LIVING FIGURATIVELY

Episode 64: The 11th Annual May Show at Lakeland Community College

Originally Aired Thursday June 10, 2021

Every year for the past eleven, Gallery Director, Mary Urbas has hosted the highly competitive May Show at Lakeland Community College. This year it is juried by Jae and Wadsworth Jarrell, founding members of the AfriCOBRA Art Movement in 1960s Chicago, and proves to be a stunner.

I take you on a walk through of the figurative art in the show, which I'm proud to have work included in. I'll tell you more about my piece, The Goddess Sphynx, along with Best in Show winner, Cynthia Brewster's Irie Peace Fire, and many more beauties.

Show continues through July 9th.

Shop The Lakeland May Show

Episode 63: AlmostREAL at Hedge with Doug Max Utter and Liz Maugans

Originally Aired Thursday June 3, 2021

We head west to see work by Cleveland artists Liz Maugans and Douglas Max Utter. They present brand new work paintings, printmaking, and collaged drawings that study heightened observation, sensitivity, expectation and the unbelievingness of our present time. Much of it was created during the covid lockdowns and it promises to be powerful.
They examine the role of story-telling and explore how much of our “reality” is really real.

Physical Show at Hedge Gallery continues through July 2.

Shop AlmostREAL at Hedge Gallery

Episode 62: Rockwell's Boy Scouts at the Medici

Originally Aired Thursday May 20, 2021

Possibly the most exciting Living Figuratively yet, I take the short drive east to the Medici Museum right in my own back yard in Northeast Ohio to show you the 65 Norman Rockwell paintings from the Boy Scouts of America collection.

A stunning collection from a master of figurative art, beloved illustrator Norman Rockwell. I take you through the collection with an artists eye to spotlight what an amazing painter he was, and what a decent human being too.

The future of this collection is tentative, but my hope is that it will stay here for a good long time!

Rockwell at the Medici

Episode 61: Taking a Powder…to the Powder Room

Originally Aired Thursday, May 13, 2021

Episode 61 asks the question my kids always ask me on long car trips…Mom…Do you really have to go to the bathroom…aGAIIIN????

The answer is a resounding and enthusiastic YES! But this time we're taking a powder… to the Powder Room just off the Laundry Room for a look at the recent remodel, shabby chic vintage mirror, Tomato Cream Sauce paint touch up and of course, the figurative art that lives there!

I tell you about a fantasy commission idea too, where I use a can of your paint to create life drawings to match your room!
Message me through my website about the custom commissioned alla prima paintings using your wall paint color.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 60: To the Moon…Not Lost in Space

Originally Aired Thursday, May 6, 2021

Episode 60 takes us further than we've ever gone before

…to the Moon!

I spotlight my art that was chosen to be included in the Lunar Time Capsule that joins NASA’s scientific payloads on Astrobotic’s Peregrine Mission One…digitally of course…not NFTs…but loaded on a very tiny disc.

Artists on the Moon is an initiative coordinated by physicist Dr. Samuel Peralta. Approximately 1200 artworks, books and one Artificial Intelligence-created project are digitally included in this time capsule to be archived on the moon via Astrobotic's Peregrine Lunar Lander, traveling on United Launch Alliance's Vulcan Centaur rocket.

Three of the works are sold, but the other three are available…

Buy Moon-bound Art

Episode 59: IBPC at the WMOCA

Originally aired Thursday, April 29, 2021

Episode 59 takes us up north to the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art for the International Biennial Portrait Competition one of the very few museum-based portrait competitions in the world, and I'm deeply honored my painting, Winged Victory Forges, from my Goddess Project, was accepted to exhibit by juror Museum Director, David Hummer.

I attend the physical opening reception of this prestigious portrait exhibition and walk you through the phenomenal work that I'm proud to be hanging with.

Purchase Inquiries WMOCA

Episode 58: Woodson Art Museum

Spontaneously aired on Thursday Afternoon, April 29, 2021

Episode 58 was inspired on a whim when I stumbled upon the Woodson Art Museum as I took my morning constitutional around the charming city of Wausau Wisconsin!

The Woodson museum is home to an extensive collection of art based on the theme of animals, hunting and game.

The surprise discovery in the lower level gallery was an exhibit of only-just emerging artists, the graduating senior International Baccalaureate Students at Wausau High School had some major artistic commentary on the state of the world right now. Definitely worth a look at these soon to be rising stars in the art world.

Woodson Art Museum

Episode 57: The Penthouse at the Aldine, Chautauqua Institution

Originally aired on Thursday, April 22, 2021

For Episode 57 we head out of state to the beautiful grounds of Chautauqua Institution in Upstate New York, to see our vacation rental property, The Penthouse at the Aldine.

I show you our interior decorating notes with a lot of red, a little kitsch, all kinds of modern comforts in a Victorian building…and all the figurative art that graces this centrally located Penthouse condo in a historic 19th Century building in the heart of Chautauqua Institution.

And, yes, Unit 4A, The Aldine…is available to rent this summer through Team VP. Stay for a week and see how it is to literally… Live Figuratively!

And, all the art at the Aldine is available, email me with inquiries, judytakacs@me.com.

Stay at The Penthouse at the Aldine

Episode 56: Time Travel with David King at BAYarts

Originally aired on Thursday, April 15, 2021

For Episode 56 we take the show on the road and head west of the Cuyahoga River to BAYarts for Time Travel, the solo show of CWRU art instructor and painter, David King.

