The Painted Artist

Dragon Bracelet Wristband

2012-01-20T17:32:00.001-07:00

This is my black dragon wristband with a metallic bronze finish. It looks like a dragon bracelet you picked up at an antique shop, or found digging around some ancient ruin. It just looks more refined. I think this color might appeal more to both men and women. I love how this antique finish accentuates all the tiny details. My Honey-Do says it's his favorite.

The solid brass latches came with the antique finish and really look good with this version of my dragon wristband.

You can read more about my Dragon Bracelet Wristband in Antiqued Bronze and purchase one here: Bronze Dragon Wristband by In Art studio on Etsy

Designing a Dragon Wristband - Finished

2012-01-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

I was so excited, the day I finally de-molded my first black dragon wristband. After sitting all night in the pressure tank, would I open the lid to find disaster? I held my breath. OMG it worked! My original dragon sculpture was transformed into a sexy, black dragon wristband, just as I had imagined. I made all my family members try it on. He is so big, bold and 3-D. I love it! This is the first of my dragon jewelry designs. I am currently designing a smaller, more feminine dragon bracelet, with lots of rhinestones.

I received my longer rivets in the mail and mounted the hardware. My Honey-Do had helped me to pick out these solid brass latches. He suggested that the latches needed to look rugged and medieval, like the style of my winged dragon. I think he made the perfect choice. I had to order longer rivets to accommodate the thickness of the faux black leather lining. I devised a way to merge the lining material right into the wet resin, during casting. This gives a homogeneous blend of the two materials, without the need for gluing.

I used a combination of 2 urethane resins to cast my dragon wristband. Hard urethane for the shiny rock crystals and flexible urethane for the rest of the dragon. I have though about the possibility of casting my dragon wristband in a different material. But, I do not think the design would work in any kind of metal. Sterling silver would be beautiful, but so expensive. And the dragon would be too heavy and clunky to wear comfortably. The flexible urethane allows his head, horns and wings to bend without breaking, when snagged. This material also allows the wristband to fit snugly on the wrist, so that the dragon stays put and does not rotate.You can read more about my Black Dragon Wristband and purchase one here: Black Dragon Wristband by In Art studio on Etsy

Designing a Dragon Wristband – Finding the Perfect Resin

2012-01-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

Finding the right resin for my dragon wristband was a long process.The problem was information overload. Too many resins to choose from,each with it’s own set of technical specifications. I spent weekssifting through pages of tech data sheets and calling supplies withnumerous questions. Tensile Strength, Modulus, Tear Strength,Elongation and Shrinkage are just some of the physical properties thatcan make or break a design. Then there are the obvious choices ofcolor, shore hardness and viscosity. Just how hard is this stuff goingto be to work with? How many minutes of working time do you have beforeit kicks? Is it compatible with my mold material? Does it require anyspecial mold release? Does the material require vacuum degassing orhigher than normal pressures during casting? What is the cure time,cure temperature and post-curing requirements? How long is the shelflife? Is it UV resistant? Are there any special storage or hazardousmaterial requirements to consider?

I find that narrowing down the choices, is made easier by compilingall the technical data into spreadsheets. By process of elimination, Ifinally arrived at half a dozen resins that might fit my needs. Iordered small quantities of each and started my testing. This is whereI switch into what my Honey-Do calls my “Mad Scientist” mode. Thetesting part is always fun. I make numerous sample castings, and thenstretch them, bend them, try to break them. I lay them out in the sunto test for color fade and UV degradation. I test for pigmentcompatibility. I test for post processes, like drilling and sanding,painting and gluing. Then there are the ambiguous properties. How doesit look, how does it feel against the skin, how well does it “wear”?Working with a new material always requires a learning curve. All mytesting, helps shorten this learning curve and always sparks new designideas.

You are probably bored to tears by now, by all of this technicalmumbo jumbo, right? Sorry, sometimes the anal engineer in me, getscarried away. I love all this stuff. But, even my Honey-Do’s eyes glazeover when I start to talk about resins. So show a photo of the dragonbracelet, already! I will post photos soon. My prototype is finished.But, due to a design change, I had to order longer rivets and they arestill in the mail.

