High-Fructose Corn Syrup

This is a bit off topic from my blogs about car related family fun, car shows, Michael's car art and diabetic friendly sugar free desserts, but it is something we really got talking about in Hershey, PA, when we were there at the Fall Meet this month. And that is High-Fructose Corn Syrup.

It's become such a hot-button topic recently, that there was even a 3-minute "rant" about it during a recent Law & Order episode. During a chat about obesity, especially in minors, one of the characters went all out with information about the sweetener, really drawing attention to the fact that it is a major ingredient in soft drinks. Which is being linked to obesity of all people, but primarily kids.

There's also been some studies that have shown that a rather startling percentage of High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) contains Mercury. Not good. We all learned that Mercury was a poison in grade school. So, we've been diligently checking food packages, paying specific attention to whether HFCS is listed in the ingredients. And, let me tell you, it's alarming.

Barn find at Hershey Fall Meet

That brings me to the car show/swap meet at Hershey. I doddled in the hotel room and ended up at the breakfast buffet by myself, leaving Michael and the kids to finish getting ready to hit the Green Field, Red Field and Chocolate Fields, at Hershey. Deciding on a Yoplait yogurt, I sat at the bar watching some morning program on the flat screen tv. Bored, I decided to read the label of the ketchup bottle in front of me ... and there is was ... HFCS.

Then I checked my yogurt ... and there it was again ... in YOGURT! You gotta be kidding me! I thought I was eating "healthy!" Turns out it's in everything. My guess is that it's cheap and probably acts as some kind of preservative! Well, you can imagine, I started checking EVERY label on EVERYTHING, both in the USA and Canada. Funny, but Canadian sodas don't list HFCS, neither does our yogurt, or cookies or cereal, etc.

What's with the double standard? Are the Canadian food and drug standards stricter than the FDA? Are we "safer" from the effects of HFCS? Sadly, doesn't look like it. I just pulled this off wikipedia, and my stomach dropped:

High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) — also called glucose-fructose syrup in the UK, and glucose/fructose in Canada — comprises any of a group of corn syrups that has undergone enzymatic processing to convert some of its glucose into fructose to produce a desired sweetness. In the United States, consumer foods and products typically use high-fructose corn syrup as a sugar substitute. In the United States, it has become very common in processed foods and beverages, including breads, cereals, breakfast bars, lunch meats, yogurts, soups and condiments.

Apparently we need to be on the lookout for other terms. And, without even looking, I know most of our packaged foods contain it by one name or another.

No matter what the name, it's probably close to impossible to avoid, but we should all pay attention. Whether it's Mercury heavy, or connected to obesity, it's definitely one to be aware of. Like many of our clients, Michael and I both work full time, run a household and juggle the activities of two busy kids. It's not like when I was a kid ... my mother made everything from scratch. I'm happy if we're eating "home cooking" rather than greasy take out, even if that home cooking starts with cans and packages! I think, though, it's time to take a step back from "convenience" and try getting back to basics.

Be well. - Linda

Buying Art (Lesson 2): Authentic Art Reproductions vs Fakes

Now-a-days, with the advancements or high-end photocopiers and the low cost of color copies in general, seeing unauthorized "prints" of artists' work at swap meets is not entirely uncommon.

Enlarged dot pattern in b&w printing.

Enlarged dot pattern in color printing.

Any reproduction made from a reproduction, is lower in quality, because it is another generation (or "step") away from the original painting. At each "step" away from the original painting, there is a degradation of quality. Usually, the color is off. and the image may appear fuzzy or out of focus. And often, if copied from an offset lithograph, the 'dot pattern' created during the original reproduction process is visible on the unauthorized copy, causing what is called a moire pattern.

Moire pattern

So, how do you know if it's an authentic reproduction, authorized or licensed by the artist? Aside from the telltale signs I've mentioned, there's an old saying, 'if it's too good to be true....'  For example, you've seen an artist's reproductions selling for $500 and up, and you spot some at a swap meet, for $20, chances are very good that they are unauthorized photocopies of the original print. Not only are they low quality, but whoever has made the copies, is actually breaking the law. It is a case of copyright infringement.

What about really famous art/artist, like say the DaVinci's "Mona Lisa". We've all seen her likeness used hundreds of times. Paintings like the "Mona Lisa" pre-date copyright laws. That being said, any new reproduction (especially those altered in some way from the original image) is subject to the same copyright laws as contemporary art.

Some artists, like Michael, go a little further in ensuring you know you have an authentic reproduction. Since 1997, Michael's Limited Edition Prints and Artist Proofs with Remarque have been accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity and are embossed with his Studio Seal. [The following prints were released prior to the decision to include Certificates: Evolution of a Legend, Desert Snakes, Mach Speed, Thoroughbreds and Kings of the Road.] Michael's limited edition reproductions are all hand-signed and numbered, as are his Certificates of Authenticity.