Painter David King uses bright fluorescent colors and expressive paint application to jolt the viewer's perception of family memories via candid family photographs he has used as inspiration and springboards for his work. There's nostalgia, tenderness, irony, and a sometimes humorous and sometimes dystopic vision of the Suburban American Dream.

We are welcomed to Time Travel at the beautiful BAYarts campus on Lake Erie, and are introduced to the dark history that took place in the Fuller House in the 1960s.

Check out David King at BAYarts

Episode 55: Illustrious Alumni at the Valley Art Center

Originally aired on Thursday, April 8, 2021

Thrilled to be included in this show of former students of the Valley Art Center in Chagrin Falls, who have now achieved recognition as professional artists…we're illustrious now!

Proud to be showing with Judith Brandon, Jeremy Gallante, H. Craig Hanna, Kimberly Chapman, Charlotte Lees and Kate Kaman. Also showing at the Valley Art Center will be an exhibit by the Whiskey Painters of America…an organization that is limited to 150 members nationwide, and paints using whiskey as the medium. Yes. I'm intrigued too!

My Epiphany of Eve and Pandora paintings from my Goddess Project are included, but I focus on the other work because I've devoted a whole episode to the story and concept behind this triptych. Watch it here.

Shop Alumni and Whiskey Painters

Episode 54: Kitsch in the Kitschen

Originally aired on Thursday, April 1, 2021

April Fool's Day kicks off the second year of Living Figuratively, and I am excited to have some fun with it! For Episode 54, I showed you my Kitsch in the Kitschen!

That’s right…Kitsch! That funky word that defies definition, but you know it when you see it! Someone else’s kitsch is tacky, your own kitsch is campy and cool, and you’ll see some of mine, which I think is spectacular, but, you’ll get to decide for yourselves!

And you'll get to see the working part of my fabulous kitchen too…which I always consider to be the heart of the home! Add to that a dash of Odd Nerdrum, a pinch of my own art, and a visit with Carol Brady and now we're really cooking!

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 53: We The People…Mary Whyte

Originally aired spontaneously on Wednesday, March 31, 2021

For the spontaneous Episode 53, Judy took a trip down to Columbus to the National Veteran's Memorial Museum to see Mary Whyte's We The People…Portraits of Veterans in America. A virtual "where are they now," Mary Whyte painted one veteran from every state in the Union…50 portraits, representing all races, ages, genders and vocations…with dazzling sunlit and expressive watercolor.

The exhibit moved Judy to film a spontaneous episode of Living Figuratively…no 1960s TV references, just an artists eye view of some amazing figurative art.

If you can get down to Columbus, Ohio before April 11th, the exhibit is a must see. Details here.

Pictured on Thumbnail is Mary Whyte's, Glory; a great grandmother and veteran from Savanna Georgia.

Buy We The People on Amazon

Episode 52: The Mud Room

Originally aired March 25, 2021

For our One Year Anniversary Episode 52, I took you to the homiest room in my home…not homely…homey! The Mud Room…where we take our shoes off, take our coats off, relax…or put our coats on and head out the door. A perfect place for figurative art to send you on your way in the best possible way.

You saw my work, along with pieces from Karen Offutt, Susan Lyon, Arabella Proffer…and got some storage and decorating tips too! Karen Offut is having a solo show at the Abend Gallery right now, check out her beauties before they're gone.

And, remember, if you buy one of my Chicks books from my online shop, and write "For Arabella" in the message box, I'll donate 50% of the price to the Go Fund Me to help Arabella and her husband through the financial devastation that cancer brings when you get a terminal diagnosis.

You can donate directly to the Go Fund Me if you like, here. And, you can buy Arabella's books here.

Buy Chicks book to Benefit Arabella

Episode 51: The Bryn Du Art Show

Originally aired March 18, 2021

For Episode 51 we headed down to Central Ohio to the Bryn Du Mansion, which has, for the past 17 years been host to the yearly Bryn Du Art Show!

Juried this year by artist and activist, Lisa McLymont, the show was a stunner in a stunning location…the stately and historic Bryn Du Mansion in Granville, Ohio.

I'm psyched that my diptych, Persephone, Kept and Left in the Winter was accepted, however,I focused on the other work during my visit…I've already devoted Episode 48 to telling you all about Persephone.

Watch my Persephone Episode

Episode 50: FROM WOMAN 14…3D

Originally aired March 11, 2021

We kicked off Women's History Month with a trip up north to Lakeland Community College to see the Figurative work in FROM WOMAN 14!

Curated each year by Cleveland's gem of an art mover and shaker, Mary Urbas, the FROM WOMAN show collects talent from across Northeast Ohio and the Nation and this year I'll be featuring it on Living Figuratively for two very special episodes.

Episode 50…our Golden Anniversary… is the second of two episodes.This week the focus is on 3D work; Sculpture, Assemblages, Ceramics, Metal Work, and Fiber.

Kimberly Chapman, Lauralee Hutson, Jenny Mendes, Annie Peters, Susan Shie, Gwen Waight, Debra Silver, Lisa Kenion and Sandy Shelenberger are just the tip of the very talented iceberg!

Quilt by Susan Shie

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 49: FROM WOMAN 14…2D

Originally aired March 4, 2021

Episode 49 of Living Figuratively took us to Lakeland Community College to see the Figurative work in FROM WOMAN 14! Curated each year by Cleveland's gem of an art mover and shaker, Mary Urbas, the FROM WOMAN show collects talent from across Northeast Ohio and the Nation.