I have to admit that this dragon bracelet has been one of thelongest, most challenging, of my jewelry designs to date. I love takinga jewelry design from idea to completion. To take an idea fromconception, to sculpture, to molds, to finished product requiresconstant learning, careful planning and attention to details. And eventhen, mistakes can be made and disastrous results can ruin weeks ofwork. But, when a design works, when you hold the finished product inyour hand and then try it on your wrist, and it sings that siren’s songof beauty. You know, that you can’t wait to tackle the next new idea.

Designing a Dragon Wristband – Dragon Wings

2012-01-13T13:04:00.000-07:00

All summer my poor dragon sat, wingless.

The summers here in Colorado provide wonderful weather for working outdoors. So I take the opportunity to sculpt outside of my studio. These sculptures are mostly 3 foot and larger, that will not fit through the door and are too messy to work on inside. I sculpt with a modified concrete mix and wire. Totally different material and scale from my jewelry. I have found that switching mediums gives my creativity a boost.

One day, the answer to my dragon wings problem dawned on me. Duh! I was stuck in a rut! I had gotten so used to designing for my standard material, urethane resin, that I could not find a solution for my wings. The wings were not the problem. The problem was my material.

And so my hunt for the perfect new resin began.

Designing a Dragon Wristband

2012-01-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

About a year ago, I started sculpting a 3-D dragon wristband. The dragon’s body went smoothly. Then my Honey-Do suggested that the dragon needed wings. “He needs to be a Medieval style dragon, not a wingless, Oriental style dragon.”

Wings! I agreed, wings would be fantastic, but, how could I add wings, without creating a design nightmare? Wings would stick up and get caught on everything. How could they be attached? If I made them small enough to not protrude, they would look out of scale with the rest of the dragon. This one small detail, could throw a wrench into the whole design process.

And it did. All last summer, my dragon sat in a box, waiting for me to finish him. He looked fantastic, but wingless. I knew in time, that the answer to the wing dilemma would come to me, but, this answer was taking way too long.

So many design details to work out. I needed a clasp, and not just a standard jewelry style clasp. It need to be in scale with the dragon. The clasp needed to be rugged and secure, but small enough to not intrude into the design dimensions. I wanted to surround the dragon with rocks. Not glittery rhinestones, but masculine, realistic rocks. I dug through my rock collection for inspiration, and found a handful of shiny quartz crystals. Perfect! The base for the dragon and his rocks need to look rough and natural. I wanted the look of cooled lava. All these details were finally worked out, but the wings answer still eluded me.

Monarch Butterfly Ring

2011-03-31T10:22:00.000-06:00

Celebrate the return of the monarch butterflies. Perched on your finger, with his little wings uplifted, he looks so real, even his little body is 3-dimensional. This is not a real Monarch Butterfly, but a perfect imitation of natures fluttering jewel, captured inside water-clear resin. Monarch Butterfly rings, are perfect casual jewelry for summer.

Find them in my Etsy Store, available in size 7 or size 8"

Fantasy Castle Ring

2011-03-17T18:18:00.001-06:00

This delightful castle ring has been a year in in design. My fantasy castle ring had to be absolutely fabulous and it had to be strong and durable. I designed this extraordinary fantasy castle ring for my daughter, in honor of her upcoming wedding. I gave the prototype ring to her, at her bridal wedding shower, as a reminder, that she will always be "my princess". She will be wearing it as a right hand ring for the wedding, in honor of her Mommy. What a sentimental bunch we are.

A miniature pearl castle floats above a cloud of pearls, iridescent glass beads, and a sprinkling of Swarovski rhinestones, all cascading over a white pearl band ring. Each of the 8 towers on the white castle, is adorned with a tiny, 2.5mm iridescent Swarovski Crystal Aurora Borealis bead. Exquisite!

Who says you need a Prince Charming to have your very own fairytale castle? Every woman needs to feel like a princess once in a while. Do you have a "princess" in your life? Or, do you need a little something to make you feel special? Let me make a fantasy castle ring especially for you. These rings are individually made to order.