If you should find yourself at an event where artwork is being offered, and you're unsure about a reproduction, the best way to verify that what you've seen is the real deal — contact the artist directly and ask them. This not only helps you make an informed decision, but helps him or her as well — giving them a chance to "catch the thief" and protect their work, their authorized dealers, and you (their client) from being ripped off. — Linda

Buying Art (Lesson 1): Real Hand Drawn Original Paintings vs Digital Art

Progress of Michael's original watercolor painting of Marauders of Woodward
The white you see is the board he paints on, the blue is tape he uses to mask off the image.

Let me start by saying that art is subjective. Whatever the piece, and however it is created, if you love it and want to hang it on your wall, then you should. At the same time, I believe that you should always have as much information about what you're buying, so you know what you're investing in.

This summer, we had a client come to us talking about an artist claiming to use an airbrush to create his 'paintings.' What the artist was actually doing, was using the 'airbrush' tool in a program like Adobe Photoshop or Ilustrator, when digitally creating his pieces. In this day and age, with the technology computers offer us, and the advances in illustration, paint and photo touch-up programs of the last few years, some artists have chosen to take that route. And why not, it's quicker and safer, and the effects, when used correctly, can be beyond photo-realism. The problem lies with them misrepresenting their craft, because, as many people know, there is a huge difference in a hand-drawn, hand-painted work of art and one that is created digitally.

I'm a graphic designer (not an artist) and over the last 25 years, have worked on books, wine labels, ads, brochures, you name it. I've used Photoshop to edit and fix photographs supplied by clients, in order to make them usable for reproduction. I've created computer generated characters to adorn teaching posters. I've bought stock photos and completely edited them, changing colors, adding images, etc., to make them work for my clients. Michael has often marvelled at how easily I can manipulate or change an image using Photoshop. And, how carefree I can be when doing so. It's because I can keep a back up file on my computer, click back in my 'history', or simply fix an error without risk — something watercolor does NOT allow him to do.

Something else a program like Photoshop or Illustrator allows users to do is to reuse certain images, portions of images or objects again and again. For example, when you look at a series of digitally created prints, you'll often find the same background, figures and (in the case of automotive prints) the same cars. They may be a different size or color, but those things are easily changed. Once the digital artist has created that image or component, it can be used over and over again, by copying and pasting into the next document. Some people even keep their own set of 'stock' images to go back to and reuse as needed. And certain things, like gradations of color, are created with the click of a mouse ... the computer software does the work.

So, want to know what you're really looking at? Next time you talk to an artist saying he or she uses an airbrush, ask them what medium they use. An airbrush is a tool (whether the physical one or the computer tool), but if they are actually hand painting, they must be using watercolor, ink, gouache or acrylic paint as the medium. 

Aside for the obvious lack of risk, and ease of reusing elements, with computer generated art there is no actual original. With a piece that is done by hand, whether in oil, acrylic, gouache, airbrush, ink, pastels, pencil, charcoal or watercolor, there is always, always, a one-and-only original painting.

As I said in the beginning, art is very subjective and no matter how it is created, may be worthy of your collection. My intent is not to discredit digital artists, but instead to help clients make an informed choice — you should have all the information about a piece and it's creator. Kind of like a tribute or cloned  car ... as long as you know that's what you're getting and you're okay with it, there's no problem. Like the client I mentioned earlier, no one likes to feel like they've been misled.

The next time you invest in art, if how it's created is important to you, ask the questions ... "Is it hand painted?" "What is the medium?" and "Is there an original painting available?" — Linda

Charlotte Autofair at the Speedway

Richard Petty will be on site to meet and greet his many fans. Here's what the official website has to say:

Seven-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Richard Petty will greet fans on Saturday, Aug. 28, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Carolina Carports vendor space in the Manufacturers' Midway during the Food Lion AutoFair. 

We'll be there too! And we'll have "Service Fit For A King" on display, both framed, unframed and as a Gallery Edition Giclée Canvas ... might be a good time to get it autographed by the King himself.

Service Fit For A King

We'll be showing Michael's work along side the classic car invitational display. Looks like we'll be in pretty good company. Scheduled for the weekend's activities:  the world's only collection of street legal bumper cars, a 70th anniversary display of 1940 Fords, custom vans and recent The Tonight Show guest 92-year-old Rachel Veitch.

The Food Lion Autofair runs August 26-29th at the Charlotte Motorspeedway. Hope to see you there. — Linda

The Mopar Nationals at the National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio

It was HOT at the Mopar Nationals this year. And I don't just mean all those Dodges and Plymouths! Don't get me wrong, there were some pretty amazing cars on site, including a nice collection of Vipers. But I'm pretty sure the temperatures reached over 105 degrees. Let's just say, it was a toasty automotive event.

VIEW FROM OUR TENT AT THE MOPAR NATIONALS IN HEBRON, OHIO

We were in our new location (L4-5) this year., which worked out perfectly for us. Instead of looking across the aisle at tools, we had a great view of a couple of Petty wing cars and a smaller view of the beginning of the staging lanes for the drag strip. So, for once, I got so see a lot of cars. Usually, Michael goes out exploring, admiring, photographing and shopping, while I "man the booth."

