the cost. 

You can always make an appointment another day to try multiple accessories on with the dress you chose. Some veils do take a while to order, so if you're considering a special veil from the bridal shop, ask how long it will take to order it. But be sure to shop online first to find some deals!

READY TO BUY?: You may feel like you need to make a decision right there and then and buy the dress that you like. Your consultant may put a veil and a necklace on you and even hand you a little bouquet. This is a sales tactic to try to push you toward buying the dress and veil today. They want you to see yourself in the mirror and imagine getting married in this bridal gown. 

Your bridal consultant will even bring another team member or two or even the store owner/manager to show them how amazing you look in the dress and the veil. The other team members will tell you very enthusiastically that this dress looks beautiful on you, and it is definitely the one for you. This is another sales tactic to try to get you to buy the dress today. 

The consultant or store owner may even come right out and say in a loud voice so everyone in the shop can hear, "Are you saying Yes to the Dress?" You might be ready to shout "Yes!" If you aren't ready, take a deep breath and realize it is okay if you don't buy today. If they try to pressure you to buy today, just tell them you need to text a photo to your grandma to get her input, but she (you look at your watch) is taking her nap right now.

IF YOU WANT TO WAIT: You can always take a few days to think about it. You may want to show your photos of your top choices to a trusted friend or family member (like sleepy grandma) who wasn't at your appointment. It might not be convenient to get your TeamBride back together for another appointment, but you can always stop by on your own or with just your mom. 

If you decide you aren't ready to buy a dress, ask the store associate to write down the information for the dresses you liked. You may have more dresses or styles you want to try on but ran out of time. That is a great reason to make another appointment. It is easy to get mixed up after trying on several dresses, especially if you hit more than one store. You'll want to have the prices and the designer's name written down to remember which dress you tried on where. 

One of your friends or your mom can also take notes while you're trying on, so after the appointment you can look at your photos and your notes, and you will know which dress is which. The store may also have an electronic customer file in their computer to keep track of your favorite dresses and accessories. Ask them to file away your top choices!

And you're done! Now go have lunch or some coffee with TeamBride! You made it through your appointment!

I hope my tips and insights will prove useful, and most importantly, I wish you smooth sailing, lots of smiles and a few tears of joy as you find your dream dress.

Plan the Perfect Easter Gathering with These Exquisite Handmade Treasures from Etsy!

Whether you're entertaining guests, decorating your home, or just looking for special touches, Etsy has something for everyone this Easter season.

I'm an Etsy affiliate and receive small commission on purchases at no extra cost to you.

Your kids will treasure a handmade personalized embroidered Easter basket. This is an Etsy best seller, it ships for free, and comes in your choice of colors. Create a new tradition and build core memories with a special basket they will look forward to using year after year.

Celebrate the holidays in style with this timeless and festive platter, always ready to showcase your beloved dishes. This plate is the perfect addition to any holiday spread, becoming a cherished tradition for your family every holiday.

Add a touch of charm to your home with handmade wooden bunny decor. This decorative item will add Easter charm to any room in your home. Choose from 7 springy colors.

Enhance your Easter gathering with charming pastel-colored wine charms. Effortlessly distinguish each guest's wine glass, eliminating the frustration of mixed-up glasses at your Easter dinner.

Welcome guests with a beautiful Easter door sign. This handmade item sets the mood for your guests and gets your home ready for the holiday.

Personalized Easter cups make fun gifts for the kids and are an eco-friendly way to reduce the number of cups being used. That means less time washing dishes and more time visiting with your guests. The kids will love using these reusable tumblers because they have their names on them.

Make your dining table the center of attention with a beautiful blue table runner. This handmade item brings a calm and happy vibe to your Easter celebration.

Add a touch of sophistication and a pop of color to your Easter dinner table with these elegant placemats, featuring delicate designs to elevate the look of your spread. These placemats will not only protect your table, but also create a memorable setting for your guests to enjoy. It would match nicely with the table runner too!

Dial up the color and bring some Easter cheer to your kitchen with a festive Easter kitchen towel. This handmade item is an effortless way to brighten up your cooking space.

Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for your guests with a beautiful Easter pillow. This charming pillow will create a holiday mood for living room, family room, entry way or patio. A matching kitchen towel in this pattern is also available.

These handpicked Etsy finds are easy additions to your Easter celebration. Each item is carefully curated by me to bring you the best of handmade, personalized, and festive Easter decor.

Whether you're looking for a special basket, a unique kitchen towel, or a cozy pillow, these items are a sure hit for the holiday and will add holiday charm to your home.

So hop on over to Etsy today and start shopping for the perfect handmade Easter items for your home!

See all my Etsy Easter picks here: My Curated Etsy Easter Finds

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