For Episode 49 we focused on the 2 Dimensional figurative work in the show.

I'll be showing you work from many other amazing artists!

Laine Bachman, Sarah Curry, Melissa Harris,Tricia Kaman, Stanka Kordic, Jenny Mendes, Annie Peters, Cathy Rogers, Betty Skufka, Marilyn Szalay, and Jaymi Zents…are just the tip of the very talented iceberg!

Art on posters by Judy Takács, Love, Athena Triptych

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 48: Persephone Kept and Left…In The Winter

Originally aired February 25, 2021

For Episode 48 I unveiled a diptych with a new Goddess…Persephone Kept and Left, In the Winter.

Never before shown, this diptych headed out the very next morning, to the Bryn Du Art Show, juried by Artist and Activist, Lisa McLymont. Before that though, I told you my feminist re-imaginings of the Persephone story from Greek Mythology.

Watch for Episode 51, March 18, 2021 when I head down to Bryn Du again to cover the show on Living Figuratively.

Bryn Du Mansion

Episode 47: Oh My Goddesses…NewNow 2021

Originally aired February 18, 2021

For Episode 47 we stayed home and start drinking wine in preparation for the 7:00 PM Virtual Opening of the Artists Archive NewNow Biennial Show.

For this pre-show episode of Living Figuratively, I show you my two Goddess Project paintings that were accepted to the show (because they're still hanging in my house…because the show is virtual)

And I'll tell you all about how and why I have re-imagined these Goddesses via a feminist and anti-racist…lens.

This just in: Venus, She's Got It won the Top Award, First Place at NewNow 2021! See this beautiful show, expertly juried by Cat Sheridan, Director of the Ohio Art Council's Riffe Gallery, and understand just what an honor this is!

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 46: Detailed at CVAC

Originally aired February 11, 2021

I took the show on the road down to the Cuyahoga Valley Art Center to see Detailed, curated by CVAC Executive Director, Danielle Dietrich. This two artist show features the paintings of Mark Giangaspero and the ceramics of Beth Lindenberger.

An unlikely juxtaposition of artists, who are seemingly different as night and day, with their intense attention to detail taking center stage.

Detailed continues through March 4th with generous gallery hours, masks required and social distancing galore!

Visit Cuyahoga Valley Art Center's website for all the *details*…get it?

Pictured in thumbnail: Left, Enigma, Beth Lindenberger and Right, Mrs. M III, Mark Giangaspero

Detailed at CVAC

Episode 45: Getting High in the Family Room

Originally aired February 4, 2021

For Episode 45 we continue Getting High (on art of course!) and take a look at Judy's new and improved, double height family room. Improved with the recent hangings and rearrangements of large art, hung high.

Kicking it off with a stunning drawing by Shirley Aley Campbell and an insiders look at curating clutter with Barbie Cases and vintage folding chairs…Judy takes us on a high and low tour of her family room. A couple older family portraits are beautifully and symmetrically hung by the art installers from Bonfoey Gallery, along with an older award winner from Judy's Seven Deadly Sins Series.

The Queen of this wall, however is one from the legendary Shirley Aley Campbell's, Anniversary.

And, as always there are loads of decorator tips, this time all about hiding stereo equipment and painting leather couches!

Episode is second in an ongoing and scattered series where we "get high" in other parts of Judy's beautiful home and studio…chock full of figurative art!

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 44: Getting High in the Living Room

Originally aired, January 28, 2021

Episode 44 took us back home again to Judy's new and improved, double height living room. Improved with the recent hangings and rearrangements of large art, hung high with the efforts of the Bonfoey Gallery Art Installing team, Susan Danko, Karl Anderson and Josh Richey.

We saw some of Judy's older pieces, which have taken up permanent residence, as well as some new acquisitions; monumental pastels by Mark Giangaspero, an older iconic charcoal drawing by Cleveland's iconic figurative artist and instructor, Marilyn Szalay, all beautifully composed and orchestrated with Country Blues by Max Ginsburg.

Judy also showed us what was taken down to make room for this new display…and how eager she is to send these older, monumental beauties to their forever homes…at very reasonable prices!

See more of Mark Giangaspero's work at his two artist show, Detailed, at the Cuyahoga Valley Art Center. Curated by Danielle Deitrich and showing with Ceramicist Beth Lindenberger, Giangaspero's work promises to be amazing in this space. Detailed continues through March 4th.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 43: New Beginnings at Waterloo

Originally Aired, January 21, 2021

For Episode 43…Judy took the show on the road to the Waterloo Arts district in Cleveland, Ohio to check out New Beginnings, curated by Davon Brantley at Waterloo Arts.

Through this exhibition, we are, as viewers, exposed to an altogether different paradigm, one in which women artists from a spectrum of cultural experiences take center stage.

Through a variety of media choices we hear from these women; their views on race, environment, cultural stigmas/standards, broken traditions, the personal, the psychological and more.

Artists: Stina Aleah, Ashley Bohanon, Amirah Cunningham, ChristaFreehands, Kacey Gill, Destyni Green, Celena E. Higginbottom, Younghyeon Ryu, Euneata Walker, Lauren Webster.

