Introducing REGINA JIRON

      Hello People, thank you for stopping by and following the progress of our project. I know you all have been waiting a while now for additional news regarding this project, but guess what? So are we! The project has been completed two months ago but related information has only finally been collected last week, thus the delay. 

    Nonetheless, this means we have the summer to share additional news with you all. Our book on this project is in its final laps of production (thankfully) and will be available shortly, hopefully within the month. However, I haven't had the chance to introduce you all to REGINA JIRON, another one of the project's participant, so find below, an excerpt of my interview with her. Enjoy.

      

      Naan: What is your name and where are you from? (If you have a name you go by as an artist, tell us that as well.)

      Regina: My name is Regina Jiron. I live in Bethesda, MD which is in the Washington Dc metro area. My shopname is BeadJewelryShopgirl.

      Naan:     How long have you been practicing your art? 

      Regina: I started creating jewelry in 2006.

      Naan:  Is this (beading) the only form of art you do or are there more? 

      Regina: I’ve always done some form of craft or art since I can remember but I would consider painting (oil pastels and watercolor), beading and photography as “serious” endeavors.

      Naan: When did you decide to work in this particular (beading) media? 

      Regina: I discovered seed beads and the art of beadweaving also in 2006. 

      Naan: What made you decide to? 

      Regina: What I like most about beadweaving is the feeling of creating something out of nothing, almost. Putting hundreds, maybe thousand pieces into one cohesive whole give me a lot of satisfaction. The fact that others might enjoy the pieces I create also gives me a thrill. 

      Naan: How rewarding has it been so far? 

      Regina: Beadweaving has given me focus and peace. I’ve had some stress in my life lately that I’ve had to put my work on sabbatical but I realize now, it most likely would have help me better handle the stress so I’ve gotten back to it as much as I can now and intend to continue creating new pieces. 

      Naan: What is your specialty? (What materials, stitches, techniques etc) do you feel you have mastered so far? 

     

      Regina: I still consider myself a work in progress! 

      Naan: Are you primarily into beading or do you attempt mixed media (using beads and other materials like leather, fabrics or sculptures etc? 

      Reigna: With me, it’s all about the beads. I started with creating jewelry pieces, but lately I’m publishing bead patterns so that other beaders can enjoy my designs. I’m also starting to explore beading on canvas and creating sculptured pieces. 

       Naan: Is there any one person (artists, friends, family etc) that has been a big source of inspiration for you specifically in relation to this field? 

       Regina: I get my inspiration mostly from the things around me. Likewise, there is such a vibrant close-knit beading community out there that provide inspiration in raising the bar in this unique art form. 

       Naan:  What is your ultimate aspiration in this field? 

       Regina: I’m still searching for this. 

       Naan: Have you ever participated in any major projects or contests before? 

       Regina: In the beginning of my beading, I did participate in a couple of challenges and came out with the top awards. There was no monetary compensation or anything from it, but I got full satisfaction that a group of my peers gave validation to my work. 

      Naan:  Have you ever received grants and awards before, for your work in this media? 

      Regina: No

      Naan:  Do you think grants and awards are important in this media? 

      Regina: It would help for those in need of the financial boost to start their own business. I’m all for independent artists being able to jump start their business! 

      Naan: Is this media your primary vocation, your second job or simply a hobby? 

     Regina: Because I still have a 9-5 job that pays the bills and can’t devote 24/7 to beading, I still consider this to be a hobby.

     Naan: If you do sell your work, where can an interested client find your work to buy? And if you don’t sell your work, will you be interested in showing your creation anyway? (share links to sites, blogs, shops etc where you work can be purchased or viewed, or if you are comfortable enough, share contact details of how you can be reached for a client interested in making a purchase). 

      Regina: I sell my work primarily through my etsy store - https://www.etsy.com/shop/beadjewelryshopgirl 

      Naan: Why did you agree to participate in the FOE 13 project? 

