September has been a pretty good month for Jansjems. Considering that sales were down in the shows we did earlier in the year, it was a pleasant surprise to see that people are not only buying, they are buying my more important pieces.
I've talked about how much I enjoy working with Art Clay Silver. But silver can be pricey so for the past 2 years we've been creating moderately priced pendants and earrings. Recently I took the plunge and made a few larger pendants and strung them on strands of gemstones. These are the reason I started working with silver clay in the first place. Given the economy that could've been a really bad idea. I am happy to report, however, that in the last 2 shows I sold 3 of these larger pieces and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the trend continues.
I've been reading a lot and watching online videos of techniques. Learning on your own can be expensive if you make too many mistakes. And I've had a few. But I feel so good when something works. So what's so special about silver clay?
The possibilities are endless. Here are just a few designs that inspire me to keep working on my technique. I did manage to take a couple of classes with Lis-el Crowley. She teaches out of her gallery in Windsor, Ct. and makes pieces like this one below.
In one of the books that I have there are instructions on how to create Gordon Uyeha's very organic "Forest Spirit" hollow form. I'm not quire ready for this one yet. Maybe someday.
And I have admired for years the work of Liz Hall who combines silver clay
with polymer clay for incredible pieces that look like this.
I have a long way to go and lot to learn. But the journey is so much fun.
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You think it's a long way to go, but looking at your jewelry...I think you have arrived!! You have your own style...and I like it! :-)
ReplyDeleteAw thanks Poetess.
ReplyDelete