Amadora Designs UK Blog

Leaving This Blog

2011-03-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

Hi I thought I'd better tell those of you that follow me here, that I am not going to be updating this blog anymore!!

I am in the process of opening an Etsy shop to sell my jewellery, and will be closing Amadora Designs for good.I thought I'd go under my actual name, which feels right to me at this juncture.I think I had a lack of confidence before, and put jewellery up under a pretty, but impersonal name.

So here are the pertinent links:
NEW BLOG http://samanthabraundjewellery.blogspot.com
ETSY SHOP http://sambraundjewellery.etsy.com

The new blog, will have links to the new Facebook and Twitter pages, and also has a bigger blog post area, so I can have L A R G E photos of my jewellery up.

The photo is of my latest piece, the Ocean Cluster Necklace, theres a link to the blog post HERE about it. Hope you like it :)

Incidentally, I'll also be selling offline too, and will get to enjoy meeting customers face to face which will be wonderful :)

Mokume Gane Minipop Pendants

2011-03-14T06:22:00.000-07:00

I have used some of the Mokume Gane sheets to make these fun and funky little pendants. I've been calling them Minipops.
I have absolutely no idea why, LOL...but the name has now stuck. Minipop Pendants, fancy one?

I really need to get some work done, and get off the laptop...

Sunbathing Cats

2011-03-14T03:41:00.000-07:00

Jasper

I thought I'd post these pics of my cats because they look so adorable
The sun has been making regular long appearances of late, which means the little ones are doing lots of sunbathing again

They do like to hang around me though, so I have this handy footstool that I place nearby, and they take a platform each. One goes in the wooden circle base, the other gets the leather seat. They swap round when the mood suits

Enjoythe photos

The Footstool

Jinx

Jasper

Spring Awakening Wire Sculpted Necklace

2011-03-10T14:47:00.000-08:00

This necklace has 4 different green gemstones. There are 2 teardrop shaped gemstones, one being Rainbow Fluorite, the other is Peridot. These are paired with 2 faceted rondelles, one is Green Amethyst, the other is Vesuvianite.

The sterling silver wire sculpture is similar to one of the Greek Goddess pendants I made awhile back, Medusa, which is HERE on my Flickr album. It's still in my shop too...

The theme is Spring Awakening, with lush greens and plenty of movement within the piece. I am really proud of it :)

I hope you enjoy the pictures!

Me and Tennessee from Country Strong

2011-03-08T06:50:00.000-08:00

I watched Country Strong today. I found it to be such a sad bittersweet movie. I loved little Leighton Meester and Garrett Hedlund's performances particularly, they gave you hope

Anyway, I really loved this song, the melody is gorgeous.Funnily enough it's written by Chris Martin from Coldplay. I'm amazed at how talented this guy is

My First Enamelling Class

2011-03-07T04:25:00.000-08:00

I had my first ever enamelling class this weekend with Joy Funnell. It was a fun packed day in her studio, with lots of tea, kitkat and laughter. Her cats are gorgeous too

Anyway, here are some pics of the work done. The first pendant, is a reddy pink enamelled flower with vines and enamelled leaves. This is using Joy's enamelled accents on metal clay method, which was a lot of fun to do

The other 2 pieces shown, were metal clay pieces I'd made before hand. I tried to blend 2 colours together in a gradient in each of the cells. It was strange in a way, because you are literally pushing around little grains of glass around to create the illusion of blending before they fuse in the kiln

By the end of the day, we had some time to tackle Keum Boo (fusing gold foil to silver) which I'd never tried before either. I'll definitely be incorporating this in my work

All in all it was a great day, I'd highly recommend taking a class with Joy :)

Now I just have to wait (impatiently) for my enamels to arrive!!

Mokume Gane - Seafoam

2011-03-04T02:35:00.000-08:00

Here is another set of Mokume Gane polymer clay sheets. This time the colour scheme is more muted than the ice cream flavours, and are a combination of creams, greys , blues and greens. The patterns and colours made me think of seafoam

I'll be using some of these MG sheets to combine with Bronze, next week. I'm off on my enamelling course this weekend, and then going to the Desire Contemporary Arts Fair in London - which should be fun!

Wishing everyone a happy fun packed weekend too. Enjoy the pics..

Mokume Gane - Chocolate Flavours!

2011-03-02T14:48:00.000-08:00

Over the last couple of days, I've been busy making Mokume Gane polymer clay sheets.

I hammered out some art wire, and made shapes to embed into my MG stack for texture, and they have turned out great. The colours were inspired by icecream flavours. Theres a Minty Choc one, and a Rasberry Ripple one LOL
I must have been hungry...

Hope you liked the pics!

Bicolour Smokey and Lemon Quartz Sculpted Necklace

2011-02-28T08:55:00.000-08:00

It's been ages since I made any wire sculpted jewellery.
This is a Bicolour Smokey Quartz Briolette, which is quite sizeable.It's sculpted in sterling silver.

I photographed it in a light box, since the natural light where I am is still poor. It was tricky trying to capture the colour of the briolette, but I think the pics have come out well in the end

I've been a busy making fine silver pieces for my upcoming enamelling course. They're done now, I made 4 of them, and I'll put up the photos as part of a pre and post enamelling blog post.

I'm also heading to the Desire Contemporary Arts Fair in London soon too.
So there is lots of inspiration to be had...

Fake Coral Reef Sculptures Video

2011-02-23T06:29:00.000-08:00

I found this video today, showing statues underwater in Cancun, acting as fake coral reef. They are sculpted in special concrete that is marine life friendly, so they are covered in algae, and are attracting fish etc

Its surreal to see statues of humans working in offices and from different cultures, sitting in a coral reef. As time goes by, they will look even more "natural"

I haven't made anything this week so far.I'm meant to be sculpting pieces in silver for an upcoming enamelling course...maybe I'll get some made today.

I've ordered the essential enamel tools, and the all important enamel samples.Maybe the cost of this is killing my mojo today :(

Bronze and Jade Woodland Bracelet

2011-02-20T07:07:00.000-08:00

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I'm still loving my new Bronze clay sculpting.
I am starting to think, it might be my new favourite medium - I'm afraid it does have to do with cost.I subconsciously design smaller pieces in silver, because I'm aware of how much an ounce is costing me

The price of silver is becoming extortionate, whereas Bronze is extremely affordable.Of course this means I can charge less to potential customers, so everyone wins.

My latest piece is something I am really happy with. It's another woodland inspired piece.

Its a bracelet of twigs and branches, covered in little leaves and fungal forms. The piece is sculpted in bronze, and is embellished with Jade beads.
I love the contrast, and the green tones of the beads, adds to that forest feel

Its really comfy to where to0 - I've been wearing it all day yesterday.I couldn't help it LOL

All the images are clickable thumbnails. That way you get some lovely closeups of the details

Enjoy the pics!!

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(Loads of pics aren't there!... I really must love this one)

Lichen and Moss Bronze Pendant

2011-02-17T14:24:00.000-08:00

Spring hasn't quite sprung here yet, but I am lucky to be surrounded by a mini belt of natural woodland.

The latest pendant is influenced by the plethora of lichen, moss and fungi covering the trees, that I can see from my window.

Some people are huge fans of this kind of flora and fauna.Flickr has whole groups dedicated to the subject. I used a couple of pics from this group to base my piece on.The original photos can be found HERE

I love the fungal forms in this image...

...and the colours and textures in this image

The pendant is sculpted in Bronze, with a small focal point of fungi.
An inlay of polymer clay has been textured and painted to mimic the lichen and moss

Here are more photos showing different views.Hope you like them:)

Bronze Aztec Style Pendant

2011-02-15T08:27:00.000-08:00

My new piece is an Aztec Jewellery inspired pendant
Here is a typical example

This one is made in Bronze, using the Fastfire Bronze clay, I mentioned in the last post
I found it really easy to work with, and even managed to make the snake like coils, and ball embellishments, that I tend to favour in my designs

The finished effect was actually a light gold coloured bronze. I added a torch fired patina, which gave off deep gold and green hues, that for the life of me, I couldn't capture on camera LOL.
It's so much nicer "in person"

I took some close ups to show the textured details, and a little pic to show its true size to scale, with it in my hand

Hope you like the pics!

