Sunset, Bar Harbor, Frederic Edwin Church, 1854

Portia Munson is a visual artist who works in a range of media including photography, painting, sculpture and installation and focuses primarily on environmental and cultural themes seen from a feminist perspective.

Munson was born in Beverly, MA in 1961. She has a BFA from Cooper Union (1983), and an MFA from Mason Gross School of Art (1990), Rutgers University.

The Memento Mori Mandalas memorialize and honor creatures that have paid the price of humanity’s harsh impact on the land. Evoking the transitory Buddhist spiritual practice of mandala making, Portia Munson reflects on the passing beauty of earthly things and the costs of climate change with arrangements that center on fallen birds and insects she finds on her walks around our region. Using a high resolution flatbed scanner, she holds up these specimens of loss for our respect and admiration, often surrounding them with flowers and plants she grows.

“I began creating flower images in 2002 after the death of a favorite person left me pondering the fleeting lives of flowers and people. While walking in my garden images of flower arrays came to me. I imagined flower mandalas that were reminiscent of suzanies from Uzbekistan and the vivid garlands of fresh blossoms I had seen being used as religious offerings in Southeast Asia. Using the mandala, the circular form that in Eastern religions represents the universe, I meticulously arrange flowers from the garden into combinations of color and form that exaggerate the vibrancy of both. Sometimes I slice into buds and append blossoms onto one another. As with all my work, a closer look at the subject reveals hidden secrets – in this case, the flowers’ hairy, sticky, or poisonous parts; pollen; seeds; and the occasional insect.

To make these mandala images, I use the scanner like a large-format camera. I lay flowers directly onto it, allowing pollen and other flower stuff to fall onto the glass and become part of the image. When the high-resolution scans are enlarged, amazing details and natural structures emerge. Every flower mandala is unique to a moment in time, represents what is in bloom on the day I made it.” – Portia Munson

