ABS February Challenge

This month, I created two bracelets for the Art Bead Scene Blog February challenge. The inspiration for the challenge is a painting entitled Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose by John Singer Sargent. What was inspiring about the painting is the luminescence the artist brought out in the lanterns and the lilies. The oranges and purple/whites really pop.

I created two bracelets based on the painting in two different color ways. The faux orange jade polymer clay beads are made of translucent clay with a bit of orange, picking up the color of the lanterns. I used one of my favorite textures, an old Christmas snowflake from The Dollar Store. (See one of my previous posts for this bracelet in green jade)

In the first color way a wash of light purple acrylic paint was applied to each bead to highlight the texture. The beads were then linked with screw eyes and the very pretty white/purple glass beads were added as dangles. They give a nice movement to the bracelet. It’s finished with a simple toggle clasp

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The second color way is the same base bead with a wash of dark blue acrylic paint and glass bead dangles in blues, purples and pinks. I like them both, what about you?

First Ever ABS Challenge

I made a commitment to myself to enter challenges and swaps this year to keep myself motivated to create regularly. Well, I had decided to enter the January Art Bead Scene (http://artbeadscene.blogspot.com/2011/01/january-monthly-challenge.htmlchallenge) based on the painting "Brown River" by Wayne Thiebaud

 

I created a polymer clay cabochon with multiple textures to simulate the fields in the painting. Acrylic paints provided the patina and some fibers add a bit of interest.

The filigree flower also received a patina of gilders paste. Not one new purchased item is used in the piece, I went shopping in my own stash (another goal - use what I have).

I cut it close in uploading my pictures so I’m keeping my fingers crossed the photos made it on time.

Polymer Clay Transfers - Ugh

I have a love/hate relationship with transfers.  I’ve tried a number of techniques with varying degrees of success, but I have in mind a great project (a secret for now) that needs a really good transfer.   I’ve done the project using two transfer types and neither were really what I was looking for.  So, today I’m off to the copy shop to see if a laser copy for a plain paper transfer will work.  We’ll see.

Book Review 1: Soldering Made Simple

Part of my Christmas package included several books, one of which was “Soldering Made Simple. Easy techniques for the kitchen-table jeweler” by Joe Silvera, publication date of 2010 by Kalmbach Books. This book is just what I was looking for in that it focuses on easy to find small torches. I have to admit I’m afraid of using the larger torches so maybe if I start small I can move up as my confidence grows.

The book is beautifully photographed with 111 pages of easy to understand and follow directions. There are 12 jewelry projects that demonstrate various techniques including making head pins, decorative balls, making and soldering jump rings, attaching bails, dapping, and much more. The projects are projects I would enjoy making and wearing. With instructions so clear, I’m sure I could complete the projects while learning new techniques.
One of my goals has been to add metal to my polymer clay jewelry and this book will help me do that. If you have a chance to buy, borrow or check ths book out from the library, do so. I think you’ll find this to be a great resource.

New Year Goals and Plans

A new year, a birthday in a few days and time to set goals and make plans.  As usual, my goals for the year are maybe more ambitious than they should be but I've got work to do.  The major themes for the year will be Health, Home and Art.  Since this blog is about the art, here are my specific goals for the year.

Frittered Away

Yikes!  The time I've frittered away (def:  waste little by little) since I last blogged on June 26.  I have been busy though.  Travelling extensively for work with little time for the studio gave me plenty of excuses.  I've committed to myself to get my studio in prime order so that I can back to art making.  So, down to the basement studio to clean out, clean up and move on.

Published in Polymer Café Magazine - August 2010

A few months ago I submitted an idea for an article in Polymer Café magazine. I’ve been reading the magazine for quite a while and enjoying it greatly. The bracelets I submitted are a series I did using sculptural elements and glass cabochons from the floral department of a craft store. What a thrill to see the article. I think it turned out great. Some of the pictures I took, some were taken by my husband and daughter. Great work.

The cover shot of the mask is by Ann Kruglak, also a Mile Hile Polymer Clay Guild member. Several of our members have been featured in the magazine. Lots of talent in that group.

I’ve got some more ideas for submissions, which I’m preparing to send in now. Crossing my fingers for future publications.