Order one in my Etsy Store, available in size 6, 7 or size 8

Blue Morpho Godarti Butterfly Rings are Back

2011-03-02T17:38:00.000-07:00

Finally, I have perfected my method for making these rings. Originally, making the butterflies was a hit-or-miss endeavor. Approximately half of them would have to be scrapped, due to imperfections. This was frustrating and a waste of materials, not to mention time. I kept at it, thinking I just needed to perfect my technique. But finally, I realized, that I just needed a different technique.

After much thought, I came up with a better way to make my little butterflies. This new technique involves more time, but, I have cut my scrap down to almost zero. Yeah! And, the butterflies are better than ever.

You can find them listed in my Etsy store, in a choice of size 7 or size 8.

Blue Morpho Godarti Butterfly Ring

Seahorse Bracelet with Shells in Blues and Greens

2011-02-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

I wanted to try something different, with my favorite seahorse mold. Also, I had these fantastic Swarovski beads, just begging to be used. I started with a vibrant, azure blue and warm, lime green colored resin seahorse. Next I added turquoise and 22K gold seashells and Blue Zircon, Swarovski Aurora Borealis, 4mm bicone beads. And, finished with a blue-green Aurora Borealis Swarovski rhinestone eye. Tropical reef paradise! Can't you just feel the warm, tropical water washing over your skin and hear the Calypso music playing in the background? Stunning!

Light as a summer breeze, this is a hinged spring, clapper style bracelet is made for easy on and easy off. Fun to look at and fun to wear, I really enjoyed creating this seahorse bracelet design.

Find it here in my etsy store: In Art Studio

Coral and Pearls Resin Bracelet

2011-02-19T07:08:00.000-07:00

I had been thinking about adding pearls to one of my coral resin bracelet designs for a while. I wanted a better attachment method than glue, and I wanted a more organic look than the standard round pearls. Since no solution readily came to mind, I put the design on the back burner.

On a recent shopping expedition, I came across a strand of gorgeous baroque pearls. I bought them, not knowing why I needed them (pure impulse buying) It wasn't until I got home, that I realized they were the perfect solution for my coral bracelet design. I love these pearls. They are soft and glowing, with such a wonderful, lustrous nacre, and delightful character. I fiddled with a way to attach them, till I realized, I could just string them on. Duh!

By drilling numerous, .032" diameter holes, and using clear nylon line, I wove the pearls in and out of the resin coral branches, in a natural, hap-hazard looking pattern. I added 4mm Swarovski bi-cone beads, in a soft turquoise color, interspersed among the pearls. The clear, nylon line is strong and invisible. The final design, appears as if the pearls and tiny turquoise beads, have been captured in the coral branches by the motion of the sea. Perfect.

Now, If I could just get some more jewelry designs off the back burner.

Silver Mermaid and Dolphin Resin Bracelet

2011-02-18T09:53:00.000-07:00

I love silver jewelry, and have made sterling silver jewelry in the past. Being familiar with good quality silver, I am very picky about the color and mirror like appearance. I have been looking for a good silver pigment, for years. But have not been able to find one, that gives a realistic silver look. They were always too dull, or too sparkley, or just plain blah.

Just recently, I was testing some color combinations. I do this a lot. To my surprise, one of my tests came out a beautiful silver color. I was so excited, I had to run down to the shop and show my fiancé. By mixing 3 colors, that should never have worked together, I came up with a gorgeous silver. The only way, to get a more realistic silver look, is to use sterling silver leaf.

Well, here she is, my new silver mermaid bracelet. You can find her listed in my Etsy shop.

Mermaid Necklace in Antique Ivory Resin

2011-02-10T14:02:00.001-07:00

This mermaid measures 5-1/2 inches wide by 3 inches from top to bottom. At each side are 2 resin starfish bead caps and 3 strands of real bone beads, ending in a gold lobster claw clasp and an extra 3 inches of gold extender chain. At the end of the chain is a bone bead and my logo tag, for Night Sky Jewelry. The necklace measures 18 inches long, adjustable to 21 inches long. Weight is 48 grams or 1.7 ounces.