      Regina: I hadn’t done a collaboration piece for a while so it was a good opportunity. In addition, I was getting out of my sabbatical to start beading again and what better way to stretch my beading muscles and get out of my comfort zone and work on a challenge piece! 

      Naan: Tell us more about yourself – anything at all that you are comfortable sharing. We all want to know our favourite artists as intimately as they would let us know them and you are no exception. 

      Regina: A quote from one of my favorite painters, Vincent Van Gogh is “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” It reflects so much of why I do what I do.

    It was a delight to learn more about Regina, but I am sure you all will agree that the delight is complete with a show of her work, find them below.

Free form Bracelet By ©Regina Jiron

Peyote Bracelet By ©Regina Jiron

'Bling' Bracelet By ©Regina Jiron

    I find Regina's work very neatly executed. The choice of colours are inviting and the design a delight. I wish I know the stories behind the inspiration for the these creations. But not knowing gives us the perfect excuse to stop by her shop to see more of her work or simply to drop her a note with your questions.

More ADRIENNE SZABO

Hello People,

Remember Adrienne Szabo? I featured her HERE.  And as promised, here is a display of her wonderful creations. Enjoy.

Jewelry set by Adrienne Szabo

Necklace by Adrienne Szabo

Necklace by Adrienne Szabo

Necklace by Adrienne Szabo

Work in Progress by Adrienne Szabo

Necklace by Adrienne Szabo

Work in progress by Adrienne Szabo

Bracelet by Adrienne Szabo

Bracelet by Adrienne Szabo

I purposely chose not to do a commentary on these piece because I feel that the variety of texture, colour and style speak for themselves. I find is simply amazing that a little twist in the Kumihimo can create a totally different look. Adrienne seems quite comfortable and knowledgeable of this cool Japanese technique.

With this link you have access to more of her work and can also order a custom made piece or set

And if you are in the area follow this link because you can also take one of her classes to learn this beautiful technique.

Working with Adrienne was such a pleasure and I feel greatly humbled to have learned more about her work and creative process, I hope you all did too. In the coming days. You all will get to read more about this project.

FOE 13

A year ago, this happend; ADRIENNE SZABO, CAROL DEAN SHARPE, CHRISTINE WILSON, ELIANA MANIERO, JACQUIE CHAMPION, MEGAN THOMAS, NAAN POCEN-FRANCIS (Project coordinator), OLGA DILLOW, REGINA JIRON, SVETLANA SAMETE and YULIYA ROITBOURD all came together on a collaboration that started here in Maryland (USA). With one floral focal piece that I created. It traveled to some European countries, then to Australia, then to Canada and back to several states in the USA and finally to Maryland where it all began.

This blog is NOT about the process of this creation (that shall come in another blog). This blog is simply the big reveal. All artists that participated in this project (except me) didn't know what the piece looked like before they received it, and had no idea what it looked like after it left them (again, all of that info will come in another blog). So with no further ado, I present to you all FOE 13.

 FOE 13 (a collaboration by 11 artists).

INTRODUCING ADRIENNE SZABO

Hello fun people. Our project came to an end a while back and reveal day is around the corner, but not before I introduce you all to another talented artist ADRIENNE SZABO. I had the pleasure of working with her on this project, and more so, I  got to know a bit about her too and I bet you all would. So here is a feature about this artist. Enjoy!

What is your name and where are you from?

My name is Adrienne Szabo and I am originally from Croatia and living in New York, USA.

How long have you been practicing this art (Beading).

I've been beading now for the past 7 years.

Is this (beading) the only form of art you do or are there more? 

I am a member of the Suffolk County Homemakers for the past 26 years. As a member I volunteered teaching crafts. My passion was always angels and I made angels out of silk flowers and clay pots, etc. I also joined Society of Decorative Painters and I am a member of D.A.L.I. (Decorative artists of Longs Island) for the past ten years.

When did you decide to work in this particular (beading) media?