Waterloo Arts

Episode 42: Say YES to the Dress

Originally aired, January 14, 2021

For Episode 42…we stayed home and hunkered down with a trip to my closet. We checked out some of my oldies but goodie watercolor pieces hanging in the closet hallway, leading to a newly framed beauty by Teresa Oaxaca.Watch her video here.

THEN then I show you and talk about some of the fabulous vintage outfits I've worn for Living Figuratively in 2020…AAAAND tell you where I got them!

Fine! I'll tell you now…Getup Vintage in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Sweet Lorain in Cleveland, Ohio

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 41: About Body/About Face

Originally aired, January 7, 2021

For Episode 41…the first for 2021, Judy takes the show on the road once again to visit The Artists Archives of the Western Reserve in University Circle, Cleveland, Ohio.

About Body/About Face, curated by AAWR Executive Director, Mindy Tousley, is a small-group, figurative exhibition which examines the representation of African American bodies in art and culture. Featuring 7 regional creators, Amanda King, LaSaundra Robinson, Tony Williams, Davon Brantley, Jacques P Jackson, Lawrence Baker and Yvonne Palkowitsh, the show includes paintings, mixed media installations, photography, mosaics, and textiles, creating a compelling display which is both a meditation and celebration of black identity.

About Body/About Face continues through January 16th.

Hear the Artists Speak

Episode 47: Oh My Goddesses…NewNow 2021

Originally aired February 18, 2021

For Episode 47 we stayed home and start drinking wine in preparation for the 7:00 PM Virtual Opening of the Artists Archive NewNow Biennial Show.

For this pre-show episode of Living Figuratively, I show you my two Goddess Project paintings that were accepted to the show (because they're still hanging in my house…because the show is virtual)

And I'll tell you all about how and why I have re-imagined these Goddesses via a feminist and anti-racist…lens.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 46: Detailed at CVAC

Originally aired February 11, 2021

An unlikely juxtaposition of artists, who are seemingly different as night and day, with their intense attention to detail taking center stage.

Detailed continues through March 4th with generous gallery hours, masks required and social distancing galore!

Visit Cuyahoga Valley Art Center's website for all the *details*…get it?

Pictured in thumbnail: Left, Enigma, Beth Lindenberger and Right, Mrs. M III, Mark Giangaspero

Detailed at CVAC

Episode 45: Getting High in the Family Room

Originally aired February 4, 2021

The Queen of this wall, however is one from the legendary Shirley Aley Campbell's, Anniversary.

And, as always there are loads of decorator tips, this time all about hiding stereo equipment and painting leather couches!

Episode is second in an ongoing and scattered series where we "get high" in other parts of Judy's beautiful home and studio…chock full of figurative art!

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 44: Getting High in the Living Room

Originally aired, January 28, 2021

Judy also showed us what was taken down to make room for this new display…and how eager she is to send these older, monumental beauties to their forever homes…at very reasonable prices!

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 43: New Beginnings at Waterloo

Originally Aired, January 21, 2021

For Episode 43…Judy took the show on the road to the Waterloo Arts district in Cleveland, Ohio to check out New Beginnings, curated by Davon Brantley at Waterloo Arts.

Through this exhibition, we are, as viewers, exposed to an altogether different paradigm, one in which women artists from a spectrum of cultural experiences take center stage.

Through a variety of media choices we hear from these women; their views on race, environment, cultural stigmas/standards, broken traditions, the personal, the psychological and more.

Artists: Stina Aleah, Ashley Bohanon, Amirah Cunningham, ChristaFreehands, Kacey Gill, Destyni Green, Celena E. Higginbottom, Younghyeon Ryu, Euneata Walker, Lauren Webster.

Waterloo Arts

Episode 42: Say YES to the Dress

Originally aired, January 14, 2021

THEN then I show you and talk about some of the fabulous vintage outfits I've worn for Living Figuratively in 2020…AAAAND tell you where I got them!

Fine! I'll tell you now…Getup Vintage in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Sweet Lorain in Cleveland, Ohio

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 41: About Body/About Face

Originally aired, January 7, 2021

For Episode 41…the first for 2021, Judy takes the show on the road once again to visit The Artists Archives of the Western Reserve in University Circle, Cleveland, Ohio.

About Body/About Face continues through January 16th.

Hear the Artists Speak

Episode 40: New Year’s EVE Epiphany!

Originally aired December 31, 2020

New Year's Eve, like Christmas Eve this year…is on a Thursday night, and for Living Figuratively it was business as usual!

For Episode 40, Judy unveiled two new paintings…a diptych…from her Goddess Project, Epiphany of Eve and Epiphany of Pandora. She told us why these two characters from the Judeo-Christian bible and Greek Mythology have so much in common.

And, as always, during these difficult Covid times, the artist will be paying forward 50% of the profits from any sales,into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 39: The Christmas Special

Originally aired December 24, 2020

Episode 39 is the Christmas Special…Live, Original and Spectacular!

Originally aired on Christmas Eve, 2020 Judy skips the figurative art and decorating theme this week, but continues her weekly tribute to 1960s TV shows of her childhood with her own personal take on a Christmas Classic…which she just so happens to have a collection of stuffed animals from!

Santa won't eat, Christmas is in jeopardy and there's an insurrection brewing on the Island of the Misfit Toys! All good Christmas fun…with maybe a thing or two to think about too!

And, as always, during these difficult Covid times, Judy will be paying forward 50% of the profits from any sales, into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 38: This place is a WRECK! A Rec ROOM that is!

