Art Bead Scene May Monthly Challenge 2015 - May ABS

So, as you may know, there is this blog that I love--the only blog I really follow, and they have a monthly inspiration challenge for jewelry artists who like to make and use art beads.  This month the inspiration piece is by Augistan Lesage, and it is untitled.  What struck me about this piece was the variety of vibrant colors, the symmetry, the curves, and the consistent use of line and dots.  It seems almost like a fusion of European and African art to me.  I found it quite inspiring.


I decided that my beads would have curved elements, be brightly colored and include lines and dots.  Here are some pictures of my beads:

These beads were made from earthenware ceramic clay, hand formed, and glazed using multiple colors.

I love how they turned out, although they say a little more "circus" than I had intended.  Still, I like the vibrant colors and they varied designs.  I hope you like them too.  I can't wait to see what beads others make based on this inspiration.

Happy Creating!
-Kathy

Wavy Beads

I recently met a wonderful jewelry artist who requested that I make wavy beads.  So, I went ahead and love how they turn out.  These are made from earthenware ceramic clay that has been glazed and fired.  I've tried out a lot of colors (I love them all in this bead) but I just pulled some new colors out of the kiln.  Have a look. 

I've seen some beautiful earrings made with these.  They are fantastic for earrings, bracelets, necklaces.  They would even be fantastic for button clasps.  What would you make with them?

Happy Creating!
--Kathy

Nativity Tiles

Even though it is not anywhere close to Christmas, for some reason I've really been inspired to make Christmas themed items.  Nativities, Ornaments, the works.  Weird eh?  Well, this inspiration caused me to create a new nativity tile.

I love Nativities (I collect them myself) and I wanted to create an art tile based on this traditional theme but with a new look. First, this piece has an unusual shape for a tile--an arch. I wanted it to reflect the shape of cathedral windows. This piece is a very textural relief. It features the baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, and the three wise men. The relief is on a thick tile and is from my original design/carving. The tile is about 6" tall and about 3 1/4" across the bottom of the arch. I've tried them out in different colors. 

Here are the pictures:

I've just listed them in my etsy shop here, but I'm looking forward to trying out new color combinations.  What new colors would you like to see this tile in?  As always, I'd love to see what you've been making so write a comment. 

Happy Creating!
--Kathy