7/12/25 BLUE MOON GALLERY'S Artist Talks from 1:30-3:30 PM Feature Jan Schrader and Michael Litewski Providing Insights to their Creativity

These room settings feature the contemporary, abstract and highly textural work of Jan Schrader known for his unique texturing processes and lighting effects using metallic paints.

So, what's their secret? How does an artist approach a blank canvas and create something others want to purchase and enjoy daily in their own environment? Attend the Artist Talks -- an ongoing series -- at BLUE MOON GALLERY, 18620 Belvidere Road in Grayslake, and sample this "secret sauce"!

Jan and Michael -- descriptions of their art below -- will provide insights into their creative process, sources of inspiration, and the stories behind their artwork. They will share details about the making of several specific pieces currently in the gallery and discuss their preferred materials and processes, too. There will be time for questions and comments.

Art is for everybody -- come join the fun and leave inspired!

Additionally, Jan will offer a drawing for attendees where the winner can choose a print of their choice.

"Canvas Jazz" by JAN SCHRADER

Facebook: canvasjazz.com

Website: canvasjazz.com – Exciting, original abstract art!

Jan's distinctive painting practice is inspired by three major influences. The first is Mid-Century and Contemporary Architecture and its clean lines, originality, and non-conformity. The second influence is Asian art, particularly Zen minimalism. The third influence is jazz music. Jan is a huge jazz fan. Jan says abstract art is jazz on canvas. Like jazz, abstract art is limitless, without boundaries. It is free form and open for creative riffs. Jan often starts with a very basic plan — or none at all — and improvises as he goes along -- typically using metallic paints and creating heavy textures in his works. As he likes to say...."Jazz, baby!"

Michael Litewski -- The Art of CNC Machining 

Website: LitewskiArts

In his multi-disciplinary art practice Michael attempts to unlock what may seem to be random ideas or story lines into a body of work that is becoming more and more expansive in scale and complexity. Using graphite, paint, wood, resin, and plastic plus solid, single pieces of precision board carved via a CNC machine, Mike challenges himself to explore different visual languages with each of these media. As the art develops, new stories and directions happen. As ideas take shape, Mike uses the house-and-home concept to tell stories not only of our past and future but also of our day-to-day lives as we become more tribal as a species.

A sample of Michael's unusual three-dimensional work. He does both free-standing and wall-hung creations.

BLUE MOON GALLERY may be small but it's mighty in creative activity from constantly new gallery showings and receptions to ARTIST TALKS -- this is a welcoming haven for artists and patrons alike. Website: Blue Moon Gallery