Originally aired December 17, 2020

For Episode 38, Judy took you down to the basement

Rec Room, to show you reclaimed wood, Southwestern Corbels, figurative art, and the fancy eat'n table!

Featured work by Judy, from her Age of Adventure series, painting senior citizens and also two paintings by the legendary Shirley Aley Campbell!

And, as always, during these difficult Covid times, she'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any sales,into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 37: New Masters 2 at Ursuline College

Originally aired December 10, 2020

For Episode 37, I continued my series, Shopping the Art Shows and went to Ursuline College in Cleveland, Ohio to see the New Masters Show.

New Masters was conceived by Wasmer Gallery Director Anna Arnold two years ago to give a spotlight to the work of women artists of Ohio. You'll see work by featured works by Jill Eisert, Kimberly Chapman, Samantha Bias, Melissa Harris, Best in Show winner, Mandem…and so many more!

Juried by Lakeland College Gallery Director and Lakeland May Show mastermind, Mary Urbas , I take you on a tour focusing on the figurative art in the show and spotlighting some gems that you can buy.

To schedule a visit or purchase a work from the gallery email Anna Arnold at aarnold@ursuline.edu.View the whole show in detail here.
New Masters continues through January 29, 2021.

Ursuline College observes Covid Guidelines with social distancing and masks worn at all times on campus.

See New Masters Online

Episode 36: Davon Brantley at Mahall's MOCHA

Originally aired December 3, 2020

For Episode 36, I continue my series, Shopping the Art Shows. This time we head to the heart of Lakewood, Ohio to Mahall’s MOCHA!

Mahall’s MOCHA is the upstairs art gallery at the legendary Mahall’s Bowling Alley, Bar and Eatery in Lakewood! Conceived and run by Antwoine Washington in a very recent effort to save Mahall’s,their upstairs gallery space has a specific mission: to give a voice to Black Artists.

And for the past month, fellow CIA Alum, Davon Brantley has had his solo show in this lovely, intimate and beautifully lit space! Davon be joined me to talk about his work in the show, his influences and the messages he wants to convey.

Email inquiries to Davon Brantley:

Brantleydavon.db@gmail.com

Follow Davon Brantley on Instagram

Episode 35: Thanksgiving Insight

Originally aired November 26, 2020

Episode 35 is a quickie with a little Thanksgiving message and insight from a perennial Thanksgiving favorite.

Judy channels the "other Judy" playing Dorothy from Wizard of Oz…who, after 80 years of saying it, finally, in 2020, realizes that there's no place like home.

Judy expresses her thanks to viewers and pays the love…and money…forward into the struggling art community.

50% of the profits from all sales right now are being paid forward into the struggling art community during these difficult Covid times.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 34: Shopping the Art Shows: 49th Annual Valley Art Center Juried Show

Originally aired Novembver 19, 2020

For Episode 34, I continue my series, Shopping the Art Shows.

This time we head to quaint downtown Chagrin Falls to see the 49th Annual Juried Exhibition at the Valley Art Center. I take you on a little walk through tour focusing on the figurative art in the show and spotlighting some gems that you can buy in person, or through the website.

Featured works by Lee Heinen, Jill Eisert, Michael W. High, Diane Pardy Farr, Roy Grygowski, Kim Chapman, Samantha Bias, Kim Barnes, Best in Show winner, Linda Mayer…and so many more!

In the video, I'm standing next to David Shankland's Second Place Award winning sculpture, Food.

Shop Valley Art Center

Episode 33: Love, Athena…The 2020 Pam Redux

Originally aired November 12, 2020

For Episode 33 we revisited the Love, Athena Triptych.

Since returning from lockdown at the Zanesville Museum of Art I have presented this magnum opus of a painting on Living Figuratively twice, first here and then here. Since those presentations, I have realized that the portrait of my friend Pam, far left in the center panel, wasn't working…and also that the world has changed.

I have given her a Redux and now, I believe it says so much more than it did before.

Since my Chicks with Balls books are already printed, I have created an insert with the new image. If you have already purchased Chicks with Balls: Judy Takács keeps painting unsung female heroes, send me an email with your mailing address and I'll send you the signed insert on heavyweight paper.

All future orders of the book will come with the signed insert included already.

And, as always, during these difficult Covid times, I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any sales, into the struggling art community.

Buy the New Chicks book with insert

Episode 32: Underestimated, Sarah Curry at Hedge Gallery

Originally aired November 5, 2020

Episode 32, is the first in a series of Shopping the Art Shows.

Judy took us to Hedge Gallery at the 78th Street Studios in Cleveland to see Sarah Curry's Underestimated.

Sarah Curry is a High School art teacher who sees the day to day drama, ordeals and triumphs of teenage life, and paints her students with humor and a depth of understanding that can only be gained through the eyes of a trusted and experienced teacher.

See the works on Hedge Gallery's website or go see them in person during gallery hours, or make an appointment at a time that works for you. Hedge Gallery is located at the fabulous 78th Street Studios on Cleveland's near west side.

Show continues through December 4th.

Pictured on Video Thumbnail: Natalia's Daisies, Sarah Curry

Shop Sarah Curry at Hedge Gallery

Episode 31: A Halloween Treat

Originally aired October 29

Just in time for Halloween…

Judy showed us how she has decorated her home for Halloween this year…not too creepy, not too cooky, but she had some fun, and we'll also see a couple of her more scary and Halloween theme paintings.