Blistering Fastfire Bronze Clay

2011-02-12T08:07:00.000-08:00

This was my first experience with Bronze clay of any kind.
I chose the FastFire version (from metal clay adventures),because its firing properties seemed similar to the artclay silver I'm used to

I also used the Cool Tools brand of no flake foil, to avoid the spalling and sooty mess, you get with a steel pan. You create a box, by folding it, origami style, and cut some slits on the top lid for ventilation

What I didn't factor in, was that in my experience, the flake foil box allows the kiln temperature to permeate the piece, better than the steel pan, so it sent the prescribed firing temperatures out of whack.

Most first time FastFire Bronze clay users according to their blogs, found they had to increase the ramp, or holding kiln temperature to ensure the test piece is fully sintered

My problem was the reverse.I fired the test piece at 1525 F/830 C, holding for 2 hours, as recommended. This resulted in a very blistered, deformed thing emerging from the kiln, as you can see

I lowered the holding temp to 816 C, and the blistering was still present, but to a lesser extent

Finally at 800 C, the same temp as I fire my silver clay, the piece came out fine.This temp is significantly lower than most of the anecdotal reports I've seen on blogs

So I thought I'd document the blistering time I had, in case it comes in handy for someone else.(Btw, the kiln is a Paragon SC2 and the piece was fully sintered, no breaking or cracks even at that low temperature)

I'm now looking forward to finally getting to play with bronze, yay!!

Ebb and Flow Fine Silver and Pearl Pendants

2011-02-09T13:50:00.000-08:00

Click the thumbnails for full size images...
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These three pendants were inspired by the concept of turbulence, or disruption to your natural flow. I like the idea, that the way we overcome our obstacles, can make for a more convoluted journey through life. However the outcome maybe more beautiful overall.

Hopefully this is something many of us can identify with

Hope you like the pictures :)

Fine Silver and Freshwater Pearl Raindrop Pendant

2011-02-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

I made this piece while swotting up on enamelling. Its only 15mm wide and 40mm in length, a delicate pendant that sits at the base of the throat

I really enjoyed making the "snakes" out of metal clay, and the blue pearls are so pretty. Anyway, I hope you like it :)

Enamelling Inspirations

2011-02-04T05:45:00.000-08:00

I haven't made anything since my last post.
A book on enamelling landed on my doorstep this Monday, and I haven't been able to put it down!

Its called the Art of Enamelling by Linda Darty.
I have been dying to do some enamelling on my silver clay creations for ages. Its the perfect combination, of painting, sculpting in metal and wire work - my three great creative loves. So it's kind of tailor made, but always seemed so out of reach

Anyway, I'm going on a course next month, and have read up on so much, that it feels achievable now. So yay! a happy camper today :)

The slideshow is of a few gorgeous pieces by inspiring enamel artists

Venice Mask - Forest Queen

2011-02-01T08:38:00.000-08:00

I made another Venetian Mardi Gras mask, they take a few days to complete but are addictive to create.

This one is inspired by forest foliage, all yellows and greens.
The background "faded wallpaper" was made by painting layers upon layers, in acrylic paints. I love the effect.It is framed in embossed gold, with polymer clay moulded art deco pieces.

The mask of her highness itself is a riot of yellow/green gradients. I couldn't settle on a particular colour, so I kept overlaying more shades on.

Both masks I've made so far, are sitting on my studio wall, in full view when I'm working. They are very inspiring, and will hopefully act as my muses :)

Hope you liked all the pictures!

Metal Clay and Wire Sculpted Pendant

2011-01-25T03:33:00.000-08:00

I realised over the last few days that I hadn't actually made a piece of jewellery in months! Totally weird...

I had this gorgeous large Smokey Quartz briolette, that needed a decent setting, and the designs kind of called to me. Before I knew it, I was sculpting in silver clay again

The fine silver "frame" is embellished with a sterling silver wire sculpture.I love combining the two effects. I have tried this out before, but I'm getting better at it :)

Hope you love this piece as much as I do!

Venice Mardi Gras Mask Part 2

2011-01-21T05:56:00.000-08:00

I finally finished my Venice Mask, and am really happy with the results.
I changed my mind over almost every aspect of it, but in the end, I went with making a crown, and a faded grungy wallpaper background, with matching rich colours.

She has a rather imperious look about her, don't you think?
It reminded me a little of "Mirror, Mirror, on the wall..." from Snow White, I think it must be her angular, pointy crown.

The whole thing is set on a square piece of MDF wood, which I textured in black polymer clay and gold paint. Its 20cms x 20cms (about 8 inches square) in total

CLICK THUMBNAIL FOR FULL VIEW

Venice Mardi Gras Mask - Part 1

2011-01-16T06:38:00.000-08:00

I've collected miniature Venetian Masks, since my first visit to Venice as a teenager. They've always seemed to be enigmatic and glamorous.

I decided to have a go at creating a mask, out of polymer clay.
Sculpting faces was tricky at first, with some comical effects at times, but I managed to come up with a few decent ones, after a bit of practice.

Creepy aren't they, when not decorated...

I chose this one to adorn first

I used some antiqued music paper (from Deviant art resources),polymer clay,and acrylic paints to create the effects.

It has turned out so beautiful!

The next stage is to set it on an MDF base, and to add embellishments to the crown of the head. At the moment, I'm thinking I may go with a court jester head dress, with an abstract background...but I'm not sure

Anyway, it will be fun to experiment with :)

Painting in Polymer Clay

2011-01-09T08:13:00.000-08:00

I made a cover for my sketchbook, using some new techniques I've been playing with.

Liquid Polymer clay is something I love to use as a paint medium, especially when mixed with oil paints, and pearl ex powders.
I've been coming up with some lovely results recently.

So I made a rather exotic looking flower, with painted petals, for the book cover. Here is a close up of the flower, and its petals

I am toying with the idea, of combining this with metal clays. Silver might be a bit pricey, but I do have some Bronze clay I want to try out, I'm just waiting for the no flake foil, to turn up from cool tools :)

Electroforming Polymer Clay

2011-01-02T16:12:00.000-08:00

As you can see, I have been doing a lot of experimenting recently.
I've made these Snake like looking pieces, which look like they should represent Slytherin or something, don't they?

The hubby has been off for his hols, so as any normal couple would do, we thought we'd don our white coats , goggles and gloves for a spot of electroforming in the conservatory LOL

We bought an inexpensive kit,from Gateros plating. They sell components individually, and have specialist kits too.

Anyway, I made some crackled foil polymer clay pieces, and painted on the copper conductive paint.

After drying, we popped them into the tank, and set our current and temperature (we messed around a bit with all the levels, just to see what happened)

And here are close ups of the results...

The copper plating is smooth, and has a tight uniform grain.
On another piece, I increased the temp, and current, and the grain, was more coarse and organic, with plenty of texture

I think I'll go with the more organic look for the next lot...I'll be sure to take photos :)

Mokume Gane in Polymer Clay

2010-12-23T07:56:00.000-08:00

Along with my new found passion for creating kaleidoscope cane, I have been getting into Mokume Gane. There are a few methods out there.

I have been experimenting with Tory Hugh's texture imprint version, and mixinng it up with the Hidden Magic versions, with some fun results

I made some texture sheets, by making patterns out of extruded snakes of polymer on a flat sheet. Then imprinted them onto my skinner blends of clay

Here is the first sheet, it reminds me of surf and sand

With the left over "scraps" I made these hearts, using caning techniques

Then I made swirly beads with the rest. This Mokume Gane sheet went a long way :)

Here are a couple of bookmarks I made in a different MG colour scheme

Fab vibrant colours aren't they? I must be reacting to the white snow surrounding me here LOL. We will be having a white christmas for sure this year :)

Happy Holidays!!! Hearts and Kisses :)

Polymer Clay Canes

2010-12-07T10:52:00.000-08:00

I didn't realise how long it's been since my last entry whoops!

I have been engrossed in learning how to make kaleidoscope canes in polymer clay and have found the process to be a little addictive, to say the least

With all the cane clutter building up in the studio, I tried out making pendants,wall hangings and pens out of patterned clay

Its has been fab fun...enjoy the pics :)

Mentors and Chasing Sheep

2010-11-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

I have the dreaded flu bug today, on the hubbys birthday!
Nevermind, my Mum is coming over later laden with cake and gifts to spoil him (and me)with...Yay!!

