From the Hollow

By J.S. — Traditional Fine Art Portraiture Artemisia Gentileschi (1593–c. 1656) is a name that resonates deeply with art lovers who value both technical mastery and emotional intensity. Though often overshadowed by her male contemporaries, Gentileschi’s work is a testament to resilience, brilliance, and the raw power of narrative in Baroque painting. For collectors, artists, and enthusiasts of traditional fine art portraiture , her story and art offer a compelling example of

Art exhibitions hold a unique place in the world of creativity and culture. They offer a space where artists and audiences come together to experience, appreciate, and reflect on artistic expressions. Over the years, I have found that attending these events is not only inspiring but also deeply enriching. The magnetic appeal of art exhibitions lies in their ability to connect people with art in a tangible and immersive way. This connection fosters a greater understanding of t

December is a month full of lights, feasts, and folklore — but few traditions are as delightfully unusual as  Mari Lwyd , the Grey Mare of South Wales. Equal parts pageant, ritual, and seasonal mischief, this centuries-old custom blends music, masked processions, and symbolic negotiation — all performed right around Christmas. While Mari Lwyd is its own unique tradition, it shares themes with other  ancient winter rituals , like  Saturnalia ’s revelry and  Yule ’s evergreen c

Christmas Morning Edition – The Hollow There’s something magical about waking up on Christmas morning to the warm scent of ginger, cinnamon, and sweetness drifting through the house. These Gluten-Free Gingerbread Pancakes capture every bit of that holiday nostalgia in a stack of soft, fluffy, warmly spiced pancakes that taste like Christmas in every bite. Perfect for slow mornings, family gatherings, or a quiet cozy breakfast before the festivities begin — this recipe brings

On the longest night of the year, the world pauses. The sun stands still. And across cultures and centuries, people gather to honor a moment that feels older than memory: the Winter Solstice. December 21st is a cosmic hinge — a night where ancient festivals overlap, mythologies speak to one another, and the boundary between old year and new year thins. From  Yule’s sacred fires to the stillness of the Solstice  to the shadowed reverence of Hekate’s Deipnon , this date has al

Creating art is a journey that often unfolds over hours, days, or even weeks. Capturing this process in a condensed, visually engaging format has become increasingly popular through the use of time-lapse videos. These videos reveal the transformation of a blank canvas into a finished masterpiece, offering viewers a unique perspective on the artist’s technique and creative flow. Understanding Time Lapse Art Techniques Time lapse art techniques involve recording a series of ima

By J.S. — Traditional Fine Art Portraiture Have you ever looked at a painting and felt an almost eerie presence, as if the subject’s eyes were following you, or the shadows whispered secrets from another time? Some art feels “haunted,” not in a literal sense, but in the way it resonates emotionally and psychologically . This experience, rooted in centuries of artistic tradition, has fascinated collectors, viewers, and artists alike. The Power of Symbolism Art has always been

Holiday Edition – Wednesday Recipe Share at The Hollow Nothing says “holiday baking” like the magical pairing of chocolate and peppermint. These Gluten-Free Peppermint Chocolate Brownies are rich, fudgy, festive, and irresistibly easy to make. With crackly tops, a decadent chocolate center, and just the right amount of cool peppermint, they’re perfect for winter gatherings, gift boxes, or cozy nights beside the tree. And yes—they’re fully gluten-free , but no one will ever k

Amid the tapestry of ancient Greek festivals, Haloa stands out as a celebration steeped in mystery, fertility, and the earth’s natural bounty. Observed primarily in Attica, this festival honored Demeter, goddess of the harvest, and Dionysus, god of wine and ecstasy, blending themes of agricultural prosperity with ecstatic ritual. Haloa took place in the depths of winter, often in the month of Poseideon (roughly corresponding to December or January). At first glance, the timin

Every December, when the nights stretch long and the world leans into the glow of candles, feasts, and celebration, I love looking back at the winter traditions that came long before us. One of the most vibrant — and honestly, the most chaotic in the best possible way — is Saturnalia, Ancient Rome’s week-long festival for Saturn, the god of agriculture, liberation, and golden-age abundance. If you’ve ever wondered why winter is so full of feasting, gift-giving, and joyful re