And, as always, during these difficult Covid times, she'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of her sales, into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 30: Emilie, The Tenth Muse…The One Who Sees

Originally aired October 22, 2020

For Episode 30, Judy gave us a quick visit with her painting, Emilie, The Tenth Muse, The One Who Sees…currently included in the 75th Ohio Annual Virtual Juried Exhibition at the Zanesville Museum of Art, Juried by Ken Emerick.

She also told us how her art trajectory has been intertwined with the Zanesville Museum of Art, from the first time she entered the Ohio Annual, to winning Best in Show in 2018, and then opening the Chicks with Balls Show in February 2020 only to have it lockdown due to covid in March 2020…and then launching Living Figuratively!

The 75th Ohio Annual can be viewed on the ZMA website.

Many of the works are for sale and will be online through January 8th.

And, as always, during these difficult Covid times, she'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of her sales, into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 29: Be Our Guest!

Originally aired October 15, 2020

For Episode 29, Judy invited us into the Guest Room in her home…decorated with…you guessed it…Figurative Art.

This episode had blasts from the past, curated clutter and hopes for the future! Also featured were a Seven Deadly Sins inspired portrait of International Filmmaker, Robert Banks, works by Virgil Thrasher and Paul Keysar, finishing up with the story behind the pre-cursor to the Chicks with Balls project, Blue Balls for Scarlet.

And, during these difficult Covid times, Judy will be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of her sales, into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 28: Painting the Figure Now…and the Ins and Outs of Art Show Strategy

Originally aired October 8, 2020

For Episode 28, Judy did a little pre-game show before she taking us to Wisconsin for the virtual opening reception of Painting the Figure Now 2020 at the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art. Giving us an insider look at her Art Show Strategy, Judy showed us what she entered into this show…and why, what she didn't enter…and why, what was rejected and the beautiful chicks portrait that was accepted.

And, during these difficult Covid times, she'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of my sales, into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 27: What's Cooking? Art in the Kitchen

Originally aired October 1, 2020

For Episode 27, Judy brought us into the heart of the home and family…the Kitchen…to show us how…and why she hangs some of her most influential and important works from her collection in the Kitchen. We'll see work by artists Cathy Rogers, Jeffrey Hein, Daniel Sprick, Katherine Stone and Nicolas Uribe…and a vintage piece by yet another mysterious Hungarian artist…along with some curated clutter!

And, during these difficult Covid times, she'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of her sales, into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 26: Critical Condition

Originally aired September 24, 2020

Last week we saw the storage room. This week, I showed you some of my oder paintings that I've has stored over the years…many I haven't seen for almost a decade!

Wearing my critic's hat tonight, and paying tribute to the spirit of the late great Ruth Bader Ginsberg, I will walk the walk and turn the dispassionate critic's eye on my own work.

Some of the older works are available, as is, deeply discounted, and giclees can be made.

Use the website email form to message with offers or questions. And, during these difficult Covid times, as always, I will be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of my sales, into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 25: The Art of Studio Storage

Originally aired September 17, 2020

For Episode 25, you saw the good, the bad and the ugly…when I brought you to the back storage room, where all the behind the scenes ”paintenence“ occurs. This is where I keep my props, shipping boxes and also store older paintings between shows and sometimes for perpetuity.

And, during these difficult Covid times, I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of my sales, into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 24: Family History, Unsolved Mystery Part 2

Originally aired September 10, 2020

For Episode 24, I told you the rest of the story…the Unsolved Mystery in our Family History.

I headed back to the family wall in my living room,

to reveal the newly discovered name of the artist who painted my grandmother's portrait in the 1930s.

I also told you the sad story behind my portrait, Titkos Testvér, The Secret Sister who was sent away. We have no official records of her existence, no photos and only a few sentences about her short and tragic life, but I painted her anyway.

In addition to this show being a Family Affair, I also pay tribute to the amazing Diana Rigg, whose passing at age 82, made headlines the morning the show aired, Sept 10, 2020.

These personal family works are only available in giclee format.

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of my sales,

into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 23: Family History, Unsolved Mystery Part 1

Originally aired September 3, 2020

For Episode 23, Part One of Family History, Unsolved Mystery, I took you into the Living Room to for a look at a David Kassan and A Mark Giangaspero from my collection.

I also showed you some family portraits, the Final Chapter, the last one I painted of my mom before she passed,

and a stunning historical portrait of my grandmother by an unidentified Hungarian artist from the 1930s.

The personal family works are available in giclee format.

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of my sales,

into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 22: Special Report Robert Liberace

Originally aired August 27, 2020

Episode 22 was a quick Special Report, on artist Robert Liberace.

My special report tied in with the Portrait Society of America Worldwide Drawing demo he was giving. I showed you

works of his from my collection, and how I use his work to inspire mine.

And then it was Back to Your Regular Programming…Already in Progress! Just like back in the 1960s, when Special Reports interrupted my favorite shows!

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 21: 2020 Vision: Controlling Destiny

Originally aired August 20, 2020

For Episode 21, I introduce two more of my Goddess Project paintings which I worked on during lockdown.

These works also feature premiere figure model, Elle Cata, who looks and poses like Classical Rennaissance sculpture.

Trust Women and My Body My Decision reference my activism for reproductive freedom

by re-imagining Michelangelo's David statue as a woman taking down the patriarchy.