After resigning with Michaels Arts and Crafts as a floral designer in 2007, I started beading while I was deciding where my life journey was gonna take me. I prayed for something creative and I heard of Bead store opening up in Long Island New York and got hired in July 2010  to teach classes and then a couple of months later started  working  at the shop part time. 

What made you decide to?

Handling beads and gemstones and crystals become my love instantly. I was able to see myself designing and the need to teach others is my great joy. Bead Kumihimo became one of my best techniques and passions.

How rewarding has it been so far?

I would say very rewarding, not in money but in great satisfaction to see my students accomplish making a piece of jewelry they thought they couldn't do and the process is very relaxing and most of the students that come,  struggle with life situations and found our classes to be so therapeutic. Kumihimo is most definite  meditative technique of all. 

What is your specialty? (What materials, stitches, techniques etc) do you feel you have mastered so far?

I do Bead Weaving (Intermediate beader), stringing, knotting, love wire work, but Bead Kumihimo became my love forever. 

1.     

            Are you primarily into beading or do you attempt mixed media (using beads and other materials like leather, fabrics or sculptures etc?)

Right now I am primarily into beading, but I do attend our monthly painting club meetings and get to paint a little at the meeting.

Have you ever participated in any major projects or contests before?

This is my first time participating in a project like this. Beading became my primary vocation. I work for Crystal Garden Designs NY where I teach jewelry making classes.  http://www.crystalgardenny.com 

If you do sell your work, where can an interested client find your work to buy? And if you don’t sell your work, will you be interested in showing your creation anyway? 

My Etsy shop is empty at a moment, buy planning to have some of my designs available for sale. You can find me at http://www.angelsbythesea1127.etsy.com

Why did you agree to participate in the FOE 13 project?

The minute I saw that this project is going to be for charity, I knew I had to participate. I only did little bit of bead embroidery, but wanted to to contribute anyway. I had no idea I was up against these amazing designers here online. 

Tell us more about yourself – anything at all that you are comfortable sharing. We all want to know our favourite artists as intimately as they would let us know them and you are no exception.

I also love to crochet and sew and learned some of the knitting, but prepping for teaching classes takes a lot of my time so I have a lot of projects on hold. Making jewelry comes first.  

Well folks, It was a pleasure for me to get to know Adrienne better and I hope it was the same for you all too. I shall be sharing some of the amazing works of this talented lady in the coming days and I assure you, you wouldn't want to miss it, so do drop by again soon and see what we have got and brace yourself for the big reveal of this awesome project. Until next time, have a blessed day you all.

More JACQUIE CHAMPION

It was with great pleasure I had introduce to you JACQUIE CHAMPION, and as promised, below are some amazing pieces by this talented Artist. Enjoy

ENVY, necklace by Jacquie Champion

Artist's description of the item: This is ENVY, it was created for  Etsy Beadweavers Emotional Roller Coaster challenge  last year.

DOLPHIN SEA ADVENTURE BRACELET

by Jacquie Champion

The artist's description of this piece: My Dolphin Sea Adventures cuff which is made entirely of seed bead in sizes 11/0, 15/0 and 8/0.  Most of my work is inspired by the sea, since I live on my sail boat this come naturally.  I love painting with beads and Dolphin Sea Adventures cuff is once such of my "paintings".

HONU SEA TURTLE BRACELET

By Jacquie Champion

Artist's description of the piece: My Honu Sea Turtle peyote Odd count bracelet, this is one of the many patterns that I have created and the inspiration is from the Sea and I particularly like turtles (I have the Hawaiian petroglyph turtle tattooed on my ankle).  

CHRYSANTHEMUM HAIR BAND

By Jacquie Champion

Artist's description of the piece: Chrysanthemum Hair band, this is a 3 dimensional Chrysanthemum flower, each of the petals (18 in total) were woven from my own pattern based upon a live Chrysanthemum that I picked during the early spring to use as my inspiration for the petal designs.  The focal is a recycled or upcycled coat button that I bead wove around using a variety of stitches (Brick, Peyote and RAW and fringe techniques to create the stamens of the flower.)  The head band is a black suede leather.