Perfect for the modern bride who wants something avant-garde and distinctive for her spring or summer wedding. This extraordinary Mermaid and Sea Life Necklace combines antique ivory colored resin and antiqued bone beads. Stunning!

Mermaid and Dolphin Pearl Necklace

2011-02-04T16:21:00.002-07:00

Imagine a bride wearing this Mermaid Necklace for a spring or summer wedding. Fabulous!

This beautiful Mermaid and Sea Life Necklace combines silky, pearl colored resin and real freshwater pearls. The Mermaid, her dolphin and sea life friends are a 3-dimensional and highly detailed, down to tiny scales on both the mermaid's tail and the fish bodies. I sculpted and cast two little starfish in pearl resin, to grasp the ends of each of the 3 strands of glowing freshwater pearls. A new mermaid necklace design, from my Iridescent Sea Series. Imagine this Saltwater Siren swimming around your neck. Stunning!

Butterfly 3-D Necklace

2011-02-03T15:12:00.002-07:00

A new design, fresh from my studio, just in time for spring. Imagine this necklace on a bride for a spring or summer wedding. Fabulous! For evening glamor, wear it with your favorite little black dress. Or, dress it down, by wearing it peeking out from the neckline of a white tailored men's shirt paired with your favorite jeans.

Colorful, transparent Butterflies alight on a crystal clear bib style necklace. There are a total of seven 3-Dimensional Butterflies, each a different color. The butterfly colors are iridescent and shimmer in the sun light. Their 3-dimensional bodies and long black antennae are coated in black resin. Stunning!

This Crystal Clear base measures 6-1/4 inches wide by 4-1/2 inches long. At each side are 11 x 12 mm Clear Glass beads, ending in a silver lobster claw clasp and an extra 4 inches of silver extender chain. The necklace measures 14 inches long, adjustable to 18 inches long. Weight is 57.0 grams or 2 ounces.

Turquoise Seahorse Resin Bracelet

2010-04-28T08:36:00.000-06:00

The color combinations of these bracelets is endless. I just had to try one in my favorite color, turquoise.

Like an ice cold drink, these colors are cool and refreshing. Clear iridescent blue coral colored resin sea fans, accented with a large seahorse in vibrant blue turquoise resin with flakes of 22K gold and a Golden Swarovski rhinestone eye. Seashells and starfish in 22K gold and turquoise adorn this light weight, comfortable and fun to wear bracelet. Light as a summer breeze, this is a hinged spring, clapper style bracelet made for easy on and easy off.

Find it here in my etsy store: In Art Studio

Long, Long Winters and Cooking Experiments

2010-03-31T09:49:00.000-06:00

My Family is getting bored being couped up all winter. Experimental cooking has become the thing to do at our house. Last night we had Stir-fry Hot Dogs, with vegetables and rice. A real taste treat for sure. "Don't worry honey" my Fiance says, "I'll make it better next time." Next time !?!

Before that, my daughter made fried eggs with American cheese sandwiched between two blueberry waffles. There is just something about blueberries and American cheese that do not go together.

Oh, and then there was the sausage gravy and homemade biscuits. Coming from the South, I love good old fashioned, sausage gravy and biscuits, and was thrilled to hear that this was on the dinner menu. Was I in for a surprise. The biscuits had been sweetened with French Vanilla creamer, and the sausage used was maple flavored. I swear I heard the Confederate Army roll over in their graves that night.

I start to think of quick excuses, whenever anyone volunteers to cook dinner.

Painting a Multi-Color Mermaid Resin Bracelet

2010-03-25T19:26:00.000-06:00

I have been working on a process for "painting" my resin jewelry castings. This is my first large scale test of applying multiple colors of powered pigment right onto the mold surface before casting. Using a small artist brush, I applied each color separately to the silicone mold. Powdered pigments are hard to control, as the powder tends to fly around and stick where ever it lands. So I painted the rougher surfaces first, carefully wiping away any stray pigment with a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol. Then I painted the smooth surfaces. The final step was filling the mold with clear resin mixed with gold pigment.

