SHOWCASE 500 BEADED JEWELRY

A Grain of Sand

Have you ever walked on the beach and felt the warm sand between your toes? The warmth envelopes your entire being. Sometimes a rather drab day enfolds you in this wonderful happening. As I experienced this book, I kept thinking about the grains of sand that are part of the entity that makes up “beads.”

“Showcase 500” introduces the wonderfully talented artisans that take these tiny spherical forms and create magic. Many of the wearable art forms must have taken hours to create, but what’s the rush? The finished pieces are glorious. Bead weaving, bead embroidery, and bead stringing are some of the methods embraced to produce these amazing body and hand adornments.

After perusing the book, I watched a video of Teresa Sullivan’s bead work. She is a master in this medium. The piece she demonstrated was a sculptural bead head. Her actions were quick and decisive in her choice of beads and colors. The finished bead was quirky and delightful.

Met Innmon drew me in with her Egyptian Waves Collar. I could visualize it as Cleopatra (Elizabeth Taylor) wore it. No wonder Julius Caesar (Richard Burton) could not resist her wily ways.

Hub Peterson’s Blue Waterlillies necklace is beautifully designed and constructed. Wow, wouldn’t I be the bell of the ball at a summer party as I entertained in the gazebo.

The photographs in this book captured each and every tiny colorful speck worked by the talented beaders as they created. What a delightful memory of my walks on the beach this inspiration book elicited.

METAL CLAY & COLOR

24 In a Box

Ice cream cones were special. But, my favorite treat was a “24 in a box” crayon set. At that time, this box was considered to hold all the colors of the rainbow and then some. I could spend hours swiping them across the paper, coloring in blocks of letters, melting and combining them, and generally enjoying all their intrinsic colorful beauty.

I got this same sense of the effect of color when I reviewed Kalmbach Publishing newest book, “Metal Clay & Color.” Several years ago I played around with metal clay. Although there were many aspect of the material I found to be interesting, the lack of color to me was a turn-off. Not anymore! This “colorful” book by Mary Wohlgemuth, with a foreword by Celie Fago, is a must see, must have read for all metal clay artisans.

There are numerous projects listed beginning with “Easy keum-boo” where one can even utilize gold leaf, to a series of “Legends Rings” where one is introduced to the use of dichroic glass scraps to create various colored dynamic cabochons.

Color agents such as dye oxides, polymer clay, ceramic clay, and low fire under glazes are utilized in many of the projects. Gilders paste, a durable wax medium is introduced which adds an extra punch to the Flor earrings project. Alcohol ink is another technique used with great success.

This book is a Pandora’s crayon box of more than 24 colors for the metal clay artist. Watch out “Crayola” you now have lots of competition.

Steve Shimatzki is the winner of “21st Century Jewelry” sponsored by Lark Books.

If you would like to be in the random drawing for “1000 Rings” published by Lark Books, please enter your name in the “comments” section under the review. This current contest ends July 31st. All review are published on my web site at
http://www.rite-it.blogspot.com.

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1000 RINGS

A Smorgasbord of Styles

Several years ago, Robert Ebendorf presented a seminar at Craft Alliance in St. Louis. He also stated at the time that “rings have always made a powerful statement.” I was wearing a necklace which I had designed with an intricate chain....think “rings.” He pointed out the various features of these rings and the construction of the piece. I was flattered by his comments and have continued to think about my message when I envision a design.

The wonderful and diverse variety of the rings featured in this book is both imaginative and engaging. I was delighted with the whimsical feathers incorporated into Serena Van Rensselaer’s “Isadora Ring.” Hope her client checked on the weather report before venturing outside.

Eva Werner’s ring reminded me of a hamster’s wheel. Thought it would be fun to take a spin around town with this on my finger.

Bruce Clark’s “Scratch That Itch” ring demonstrated in my mind that on design day he was warning people that they had better not get too close.

Inasmuch as my primary interest is “textile techniques in metal,” I loved Cathy Chotard’s gold and nylon thread ring. SergeyJivetin’s “Volume” ring elicited that same kind of response.

Michael Boyd’s rings were very captivating with their encrusted gemstone shanks. This “Poison Rings” group would certainly come in handy if one was in a tight spot.

Jeffery Taylor’s ring would be helpful on the cleaning lady’s day off.