QUEEN OF HEARTS NECKLACE

By Jacquie Champion

Artists' description of this piece: My latest and it is called Queen of Hearts,it was created for the Etsy Bead Embroidery Guilds Bead Fest Alice in Wonderland.

It was a delight to have had the pleasure of seeing some of Jacquie's work and more so, the opportunity to share it with you all. Use the links below to access more of it and if you so please, place an order or make a purchase too. 

On line Stores:  Http://www.angelquecreations@etsy.com

                                http://www.angelquecreations@artfire.com

Facebook            http://www.facebook.com/angelquecreation

Twitter                 http://www.twitter.com/angelquecreatio

Pinterest             http://www.pinterested/angeqluecreatio

Blog:                      http://www.angelquecreations.blogspot.com

Do drop by soon to read more about another talented Artist. Until then, have a blessed day.

Introducing JACQUIE CHAMPION

It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you, the talented Artist, Jacquie Champion. She worked with me on the FOE 13 project. Below is a feature on this talented woman, it was a pleasure to learn more about her. Enjoy.

What is your name and where are you from? 

 My name is Jacquie Champion,  I live on my sail boat Angelique of Vancouver, currently in Vancouver, BC, Canada. 

How long have you been practicing your art? 

I started bead weaving in 2009, the year that we returned back from our sailing adventure to Mexico and the Sea of Cortez.

Is this (beading) the only form of art you do or are there more? 

Bead weaving, bead embroidery is the only art that I create, but I have done other fabric type crafts such as  Knitting, Crochet, Cross Stitch, and sewing.

When did you decide to work in this particular (beading) media? 

While in Mexico, I met a woman on a sail boat living in the La Paz.  She had been living on her boat and sailing the Sea of Cortez for about 20 years and during that time she also was a bead weaving artist, making her creations on the boat.  When I returned from our trip I thought that this was something that I could do that would help me pass the time during the day while my husband went back to work.  Since I retired in 2008 I was looking for a hobby or craft that would be fun to do, something that I could learn and expand my designs.  While in Mexico I learnt my very first Double Helix spiral stitch and I was hooked.  I purchased my first beads at a bead store in La Paz.

How rewarding has it been so far? 

I find that bead weaving and bead embroidery is very rewarding and relaxing.  I have so many ideas and not enough time to create them all.

What is your specialty? (What materials, stitches, techniques etc) do you feel you have mastered so far? 

I don’t think that I have mastered any techniques as I feel that I am still learning everyday and I am inspired by some of the “Masters” in the field, but I have learnt many bead weaving stitches and many bead embroidery techniques that I use in my work.  One of the areas that I still would like to learn is Bead Crochet, Soutache and the latest Shibori Ribbon.

Are you primarily into beading or do you attempt mixed media (using beads with other materials like leather, fabrics or sculptures etc)? 

I use a combination of mixed media in my designs.  I love 3 dimensional work and have created 3 dimensional flowers.

Have you ever participated in any major projects or contests before? 

The only major contest or project that I have participated in are the Battle of the Beadsmith, and FOE, although I regularly participate in the Etsy Beadweavers Monthly challenges, and EBEG Bead Fests and mini bead fests.

How would you describe the experience, generally?  I love the challenge but still feel that I am not quite at the level of experience and design of many of the great artists.

Have you ever received grants and awards before, for your work in this media? 

No

Do you think grants and awards are important in this media? 

No sure

Is this media your primary vocation, your second job or simply a hobby? 

Since I am retired I would say that it is more of a passion, it keeps my interest, I love to learn new techniques and designs and to expand my artistic ability

If you do sell your work, where can an interested client find your work to buy? And if you don’t sell your work, will you be interested in showing your creation anyway? (share links to sites, blogs, shops etc where you work can be purchased or viewed, or if you are comfortable enough, share contact details of how you can be reached for a client interested in making a purchase).  

