Monday, December 7, 2009

"Accepting New Painting Commissions for 2010"




McRAY STUDIOS...
"Your source for original fine art"

How do you stand out in a mass-produced society?
Start with something no one else can have -- your own unique work of art. Contact us to discuss & obtain details concerning the creation of an original commissioned work by renowned artist, Eric McRay
each work special, unique and precious.
"Charming Commissioned Portraits"

Your Home, Boat, Garden, Church or Business
painted on canvas.
Sizes available: 24x36, 30x30, 30x40, 36x36, 36x48, 48x48, 48x60

If you have any questions,
contact us at efmcray@aol.com or (919) 838-0755.
We look forward to hearing from you.

McRAY STUDIOS is located at Artspace, Studio 205
201 East Davie Street (Blount Street intersection)
In the Art District of Downtown Raleigh
(Near Big Ed's & City Market Produce)

We Accept MC, VISA, AMEX & Discover

Thursday, December 3, 2009

"Tips on Art Collecting"


TIPS ON ART COLLECTING:
Ten things to remember when starting to collect art!

Tips for beginning art collectors as well as for experienced art collectors. Good reminders for anyone interested in art or already collecting art.

1. Buy art because you like it and because it moves you and because it will enhance your life.
2. Visit as many art galleries as you can, gallery staff can be helpful guides in your art education.
3. Get on artists and gallery mailing lists so you'll be invited to openings and special events.
4. Visit and join your local art museums and non-profit art centers. Curators sometimes give lectures on collecting art.
5. Attend national and international art fairs and art expos whenever possible.
6. If you know art collectors, talk to them and find out what they know and what they've learned about collecting art.
7. Read books on art history and books about collecting art.
8. Subscribe to a few art magazines.
9. Read reviews by local and national art critics, keeping in mind that reviews usually just reflect one persons opinion.
10. Working with a professional art advisor/art consultant is a good way to learn about art collecting, and they will guide you through the process of purchasing art.
Once you've educated yourself and have fallen in love with a work of art, buy it, take it home and enjoy it.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

"My Art Isn't Porn: A Civil Dialogue"



Dear friends and supporters of the arts:

Thank you for all your comments on Facebook and McRayStudios.blogspot.com. I received phone calls and emails also. Many wanted to remain anonymous through email, yet still affirmed my proclamation, "My Art Isn't Porn". This has touched my heart. I was stunned by the overwhelming support for my right to produce the classical nude pieces. Likewise, I'm humbled by all your flattering comments concerning the quality of the paintings. Thank you.

I'm sure there are some who fully agree with my critic and that's OK. Yet, when I last checked, it was still a free country. We as individuals in a free society have the right of free expression as long as it doesn't infringe on the rights of others. When my art offended this sincere, yet sincerely wrong lady; she had the full right to delete, remove and reject me and my art. I don't and wouldn't have taken it personally. That's her prerogative.

But slander, that was uncalled for. Likewise, to challenge my relationship with God and my personal ethics is just short of persecution. I hope this intelligent and decent exchange among thinking people has educated her and others with similar views concerning the human figure in art. I'm open to a continued civil dialogue. Likewise, I invite all who would like to see the actual paintings to my studio in downtown Raleigh.

Much respect & God bless, McRay

Monday, October 12, 2009

"My Art Isn't Porn"



Life is so interesting. Recently, I took on the pop culture challenge of venturing into the world of Facebook. My teenage intern did all the heavy lifting and helped me set up my Facebook account. I felt like the old person who doesn't know how to set the clock on their VCR. Regardless, I was now on Facebook and wanted to share and discuss worth while ideas and issues.
I didn't want to simply say stuff like, "Beef hot dogs give me gas" or "Dish washing liquid is on sale at Food Lion." From a business and personal point of view, I chose to share my art and art career. I hoped to inspire someone out there to go after their dreams also. Well, as they say, "Art is in the eye of the beholder" and "One man's trash is another man's treasure." Thus, I wasn't shocked when I was referred to as a pornographer. Yep, your friendly neighborhood Art-man's paintings referred to as "porn."
Check out their message...

Bro. McRay,

I deleted you as a friend because I consider nude art to be porn. I'm sorry if this offends you, but I would not expect this kind of "art" from a (religious group removed so not to tarnish my spiritual faith) person. I wouldn't want anyone to post nude photos just because they are a photographer. I see no difference. Once again I mean no offence to you.

Check out my response...

Sis. (name removed),

I truly respect your opinions and feeling concerning what is art and what is porn. That is an on going debate among many. But I must boldly state my work isn't porn!

I'm not familiar with your cultural background or level of education, but I'd suggest you Google old masters such as, Michelangelo, Auguste Rodin, and Sir Peter Paul Rubens, all of whom painted the classical figure. Likewise, with no disrespect intended check out some porn site and make your own comparisons. I'm sure you will come to the conclusion there is a difference.

Normally I would ignore such assumptions about my art. I've been blessed by the Lord to be one of the most prominent artists in the state of North Carolina and my work is collected internationally. I can handle criticism. Unfortunately, when you made reference to my faith/belief system, I knew I had to comment on your message.

Tragically, many conservative religious and church attending people have limited their horizons, education, vision and personal goals. Their stagnation is often based off of fear, ignorance and the lack of exposure to differences in thought. Often, their children suffer the consequences most. I've chosen to live otherwise.

My dear sister, I've visited some of the world's greatest museums and seen some of the greatest art created in western civilization. I hate to tell you it often addresses the human figure.

Click here: michelangelo creation of adam - Google Search

I wish no hard feelings or offence, I only want you to know the source of my inspiration.

Blessing, Bro. McRay

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

"This Week Only!!! Until Saturday September 26th"






"Pearl Necklace"
Fine Art Giclee
Hand signed and numbered
by the artist
Printed on 100% cotton rag, acid-free, lignin-free
archival quality paper
Certificate of AuthenticityImage Size: 30 x 30
Edition Size: 100
$350.00

THIS WEEK ONLY!!
Receive a signed & numbered limited edition Jazz giclee with the purchase of any original Jazz painting! We can be reached by email or phone (919-838-0755).
Feel free to share this with your friends.

Click here: Welcome to McRay Studios - Gallery

"The Creativity Class"


Last night I spoke before a group of 40 NC State MBA students taking a "Creativity Class." That's not the crowd I'm accustom to addressing. To their surprise, I wasn't the flighty bohemian type they were expecting. We connected and it turned out to be a fulfilling experience. They asked great questions about a career in the arts from a business point of view. I knew their language. It was great experience. One young lady said, "You could be a motivational speaker."

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

"Whatcha Been Up To?"


Dear Friends and Patrons,

Between my active Facebook account, visitors to my downtown Raleigh studio and friends I meet in passing, the common question asked is, "Whatcha been up to?" I usually respond, "Oh, taking care of the kids, my art, and staying busy... nothing much... business as usual." In actuality, I'm busier than ever. One day seems like two or three days. My calendar fills and the miles accumulate on my vehicles. I ask myself, "Where did today go?" So, in the upcoming days and weeks, I'll review the past year and highlight various events, exhibitions and collectors. I'll really answer the question, "Whatcha been up to?"