Junghyun Woo’s “Something Container” with ring was beautifully simplistic. Each complimented the other.

All rings featured in this book illustrate the creative nature of the designers. Their choice of material is endless which range from every day items found in the home, and field, to gold, silver, platinum, titanium, gemstones, pearls, etc. The designs run from the ridiculous to the sublime. They are great conversation starters which don’t belong in gallery drawers, but on fingers for all to examine, question, and enjoy.

Women From The Ankle Down

The Story of Shoes and How They Define Us

Rachelle Bergstein

I really did enjoy reading this book by Rochelle Bergstein. She took the readers on an exciting walking stroll thru the definitive history of shoes.

Her research is impeccable as she traces the “shoe biz” captivating stories of Ferragamo’s humble beginnings in the period before WWI. Shoes were created by hand whereas now they are mass produced by industrial footwear manufacturers.

In ancient times certain types of shoes designated status. Times haven’t changed according to Bergstein, although the styles and materials are now limitless. One can pay an arm and leg today for a divine pair of shoes designed by such illustrious names as Christian Laboutine, Jimmy Choo, or Manolo Blahnik, idol of the Sex & the City Clan.

Bergstein writes about which individuals and times influenced baby doll heels, ballet flats, Birkenstocks, etc., and effects of fashion vs function. Judy Garland, Lana Turner, Jennifer Lopaz, Lady Gaga, is among this group. Each one in their own fashion made a particular style or pair of shoes popular or objects of desire. High heels elicited an aura of sexuality, and boots signified a woman’s empowerment.

The average woman has over 50 pairs of shoes. We are modern day Imelda Marcos. Bergstein believes they define who we are or want to be. Many of us just want to be “comfortable in our own shoes.

21st Century Jewelry

Something Uniquely Different


Our family, all eleven of us, recently visited Las Vegas. Together, we celebrated my husband’s and my 60th wedding anniversary at the Venetian Hotel. My blog book reviews always describes some wonderful jewelry book publication. The Venetian Hotel reminded me of a beautiful precious jewel sparkling in the desert. As I perused “21st Century Jewelry,” a part of the Lark Books 500 series, I could not help but make this comparison.

The creativity that comprised the artistic sensibilities in each and every page is also evident in the lush ambiance of this “all suites” hotel. Seainin Passi’s droplet necklace resembled the azure blue of the pools with their gorgeous ever blooming gardens. As we strolled down the magical shopping promenade, the gondoliers summoned us with their lilting voices. We were enraptured by all the magnificent sights. Many of the amazing jewelry featured in this book had a similar effect on my sensibilities.

The Venetian Hotel is a rare specimen comparable to the Vesuvius Ring by Vicente Agor. Both showcase an abundance of color and beckon one in to experience its entire splendor. The Lark Books “21st Century Jewelry” with its captivating photographs and the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas will forever be etched in my memories.

CLASSICAL ELEGANCE

Art History 101


It is wonderful that Maggie Meister had the opportunity to travel and live in Italy for five years and fall captive to its “splendor.” Many years ago, we took a cruise to the Italian Riviera, but alas could not disembark in Naples because of “too many unsavory elements.”

I am now fortunate to have the opportunity to take the journey with this elegant book “Classical Elegance” through her eyes. I didn’t need any special traveling gear, but just my eyes open wide. The mosaics, architecture and rug patterns with their vivid colors became the focus of her artistry.

Stitches or combination of stitches are very well illustrated and described. Her mantra is “practice, practice, practice.” Twenty organized project are presented. She elucidates what influenced their conception. Seed beads of every shape, size, and color, along with other necessary material and tools are very well documented.

Many books attempt to teach, but this book really does without a lot of confusing jargon. It is easy to follow the little arrow as it too makes the trip of discovery for the beader. I really appreciated the numeration of some of the designs such as the Laksmi Pendant. It was better than a compass.

Thank you Lark Books for the visit back to antiquity with this amazing book, “Classical Elegance.” It rivals many of the art history books I have read.

WINNER

LISA BROUSEAU is the June 15th winner of the Lark Book Contest. She told us she just celebrated her birthday so she was very excited with her unexpected birthday present. "Master's Gold" is on the way. Happy Birthday Lisa, and Congratulations.