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of my sales of paintings, giclees and books into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 20: 2020 Vision: The Right to Bare Arms

Originally aired August 13, 2020

For Episode 20, I brought you back to the studio to show you a special Venus painting which I worked on during lockdown…featuring a special model who looks like and poses like Classic Greek Sculpture…Elle Cata!

I also talk about my inspirations for parts of this special painting, including the Venus DeMilo, statue from antiquity, attributed to Alexandros of Antioch, John Singer Sargent, William Merritt Chase and Contemporary figurative realists Jamie Coreth and Terry Strickland. Check out Terry Strickland's Patreon page…amazing artist and inspiring instructor for sure!

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of my sales of paintings, giclees and books into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 19: What Would Judy Do?

Originally aired August 6, 2020

For Episode 19, I took you ON LOCATION for a surprise visit to the home of a retired celebrity couple.

I give them some decorating tips and show them how they can bring figurative art into their lives…

I show them "What Judy Would Do?"

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any of my sales of paintings,

giclees and books into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 18: Group TEN Gallery

Originally aired July 30, 2020

For Episode 18, I took you ON LOCATION to the Group Ten Gallery in Kent to the Seventh Annual Regional Juried Show ,

which I juried with Jennifer Omaitz. I talk about some of the figurative works in the show and tell you what struck me about them.

I also talk about the jurying process we went through for this competitive show. I focused on figurative works and prize winners by Kimberly Chapman, Joe Stavec, Tom Jackson, Jeanette Holko, Jim Smolko and Gwen Waight.

Many of the works from this show are available for sale.

Shop Group Ten Gallery

Episode 17: The LOVE DESK

Originally aired July 23, 2020

For Episode 17, I took you to a special corner of my home which I've used to honor family members,

with my mom's writing desk as the centerpiece.

I talk about my paintings, Cancer Honeymoon and Guardian Angel of the Good Death, which is available through 33 Contemporary on artsy.net.

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any sales of paintings, giclees and books into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 16: Taking it to the MAX…The Max Ginsburg Episode

Originally aired: July 16, 2020

For Episode 16, I introduced you to the work of one of my art heroes, Max Ginsburg. Showing you Max's pieces from my collection, as well as work inspired by him.

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any sales of my work into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 15: Someday my PRINTS will come

Originally aired: July 9, 2020

For Episode 15, I showed you another way to bring figurative art into your life…via art PRINTS!

I showed you hand-pulled prints by Liz Maugans and Marv Smith, my own custom giclees from the Cleveland Hopkins Airport Art of Realism Exhibit, my collection of tiny artist giclees and a special award winner by Natalia Fabia.

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any sales into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 14: Talking BACK!

Originally aired: July 2, 2020

For this decidedly PG Episode, I showed you how you can fill your home with family friendly figurative art…nudes, that show no nipples or breasts…beautiful paintings of the back.

Never mind the wifi glitch around 6:30…I'll tell you the art concept I was pontificating about in future episodes of

Living Figuratively!

And, during these difficult Covid times,

I'll be paying forward 50% of the profits from any sales into the struggling art community.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 13: The Big WIN WIN

Originally aired: June 25, 2020

I brought you to my husband's home office to show you some of the art I have gifted him over the years.

Because this was the “Lucky Thirteenth” Episode, there was a bit of a snafu in the live broadcast of this show.

When I was talking about Rose Frantzen's amazing painting…a nude of a lovely young girl that hangs over my husband's desk…the facebook censor-bots stopped my show and told me I was in violation of Facebook Community Standards.

I am contesting this "violation," but had to stop the show.

I did, however, salvage what I could and put together this uncensored version, available on YouTube only.

Watch to see what all the fuss is about.

Featuring the work of Rose Frantzen, Arabella Proffer, Mitzura Salgian, Judith Brandon and Kimberly Beck!

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 12: Love, Athena…And HOW

Originally aired: June 18th, 2020

For the HOW Episode, I showed you the nuts and bolts of how I set up the posing sessions and handled the the props and created the painting details that went into the creation of Love, Athena.

I also I showed you how I was inspired by masterworks by

Karen Offutt, Sadie Valeri, Lea Colie Wight, Will St. John, Rembrandt…and more…to create various parts of this epic triptych.

Buy Love, Athena…the Giclee

Episode 11: Love, Athena…Who, What and Why?

Originally aired: June 11th, 2020

I welcomed my epic triptych, Love, Athena, home from her

extended COVID 2020 lockdown at the Zanesville Museum of Art.

This gigantic, three part multi-figure portrait bridges the gap between my Chicks with Balls and The Goddess Project.

It was unveiled for its first worldwide viewing.

Part 1: WHO, WHAT, and WHY

I talk about the women who posed and why I chose them,

show you details, symbolism and how this triptych ties into themes and concepts from The Goddess Project.

Buy Love, Athena…as a Giclee

Episode 10: Turning a Corner

Originally aired: June 4th, 2020

For Episode 10, I showed you a very special corner of my house where figurative art rules…

a couple of my own and a glorious piece, Phoenix, by Jaymi Zents!

My own works from this episode are available as originals and as giclees, and during these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community, check out my online shop.

Shop Living Figuratively

Episode 9: Book Look

Originally aired: May 28th, 2020

For this installment of LIVING FIGURATIVELY, I invited you into my studio and introduced you to some of my

favorite figurative art books that have inspired me for decades along with some recent discoveries.