I had a two hour meeting with my mentor yesterday, which went really well.
Tons of positive feedback about my jewellery, and constructive advice for where to go with it all.

It means there will be a little rebranding, and a lot of offline selling in fairs and such, which will be so much fun.She is lucky I spared her the sneezing snuffling mess I am today LOL.

Her gallery and office, is set in the most gorgeous countryside in the National Forest.I may have caught the chill from getting out of the car, and chasing sheep yesterday while I was there, but they were so gorgeous I couldn't resist them LOL...yes, I think it may have something to do with my snuffles today

Anyway, hope you are all having a lovely day
Bye from us

My Little Kokeshi Dolls

2010-10-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

I may have mentioned that I am having a little trouble finding my mojo again.My mind has drawn a blank recently, which is weird for me

But tonight at least I am smiling again, with a little help from photoshop

I messed around with my graphics tablet this evening, and came up with these adorable little kokeshi dolls. They always cheer me up

These ones are inspired by the digital art seen on Etsy like this one

I hope they bring a little smile to your face too :)

Useful Dog Tricks Video :)

2010-10-24T04:21:00.000-07:00

A vid of the most amazing little precious dog...I have watched this twice now, and it gets sweeter everytime

Tiger Cubs and Pumpkins!

2010-10-22T12:08:00.001-07:00

A little clip I came across, of two of the cutest cubs, getting into the Halloween spirit. So cute...

To My Sister

2010-10-21T03:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry everyone, I have to post this here, because I have no other way of messaging my sister

Congratulations on the new baby!!
I really hope the labour was OK, and that you've recovered from it.
I hope the baby is healthy and sleeps well.
I will be sending a little something in the post, that I will be making.I hope you don't throw it away.

Good luck and all the best

Dating My Hubby

2010-10-18T01:49:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of updates, I have temporarily lost my artistic mojo!

It's been an unpleasant time of late, dealing with petty family dramas.
I have no idea if my sister has had her baby yet, or whether everything is going well, with these stressful last days before giving birth.

I keep making presents for her, then not sending anything, because she does not want any contact at all.
Then, I learnt that she has been saying malicious lies about my mental health, saying I am unfit to be around people in general, especially children. I tell you, this has been really painful, and I even got advice from a legal firm about slander

Anyway, all this combined with other less dramatic downers, eroded away at my abilities to do anything artistic...which has been weird

My hubby has helped me bounce back though, yay!

We have done some amazing retail therapy together. I hadn't bought new clothes in years, so this was so much fun! I got a new trendy coat, boots, kitten heels, dresses, and tops!!

Then we have been going out lots. Now his work schedule is less hectic, I get to dress up, and go to the theatre,cinema,restaurants and galleries, and shops.

It has felt like dating again...

We've been together nearly 15 years, but this has been so blissful
I highly recommend dating your spouse again, it's very romantic!

As for the artistic side of things...its creeping back, thanks to low maintenance fun with polymer clay

Flower Power Week

2010-10-02T09:57:00.000-07:00

These are the pictures of the latest pendant. Its a bezelled Sediment Jasper gemstone, embellished with a touch of wire sculpture too.

The weekend is going at a nice lazy pace.The hubby is on the verge of having a major headcold and is trumpeting and sneezing around the house.
Awwwh....

I've been indulging in a lot of flower themed fun this week. It started with a bit of watercolour painting, and became a full blown polymer clay explosion of sculpted flowers. See the pics below...

Watercolour Paintings

Polymer Clay Flowers

Hope your week was as fun as mine!

Polymer Clay Art

2010-10-01T03:57:00.000-07:00

Polymer Artists Showcase by tejae floyde | Make Your Own Book

I came across this book today, a collection of polymer clay artists work. It looks so beautiful and awe inspiring... a lovely coffee table book (or in my case, a studio table book!)

Florabelles - Fairy Lanterns

2010-09-27T12:51:00.000-07:00

Do you remember me mentioning my current obsession with Fairy Lanterns?
It came up in this post, about my creative process.

Well, I finally made a couple of these lanterns, sculpted in Fine silver. The faceted gemstones are the twinkly fairy lantern lights, reminiscent of dew drops.

I've named them Florabelles, because of the bell shaped flora and fauna, cupping the gemstones. I intend to make more of these in various gemstones
The slideshow below, shows one Cognac Quartz Florabelle, and another in Green Amethyst

I hope you love them, as much as I do

The New Deathly Hallows Trailer

2010-09-23T01:06:00.000-07:00

Looks amazing!!!

Out and About, and Down in the Mouth!

2010-09-21T15:20:00.000-07:00

I've been holed up in the studio today, working on a fairy lantern inspired idea (see last post). It's been tricky, and fiddly to do, and the weather has been overcast all day, to match my mood

The hubby's back at work, and it's been a reminder of how much guilt free fun we had last week. I haven't edited the pics yet, aside from these two.

They are shots taken of the cute artsy studios and shops located in the Ferrer's Gallery, Ashby de la Zouch. Everything was so quaint, and inspiring.

I adored the Blandine Anderson Sculptural ceramics...they were gorgeous

I hope I'll feel better tomorrow :)

My Creative Process

2010-09-17T03:41:00.000-07:00

I have been sent emails recently, from the curious, wanting to know how I come up with my creative (and often fantasy inspired) ideas

So this is a little post dedicated to you folks...you know who you are!

I've been strolling around in Charnwood Forest, near where I live, now that Autumn is setting in. The beauty and quaintness, of the sleepy villages, set amongst the trees, got my imagination going

I imagined little fairy homes, coming alive with the closing light, and little fairy lanterns being lit (I warned you not to enquire after the way I think, because it is a little off the wall LOL)

I then started sketching some ideas...

which led to me to thinking about the Fairy Lanterns, and what they would look like...

As you can see, the idea is forming of translucent faceted gemstones, that resemble dew drops glistening in the light. The lanterns will be sculpted in silver, with tendrils to encapsulate the stones.

And a new Autumnal fantasy collection is formed!!. I have already started to construct the lanterns, but have taken a break this week from work, as a holiday. I will keep you posted with pics of the bejewelled fairy lanterns as they are made

Hope you enjoyed the journey :)

My Prince Valiant!

2010-09-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

My hardworking, adorable hubby, has passed Part 1 of his PhD in Molecular Genetics!!

This is as well as working fulltime, and being my benefactor and biggest supporter. We have not had the easiest ride this year, and now we are going to get to go out every weekend and have some fun!

Throughout all the trials and tribulations he is steadfast, strong, compassionate and is my rock - so in honour of this milestone I made movie poster stylee digital artwork of his image. He is my Prince Valiant

He'll still have another 18 months or so left on his PhD, but he has broken the back of it, and is really enjoying it. I am crazy proud of him

What I'm Up To...

2010-09-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a sneaky peak at an upcoming project.These are handpainted, textured polymer clay sheets, that I'm going to combine with fine silver

I've handpainted a fair few, inspired by all the autumnal colours of my Virginia Creeper, which is taking over my back garden at present :)

It doesn't look like much now, but they will be turned into wearable art, before you know it!

Play With Me!

2010-09-07T14:21:00.000-07:00

I can always tell if I've been a little work obsessed, my furry companions become real little nuisances (in the most adorable way, of course)

This is an example of me trying to do some digital art, after having been playing with various clays. Jasper decided he'd had enough, and entwined himself with the usb connection and lay all over the wacom graphic tablet, refusing to budge

I gave in, and he settled there, after copious amounts of fuss

Sweet furry muses....

Shipwrecked Pearl Jewellery

2010-08-28T07:52:00.000-07:00

The idea behind this bracelet and pendant, is that they are jewellery discovered by mermaids, in shipwrecks lying at the bottom of the ocean

These ornate, decadent pieces of jewellery have been ravaged by the sea, and become encrusted with barnacles, over time.

As you can see, I do let my imagination run free!!!. These pieces are sculpted in fine silver, with freshwater water pearls

Click the thumbnails to see images in full size

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Positive Things In The Pipeline

2010-08-22T14:10:00.000-07:00

One of my latest wire sculptured necklaces. Sterling silver encasing a gorgeous turquoise gemstone.