VINTAGE JEWELRY DESIGN

This book “Vintage Jewelry Design” by Caroline Cox, and published by Lark Books is an exquisite photographic experience and education. The vintage jewelry chosen to be represented here provides an extraordinary visual awakening. Lush broaches, necklaces, rings, earrings, etc., are featured and created using every conceivable material and style. Their acclaimed costume and precious metal jewelry rein supreme.

My own personal experience with vintage jewelry began many years ago. It happened when I was traveling to New York with a very wealthy friend. Her husband had ordered a car and driver to take us to Sotheby’s. Upon entering the very imposing showroom, we were whisked into a private room where a very prim and proper young woman greeted us. After a few minutes of conversation, we were presented with the most glittering display of vintage jewelry I had ever seen.

My friend makes this trip to choose her jewelry wardrobe. Each piece was more dazzling than the other. My friend would be gifted with one of these prizes for special occasions each year such as birthday, anniversary, mother’s day, good wife day, and other sundry celebrations. I asked her whether the lack of surprise, since she had made these selections, bothered her. She looked at me with her rather Cheshire cat grin and said, “You’ve got to be kidding!”

Needless to say, the whole adventure to Sotheby’s was surreal. There was jewelry displayed from Art Nouveau designers such as Georges Foucault His broaches encrusted with both diamonds and pearls were particularly beautiful.

We were also treated with the display of several tiffany pieces. We exclaimed over a particularly striking sensuous pendant with the iridescent Favrile glass.

Eugene Joseff’s was a showcase of many styles and types. His jewelry was featured in many movies. He was considered a jeweler to the stars.

If you don’t have a very wealthy friend to take you to Sothebys in New York, don’t fret. You can now live vicariously as I do by purchasing this fascinating book, “Vintage Jewelry.” It will transport you from the 1890’s to the 1990’s future collectables. You can have it all in one splendid volume.

METAL MAGIC

Abracadabra

One doesn’t have to be a slight of hand artist to create the exciting jewelry projects in Kim St. Jean’s new book.

The instructions on torch and kiln enameling, etching, piercing and setting, etc, are all there. One’s 401 K doesn’t have to be depleted to require the necessary base tools. The sections on each technique present a synopsis of each necessary tool for the successful completion of all projects.

They say that practice makes perfect. With this book, “Metal Magic,” it is in the cards that every project is a winner. When worn, your creations will get rave reviews and a standing ovation.

SIMPLY STYLISH CRYSTAL JEWELRY

ON YOUR MARK, GET READY,GET SET, GO


We all have to start somewhere. My first tube and packages of crystals lit up a starless night. I purchased them in both large and small quantities, shapes, sizes, and colors. I would lay them out on my beading design foam and play away. Even though I was dazzled by their alluring sparkle, their design possibilities challenged me.

This most current publication “Simply Stylish Crystal Jewelry” by Kalmbach Publishing Company, compiles a luscious array of provocative designs culled from “Bead Style” Magazine. Page after page, starting with the introduction, provides invaluable useful information. The supply lists are invaluable. The high resolution of the projects photographs are a wonderful eye catching enticement for the viewer. There is nothing here that even a beginner bead aficionado cannot follow, complete, and be excited to wear, gift, sell, or barter.

Every beading enthusiast should unpack their tools, crystals, and findings. Next step would be to purchase “Simply Stylish Crystal Jewelry.” You don’t even need good illumination. Your crystals will light the way.

CLASSIC STYLE

The In Crowd

When I was growing up, there were classic styles one wore to fit in with the “in crowd.” My outfit consisted of black and white sandals or brogues, white bobby socks which were usually glued to my legs, and a plaid skirt held together on one side with a large safety pin. Jewelry was a sterling silver ID bracelet, or a fraternity pin, if one was so lucky, or a sorority pin affixed to a cashmere twin sweater set purchased if one had a after school job.

Irina Miech’s “Classic Style” book transforms yesterday’s jewelry styles into something new for the here and now. She leads the artist down the path to new discoveries while never discarding the old. Mixed metals, traditional materials and a discerning eye helps one create their own distinctive style.

The classic girl can become the classy woman with this fun-filled Kalmbach Publishing Company new book, “Classic Style.” It should be on every creative designer’s “Wish List.”