I have several on line shops with Etsy, Artfire, a facebook page, twitter account, and pinterest.  I also sell in person at Farmers Markets in Vancouver, BC and during the Christmas season at Craft Fairs throughout the lower mainland

On line Stores:  Http://www.angelquecreations@etsy.com

                        http://www.angelquecreations@artfire.com

Facebook    http://www.facebook.com/angelquecreation

Twitter                         http://www.twitter.com/angelquecreatio

Pinterest     http://www.pinterested/angeqluecreatio

Blog:                              http://www.angelquecreations.blogspot.com

Why did you agree to participate in the FOE 13 project? 

I am always looking for ways in which to challenge my art and designs and the FOE project sounded like a lot of fun.  To be able to create a project with many other artists is something that I have never done before and thought that it would be great experience for me as a designer

It was, as I said, a great pleasure to learn more about Jackie, I will be sharing with you all photos of some of her amazing creations so do return here shortly and have a look. I can't wait! Have a pleasant day and thanking you all for reading through. See you soon.

More CHRISTINE WILSON.

Hi Everyone, when I introduced Christine Wilson to you all on THIS BLOG, I was itching for time to pass so that I can return and introduce you to some of her art and here it is. Enjoy.

The caption pretty much says it all although I must add, what a magnificent piece for a first!

This beauty makes me want to drink as many beers as I can, if only to free the caps for creations such as this. I am amazed at how Christine takes a seemingly simply reject (bottle cap) and gives it a new life. 

There is a certain touch of elegance in these items. I keep looking at them and keep wondering how did she make them? I guess it really doesn't matter does it? It is good enough that someone came up with the creativity of making beautiful items from everyday objects.......Still, I certainly would love to see the process of making one of these; they are gorgeous.

Christine is a girl of many Talents and you can tell by her creations. This piece is simply awesome!

I like the way she uses vibrant lively colours. It makes you want to wear them all the time. The good thing is her pieces can be worn with any and everything. I wish I have more to show you. Alas, good things must come to an end. Notwithstanding, head on to her online presence and feed your eyes, or better yet, place an order and get yourself one of these custom made beauties.

 www.brewedadornments.com

Retail Stores

www.atwaterbrewery.com

www.arborbrewing.com

http://dancingeyegallery.blogspot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/PoesyGallery

http://www.8degreesplato.com/

http://onesalonlife.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ArtisansBench

http://www.pamelatrippgallery.com/

Again, I want you all to meet the Artist behind the gorgeous works.

Christine Wilson of BrewedAdornements

Introducing CHRISTINE WILSON

  Hello Everyone, I would like to introduce CHRISTINE WILSON, one of the talented Artists that worked with me on the FOE 13 Project. I hope you enjoy learning more about her. I did.

What is your name and where are you from?

I am Christine Wilson, Brewed Adornments, Novi Michigan USA

     How long have you been practicing your art? 

      

      10 years now.

        Is this (beading) the only form of art you do or are there more? 

    

       I’ve played with several art forms including painting, embroidery and quilting

      When did you decide to work in this particular (beading) media? 

      After I made my first bracelet, I was irrevocably hooked and have been beading ever since.

      What made you decide to?  

      Beading is relaxing and rewarding and allows a personal self-expression I had not experienced before.

       How rewarding has it been so far? 

     I’ve been published in Beadwork Magazine and will have two more articles in 2014.  However, the main reward comes from the unique and talented artists I have engaged with in and out of this field over the past couple of years.  I continue to evolve and am so amazed at the talent and generosity of spirit that exists in the creative world.

     What is your specialty? (What materials, stitches, techniques etc) do you feel you have mastered so far? 

      I do not choose to specialize and enjoy mixing beadweaving with metal work and employing skills I pick up from both.  When I can combine a bit of quilting or painting, I’m truly happy.  It’s such a great feeling to use a tool or a supply in more than one discipline.