I'm in a fab mood.

It seems like there is a possibility of becoming a member of the local arts council, and in doing so, will be able to recieve mentoring, funding and contacts e.g for exhibitions etc

I have to apply, before the end of the year, and if the panel of judges think I'm worthy, I become a member and get one to one mentoring within the design community!

Also along the same lines, there is a gallery I am going to apply for, which has a highly regarded rep.

There are also a few Events I qualify to apply for based in London, at the heart of the creative design scene

So although nothing has actually happened LOL, I am thrilled and motivated by the idea of what could happen. I feel really inspired to come up with some amazing pieces, before the application deadlines, so that I can include them with the forms

Wish me luck!!!

Love Cocoon

2010-08-18T05:34:00.000-07:00

I made a little gift for my hubby...just because he means the world to me
Its sculpted out of polymer clay, and depicts our cosy little life

Jasper loves it too :)

click the thumbnail to see in full

Adult Survivor Post: An Internal Review

2010-08-15T06:02:00.000-07:00

I have finished some satisfying pieces of art, and am having a great weekend.It is also coming up to the 2 year milestone of living as a multiple personality, so its a good time for contemplation

6 years ago, was the courtcase, and it proved to be one trauma too many, and my split personality started to really manifest, and disrupt my daily life. Before that I just did odd things, and seemed very forgetful, and seemed to be able to have extreme changes in my personality which were adaptations to my environments. You know, work mode, socialising mode, quiet mode ... which everyone seems to do, don't they?

Over the six years my personality defragmented, and came to a head 2 years ago. All my hair had been cut off, I was losing time, sleeping with the cats during the day, and not remembering conversations and whole passages of time.

Then, my child personalities fully emerged. whole and different, and outside observers commented that I seemed possessed or something LOL. I was gone...

Now, I'm much better, it doesn't feel like a crisis, but I have learnt to live with it. There have been a lot of changes though, as a consequence.

Good Consequences
I know myself, better as a whole. I have been forced to face up to things, memories, events, bad lifestyle behaviours etc. I feel more at peace with myself. Being split ironically helps me get more out of my life, and I am less repressed.

I can be child like, and fully experience the joy and excitement of that.When I am myself, I am so much calmer, and pragmatic than before. I used to think I was an anxious person, but I'm not...my child selves are, and separating all that out has been weirdly liberating. I can calm them down more effectively from the inside too

Art therapy, has been a Godsend. I cannot get through the days without it.Being creative keeps me on an even keel. You are supposed to be able to express your inner selves non verbally through art, and in turn this can be used as a diagnostic tool. I have no idea what my art shows, but I know, I am lost without it

I have reconnected with significant people from my past. This has been amazing. I was so bottled up before, and I could not possibly see a time when I could cope with being "normal" with these people, but I can now

Me and Mum, have a great relationship now, very honest at times, but full of laughter and light. This has been a wonderful blessing.She has become one of best friends, and is very supportive and protective over me - and it feels real, not fake

Bad Consequences
Losing my job. I spent years in training and finally working as a doctor, and now, it isn't safe for me to work with people really.
To be frank, the only thing I miss is the job security, and validation I derived from that job. I was really good at the job, but it did take over my life at times

Dealing with the ignorance and narrowmindedness of others has been the biggest downer. I've discovered things about my sister, that have been hard to swallow. She is a very angry person, when it comes to me, and she believes my mental illness will harm her child to be.Now, she pretends I don't exist, and does not want Mum to mention me. I don't know how to deal with that kind of thing, its still a learning curve

Future
I have set up my shop website, and then found it killed my creativity for months. I couldn't work out if it was merely exhaustion or what?

As soon as the website was done, I decided, that I really wanted to sell my jewellery in person in the public domain LOL, talk about doing a 180!

Over the last couple of months or so, I have felt very unsettled and disheartened about the whole thing.You know, am I mentally well enough to be out there? Am I good enough? etc

I let my creativity off the leash, and found myself immersed in sculpting, very intricate, and frankly expensive arty jewellery pieces. This is what I am happiest doing. So I have decided to participate in craft and design shows, and sell my high end arty stuff, to the public selectively, throughout the year. Then annually I'll do a big pre christmas push with at christmas fairs etc, with more affordable items.

I am hoping that way, the christmas run will pay for my creative needs LOL.Anyway, thats the plan for now...how it will pan out, who knows?!

Sorry for the long monster post. It's a one off, thanks for reading this far :)

Blue Lagoon Pendant

2010-08-15T04:00:00.000-07:00

I love this pendant! It is very organic (as usual), with a fine silver sculpted marine life frame, and a faux enamelled, glistening tropical lagoon, at it's centre

I used wire sculpting, precious clay sculpting, and polymer clay painting all in combination to create this. Lush, isn't it!

Click the thumbnail to see in full

Enchanted Looking-Glass Necklaces

2010-08-10T09:19:00.000-07:00

click the thumbnails...
---

I was inspired by the idea of enchanted mirrors and dreamscapes. The after effects of watching Inception and BBC's Sherlock Holmes LOL

Being prone to dissociating (like a deep daydream, not quite awake) regularly, I found it interesting that Sherlock does a similar thing, to be able to think objectively, and to focus. And in the movie Inception, which was quite trippy in places, the idea of dreamscapes was everywhere, and I felt that Cobb and Fisher, went through their own form of therapy, with the team literally marching through and unlocking parts of the subconcious mind

So, I created some vividly coloured dreamscapes, of some of my favourite mood colours, and captured them in enchanted looking-glasses, as in Alice in Wonderland

Hope you like them :)

They are made from fine silver and handpainted polymer clay, and resin gloss. I layed a pale gold patina on the silver, too, to add to the enchantment :)

Natural Wonders Necklace

2010-08-05T14:52:00.000-07:00

In the face of familial rejection, and other personal dramas, I throw myself into creativity. It's the only way to stay sane, in a manner of speaking

I've always wanted to really sculpt in precious metal clay, and this is the first time I have managed it. This started literally as a couple of lumps of clay and some wires. The texturing was achieved using micro carving tools.

This piece is a little natural wonder in it's own right. Shining brightly in the dark.

Land Of The Rising Sun Pendant

2010-07-31T09:17:00.000-07:00

One of my latest pieces, inspired by Japanse themes

The pendant represents a Japanese Koi fish, resting on a background of sun rays, patterned like the old Japanese flag.

The stone is an oval citrine glass cabochon, to represent the sun.

It's another of my silver wire and clay combined sculptured pendants. A hint of a golden bronze patina covers the surface of the pendant

Hope you like it :)

As George Foreman would say....

2010-07-28T03:23:00.000-07:00

"I'm so proud of it, I put my name on it"

No I am not referring to the lean, mean grilling machine...but to my new piece which is a creative leap for me. I have even put a little tag on the inside with my initials

I have been offline for ages I know, but I had a lot to sort through. I tend to always be working creatively speaking though, because it is a wonderful form of therapy for me

Sculpting in metal clay is my focus for right now. The best part is that I have been able to combine my wire sculpture work, with the metal clay sculpting, to get closer to the picture in my minds eye.

I am really chuffed with how this has turned out - its part of a Mermaid collection, and has fine silver with Natural Aquamarine gemstones

So, I hope you like it, and anyway, it's just lovely to be back :)

Daily Inspirations

2010-05-30T08:48:00.000-07:00

I have been so apathetic since working on the shop, recently.
I think I'm still getting over it LOL

There have been some offline selling developments happening, involving me getting a regular spot at Leicester Market, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe.
It will be fun to sell in person I think, and I will be looking into it next week.

I made a custom made stamp yesterday, to put on little carrier bags for the market stall - it's going to be so much fun!!!

Online wise, I have been very slow to promote the shop, so far. I will, but am thankful for the rest

Jewellery making has been good again recently, I already have some beautifully organic sculpted pendants waiting to be oxidised, and a whole pretty summery range of polymer pendants to finish off too.

I am trying to work out how to sculpt some ideas I have, in metal clay, inspired by flowers my hubby got for me recently (as part of my well done for finishing the shop pat on the back!)

I love my 3D sculpted elements, and do have some lovely briolettes too...an idea is forming, I just need a little more time and inspiration for it to take shape!

