November 9, 2008
We have had quite a busy summer and autumn and we had time to do some painting that we have been meaning to get to for ages. Our good friend Brad Nelson, has a wonderful studio and gift shop based off of traditional Nordic architecture. He and Andy share the same home town. We all have a passion for all things Scandinavian and we usually say we will just stop by for a quick visit, but ends up being a great discussion to Nordic design, Viking art and comparing travel notes.

Brad is an extremely talented artisan and craftsman. He has created masterful jewelry and Viking wares, only using tools from that time period. His works are truly magnificent. We have admired his creations and his studio for some time. He has an infectious passion when we shows us his new works, that he inspires us to go back and create our own new works.

We wanted to surprise him with one of our Coffee Art® originals. When we had time over the past few weeks, we would work on a painting of Brad's studio/gallery. It was finally completed on Saturday and thought it would be a good Sunday drive and surprise him. We arrive to his studio, and present him with our latest creation. He was stunned and could not believe it. It was fun to see his reaction. Normally, we would be in our normal conversation about all things Nordic, but there was a dramatic silence. Brad was so entranced by the painting, he just kept staring at the work and pointing out the little details. He exclaims, "This is even better than that it really looks like!" We heartily disagreed. He was very excited to find a place to display this painting in his studio, "I have to find the perfect place where everyone can see it!"

It is people like Brad that inspire us and make us better artists and people. He has long been an advocate of our Coffee Art® and this is a small token of our appreciation for his enthusiasm.

If you are ever on the North Shore of Lake Superior, you must stop by BE Nelson's Scandinavian Gifts in Larsmont. It is definitely a worthwhile experience. Here is a great article about Brad and his works.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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