Title: Olana State Historic Site, New York

Artist: Frederic Edwin Church

Date: 1854

Style: Romanticism

Genre: Landscape

My second piece today at the #olanapleinairfestival is of the mansion and lawn with artists working away. What a beautiful day and what a pleasure being surrounded by my tribe. Oil on wood, 8”x8”, 2022 #nycpainter #newyorkart #newyorkartist #artcollector #pleinairartist #pleinairpainter #pleinairpainting #pleinairart #pleinair #outdoorpainting #landscapepainting #oilpainting #impressionism #paintingfromlife #cityscapes #plein_air_life #brooklynartist #olana #drawingamerica (at Olana State Historic Site) https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci5VZ7MLsXj/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[ad_1] Leeds, N.Y. | $3.2 MillionA four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom farmhouse built in 1850 and a one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse, on a 205-acre lotThis expansive property is in a small hamlet in Greene County, about 15 minutes from the town of Greenville, which has a supermarket, a farm supply store and a drive-in movie theater, and within a 20-minute drive of several antique and home décor stores. It is half an hour from the city of Hudson and from Olana State Historic Site, the former home and studio of the painter Frederic Edwin Church.Albany is 40 minutes away. Driving to New York City takes less than three hours.Size: 2,279 square feetPrice per square foot: $1,404Indoors: The main house is set back from the street, at the end of a half-mile-long driveway flanked by maple trees.The double doors open into a foyer with wide-plank wood floors and a staircase to the second floor. To the left is a living room with a cast-iron wood-burning stove fitted into an original fireplace, built-in bookshelves and French doors that open to a deck. Through a doorway is a dining area open to an updated kitchen with a Wolf range, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, a pantry and outdoor access.To the right of the foyer is another sitting room with more French doors. A bedroom with floral-print wallpaper, a powder room and a sunny office with direct access to a greenhouse are also in this part of the house.Three more bedrooms are upstairs. The primary bedroom is brightened by skylights and has enough space to hold a queen-size bed; the attached bathroom has a claw-foot soaking tub. The other two bedrooms, which share a full bathroom, are across the hall.The guesthouse, which is within walking distance of the main house, was once a barn. It has an open living area with a kitchen at one end and a full bathroom on the first level. A lofted bedroom is upstairs.Outdoor space: In addition to the main house and the guesthouse, the property includes an octagonal writer’s studio surrounded by a grove of mature trees and an old caretaker’s cottage that could be used as additional guest quarters. The in-ground swimming pool is within easy walking distance of the main house and the guesthouse. There is also a patio used for outdoor dining.Taxes: $18,996 (estimated)Contact: Oliver Thiess-Helden, Rouse + Co Real Estate, 518-444-2109; rouseco.comSavannah, Ga. | $3.2 MillionAn 1850 townhouse with four bedrooms and four bathrooms, on a 0.1-acre lotThis house was extensively updated by the sellers, who gave it a new roof, new plumbing and a new HVAC system. It is a block from a small park with a stone fountain and mature live oak trees and close to popular spots on Broughton Street, including an ice-cream parlor, art galleries and a 1940s theater. More art galleries, restaurants and shops are in warehouses along the Savannah River, about five minutes away.The beaches of Tybee Island are a half-hour away by car. Driving to Jacksonville, Fla., takes about two and a half hours.Size: 4,590 square feetPrice per square foot: $697Indoors: An exterior staircase leads from the street up to the blue front door. It opens into a long foyer with refinished hardwood floors and an original staircase.To the left is a living room with high ceilings and a decorative fireplace. Through a wide doorway with pocket doors is a kitchen with another decorative fireplace, a navy blue La Cornue range, a Bosch refrigerator, a separate wine refrigerator and a large center island with an integrated sink and a stone top.Behind the kitchen is a dining room with white-painted brick walls and a crystal chandelier. Off this space is a home office with built-in storage and a door to the rear yard.The second floor is configured as one large primary suite with a decorative fireplace, a walk-in closet, a balcony and a bathroom with a deep soaking tub and a glass-walled shower. A laundry room with a sink and space for a washer and dryer is next door.Two more bedrooms with their own fireplaces and en suite bathrooms are on the top level of the house. Another bedroom and full bathroom are on the lowest level off the house, along with a brick-walled family room.Outdoor space: Behind the house is a walled courtyard, with room to add an outdoor kitchen and seating. The house comes with two off-street parking spots.Taxes: $11,388 (estimated)Contact: Heather Booth, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Bay Street Realty Group, 912-401-9401; bhhs.comSalt Lake City | $3.199 MillionA 1927 house with five bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, on a 0.3-acre lotThis house is in Harvard-Yale, a neighborhood named for two of the area’s major streets. It backs up to Red Butte Creek and is less than half a mile from Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park, which has a walking trail running along the creek. A public elementary school is less than a mile away.Driving to the University of Utah, which has more than 25,000 undergraduate students, takes about five minutes. Downtown is about 10 minutes away. The Utah State Capitol complex and Salt Lake City International Airport are a 15-minute drive. The ski resorts of Park City are about 45 minutes away.Size: 4,864 square feetPrice per square foot: $658Indoors: A paved path curves across the front lawn, leading to a wide covered porch. The front door opens into a foyer with hardwood floors and a staircase to the second floor.Straight ahead, through a wide archway, is a living room with original hand-stenciled ceilings and a fireplace with a tile surround.Also off the foyer, through French doors, are a study with tall windows and a dining room with more stenciled ceilings. The dining room connects to a kitchen with a white enamel range, a center island with an integrated sink, a breakfast area with built-in seats and French doors that open to a patio. On the other side of the kitchen is a family room with a fireplace flanked by bookcases. A powder room is also in this part of the house.Four bedrooms are on the second floor. The primary suite has a wide arch separating the bedroom from a sitting area; two walk-in closets; and a bathroom with a soaking tub, a glass-walled walk-in shower and a door to a private balcony. The other three bedrooms on this level are each large enough to hold a queen-size bed; they share a bathroom with a combined tub and shower. A laundry room with built-in cabinets is also on this level.The fifth bedroom and another full bathroom are on the basement level, along with a second family room and a temperature-controlled wine storage room.Outdoor space: The raised patio off the kitchen steps down to a grassy backyard with a swimming pool that has another patio attached to the paved pool deck surrounding it. The property includes a stone fire pit and a swing hanging from a mature tree. The detached garage holds two cars, and there is room to park more in the carport.Taxes: $11,124 (estimated)Contact: Dorthy Androulidakis, Summit Sotheby’s International Realty, 801-231-3023; sothebysrealty.comFor weekly email updates on residential real estate news, sign up here. [ad_2] Source link

Unforgettable Family Vacation Ideas in Upstate New York: Discover the Magic of The Country Place

Introduction:

Looking for the perfect family vacation destination? Look no further than family vacation ideas upstate new York, a picturesque region filled with natural beauty, charming towns, and exciting attractions. If you're seeking a memorable getaway that caters to the whole family, The Country Place Resort – Home of Zoom Flume Water Park is the ideal choice. With its stunning location, comfortable accommodations, and a plethora of activities, The Country Place offers an unforgettable experience that will create cherished memories for your family. Let's dive into some fantastic family vacation ideas in Upstate New York and see why The Country Place is the ultimate destination.

 Adventure in the Great Outdoors:

Upstate New York is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities for adventure. From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, there's something for everyone. Explore the majestic Catskill Mountains, embark on scenic nature trails, or enjoy a family picnic by one of the region's serene lakes. The Country Place Resort is nestled in the heart of this natural wonderland, providing convenient access to an abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you're an avid adventurer or prefer a leisurely stroll, Upstate New York's breathtaking landscapes are sure to captivate your family.

 Zoom Flume Water Park Excitement:

For water-loving families, a visit to Zoom Flume Water Park is an absolute must. As the largest water park in the Catskills, Zoom Flume offers an array of thrilling water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and splash zones that cater to all ages. Your kids will have a blast sliding down the towering water slides, while you relax on a sun lounger or float along the lazy river. The Country Place Resort, conveniently located adjacent to Zoom Flume, offers exclusive access to the water park for its guests, ensuring endless hours of fun for the whole family.

