Art History

by Cindy on January 26, 2009

Today my oldest son and his French class will be taking a field trip to the National Gallery of Art.  They will be out to observe and admire French Impressionism.  My husband will be taking a major diversion from his work routine by going along as a chaperon (the lucky guy). 

Now combining art with jewelry, coincidentally Art Bead Scene’s monthly jewelry challenge is now drawing inspiration from famous paintings.  This month, the theme is Irises by Vincent Van Gogh.  There are some seriously great prizes and I had hoped to enter.  Alas, it’s already the 26th and I just haven’t felt motivated to work on something in Iris inspired colors.  I took out a bead or two, trying to see what I could create, but it just didn’t come together. 

I have photos to share of a couple of necklaces I did manage to make.   This first necklace features lampwork glass beads by Angie Underhill.  I’ve had these beads for some time and planned to keep them for myself, as I love the blues, silvers and little swirls in the glass.  They remind me of the beach and of summer….such a nice thought when it is SO cold here.  And as a side note…my husband went running super early yesterday morning and came home with ice in his hair, that’s how cold it was!

This next necklace began with the single bumpy lampwork bead.  It was part of a set that’s long been used in other designs.  The dots on the bead contain beautiful, subtle colors of blue/green/tan/browns.  I searched through my pearls for the tiniest and wire wrapped them in a big bunch.  I coiled sterling silver wire in to a big loop for the lampwork and pearl pendant.  The necklace was then oxidized with liver of sulphur and polished in the tumbler.  The end result are colors that are soft, muted, and remind me of the “shabby chic” look that I love.

Have a great week, everyone!

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Branching Out

by Cindy on January 22, 2009

If you’re stopping by to see what’s new, I do have some studio scoop to share.  Those of you who receive my newsletter already know what I’m going to say (and if you don’t receive my newsletter…please go sign up on my shop homepage!).  For you crafters and artists out there, you knew it was only a matter of time until I set up  shop on ETSY!  I couldn’t resist.  I’ve been wanting to do this but never got around to it.  It was one of my goals for the new year. 🙂

Please stop by and visit by clicking the link below.  And here are a few things I’ll be listing there as soon as a I can.

Have a great Friday!  Hooray for the super short week!!!

sweet bead studio 

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Welcome to our 44th President

by Cindy on January 20, 2009

What a historical day, today.   To celebrate the inauguration, here’s a painting by my 6 year old son (the others painted snowmen).  Living so close to DC, it would have been nice to be there in person while Obama takes his oath of office.  With thousands upon thousands descending upon the area, it would be quite difficult though with 4 little ones.  I want them to remember this day, as one day they will reflect upon the changes they were a part of as children.  We’ll be watching on tv though, full of hope and excitement like so many Americans.

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