Masters Gold

The Gold Rush

On January 24, 1848, the California Gold Rush began. James W. Marshall found “gold” at Sutter’s Mill in Colona, California. Gold is one of the most rarest metals in existence today. The ductile quality of this precious metal allows one to manipulate it into thin wire, melt it into tiny granules, cast, mold, fabricate, fold, etc.

The wonderfully talented artists in this beautiful book, invites the reader to experience “gold” in all its glory. Michael Good, a student of Heikki Seppa at Washington University in St. Louis, took the sculptural articlastic form and miniaturized it into his own signature jewelry.

Jacqueline Ryan’s exquisite jewelry reflects her astute observation of nature’s animate and inanimate forms and structures.

These jewelers truly do have the “Midas touch.” Curator Marthe Le Van has created a provocative collection of major works in this inspiring Lark Books publication. The pictures are exquisite representations of all of the featured jewelry. Each and every piece is worth its weight in gold.

WINNER

Gail Devoid of Boscawen is the winner of the Lark Book contest ending May 15th. Congragulation Gail. We're sure you will enjoy the signed copy of "Making Wire Jewelry by Janice Berkebile and Tracy Stanley.

30 Minute Bracelets, 30 Minute Rings & 30 Minute Necklaces

3+1=4

I recently reviewed Lark Books 30 Minute Earrings by Marthe LeVan, so that is where the mathematical equation comes into play.  “Three’s company and four’s a crowd” is certainly not true in this case. The 45 designers create 60 playful and fanciful projects.  Each book is filled with clever and easy-to-do assortments of bodily adornments.

The beginning introductory section in each book prepares one for a wonderful creative adventure. Every conceivable material is utilized to create the imaginative objects. Author posts clever time driven organization in each section.  GET READY emphasizes skills needed.  GET SET focuses on tools and materials, GO guides one down the instructional path.

Each project makes one feel the time is now.  There is something for every spirit and season.  I wanted to get started immediately.  How exciting it would be if I were a creature from outer space.  That way, I would have enough fingers, wrists, necks, and ears to parade across the universe bedecked in all my finery.

Beaded Fantasies

“Beaded Fantasies”


Sabine Lippert

A Night on The Town

Have you ever viewed the wonderful photographs by Bill Cunningham in the New York Times? His bi-line is “On The Street.” This week’s photo montage “Fabulosity” said it all. Women bedecked in fabulous jewelry and gowns.

“Beaded Fantasies” by Sabine Lippert says it all. Inspirational chokers, pendants, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and broaches exemplify her wonderful sense of design and color. The author practically takes the viewer’s hand as she leads one from list of supplies and techniques to her exciting world of bead design projects. The photographs are outstanding and the directions very well defined. It is captivating to note how each design evolved. The gallery pieces illustrate wonderful examples of what has been created by a world of talented beaders.

The page after page of “beaded fantasies” lured me into a state of euphoria. To prepare for “my night on the town,” I’m going to make a bee-line to my favorite bead store and adorn myself in some of these fabulous creations. Maybe Bill Cunningham will take note and you’ll see me in his next photographic spread if and when he comes to town.

  CLICK IMAGE OF BOOK TO BE LINKED TO AMAZON.COM WHERE YOU CAN PURCHASE THIS BOOK AND OTHER ITEMS.

Knitted, Knotted, Twisted, & Twined – The Jewelry of Mary Lee Hu

                            

Rapunzel

Through the years some artists have had an impact on my jewelry making life.  Among those most prominent is Mary Lee Hu.  I discovered her amazing wire work when my husband and I were in Los Angeles.  We walked into a gallery and her jewelry was exhibited there.  The light reflective shimmering undulating surfaces were spellbinding.  I contacted her at the University of Washington and subsequently signed up for her textile technique and wire workshop in Arizona.  As far as my story goes, I was hooked.

Mary’s jewelry and sculptural pieces exhibited in the retrospective show at Bellevue Arts Museum are her history.  The beautifully crafted catalog/book of 100 exceptional chokers, earrings, broaches, and neck pieces chronicles her artistic growth as a student and subsequent master of her craft.