Hubby's Inspiring Flowers

Baby Jasper, always at my side

Moi, having caught the sun...I look red, well almost!!

My Lazy Days In Pics...

2010-05-23T04:56:00.000-07:00

I was so beyond tired after setting up the shop, that all I craved was comfy furnishings to snooze on, sunshine to doze in, and my familial companions to be with. No jewellery or hobbies at all (well almost)

So here are snapshots from my lazy days in pictures...

Sunshine and Companions

Sunloungers in the back garden

Sulky Fur babies, begging me to come back in

and then giving up and settling to sleep....

Cats Up Close...

and finally, a bit of jewellery making- oops! I caved in and made some LOL

My First Sale!!!!

2010-05-16T03:55:00.000-07:00

I only went live with my website last night and I was still up at 1 am, ironing out the new bugs in the system that kept cropping up

So imagine my shock when I found out I had made my first sale today!
The first customer was my mother....which is even more unbelievable really, because she is the most computer phobic person I have ever encountered, and she has never ever bought anything online!

She phoned in the morning, and could not even find the shop on the web...seriously LOL.So the last thing I expected was that she would navigate the shop, choose something she likes, and navigate the shopping cart etc. The first I knew of it was a receipt notification from paypal!

Thank you so much Mum, for this special gift. I know we have such a rocky history, but you have seriously made my day today, and I'll never forget it!!!

We've Come A Long Way Baby!

2010-05-09T15:07:00.000-07:00

It feels like it's been forever since I had free time enough to think, let alone blog. The shop is virtually done, just a couple of tweaks here and there, really. I am going to have a few days break, then will launch the shop, with a Free Blog Giveaway too.

My Year of Jewellery posts have been non extistent for a few weeks, but I have been making lots of jewellery, so I reckon I will do a monster YOJ post with all the missing weeks LOL

Everything is feeling really good right now, so I am going to try and hang onto that feeling for as long as possible :)

Another Teaser...

2010-04-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

Aren't I an annoying tease?!

I thought I'd post another little snippet from the shop, this actual image will be sitting on my latest arrivals page, which will have a direct link from here too

So, I have taken and edited all the photos, and am going to be loading them all onto the shop. Then I will have to iron out any last minute kinks, and hey presto, it will finally be open!

I am thinking within the next couple of weeks is a reasonable target, right now :)....almost there....

A Taster Of What's To Come...

2010-04-20T02:20:00.000-07:00

I am still around, working away behind the scenes LOL
The main pieces and collections have been made, and I'm photographing and uploading them to the shop website as we speak

Here is a tasty snippet of whats to come...

----

I will go into the story behind these pieces at a later date, but for now I hope you enjoy this sneaky peek

Store Update and Natural Charms

2010-04-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

Natural Charms
I thought I'd show a sneaky preview of one of the upcoming ranges, called Natural Charms, inspired by colours and textures seen in nature

The pieces are goin gto consist of fine silver textured "charms", and semiprecious gemstones, such as Garnet,Citrine, and Amethyst.A lovely luscious range

Aside from this, the website for the store is almost done! I just have to add a few wxtra info pages, and the rest will be putting up the jewellery listings...so thats cool

I have made loads of bracelets and bangles in the style shown with the pearl cluster jewellery sets, and have been making earrings and rings, so hopefully they'll be a good range to browse through

Anyway,I'd better get back to work :)

Adult Survivor: Pity Parties For One

2010-04-02T15:16:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've written an Adult Survivor post.
This isn't because I am so mentally well adjusted now (far from it LOL), but more because time has been scarce

The whole validation, and self esteem thing has been bugging me recently.
Again, I can only speak for myself, but I suspect many of these issues resonate with other abuse survivors, where the perpetrators were family members.

There feels like there is no-one to pat you on the back, when you are doing well, no-one who genuinely cares how you feel day to day, no-one to comfort you when life gets rough.It's one of the hardest things to deal with really - any family you do have are either unable to, or choose not to treat you right.

I have passed through the hands of specialist counsellors that deal with child abuse, Consultant Psychologists and Psychiatrists over the years, and it always comes down to the same things

There is no solution, your family are bad for your mental health, stop bouncing back to them, learn to self comfort, learn to love yourself, learn to reward yourself .Be independant, don't use emotional crutches.

It's almost like saying deny you are human. It's an established basic need,seeking comfort and unconditional love from the parents and family.

So, I am about to embark on something that is a huge milestone for me.
I have somehow, come through a tough life, and am still intact, more or less.I have managed to turn things around, after mental health issues prevented me from working as I did before.

In my real life, aside from my hubby, this has met with relative indifference really. To the inlaws it translates, as not seeing them enough, or being there enough, and there is no other decent family to speak of anymore.

Is this self pity you here - yes, a little, but when you are exhausted and the dark of night closes in on you, I can feel a little raw.

I'm meant to channel these feelings into positive energy, and being productive, which I am trying to do.

So, I am going to keep on going, and will think of a way to reward myself, for starting up this little business.

I hope to feel better about everything tomorrow :)

Time Flies When You Are Having Fun.....Not!

2010-03-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

I have a gorgeous nugget of a freeform sculpted pendant waiting to be oxidised. My workbench is littered with silver clay elements ready to be fired, and my sketchbook is full of ideas for the new collection

Yet, nothing is getting done, because I am stuck in front of a laptop screen putting together my online store.
I have put a self imposed ban on myself, no playtime with jewellery making until the last touches are done to the shop website!

So I am looking down in the mouth, but I can honestly say, that the site is looking goooood... I just hope people will want to buy something O_0

Anyway, I will post up a YOJ piece week 11 soon, just maybe not in time, thats all. My hubby is helping me with some of the final touches and more mundane stuff LOL, so I can't just run off and leave him to go into the studio, now can I ?(don't answer that.....)

Oh well, nose back to the grindstone, ho hum....

YOJ Week 10 : Freshwater Pearl Rings and Bracelets

2010-03-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

These are some of the rings and bracelets that will accompany the barnacle pendants I'd made.They are oing to be jewellery sets

I went for wire sculpted smooth strong contours, with some organic flourishes here and there

-

The main shop website is going to be opening Mid April.
I am busily working behind the scenes, so I'll be a bit quiet again aside from jewellery pics

Thanks for stopping by....

Gaspard Ulliel Is Insanely Hot!

2010-03-18T04:12:00.000-07:00

I remember when he was a cute boyish thing, but a charismatic actor nonetheless.
Have you ever seen him in Hannibal, the prequel to Silence of The Lambs?
He was really good in that, and is obviously a huge presence in French Cinema

New York Times have just done this photoshoot of him, and OMG he has grown up!I'd better hide this gushing post from the husband LOL

Website Building Is Tough!

2010-03-15T17:42:00.000-07:00

I have actually been working on revamping my Jewellery Gallery.
I got hold of a blog template, checked the html and instructions, and I thought, this will take time, but it looks easy enough...

Famous last words

I spent from midday until midnight working on this thing.
I have a blinding headache now, and was close to tears at one point
I had to alter so much html language, and had to look up so much new language to help me get the effects I was after

Well, I am sure, I will be smiling again tomorrow, but right now, I feel dead!

Here is a link to it Jewellery Gallery
I managed to put the jewellery into categories, like necklaces and so on, as well as keep the featured collections intact.I tried to match the scheme to the main shop website, which will be the next stop on this merry-go-round

Wish me luck!

YOJ Week 9 : More Pearl Cluster Barnacle Pendants

2010-03-11T11:29:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd try to save room on your readers etc by putting most of the latest pics in a slideshow.

These are continuing my barnacle pendants theme, using freshwater pearls, and sculpted fine silver, and sterling silver.
I hope to make many aspiring mermaids happy, with these pieces :)

Busy Bee

2010-03-11T03:52:00.000-08:00

More photos to be taken today of the latest stuff.
I also have to make a whole bunch of rings, and have to work out what the most common ring size is in the UK/US *sigh*

I think I will be offline aside from posting the latest jewellery pictures, until my website is done. Something has got to give, doesn't it LOL.

It shouldn't be too long, but life does have a habit of getting in the way

...OK Off to take pictures now :)

Brighter,Clearer Skies

2010-03-07T06:25:00.000-08:00

I came across this artist today, very gothic fantasy imagery.
Natalie Shau is the artists name.Her Website is HERE

I chose this picture of hers for personal reasons.
I love art that you can project your own meanings upon and draw your own interpretations from them.