Las Posadas is a cherished tradition celebrated in Mexico and other Latin American countries, as well as by Hispanic communities in the United States, during the nine days leading up to Christmas. The name Las Posadas  translates to “The Inns” or “The Lodgings,” and the holiday commemorates the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph as they searched for a place to stay in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. The tradition of Las Posadas dates back to the 16th century when Spanis

By J.S. — Traditional Fine Art Portraiture Owning original fine art is more than a purchase—it’s a relationship. Each painting, sketch, or portrait carries the artist’s vision, energy, and craftsmanship. Proper care ensures that these works retain their beauty, vibrancy, and value for generations to come. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, this mini guide provides essential tips for preserving your artwork. Care for Original Fine Art 1. Handl

Halcyon Days is a phrase used to describe periods of calm, happiness, and peacefulness. Often associated with nostalgia or a golden time in life, the term evokes a sense of tranquility and stress-free living. Whether in literature, history, or everyday conversation, Halcyon Days represent moments when everything feels balanced and serene. Origins of Halcyon Days The term “Halcyon Days” comes from ancient Greek mythology. According to legend, Alcyone, a devoted wife, was trans

Secrets You Can’t Keep  is my second time reading Debra Webb and the third book in the Vera Boyett series , and once again she proves she knows exactly how to pull readers into a tightly woven mystery without leaving anyone behind. One of the things I appreciate most about Webb’s writing is her commitment to accessibility. You don’t need to have read the earlier books in the series to follow this one. The story stands firmly on its own, yet the subtle breadcrumbs about Vera’s

St. Lucia Day, observed on December 13th, is a cherished festival celebrated primarily in Sweden, Norway, and parts of Finland, though it also has connections to Italian traditions. This unique holiday is deeply rooted in both Christian and pagan customs, symbolizing light, hope, and the triumph over darkness during the long winter nights. Its significance and beauty have made it one of the most beloved holidays in Scandinavia. St. Lucia, or Saint Lucy, was a Christian martyr

Wednesday Recipe Share – The Hollow Exclusive Winter calls for dishes that feel like a warm hug—and this week’s recipe absolutely delivers. Our Winter Vegetable Gluten-Free Pot Pie is hearty, comforting, aromatic, and packed with seasonal produce. Whether you're snowed in, craving something cozy, or just need a nourishing midweek meal, this pot pie is the kind that makes the kitchen smell like home. Rich but not heavy, rustic but still elegant enough to serve to guests, this

Background art is titled "Girl With Corset" by Jen Sequel, traditional fine art portrait in oils. Portraiture has always been more than a visual record—it is a dialogue between artist and subject, a study of light and shadow, and a mirror reflecting the evolution of human expression. From the anatomical perfection of classical realism to the emotionally driven styles of today’s fine art, portraiture has traveled an extraordinary path. As an artist working within this lineage,

The holidays are sneaking up on us, and there’s nothing like the aroma of fresh citrus and sweet cranberries to make your home feel warm and inviting. This Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Loaf   is perfect for those cozy mornings with a cup of tea or coffee—or even as a delightful treat for guests during the season. What makes this loaf extra special is the balance of tart cranberries with the bright, fragrant zest of orange. And because it’s gluten-free, everyone at the table c

Mystery. Silence. Sacred rites hidden behind closed doors. Few deities in ancient Rome embodied secrecy and feminine power quite like Bona Dea, the “Good Goddess” whose worship was so exclusive, even her own name was considered too sacred to speak aloud. For centuries, Roman women sought her blessings for fertility, healing, protection, and purity, gathering in ritual spaces men were forbidden to enter. Though her temples once bustled with activity, much of her story has been

In the quiet countryside of ancient Greece—far from the polished marble temples and crowded agora of Athens—the Rural Dionysia unfolded each winter as one of the most spirited celebrations of the year. Rooted deeply in agricultural life, this festival honored Dionysus, the god of wine, fertility, ecstasy, and the transformative powers of nature. While the city-oriented Great Dionysia is often more widely recognized, the Rural Dionysia held a more intimate, communal importance