      Are you primarily into beads when working in this field or do you attempt mixed media (using beads and other materials like leather, fabrics or sculptures etc? 

      I’m evolving more and more into mixed media.  I love that the fabrics I purchased for quilts can be utilized in my jewelry creations as well as vice versa.

      Is there any one person (artists, friends, family etc) that has been a big source of inspiration for you specifically in relation to this field? 

     It’s hard to name just one person, but I owe a great deal of thanks to the instructors that have visited the Great Lakes Beadworkers’ Guild and shared their knowledge and advice over the years.  Early on in my explorations, Laura McCabe and Wendy Witchner provided inspiration and instruction and my more current work owes a great deal to Mary Hettsmansperger, Tracey Stanley and Anne Mitchell .

     What is your ultimate aspiration in this field?  

    To continue to grow as an artist, learning and sharing what I’ve learned with others.

    Have you ever participated in any major projects or contests before? 

   I periodically enter blog challenges but no major contests as of yet.

    Is this media your primary vocation, your second job or simply a hobby? 

   My primary vocation is that of mother but art  plays a close second.

   If you do sell your work, where can an interested client find it to buy? And if you don’t sell it, will you be interested in showing your creation anyway?

.  www.brewedadornments.com

Retail Stores

www.atwaterbrewery.com

www.arborbrewing.com

http://dancingeyegallery.blogspot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/PoesyGallery

http://www.8degreesplato.com/

http://onesalonlife.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ArtisansBench

http://www.pamelatrippgallery.com/

Why did you agree to participate in the FOE 13 project? 

    I find projects such as these to be rewarding personally.  They help me grow as an artist and challenge me to try new techniques.   I’ve done collaborative pieces in quilting in the past, but this is my first collaborative bead project.

Tell us more about yourself – anything at all that you are comfortable sharing. We all want to know our favourite artists as intimately as they would let us know them and you are no exception. 

     I began life in Anchorage Alaska but grew up in a small town in central Indiana.  Before retiring to raise my daughter, I enjoyed a fulfilling career as a financial analyst.  I approach projects with that background, seeking solutions to construction problems.  I tend not to preplan a piece, but create as I go.  Sometimes this leads to problems, but the solution is often when I am my most creative.

     I must tell you all, the interview with Christine ended too soon but it was fun learning more about her. Now I am itching to share with you images of some of the amazing work by this artist, however, I will have to resist. But I shall have them up very soon so do return and see for yourself. In the meantime, follow the links provided above and have a look at what she is all about. You will love it, I promise, and do come back soon for more. Have a blessed day you all.

YULIYA ROITBOURD and her ART

I am back again :-). I have been looking forward to sharing Yuliya's amazing work with you all. I wrote about her HERE. I had fun learning about her and her amazing art, and I hope you find it all equally inspiring. Enjoy.

This 

This, in my opinion, is an awesome piece. The ways she played with shapes and texture using only minimal colour combination is creative.

Even more fun is that you can wear it upside down!!!

I have an unusual fear of reptiles, even plastic ones, but I can see myself wearing this piece. Again I like the minimal use of colour, texture and form, especially because it stands out regardless.

This focal stone is so awesome, and I like how she used very few colours on this piece, so as not to take away from its beauty. At the same time, if you look away from the focal piece, you will notice that the mono-coloured part is not in the least boring. Genius!

Again, another reptile I will so willingly wear. Kind of reminds me of Eve and the forbidden fruit, don't you think?

I guess I don't need to point out that this lady loves nature, and what inspirations she has gotten from GAIA too! This is lovely and mellow.

Again, another focal piece that is being celebrated. It makes me want to suggest to Yuliya to seriously consider entering a beading contest. She knows her craft and certainly has something to offer, don't you agree?

And again, meet the ARTIST behind these amazingly beautiful creations. Find her on FACEBOOK to place a custom order, or simply befriend her and enjoy the chronicles of her creativity. It was a pure delight to work with Yuliya and I certainly am looking forward to working with her in the future.