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.

Introducing YULIYA ROITBOURD

I am excited to introduce to you all, the amazingly talented Artist, YULIYA ROITBOURD. It was a delight to work with Yuliya on this project. Below is sharing some words from the Artist herself. Enjoy.

What is your name and where are you from?

My name is Yuliya (Julia) and I'm from Israel

How long have you been practicing your art?

It has been 7 years now.

Is this (beading) the only form of art you do or are there more?
No, beading is not the only kind of art that I do, I love to sew, knit and weave macrame as well.

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

I decided on beading because I wanted to learn something new.

What made you decide to?

I saw on the internet beautiful jewelry from beads and then one of my neighbor showed me what she made with beads and I fell in love with it.

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

I embroider with beads and working with stones; I use almost all kinds of beads really.

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

Mostly I work with beads for my jewelry, but sometimes I use beads for garment sewing, knitting and macrame as well

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?

For me the biggest inspiration was my friend Olga Dillow; her and her work. Olga has been very supportive of me in my endeavors, gave advice and suggestions. I love her work and I really wanted to learn to also work with beads and now even after 7 years, she is still the first person that I turn to for advice or criticism of my work.


What is your ultimate aspiration in this field?

To just keep learning more and getting better.

Have you ever participated in any major projects or contests before?
No, I have never taken part in major projects and competitions. I find the idea useful though, I think it plays an important role in publicizing, plus the exposure and contact with other artists can help enlighten me on how to price my creations based on quality and everything it entails.

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

Right now it is only a hobby I greatly enjoy but I do sell my work.


Where can an interested client find your work to buy?

I show case on my facebook page HERE and I receive orders there as well. Simply convo me if you see anything you like or want something made to your specification.

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

I wanted to put myself out there, and I found the idea of a project involving a variety of Artists from all over the world interesting.

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

I'm probably not the most interesting person. My my dignity is important to me, and so are my 5 children. I am a housewife, I work, then I go home to my children and needlework. A simple and carefree life.

Well, ladies and gentlemen, I can tell you that having had the opportunity of working with Yuliya and seeing some of her work, it has been an honour for me. Do drop by soon to see some of her work for yourself. You will be amazed at the talent of this humble woman.

OLGA DILLOW AND HER ART

Hello Everyone. Do you recall this post about the Artist OLGA DILLOW? Well, I have been itching for a chnce to share more of her work with you all and alas! Here it is....and don't forget yo view to the very bottom because that is where I will have links to her shop and her contact details.

Enjoy.

When I saw this piece for the first time, I was stunned. The artistry and creativity hidden behind the almost monochromatic colour, to me was pure genius. This very piece, in 2009 it is I think, also won the Grand Prize Gold Medal prize for the Firemountaingems and beads competition. This category, if I am not mistaken was entered for the seed beads category. I am sure you will agree that the prize was well deserved.

I had asked Olga for the inspiration behind her work and in her very humble way, she simple stated, and I quote her "Unfortunately for those who expect to hear some beautiful story about fanciful creativity or decoration, I will have to disappoint, for I cannot say anything fanciful in that regard. For me, new ideas arise as sprouts from seeds of plants: the time they were born. What is the impetus. Sometimes just understanding that it's time to do something new, sometimes fad buyer, sometimes the desire to make something better than what is available and sometimes it is simply  in the participation in competitions. What inspires me? Everything around me is one way or another, some form of inspiration to create."

This piece looks simply regal to me.

I really wonder what even, sight or feeling birtghed the creation of this one. I mean just look at this stunning piece!!!

This piece is such a statement item I can actually see Iris Apfel wearing it, I really do.

Here is another stunning piece. I best let the piece speak for itself.

Do you know she does mixed media as well? Well now you do. I love the way her choice of beads gave some life and activity to plain black leather.

The intricacy and details of this one leaves me reeling in delight and this very piece has graced the cover of the Firemountaingems catalog too.

And here is the very Talented OLGA DILLOW wearing one of her very own creations. A subtle flame-like pendant but still in its own right very unique and pone of a kind. Itr has been a delight to work with Olga and I am so looking forward to more projects with her in future.

You can simply follow this link to her SHOP and see what you may find. She accepts custom orders, so you can drop her a line with your specific request.

She is also on facebook, so do friend her, and follow her work and progress HERE. She is a delight indeed.

Thank you all for reading through. Until next time. Remain blessed.

Introducing OLGA DILLOW

I would like the pleasure of introducing the delightful super talented Artist OLGA DILLOW with whom I have had the pleasure of working on the FOE 13 project.

  What is your name and where are you from? 

My name is Olga Dillow, I was born in Russia, but right now live in USA.

How long have you been practicing your art?

For a few years now.

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

Right now just beading. I tried crocheting and cross stitching but did not like it as much as beading.

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

I started beading in 2005.

What made you decide to?

My neighbor showed me what she made with beads and I fell in love with it.

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

I love to use different techniques, but I love bead embroidery most of all.

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

I love working with seed bead and semiprecious stones. And now I am exploring  the use of leather along with beads as part of my design.

 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?

No, not really. After I discovered seed beads as my perfect medium, there where a lot of designers that inspired me.

What is your ultimate aspiration in this field?To learn a little bid more, and more, and more....

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

Yes

How would you describe the experience, generally?

Every contest provided a different experience. Some were like “just a pretty game”, others were like “it is part of my life”, but mostly “it was part of my business”.

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

Yes. In 2009 and 2010 I entered annual bead contests sponsored by Fire Mountain Gems and was awarded with Grand Prize Gold Medal in 2009 and Silver Medal Prize in 2010. Fire Mountain Gems published several of my pieces in their ads. You may have seen some of my work in some of the well known magazines such as Bead & Button and Ornament. In 2012 one of my necklaces was a Finalist at Bead Dreams Show. In 2013 my beadwork participated in BOBT‘13.

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

I think awards are important enough. First, they reveal in their demand, the craftsmanship of an artist by the effort one assigns to the piece; one’s skill at the appropriate level and the mental energy of creating, not to mention the time and material involved. Secondly, the rewards and recognition gives one a sense of improvement and growth, sort of like being lifted to a whole new level and set apart from amateurs.

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

Right now it is part of my life and my business.

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 sale my work on Etsy https://www.etsy.com/shop/olgaterranova , local craft shows, and every one can see and to buy/order my work on Facebook, just search for Olga Dillow

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

I think this is a great project for those who are self-confident enough to be part of a team of people, who think differently, yet come together to merge their various categories of work, in different media and with different materials. I think it's awfully hard to add your artistic interpretation to a unit already created by someone else and matching your very mood to this piece and have it work out well. In general, in my opinion, this is the job for the truly talented and I am pleased to be in their community

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

Stories about oneself can be infinite and not interesting for the reader or listener, therefore I prefer to listen to others rather than talk about myself.

Well, ladies and gentlemen, I can tell you that having had the opportunity of working with Olga and seeing some of her work, it has been an honour for me. Do drop b soon to see some of her work as well as find links to her online presence.