We also had a chance to meet up with some friends (old and new) as well as visit with Mopar Enthusiast  Editor Geoff Stunkard, who we'd seen last at the Wellborn Muscle Car Museum during the Wing Car Reunion in October 2009. He's going to be including a bit about "They Came With The Farm Too" in this year's November issue. Thanks Geoff!

If you're a fan of the Amos Automotive magazine line up, you've probably seen a copy of Muscle Car Enthusiast February 2008. If you haven't, it's worth looking out for. You may even want to contact the magazine and see about a back issue. It's a favorite issue of mine, because it featured "Opens At Eight" on the cover and they ran a supporting article about Michael in the magazine ... very cool!

MUSCLE CAR ENTHUSIAST CHALLENGER COVER

It's been a busy August for us, with the end not in sight yet. We are off to North Carolina to exhibit Michael's paintings at the Autofair. We'll be set up along side some pretty rare rides in the invitational automobile exhibit. If you have one more car show in you this year, stop on by and check out the cars and Michael's art! See you there. — Linda

Bothwell Car Show and Swap Meet Sponsored by Old Autos

I think I've mentioned before, that we might be considered a gear head family. This past weekend definitely speaks to that truth! Instead of taking it easy, hanging out on the home front, on one of the only non-working weekends we have this summer, we packed up the kids and headed for the annual Bothwell Car Show and Swap Meet in Bothwell, Ontario. It's brought to us by the folks at Old Autos.

About a 3 hour drive from our home, I have to say, it was a lot of fun. The swap meet held some great buys; Michael lucked out and found a spare wheel for our 1971 Pontiac Firebird Formula (apparently we didn't have one). I found some nifty collectible elephants for my mom's 74th birthday. Our daughter discovered auto related signage for her bedroom door (85 mph speed limit), and our son wheeled a sweet deal on a couple of 'dubbed out', hot rod 1:18 scale vehicles. And, the kettle corn was some of the best we've had. Overall a great success. My only complaint ... we didn't win the 50/50. The lady who did, took home over $17,000. That's NOT a typo. It's one of the biggest pots around and people travel from far and wide just for the chance to take it home.

All was not lost though, on the way home, we stayed in London at the Best Western Lamplighter ... if you're ever in the area, I highly recommend it ... they really know how to treat their guests.

But, back to the event. The swap meet covers 2 days (Friday and Saturday), with a car show all day Saturday. I caught Michael checking out some pretty nice rides, including an Olds the same color green as the one in his newest painting, "Four-Barrel Four-Speeds with Dual Exhaust". And, I have a feeling he might have been getting come inspiration for the next one?!?!?

Checking out the Oldsmobile Cutlass.

Do we see a Sting Ray in the next painting?

We even ran into a couple of clients, showing off their cars at the event. See you in Kitchener at Moparfest in a couple of weeks! Speaking of Moparfest, if you go on the West Jet Festivals webpage, you can vote for Moparfest as your favorite Canadian festival ... very neat.

We're gearing up for our next event, the Mopar Nationals at the National Trails Raceway just outside Columbus, Ohio. I'm looking forward to seeing some more familiar faces and showing off some of Michael's work. If you're in the area, stop by and see us at C9-10 on the Manufacturers Midway. Safe driving. Take care. — Linda

Car Shows in July

July is almost over, and with it nearly half the summer car show season has slipped by. I cannot believe it has been a month since I last posted anything on our blog. Between going to Chrysler Carlisle and the Concourse D'Elegance at Meadowbrook, the release of Michael's 429 Boss Mustang painting, "Boss Building" and the kids being home on summer vacation, it's been pretty crazy!

30' of art at Chrysler Carlisle 2010

Sometimes it's a juggle having two young kids (they're 10 and 12 now) and being able to attend and exhibit Michael's automotive art at car events. But getting to show people his incredibly detailed work up close and personal, and seeing their reactions to it, it's worth it! We get a lot of 'ooohs' and 'aaahs'. The most common thing we here?: "WOW!"

It's that kind of reaction that keeps Michael painting and let's him know he made the right decision in walking away from a successful career as as commercial artist to turn his talents on capturing the classic lines of the automobile! And he's lovin' it!

Here are just a few things people have had to say about Michael's paintings and the Limited Edition Prints, Artist Proofs with Remarque and Gallery Edition Canvases he offers:

"AWESOME!!!" — David M.

"Love Michael's art - especially that Petty print he recently released." — Terry D.

"... [they] look fantastic (as usual)" — Anthony T.

"The print looks great.  I can't wait for it to come so I can hang it next to the other one." — Dave H.

"Beautiful art work." — Jack N.

"Your passion for auto/art is leaps above the rest." — B.H.

"I love your work and can’t wait to buy your next Chevy painting – I have them all so far." — Dave L.

Thank you to everyone, everywhere, who has been so supportive of Michael's work! He couldn't do it without you!! From our family to yours, we hope you're enjoying a safe, happy, car show filled, summer. See you "at the show!" — Linda