Been a busy bee otherwise, making 5 necklaces, and will be moving on to other projects next week

The shop website is going to be focussed on again, but with much clearer
themes.I no longer dread working on it, instead, things are working out for the better

Everything feels very light and manageable recently, after a few dark days.

YOJ Week 8:Pearl Cluster Barnacle Necklace

2010-03-02T10:13:00.000-08:00

This is the new piece, or should I say, the start of a new range
As you may recall marine invertebrates and sealife are the current muses du jour. I have been designing jewellery based on this theme

This pendant is sculpted in fine silver, with sea urchin inspired textures.
On it's surface is a cluster of pearls and sterling silver sculpted to mimic barnacles clinging on.The pearls, are freshwater peacock pearls.
There are subtle coppers, turquoise, purple and gold tones within the patina.
(This shouldn't wear off, because of the Renaissance wax used to preserve the patination)

It's very organic, and it will hopefully become something of another signature style for me, because I feel it does combine the different media, and sculpted free flowing styles that I like best

Hope you like it! I am doing more in this style, this week

Messed Up

2010-03-02T03:56:00.000-08:00

Source - here
Having a bad week, this week. Not in a good place in my head.
It will pass, it always does.
I tend to be ultracreative, and quiet and messed up usually for a while

I will post the latest jewellery pieces here this week, one new piece is already ready to be photo'd. I am just going to keep going and make some more, because I am so happy with it.

Other news, is that I have worked out how to cut down the nightmare of my website, making it sleeker, more user friendly and less complicated.
It will mean me deleting a whole load of pages I had already made, but the end result will be better, and it means I will be open that shop really soon.So that is good, isn't it.

OK, well bye for now

YOJ Week 7 : "The Heart Of Me" Pendant

2010-02-26T12:01:00.000-08:00

Apologies for my absence in cyberspace, but I've had a flu bug :(

This is the latest pendant.A marquise Amethyst gemstone encased within a sterling silver heart
I went back to wire sculpture for this piece, I didn't realise how much I had missed it!

Hope you like it...
I am going to chill out this weekend and recoup, to hopefully be able to get work done next week *cross fingers*

Wet Weekend

2010-02-21T15:25:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a good weekend.We have had heavy snowfall here.

As you can see my cats were joining in with a jewellery photo session - little monkey!

Been kind of busy this weekend really. I tried my hand at Mokume Gane with Polymer clay on Saturday, that went OK.
Next came wire wrapping, I started and have almost finished a beautiful sculpted pendant with a pink amethyst briolette sitting at it's heart.

Today, I made more of my handpainted polymer clay pendants, they've turned out to have a faux ceramics sort of effect, so I'm pleased with that.

I still feel kind of flat though, for no reason whatsoever.
Just one of those days I guess

YOJ Week 6: Handpainted Polymer Clay Pendants

2010-02-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

This monster post is to show some of the seventeen painted polymer pendants I've finished off this week.
They all have sterling silver frames and bali silver beads

I handpainted all of them after texturing, they are inspired by the colours found in the coral reef.
I really love the textures on these, very organic.

A Couple of pics of unfinished items to show close ups

Hope you like them.
I will be putting them up for sale on the blog store here, soon, they will come with a sterling chain each :)

Contorted Newborn Sleeping Beauties

2010-02-19T02:15:00.000-08:00

Check out the poses these newborns are contorted into for these photos!
Worry not, the babies are between 5-10 days old, and sleep blissfully throughout the photoshoots.

According to the article, a trained physio puts them into these amazing positions, and into the woolly props.

The main article HERE has tons more pics.

So Cute!!!

Adult Survivor: Rant Post - No More Apologies

2010-02-18T06:38:00.000-08:00

OK this is a rant post...be warned, turn away now LOL

I remember thinking that whatever happened before the courtcase, could be pushed to the background, because the remaining family members pulled together to put him in prison

That was September 2004. 5 years on, and there was no fairytale ending
My mind broke down, basically and I became a more obviously split personality.
I had always been, you understand, but I kept it to myself, and it didn't really show, other than to my husband

I have DID (dissociative identity disorder), or in laymans terms multiple personalities.
It's fine really, I just have very strong child personalities which express themselves.It's not put on, or an act and has been confirmed by several specialists.

The courtcase acted as a catalyst, and was such a traumatic experience that it caused the separation to occur.
Thats the best way to explain it...
When you are abused as a toddler until your late teens, your mental development and personality development is affected.

One of the most common adaptive responses is to dissociate, in other words, go somewhere else in your head, when things are being done to you.
Kind of like daydreaming, but stronger.

If you are exposed to trauma frequently enough, sustained over years, from such a young age, you are not going to develop normally.Fact.

I don't think it is so hard to understand, but my family do.

My child personalities, well the main one, is a little force of nature.She is 3 years old, and was preserved.
When she emerged it was a shock, and really difficult for us to manage.

Now everything has stabilised.
I cannot work in my former medical capacity, with members of the public, but I can now indulge in my more creative sides, and try to make a living with that.
The child sides come out at home mainly and are more controlled

Doing art seems to suit my illness,and personalities and really I would say, I feel happy and lucky, and pretty optimistic overall.

Clouds darken however, when I am forced to apologise for being messed up, and apologise for being mentally ill to my own sister.
She wants me to be her perfect big sister, a kind of sensible no nonsense nanny type, that I was when young

She abhors what I am like now, and has shown throughout the last 18 months that she would rather I didn't exist to her, than be how I am now.

She has not seen me since the courtcase, lives abroad, is married and wants nothing to do with me

Now she is to have a baby, a blessing, a happy occasion to celebrate surely.
I am to be excluded from this event and will not be permitted to meet this new addition to the family, because she cannot tolerate me and my illness

No one else thinks I am that bad... so thats why I'm ranting today

Adult survivors have scars, after effects, some temporary, some permanent.
The abuse wasn't our fault , and the results are not our fault either.

I'm tired of apologising for myself, and tired of being judged, and treated as an inconvenience.
I am actually pretty self sufficient, smart and stable considering - but family do not want to cut me any slack.
They would rather I was a casual aquaintance and be superficial, and pretend they don't know me, or cut me out altogether

Well, I exist, I am here, and I am proud of who I am considering, and I dare you to go through what I have, and come out better adjusted,
if you are going to treat me so badly now.

OK Rant Over....

Annoying...Moi? Surely Not!

2010-02-16T11:28:00.000-08:00

There are times when I can prove to be really annoying to the beloved spouse.

He is a scientist - his world is full of protocols, experimenting within controlled conditions, bio-informatics and basically being methodical.

However, the poor thing is married to me, who has gone from a similar type in the medical profession, into a maniacal, tree hugging, boho, working all hours artistic type, with a temperament to match!.

To be honest we have both done really well coping with the transition.

But there are times when even I realise I am being ever so slightly annoying.
This tends to happen when I get inspired by something, then become intensely focussed on this new subject, then rabbit on and on, dishing out little factoids at him for no reason.

A bit like that kid in Jerry Macguire who says "Did you know the human head weighs eight pounds?" at random moments.

I have become obsessed with marine biology, invertebrates more specifically.

So I have been spouting out factoids like, Did you know an octopus has radial as well as bilateral symmetry? or how so many creatures evolved from one tube of cells, closed at one end, and at the other can invert and form a bell shape like a jellyfish, or produce polypoid fingers like anemones...

After being bombarded for much of the weekend, he mutterd "Fascinating" and retreated into an armchair to watch the 6 Nations Rugby matches.

Oh dear....

Here are some pretty pics to finish with then

Jelly Fish

Giant Clams

Some dichroic glass cabs to help me create my marine invertebrate inspired jewellery LOL

I solemnly vow to try to be less annoying in future...yeah, right.

New Directions - A Blog Store

2010-02-15T02:21:00.000-08:00

I think I am going to create a Blog jewellery store here, on a separate page of course (so no spam in your google readers LOL)

The reasoning behind this, is mainly because the actual website, will have a lot of features and categories, and will need tons more stock, and time to set up.