 Discover Charming Towns and Historic Sites:

Upstate New York is brimming with charming towns and rich history. Take a stroll through the quaint streets of Woodstock, known for its artistic vibe and eclectic shops. Visit the historic town of Hudson, where you can explore antique stores and art galleries. For history buffs, a trip to the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site or the Olana State Historic Site is a must. The Country Place Resort serves as an excellent base for exploring these charming towns and historic sites, allowing your family to immerse themselves in the region's culture and heritage.

 Fun-filled Resort Activities:

At The Country Place Resort, the fun doesn't stop when you step outside the water park. The resort offers a wide range of family-friendly activities that cater to all interests. Engage in friendly competitions on the basketball or volleyball courts, challenge each other to a game of mini-golf, or bond over a game of horseshoes. Kids can enjoy the playground, while parents relax by the poolside. In the evenings, gather around the campfire for s'mores and storytelling, creating cherished family memories that will last a lifetime.

 Comfortable Accommodations and Dining:

After a day of adventure and excitement, retreat to the comfortable accommodations at The Country Place Resort. Choose from cozy rooms, suites, or private cabins, all designed with families in mind. Unwind in the welcoming ambiance of your accommodation, complete with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. When hunger strikes, indulge in delicious meals at the resort's onsite restaurant, serving a variety of family-friendly dishes. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying dinners, there's something to please every palate.

 Conclusion:

When it comes to unforgettable family vacation ideas upstate new York offers a treasure trove of experiences. The Country Place Resort provides the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family fun, making it the ultimate destination for your next getaway. Whether you're sliding down water slides at Zoom Flume, exploring charming towns, or bonding over resort activities, The Country Place ensures an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Book your family vacation at The Country Place Resort in Upstate New York and embark on an extraordinary journey filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories.

See Photography in a New Light at an Exhibit of 19th Century Images on Display at Olana State Historic Site

~ Jonathan Ment Photography There was a billboard facing the Belt Parkway in Brooklyn Heights years ago boasting that more photos were taken every day on iPhone than by any other means. At least that’s how I remember it. As a working photographer, I know there are differences between the family photos, selfies and snaps that fill most cell phones and the portraits, group shots, ceremonies and…

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Admiring the amazing view at the Olana Historic State Site, Greenport, NY

Come see our short film, YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT REDUX, at Tinker Street Cinema’s TALES FROM THE CATSKILLS AMATEUR FILM COMPETITION, Saturday November 5, 7pm. A sound + vision collage inspired by the 1968 film YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT and adapted from Leo Tolstoy’s THE THREE QUESTIONS, You Are What You Eat Redux features musical performances by The Rock Acadamy, Tracy Bonham, Amanda Palmer, John Sebastian & Maria Muldaur with appearances by Lee Collins, Robin the Hammer, Neil Gaiman, Steve Charney and a host of local Catskills talents. Shot on location throughout the Catskills & Hudson Valley including Overlook Mountain Fire Tower, Levon Helm Studios, Albert Grossman’s gravesite, the original Woodstock Festival field and Olana State Historic Site. Join the Mountain Guerilla Cinema Squad and make your own movie! https://www.tscwoodstock.com/movie/tales-from-the-catskills-amateur-film-competition# (at Woodstock, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/CkXMLN3tT6o/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

at Olana State Historic Site https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci7WastOs6a/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

This is the Olana State Historic Site! It is a 250 acre artist designed landscape with a Persian inspired house at its summit, embracing unrivaled panoramic views of the vast Hudson River Valley. The eminent Hudson River School painter Frederic Edwin Church designed Olana, his family home, studio, and estate as an integrated environment embracing architecture, art, landscape, and conservation ideals. Frederic was one of the premier landscape painters of the nineteenth century, accomplishing international fame, critical acclaim, and great financial success in his own lifetime. Church studied with Thomas Cole in Catskill, NY, then established a studio in New York City, from which he traveled widely on sketching expeditions. His resulting monumental canvases linked American identity to the landscape of the new world. In 1860, Church established his family home on a farm in the Hudson River Valley, which he and wife Isabel would later name Olana. He spent forty years perfecting his vision for Olana, considered his greatest artistic masterpiece. (at Olana State Historic Site) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgYoDXTs66T/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Early morning

Olana State Historic Site

Sunrise, Frederic Edwin Church, 1847

Good morning from Olana! @madillstudio and I staked out an early morning spot off the porch for what is the quintessential view from this place. More later. Oil on wood, 8x8, 2022 #nycpainter #newyorkart #newyorkartist #artcollector #pleinairartist #pleinairpainter #pleinairpainting #pleinairart #pleinair #outdoorpainting #landscapepainting #oilpainting #impressionism #paintingfromlife #plein_air_life #brooklynartist #drawingamerica #olana (at Olana State Historic Site) https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci5FXcgLKMB/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Rip Van Winkle Bridge and the Catskill Mountains, viewed from Olana (by me)