All renderings and notations are very insightful.  They demonstrate an artist working on a concept and then carrying it to fruition.  This is a wonderful way for the viewer to experience the creative process.  One example is the bracelet on the first page of the portfolio section.  Another example is the bracelet #37.  Each piece is flawless.  The fine silver and gold wirework, whether knitted, knotted, twisted, or twined, is an extension of self.

Mary always brought some of the beautiful twine structures, as featured in this book, to her workshop sessions.  Her students were able to personally visualize their movement, design, and intricate wire and fabricated construction first hand.  She also shared many of the chains and belts that she had collected during her many travels throughout the world.  It is obvious that many of these samples constitute a major influence on her growth as a critically acclaimed international artist.

This book/catalog also has a section in the back that explains various techniques for “working with wire.”  Great starting point for those whose interest has been whetted, but don’t know where to begin.

I was also fortunate to be able to study with Heikki Seppa.  Heikki was a friend and colleague of Mary Lee Hu and a devoted admirer.  Several of her small fine silver wire insects were nesting under the glass top of his coffee table.  Since he knew I was fascinated with textile techniques, he would take them out for me to touch.  Instead of firing up the torch, we would spend the afternoon studying and discussing the life-like renditions of these small creatures.

 I am so proud to know Mary Lee Hu and be the recipient of this beautiful catalog/book.  The photographic details are breathtaking.  If one doesn’t own one of her spectacular fine silver or gold pieces, the next best thing would be to purchase this catalog/book and marvel at the unbelievable “Knitted, Knotted, Twisted and Twined” creations featured in full splendor.


     

Winner

Cin Hollins of the High Desert Bead Society of Northern Arizon is the winner of "Metal Clay Fusion" by Lark Books.  Congratulations, Cin.

We are now offering a new random drawing ending May 25, 2012.  To participate, leave your comments and email address under any book image.  Maybe you will be the lucky winner.

30 Minute Earrings

Ready for the Prom!

My granddaughter will soon be going to her high school prom.  I remember when her father was all bedecked in his tux and bow tie, standing with his date and smiling his infectious grin.  I’m sure it was a night to remember.  The girls in the photograph, which he shared with us, wore colorful dresses of all styles and hem lengths.  Their earrings were particularly eye-catching.

I am amazed what emphasis women of all ages continue to place on earrings.  The new book, “30 Minute Earrings” by Marthe Le Van, features  60 quick and creative earring projects for jewelers.  All one has to do is get comfortable in front of their work bench, pick out the material of choice, decide upon a project, and saw and hammer away.

I loved the chance to try my hand at the ideas presented in this fun filled book.  Neither lack of time, nor lack of money, would present any obstacles.  With the aid of this book, “30 Minute Earrings,” my granddaughter will be the recipient of a pair of new dangling earrings framing her beautiful face.  Ellie will be the “belle of the ball.”

500 Wedding Rings

"I DO"

Many years ago, my husband and I made a commitment to each other. I would share with him all of my worldly goods. I was the only one working. He,in turn,would finish school and then share with me all of his income-derived worldly goods. To seal our love, he gave me his mother's diamond wedding ring. I in turn, many years later, gave this diamond to my son to share with his beloved.

After viewing "500 Wedding Rings," I am amazed how the styles have evolved. The ceative genius of this collective group is mindboggling. The author states that "ancient civilizations living along the furtile plans of the Nile River were the first people to form tokens of commitment." Grasses and reeds were twisted and turned into this expression of commitment. Iron, with its amazing strength, was utilized both then and today.

As a child, I remember sitting on my front porch where I had gathered a pile of small clover flowers. I then proceeded to tie them into garlands of necklaces, bracelets, and rings. Problem, they didn't last very long, but they didn't cost very much either.

Today's rings, as featured in this lovely visual book, are unique and inspirational. They range from the rediculous to the sublime. They are woven, fused, fabricated, oxidized, brushed, machined, cast, etched, welded, forged, and repoussed,etc. Materials used are steel, mesh, wood, resin, gold, platium, silver, glass, copper, magnets, brass, plastic tubing, velcro, fabric, mokume,etc. This list of techniques and materials are as never ending as some couple's commitment to one another.

If I could persuade my husband to consider a new wedding ring purchase, I would choose this book as his bible. I wouldn't be demanding. "Just select one of the designers featured here, and I will guarantee our union will last at least another 25 years." We will soon celebrate our 60th wedding anniversary.