Also, I feel I am still in the learning skills stage.
I have so much to cover in basic neccessary skills, in metal clay mainly, and I do have a tendancy to focus more on the learning new techniques, rather than building up stock to sell, LOL

So I will be dedicating some webpages within the blog, for a store, to sell a few selected items, to help fund the main website.

If anyone is interested in anything they have seen here in particular, or can think of any suggestions on this topic, drop me a line at amadoradesignsuk@googlemail.com :)

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T04:30:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone got lots of Panda Hugs today :)

Paolo Nutini - Candy

2010-02-12T03:43:00.000-08:00

For my baby.... love you forever

"...I'll be there waiting for you"

What a Weird,Funny World We Live In....

2010-02-11T06:28:00.000-08:00

I came across some really cool images on the net over the last few days.
Some were so bizarre and hilarious, I had to share...

Cigarette Smoking Snake!

It could be pot, I'm not sure, but the owner of this snake has a 20 a day habit, and the reptile has now become addicted too.
Apparently it needs a drag each morning, otherwise it will get agitated!!!LOL
Source - randomization

Superbowl Football Has Its Gay Moments

This pic has been making the rounds, but it is such a hilarious random shot, of the back of Randall Gay's shirt coupled with the intimate scene in the foreground.
By the way, I'm not homo-phobic, just humour-philic LOL

Spilled Coffee Kisses

Can't remember where I found this, but it is the work of a ceramic artist, showing two faces kissing in the spilled liquid.So cool and weird!

How to Organise Your Cat Storage
This is so funny and cute. I cannot believe these cats stayed put for these photos to be taken...impressive!!!
Source - The Daily Tail

Neccessity is the Mother Of Invention
The incessant snowfall has lead to some very creative uses by some desperate people LOL

Outdoor Beer refrigerator
Source - randomization

Funny world huh.....

YOJ Week 5 : Valentine's Hearts and Flowers

2010-02-10T11:01:00.000-08:00

Over the past few days, I have continued with trying to make silver clay bezel jewellery, and also did some 3D sculpting.

For Valentines Day, I've put together some cute fine silver pendants, with cut out hearts, and sculpted flowers and leaves

Hope you like them :)

Overworked and Underpaid!

2010-02-09T14:34:00.000-08:00

I'm writing this tongue in cheek entry after a few days of slogging away, and feeling like there is still so much to do

Depressing isn't it...

Last week I made 5 fine silver pendants, which need bails attaching to them. Then I have made 17 mixed media pendants (polymer clay and sterling) which just need glossing and will also need bails.None of which I have shown here, by the way.

Meanwhile, I have bought what I need to try my hand at making fine silver rings, but do not have the time to do them yet.

My studio and bedroom, are covered in materials and half finished pieces...aaaah! and I still keep waking up with ideas, that I need to jot down, in the middle of the night

The website is getting my full attention this week, because it did not get hardly any last week. Oh dear....

So overall, too little time, too many thoughts whizzing around, worn out fingers, and money going out, and nothing coming in.

I am sure that something isn't quite right, with this equation LOL

Woodland Fairy Muse

2010-02-06T10:52:00.000-08:00

My Woodland Fairy muse....

I drew the image, and coloured it in photoshop

Having a lazy day, the hubby is watching the Rugby
England has just won, so thats good...
Hope evryone is well :)

Mermaid Watercolour Painting

2010-02-04T05:32:00.000-08:00

A snippet

Smaller version of the complete painting

I'm going to be working on my new collection soon, based on marine life and mermaids

I had a half finished watercolour painting I created last year.
I decided to finish her off digitally, which I've never done before
I like the result, and think I will do more traditional and digital art combos for my website

This is a snippet of the result. I painted gills on her cheeks, as my own imagined version of a mermaid

I haven't named her yet, so if you have any suggestions comment below

Flickr Favourites: Organza Extravaganza!

2010-02-02T00:28:00.000-08:00

1. organza, 2. Organza W.I.P, 3. tags, 4. Lavender sachets
I chose a fun, random Flickr Favourite today, based on artwork inspired by organza, one of my fave materials :)

See more flickr favourites today, at Artmind's Blog

YOJ Week 4: My First Silver Clay Bezel Setting

2010-02-01T03:45:00.000-08:00

This is the first time, that I've ever set a stone that cannot be fired in the kiln, in precious metal clay

I embedded Bezel wire, and sculpted around the frame.It is not a complete success, but it is good for a first attempt

I'll be trying out more of these, and try to get a feel for bezel setting.
I do love my syringe tool though, I'm so tempted to make the bezel out of that LOL

I've decided to add this one as my week 4 from my year of jewellery.It is one of the methods I have been dreading to try out, so it feels right to include it as part of the jewellery project :)

Best Man FAIL!!!!

2010-01-31T04:24:00.000-08:00

This had me in hysterics this morning.
Tea spat everywhere, and there was much hysterical guffawing over this clip
I do feel bad for the wedding couple though, but still...

Straight out of the Lion King!

2010-01-30T12:15:00.000-08:00

Source Here

Checking out the papers today, and it is truly disheartening overall.
A mix of sex scandals, reality tv hunks and harlots, and a mother smothering her children to death.Lovely....

I saw this pic by chance near the bottom of the page, and it really reminded me of the Lion King Disney movie, the Daddy Lion is definitely looking grumpy, but amused by his hyperactive little cub. So cute...

I really think sometimes, that I prefer animals to people LOL

Orlaith's Matching Earrings

2010-01-30T09:47:00.000-08:00

I used up the last of my sculpted clay leaves to make matching earrings.

I like the outcome so much, with the matching citrine rondelles, that I am inclined to make more leaves to make matching earrings for all the fairy pendants

The weekend is going OK so far, it is pretty chilly here, but the sun was bright. Did a bit of gardening this morning, fixed the trellis, and pruned back a rose bush....

Tomorrow, I am going to do more website related work - but I need a reward of some kind, as encouragement LOL.I'll have to think of something...

YOJ - Week 3 Orlaith, Golden Fairy Queen

2010-01-29T08:21:00.000-08:00

This is the last pendant for my Woodland Fairy Collection

I based this piece on Orlaith the celtic,Golden fairy queen.
The pendant is sculpted in fine silver, and I've added a couple of fresh water pearls, and a pair of stunning microfaceted golden citrine briolettes

I will be sad to let her go to be honest, I know I shouldn't have favourites, but I do love this piece a lot

I hope you love her as much as I do!

More Digital Art

2010-01-27T14:55:00.000-08:00

I know this must be so annoying for those of you, that come here to look at my jewellery LOL

I am on a few days break from jewellery.
I will try to get my week 3 piece done. It just needs oxidising and some beads added

Photoshop tutorials on the web have improved so much since I last looked around a few years ago. I made these today, and love them.

The way I rationalise it, is that all these graphics could come in handy for my website.
Thats what I've said to the hubby anyway, not that he is fooled LOL.
He just mutters "Uh-huh" with a knowing smirk on his face

Photoshop Play

2010-01-26T15:14:00.000-08:00

I haven't had fun making digital art in aaages.
I never give myself a day off usually,although I suspect most people running a home business don't get many breaks either

Anyway, I followed a couple of tutorials written at www.psdvault.com.
I found this fab website today, full or resources and tips. I don't have anywhere near the latest version of photoshop, but I still managed to think my way round the tutorials somehow

So here they are.One is a fancy typography effect, with flourishes, and all manner of filters. The other is using a stock photo of a model, and grunging the image up, and adding light effects.

Most of these techniques were new to me today too:)

How to Cheer Up Sulky Cats

2010-01-26T07:58:00.000-08:00

Since my workload has increased somewhat, the little furry friends are starting to act out.

The attention seeking had gotten to the point where they try to sit on everything I'm working on LOL.

So I came up with a way to appease them...Baskets!

I put one under my bedside table, next to where I was working, and another on the bed, with all my wire and forming tools for that day.
They took a basket each, and settled for the day.

Jasper fell asleep on my hammer and anvil, and refused to move, so I had to remove all my tools from beneath him.
Aside from that they were happy and stopped sulking.Yay!