There was no way of knowing how the end result would look, until the next day when the bracelet could be removed from the mold. I was surprised at how well this worked. And how much fun it was to do. I took photos and listed her in my etsy store, and she sold the next morning. Thank you, Melissa.

Whoo-hoo! I get to make another one!

Variations on a Theme - Seahorse Clapper Resin Bracelet

2010-03-23T12:05:00.000-06:00

When creating a new mold, it makes economic sense if the mold can be used for more than one design. The molds I make are expensive to produce, because I use industrial strength silicones. But, they last a long time and can be used over and over, without deterioration. Here is an example of another bracelet made from my fan coral bracelet mold. I combined this mold with an existing mold, to create this new bracelet.

I have had requests for a seahorse bracelet, and now I can make him in any color combination. And at a reasonable price.

Something Different - Vintage Black Lace Resin Bracelet

2010-03-21T20:22:00.000-06:00

I was rummaging through an old box of fabrics when I came across some lace I had bought years ago. This beautiful old lace gave me an idea. I started with 2 pieces of the vintage black Venetian lace, cut to 7 inches long and joined them with a row of jet black crystal beads. Next I cut and bent sheet brass to cover the raw edges. The sheet brass was too garish, so I covered it in black grosgrain ribbon. Then, I saturated the whole thing in resin. Next I drilled 4 tiny holes through the ribbon/sheet brass edging to attach the Swarovski crystal beads, extender chains and lobster claw clasps. Finally, I attached a Swarovski Crystal Pendant to each of the 7 bottom points of the lace. I used a special resin on the lace that stays soft and flexible, but still makes the lace water-proof and gives the lace enough body to stand on it's own. The challenge was determining how much resin was needed to keep the lace pliable enough to wrap easily around the arm, yet, strong and resilient without looking like shiny plastic. I think it turned out very sexy.

My first spring loaded, clapper style resin bracelet

2010-03-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

This bracelet has been on my design list for a while now. I wanted a resin bracelet that was easy on and off, comfortable to wear, and oval shaped. The biggest hurdle was finding the spring loaded jewelry hinges. The next problem was finding a heat-proof bracelet mandrel for post curing the urethane resin (see previous post) Once these design challenges were solved, I created the master and molds. The final problem was finding the right glue that would bind the metal hinge to the urethane resin. The glue needed to be heat resistant and give a strong bond, capable of withstanding the torquing stress of opening the bracelet, without failure. After multiple tests, E-6000 turned out to be the winner.

Here is the first of my new hinged resin bracelets. It's a fan coral design. I love the way the fan coral fingers interlace in the front, to give an almost invisible closure. When you pull the bracelet open, and let go, it gives a nice snapping sound. Or should that be a clapping sound?

This is the perfect style bracelet for me. I have small wrists and large hands. I wear a size 7 bracelet, but to get a bangle over my hands, can be painful. This resin bracelet is comfortable, easy to put on, stays in place without rotating, and light weight at just 38.6 grams. Did I mention it's my favorite colors for summer?

Sometimes you just have to make your own jewelry tools

2010-03-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

I have a new bracelet design that requires an oval shaped bracelet mandrel for final heat treating. I bought a cast steel mandrel years ago (very expensive) but the steps are just not long enough for my current needs. The steps are 1 3/4" long and I need one 2 1/4" in length. I scoured the Internet for an oval bracelet mandrel, but the only ones I could find were tapered (won't work) or stepped, just like mine. Hummm.... what to do.

I was thinking, if I had access to a lathe, I could make one out of oak or steel. We have an ancient metal lathe down in the shop, but, it hasn't been used for years and I doubt it still runs. Still, I could spend a week moving the junk piled up in front of, and on top of it, cleaning the lathe and checking to see if it still runs.

Then, the perfect solution came to me. As usual, my ideas always seem to come in the early hours of the morning. I needed to find a plastic bottle, the right diameter. My oval design is 2.48" wide x 2.29"for an average diameter of 2.39". I buy plastic squeeze bottles from Wal-Mart for dispensing my assorted resins, and these turned out to be the perfect diameter. I ran a quick test for heat resistance. Yep, the plastic squeeze bottle can handle the 180 deg heat treatment temperature with no melting or distortion. I cut off the top of one of the bottles, squeezed it into the right shape with an existing metal cuff bracelet, filled the bottle with plaster of paris, and let it cure overnight.

