When we launched the Vegas Vickie NFT project in June… we had our sights set on a Summer Bash. Friends — I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Amazing people, gold glove service from Circa, adventures, memories… and the best part?
When a Global Pandemic hits, and your trip to Japan gets cancelled… what’s the next best thing? Commission a painting of Shibuya Crossing… which is precisely what my friends in Montreal decided to do.
Please allow me to introduce this portrait of my friend Shane Fleming. This work was commissioned for his birthday by his fabulous bride, Lorre — we’ve had some amazing times with these guys, on the golf course and beyond.
Back in 2010… I met a Bob and Kelly Stephens and their pup Oz while I was painting in front of The Guggenheim. We became fast friends… Bob and I even played some hockey together (he went to Cornell, you might have heard of it? It’s in the Ivy League).
In 2013… they fell in love with my 5th Guggenheim, and added it to their collection. Eventually, as you all know (by now), our family moved to Idaho… but that didn’t stop us from being in touch. One day, Bob contacted me, wondering about creating a family portrait…
When the 2020 Masters Tournament was postponed until the fall… I decided to paint Golden Bell, and stream the process on Facebook. In 2021… I jumped to Azalea… again, streaming the process live.
With 2022 in the cross-hairs, I reached out to Mr. Jeff Victor at Circa to see if I could set-up shop at Stadium Swim to paint White Dogwood. When confirmed, we packed up the entire family, borrowed a dope whip (thank you Kurt and Debbie) — and set-off for Vegas.
Las Vegas, NV — On January 28th — I began a painting of Vegas Vickie, on-location, at Circa Resort & Casino in Downtown Las Vegas. Typically, I finish a work, post it here — and that’s a wrap. However, Vegas Vickie is a demanding mistress — the painting wasn’t enough.
With this, the wheels of history were put in motion. What began as a conversation with Mr. Jeff Victor, Vice President of Circa, is coming to life — in the Vegas Vickie NFT Project.
On February 2, 2022… I signed Vickie to a round of applause (I share this detail, because it’s extremely rare and incredibly awesome for an artist).
In attendance were… Circa Owner Derek Stevens, Mr. Victor and his lovely wife Sheila (pictured above with yours truly); Scott Roeben of Vital Vegas, the amazing Circa team that supported me all week; a group of my beloved friends including Brandy, Patrick, Raiderman, Chas, Pat, Shannon, Garrett and Angelica; and, of course, some beautiful casino patrons.
Behind the scenes — our historic blockchain project was already under way. Before I go way back and tell you everything — check out The Vegas Vickie NFT Splash Page. Sign-up with your email — we’ll discover the future together.
Now, let’s hop in the DeLorean with Marty, and see the past.
CAP was also referenced by Steve Schlackman in his recent piece: “Contract Negotiation Tips for Visual Artists.” Based on the significant traffic to my site stemming from both mentions, I recognized this as a fine moment to discuss art pricing.
Inflation is upon us, and I’ve taken note. Last month, I shipped a painting — the timeline for delivery (and price) doubled! Nevertheless, around the holidays, I love to take care of my collectors… so, until November 15th — I’m offering free global shipping on existing work.
As for commissions? I am signing contracts through the end of the year, but will not be available to begin new works until February/March 2022.
Thank you for the love and support through, yet, another unusual year.