Jasper even liked the necklace I made that day (Rhyannon from the recent collection)

Sunshine Blog Awards

2010-01-24T07:22:00.000-08:00

The Sunshine Award is awarded to bloggers whose positivity and creativity inspires others in the blog world. Kristin from K S Jewellery nominated me, which was so sweet and unexpected.Have a look at her blog when you get a chance, it is full of random nuggets of life and beautiful jwellery.

So here are 12 blogs I read frequently, and find really inspiring.I have linked them below, they are really worth the click!

1. ZooBorns
This blog of newborn zoo animals is so endearing and lifts my spirits no end

2. Eugena's Creations"
Eugena is one of my fave artists, she does Polymer clay mainly, but does a lot of mixed media. I bought a tutorial from her a few years ago, and never looked back

3. Murano Silver
Nicola is an amazing silver clay artist and has such an approachable manner.Lots of humour and handy tips makes her blog one of my faves to read

4. MangoTangoDesigns
Bev Gallerani is one of the metal clay gurus, who inspires thousands.I love her work, because it is so nature inspired and 3D.

5. Schin's Crafts
Schin is an amazing young artist who mixes traditional and digital art together. I bought one of her Geisha paintings, and love her sketches.

6. McNulty Quads
A family blog really, following quadruplets, 3 girls and a boy. I read their mini adventures, and ooh and awwh over their pics all the time!

7. WickWire Jewelry
Nancy is an amazing wire jewellery artist, who seems to be making jewellery all the time,which I love , because there is always something new and gorgeous to look at

8. ArtMind
Mitsy is an artist and her blog is very interactive, she brings people together and has many uplifting colourful posts.I visit there very often

9. Daily Art Muse
Daily Art Muse, is just that, a daily inspiration of all kinds of art forms

10. Tutorial 9
Tutorial 9 is a blog run by webdesigners full of freebies, and tips on graphic designs, for the amateur like me

11. RaceyTay Photgraphy
This artists photography is to die for, seriously gorgeous inspiring stuff.

12. Illusio Creative
Lorrie is a UK based artist, you really need to check out her paintings, nd textiles.I am always over there gawping at everything in awe

I hope you enjoy browsing around these blogs as much as I do

TV Temptation

2010-01-24T06:19:00.000-08:00

(Much love and best wises to Michael C Hall. Hope you kick Hodgkins into remission, permanently)

Too much TV is Baaaad.I get majorly distracted and obsessed with tv shows too easily. Especially the ones with mysteries that lend themselves to conspiracy theories

In the US TV show seasons are recommencing. Damages is back on, so dark and twisted at times, and it always keeps me guessing. Supernatural, a beloved guilty pleasure, to which I can now add Glee, and Gossip Girl too LOL

Dexter's latest season was so amazingly well concieved, and the John Lithgow/ Michael C Hall combo was inspired.

In some ways I love my TV shows more than movies, I feel I get to know the characters better, and am more invested emotionally.
They are real dammit!!LOL!!

Anyway, I will have to ration myself, and use my tv shows as rewards for work done, otherwise my website will never see the light of day!

Adult Survivor of CSA : Just Move On

2010-01-23T09:03:00.000-08:00

Got a letter in the post today, a 4 page diatribe from my mother

It basically said, I am not allowed to mention the past to her anymore, or ever get cross with her about it anymore, because it means I am living in the past.Oh, and to sort out my fertility STAT to get her some grandkids

I am all for the Moving forward philosophy of life. I try to live by it. The thing is my present and future life is tied up with consequences of the past, there is no escaping that fact

I am not living in the past, but like most adult survivors, there are a myriad of triggers that pull you back there anyway

My future is very different from where I was even 5 years ago, and this has everything to do with the past. I went to court with the rest of the family to put Dad in prison, because she had always refused to do it before then. He has abused more children since, but she does not feel any responsibility for that.

As a result of the past and the courtcase, I mentally am unable to do the job I was trained to do.Fact.

She actually never, ever got him removed from the family home. He left of his own accord a year after I left. Then she took issue with me not being family orientated enough to return to that home and play happy families with her.

She let me go into the real world as a seriously damaged eighteen year old, and was still full of anger and criticisms about my life choices. The nurturing mothering didn't remotely appear until there was irrefutable evidence of me being mentally ill, in my thirties.

I am trying to sort myself out. I will make a go of the jewellery business, even without her support. I will try to be positive about life

I will not however maintain contact with someone so damaging to my health and self esteem as she is.

A consultant psychiatrist said to me, years ago, that Adult Survivors of CSA always bounce back to the abusive parents for parental love and approval, which they probably never really had. She said it was a cliche. They need to move on

I agree in principle, but there has to be some empathy there too for the survivors. They had it bad, and rarely get cut any slack in adulthood for finding life hard. Is a little compassion too much to ask for? I think not.

YOJ:Week 2 - Salvani

2010-01-23T08:34:00.000-08:00

Hi sorry I have been so absent this week, from the blogosphere. I have a had a tough week all round and it has kept me offline

The jewellery making has continued though LOL - so here is my Year of Jewellery week 2 piece - Salvani

Salvani are winged woodland fairies, that protect animals. They are meant to be attracted to all things red, so I made this pendant for them

I sculpted natural woodland elements in metal clay and added a reddish patina to the outer border.The gemstones are cubic zirconia.

As you can see I have a very close relationship with my art clay syringe LOL

Hope you like it :)

YOJ Week 1 - Woodland Fairies and Nymphs

2010-01-16T16:09:00.000-08:00

It has been a very busy week for me.
I have had a breakthrough creatively speaking, with sculpting in metal clay.

Here are the fruits of my labours...a new collection of pendants,woodland vignettes, that were inspired by woodland nymphs and fairies

This will count as my Week 1 of my Year Of Jewellery. No way will I keep churning out so many pieces each week LOL, but it's a good place to start

RHYANNON
Queen of woodland fairies, something of a spiritual Goddess.
I imagined she would wear an amulet like this

LAILA
A guardian of newborns. Her amulet as imagined, below

NAIDA
A water nymph.Blue dew drops and mixed fauna

SHEA
Celtic Fairy Palace. I imagined this being part of the palace walls

I hope you like them. Feedback would be much appreciated :)

Adorable Feathery Angel!

2010-01-12T14:39:00.000-08:00

There is a giveaway going on for US residents only I think, for the cutest little feather apron for little girls HERE

The model in the picture is so adorable, that I had to mention her. The trouble is I don't know what I want more, the fluffy princess outfits, or a little girl, just like this one LOL

Funny Egg Pictures!

2010-01-11T10:15:00.000-08:00

I don't know why, but I cannot get enough of these pics!
The artist is linked here, NocturnalMoth from Deviantart.

They have tons more, I just picked my favourites LOL

Enjoy Your Breakfast!

Can't We All Be Friends

Behind Your Back

Nothing To See Here!

Mommy?!

Year Of Jewellery Project

2010-01-09T15:18:00.000-08:00

This snap was taken yesterday. The hubby found me browsing on the internet instead of working. I thought I'd share because I quite liked it...

I'm thinking about starting a Year Of Jewellery project, since I pretty much make jewellery all the time anyway, and whenever I look back at the influences and media explored, I realize how restless my mind is LOL

So my aims for this year so far:-

1.Tackle my PCOS symptoms head on...contimue weight loss etc
2.Sort out the inventory for the shop, and the inland revenue applications
3.Try to stay mentally more focussed, and look on the bright side more
4.Open the store

Jewellery Wise
I'm going to continue to explore different media, but with a focussed theme in mind. I go off at tangents constantly

Anyway this is more of a personal post I suppose, more for me than you...which is a little self absorbed, but it helps me to make little public declarations like this, because it forces me to comply LOL

So thanks for indulging me, and reading this far xx

Yearning For Spring....

2010-01-05T14:04:00.000-08:00

I'm working on a series of vignettes based on flowers, leaves and nature found in my garden

I'm yearning for spring already LOL

I'm aiming to do them in silver clay, but tried out my "flower sculpting" skills in polymer clay first. How economical of me LOL!!!

Hope you like this sweet little pendant and I hope you had Happy Holidays

Merry Christmas Everyone

2009-12-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

Have a wonderful xmas, and a fab New Year

Festive Spirit - Xmas 2009

2009-12-23T14:39:00.000-08:00

Decorated The Living Room

Looking Forward To....

I wish Everyone A Wonderful Xmas and A Happy New Year *mwah*