Spoiler alert: They're all terrific coffee table books too!

Featured books are from artists Rose Frantzen, Burton Silverman, Susan Lyon, David Kassan, Nicholas Uribé, Terry Strickland, Carly Strickland, Artemesia, Poets/Artists Publications…and more!

BONUS: I kicked off the episode with a first look at my most recent art acquisition, a beautiful drawing by Teresa Oaxaca!

which I'll be framing with Susan Porges, The Art Studio!

Look close, I am also wearing leggings from the House of Oaxaca too!

Buy The Chicks with Balls Books

Episode 8: Bed, Bath and Beyond, Part 3 BEYOND…The Laundry Room

Originally aired: Thursday May 21st, 2020

I took you on a 360° tour of the BEYOND…The Laundry Room, where I have more figurative art than I could even talk about…housewife relics from the ages are part of my ironic curated clutter too!

I opened with a lightning round of 1960s TV Trivia and placed some TV show references here and there as well…see if you can guess some!

During these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community, check out my online shop.

Buy Art from Living figuratively

Episode 7: Bed, Bath and Beyond, Part 2 Bath

Originally aired: Thursday May 14th, 2020

I took you on a 360° tour of my master bathroom , which…Surprise Surprise… is also chock full of figurative art!

I kicked it off with a Trivia Question about a popular TV Show…watch it and see if you can figure out the answer! And, I finished up with a major TV Trivia clue as to where I'll be taking you for Part 3…The Beyond!

During these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community.

The works I feature on LIVING FIGURATIVELY, are available through my online shop.

Buy Art from Living figuratively

Episode 6: Bed, Bath and Beyond, Part 1, BED

Originally aired: Thursday May 7th, 2020

I took you on a 360° tour of my master bedroom , which is chock full of figurative art. Lots of my own and also work by JenMarie Zeleznak, April Felipé, Annie Peters and Daniel Sprick.

I also sprinkled in some reference to my favorite 1960s TV shows…maybe you caught some?

During these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community.

The works I feature on LIVING FIGURATIVELY, including these four Chicks paintings, as originals and gicleés, are available through my online shop.

Buy Art from LIVING FIGURATIVELY

Episode 5: Chicks with Balls

Originally Aired: Thursday, April 30, 2020

I spoke about my long-term painting series,

Chicks with Balls: Judy Takács paints unsung female heroes. I focused on four special paintings from my Chicks with Balls project, and the highly unusual posing session that was necessary to create them.

The three women who were part of this effort are portrait artists themselves, Pamela Mack, Martha Osborne and Carol Berning, and their paintings appear in the SECOND Chicks with Balls book which was released February 13th at the Zanesville Museum of Art. You can buy it here.

I also revealed the mystery about the frying pan from Episode 4…watch Episode 4…and then find out which 1960s TV Show was referenced!

During these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community.

The works I feature on LIVING FIGURATIVELY, including these four Chicks paintings, as originals and gicleés, are available through my online shop.

Buy Art from LIVING FIGURATIVELY

Episode 4: Highland Matriarch

Originally Aired: Thursday, April 23, 2020

I spoke a perennial favorite painting of mine, Highland Matriarch. My fabulous and indulgent model for this painting is Jewelry Artist, Kim Mettee.

For Episode 4, I also talk about paintings from my collection by Restrooms of Cleveland author, Arabella Proffer.

Buy her books here or here and check out her paintings and her blog at arabellaproffer.com

During these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community.

Many of my works which I feature on LIVING FIGURATIVELY, including Highland Matriarch, are available through my online shop. The ones from my collection are not for sale, but you can visit the websites of the artists I feature to find out about acquiring their work or publications.

Buy Highland Matriarch

Episode 3: A Wall full of Small

Originally Aired: Thursday, April 16, 2020

I told you about how you can use affordable small and medium figurative works to decorate your house with a “Wall Full of Small.”

I highlighted my own works and those from my collection by Sadie Valeri, Karen Offutt, Carol Arnold and Steven Assael.

Custom double-sided framing of my Steven Assael drawing by Susan Porges Fine Art.

During these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community.

Many of my works which I feature on LIVING FIGURATIVELY are available through my online shop…the ones from my collection are not for sale, but you can visit the websites of the artists I feature to find out about acquiring their work or signing up for instruction.

Buy Art from LIVING FIGURATIVELY

Episode 2: Ephemera

Originally Aired: Thursday, April 9, 2020

I spoke about my Ephemera Series, where I collaged bits of my parents handwriting and legacy into my paintings.

My Ephemera works are available as original oil paintings or as half-size giclees (high quality prints on archival paper) through my online shop.

Ephemera Collector, the center painting in the triptych, is available through 33 Contemporary on artsy.net.

During these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community.

Read my blog about Ephemera.

Buy Ephemera Works

Episode 1: Serenity Prayer

Originally Aired: Thursday, April 2, 2020

For the premier episode of LIVING FIGURATIVELY, I spoke about Serenity Prayer, a painting that was specific to my personal troubles when I painted it, but also speaks to the troubles of our current times.

My Serenity Prayer painting is available as an original oil painting or as a half-size giclee (high quality prints on archival paper) through my online shop.

During these Corona Times, I will be paying 50% of my art sales profits forward into the struggling art community.

Read my blog about Serenity Prayer.

Buy Serenity Prayer