Isn't this the coolest thing? The 22' x 11' swimming pool design was created by Buenos Aires-based artists Camila Despalanques and Rocío Fernández. ​
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I ran across this article, "This Van Gogh-Inspired Swimming Pool Lets You Swim in the 'Starry Night' Sky" by Emma Taggart on February 15, 2021 at mymodernmet.com. The article includes links to the creation of the pool. Read more here. 

News Alert
B Extraordinaire is going to create our own "Starry Night" at a Sip and Paint event at the Missouri Athletic Club on Tuesday, March 30 from 5:30-7:30pm. Stay tuned for more details. 

Psst... We won't be painting the bottom of the MAC pool!

Mary Beth Tipton realized early on she was a creative person. "I am so fortunate to have grown up in a creative family.  My grandmother and mother were and are very inventive and artistic women.  From candles to furniture to costumes they never shied away from making anything. I was always encouraged in my imaginative endeavors. Drawing and painting and general art-making have always been personally satisfying."
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Her years as an art educator working with young children have influenced her perceptions and concerns. She believes suspending self-consciousness and her inner critic are essential to making art that feels authentic. Mary Beth is not afraid to experiment. "Deciding and committing to a preferred medium is something that, for me, requires discipline. There are so many mediums that I love working in, or want to try.  Which is why combining the versatility of acrylic and the rich romantic quality of oils suits me so well."

She really likes to be able to work in the late afternoon to early evening. "I'm less concerned with the day's responsibilities.  It is a good time to decompress and free-associate."

Her routine includes some creative distractions. “Over the last few months I've found a number of podcasts that help keep me distracted enough to create. I like true crime mixed with good banter."

A few last words: "I began a new body of work last spring which seemed to crystalize some recurring themes in my work – ideas that have been present but gone unidentified. I am growing more aware of what is personal and what is a reaction to my environment."

We look forward to seeing where her creativity will take her.

Have you ever wondered how an artist can start with a blank canvas and end up with a spectacular work of art? 
 
An artist’s work of art takes much thought and preparation. Before they even pick up a paintbrush, an artist has spent time thinking about their subject, creating a composition, doing quick sketches, taking reference photos, and developing a color scheme to achieve the overall mood they wish to convey. In addition, all their years of practicing art and developing their skills are reflected in each creation. 

Self-taught artist Tom Blood shares with B Extraordinaire Gallery his process for creating his “Heart of Stone” painting from the moment he picks up his brush until he is finished.  Learn more about Tom and his art at B Extraordinaire Gallery.  

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Both novice and experienced artists are invited to the Magenta Door Art Studio where I teach under three apple trees or virtually through Zoom.  

In March 2020, when most of my gigs were canceled and stay at home orders were given all around the world, I started teaching children and adults virtually through Zoom. Although my home is in St. Louis, my first virtual students were in Memphis, Tennessee. I told a friend I needed practice to make these art classes both professional yet warm and fun. That friend ended up bringing dozens of students to me from Memphis to New York City and cities in between. 

Then I asked another friend in Italy if I could test out if the same warmth transcended over seas. Not only did I get to help a group of wonderful women from several different countries stretch their creativity, but I also painted a series of new artwork inspired by the lemon trees that were blooming in their fine city of Naples. Before I knew it, college friends gathered for a virtual Prosecco and Paint Party, parents signed up their kids for summer camps that could be enjoyed from the convenience of their kitchen table, and adults requested their own classes. When I invited my sisters to a socially distanced night out in my front yard, I jokingly named my home the Magenta Door Bistro. For over 10 years my business has had the not so exciting name - Maria Ojascastro Art Studio - now I’ve finally found a more appropriate name - the Magenta Door Art Studio.

I invite you, either in the outdoor studio (with a heater) or virtually by Zoom. And when we welcome spring and summer, you can visit under the shade of my three apple trees. Please visit the Magenta Door Art Studio page to see the possibilities or contact me at magentadoorartstudio@gmail.com. (P.S. Come back often to B Extraordinare to see what my artists friends are doing!)

-Maria Ojascastro

It is the perfect time for holiday shopping. B Extraordinaire is the perfect place to find a handmade gift that is truly unique and beautiful. We offer a variety of original art and art prints available from amazing artists for gift-givers interested in finding a more creative and thoughtful gift.  When you purchase from B Extraordinaire you are helping local artists and getting some great art for your walls. 
Shop small, shop local, and support art this holiday season.