Voila! Here it is! And, I spent maybe 2 dollars making it. My mandrel turned out a whopping 5 inches tall. That means, I can heat treat 2 bracelets at a time.

New Butterfly Cuff Bracelets and “Kamikaze Gnats”

2010-01-23T09:03:00.001-07:00

My banana trees are happily spending the winter in my studio. Unfortunately, they are harboring tiny fugitives - gnats! A few gnats are not a problem, until they find their way into my casting room. I had just finished a new butterfly bracelet and was removing it from the pressure pot, when I found a "Kamikaze Gnat" had dive bombed my final resin pour. My fiancé suggested I list the bracelet at 1/2 price, so I created a 1/2 Price Off Casts section in my Etsy store. Good idea! Maybe, this is a great way to clear out some of my less than perfect jewelry.

So here is the first 1/2 Price listing.

New Clear Resin Butterfly Cuff Bracelet Modern Art Jewelry 1/2 Price Kamikaze Gnat

His wings were not as stuck as the rest of him, and came off. So, I cut a piece of black glitter in half and glued on his new wings. It's impossible to hide him, so I might as well make him pretty.

Mermaid Bracelet Gold Resin Jewelry 17- "Treasure"

2009-12-19T15:46:00.000-07:00

Today, I tried casting my new mermaid bracelet design in gold pigmented resin. I then gave it an antiquing wash of black acrylic paint to bring out the details. I think the gold looks fantastic, and the details really pop! This medium can be frustrating to learn, but so much fun.

To read all the details, see more pictures or to purchase this bracelet, go to my etsy store Night Sky Jewelry by In Art Studio

Mermaid Bracelet Clear Resin Jewelry 17- "Treasure"

2009-12-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

It's finally done! The first cast of my new mermaid bracelet design -"Treasure", and I am very pleased with the results. I think she turned out fabulous! The mold was a real bear to make, and required a whole day of post finishing, but it picked up all the fine details. My fiancé remarked that the octopus almost steals the show. So, I am thinking about making "Glamor-Pus" into a pendant. Today, I will try casting this bracelet design in gold pigmented resin.

I am already planning the next mermaid bracelet design. I'm thinking of a mermaid floating in a bed of kelp, sunbathing with her friends.

To read all the details, see more pictures or to purchase this bracelet, go to my etsy store Night Sky Jewelry by In Art Studio

Sculpting a Mermaid Bracelet Master - The Logo

2009-12-17T13:11:00.000-07:00

I want to incorporate my logo tag into my new bracelet design, but, where to put it? I plan to cast this bracelet mainly in clear resin, but the metal tag I use, will show through the front. The first bracelet has the logo tag hidden behind a sea shell. But, this new design has no good place to hide the tag. So I have decided to just sculpt the initials NSJ into the right hand side of the octopus. Hopefully it's not too obvious, but it's there. I am just about ready for the final bake of the master.

Sculpting a Mermaid Bracelet Master - a Dolphin and Fish

2009-12-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

Now for the final cast of characters. The design calls for a school of tiny fish, between the mermaid and her hand mirror. These fish are crowding each other, trying to get a look into the mirror, so only part of their bodies show. I try sculpting the fish individually, intending to stack them. I then realize there is a better and easier way. I take a small amount of clay the approximate size and thickness of the school and place it into position. I outline each fish, then start to carve and define each small head. Here is the result. They still need some refining and detail work, but, I like the look.

The last character is my baby dolphin. I imagine him to be inquisitive and playful, so he will be sporting a pearl necklace. I love adding dolphins to my designs. They are easy to sculpt, and add so much charm.

Well, the sculpture is almost finished. I still have a a lot of finishing work to do, before it will be ready for molding. The surface finish is important, as every little flaw will be picked up by the silicone molding compound. But I am very pleased with the design, and think it will look fabulous when cast.

Sculpting a Mermaid Bracelet Master - Sculpting an Octopus

2009-12-15T19:27:00.003-07:00

This mermaid bracelet master calls for a figure on the right side. I have designed the layout to include an octopus. I have Googled pictures of octopus to get an idea of their texture. I want to make this a lady octopus with eyelashes and kissy lips. She is trying on jewelry with her mermaid girlfriend. Sound like fun?
Here she is roughed in.

I decided to change the arm position, and added the suction cups to her tentacles. And here she is with most of her jewelry on.

Next - a dolphin and a school to tiny fish complete the scene

Sculpting a Mermaid Bracelet Master - Sculpting a Treasure Chest

2009-12-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

Now for the really fun stuff. The treasure chest is next. I have been thinking about this and I wanted a layered 3-D effect. But, because it sits behind the mermaid, it can not be too thick. The front and sides are twice as thick as the top, which is hard to see in the photograph. I want it to look like rough, old wood, like it's been under water for a long time. I added a lock and some strapping, for more detail. It's not finished, I want to make it look even more old, by roughening the corners and sides. But, you get the general idea. One of the benefits of having lived in the Florida Keys, was the opportunity of visiting the many treasure museums. I got to examine the items salvaged and collected from the local shipwrecks. I also had the opportunity to meet and get to know, the guys that did the salvage diving. What fun!

I've added hair to the mermaid and some jewels. The Mermaid's body is finished and soft fired, for 10 minutes at 265 degrees. She is not hard all the way through, but she is hard enough to scrape and sand, before adding her hair. She looks so much better with hair. Here, also, is her fancy little hand mirror. All the tiny pearls are glass, and will be fired and cast, right into the mold.

Next - Sculpting an Octopus

Sculpting a Mermaid Bracelet Master - Sculpting the Face

2009-12-11T13:57:00.000-07:00

Here is where the fun begins. My design is complex, with a lot going on in a 7 x 2-1/4 inch area. On the left side of my design, is a full length mermaid reclining on her right arm. Her left arm is out stretched and holding a hand mirror. Behind her tail, in the middle of the design, sits a treasure chest, filled with jewels and jewelry. On the right side of the bracelet, is the mermaid's octopus girlfriend. The mermaid and the octopus are both trying on jewelry from the treasure chest. I have incorporated a baby dolphin, who has gotten in on the fun and has a pearl necklace draped over his head. My design also, includes a large school of tiny fish, that are so curious about their reflection in the hand mirror, that they are blocking the mermaids attempt to see herself. I want the mermaid's face to convey a combination of annoyance and amusement. This might be a hard expression to pull off.

I always start with the hardest part first, the face and torso. My design calls for a 3/4 inch long, full face, 1/2 head view. Matching the approximate size to the layout, I roll an egg shaped ball of clay, approximately 3/4 inch in diameter, and cut off the 1/2 back of the head. This is placed firmly on the glass, smooshing out any air pockets. The reason for sculpting on glass is I can see what is going on underneath my sculpt, like air pockets.

Next, I add clay for the neck, and upper torso. Again placing the clay over the layout and smooshing it firmly to the glass. I start with a lot more clay than I need, so I can carve the figure. Starting with less clay, means I will have to build up clay parts here and there, to add depth and dimension. I find it easier to carve away the clay to the desired depth and dimension. Either way works. It's just my personal working style.

Sculpting a human face and torso is my biggest challenge. If the proportions are not right, the mind will perceive that something is wrong. I might not be able to place my finger on exactly what is wrong, but I can tell that there is something strange looking about the figure. Our minds judge beauty as balance of proportion. If one eye is higher than the other, or one arm is longer than the other, the figure is out of balance, and looks wrong, even ugly. Getting this balance right, is the hardest part. This is where my digital camera is my best sculpting tool.

After hours of sculpting tiny details, my eyes start to get tired. I see all the little details, but loose focus of the larger picture. That's where my camera comes in. I set my camera to the Macro mode setting, and take close-up pictures from every angle. I then down load these pictures into a file folder on my computer, and take a break. Now, I come back and look at the pictures. I zoom in and look at the details my eyes have missed, but the camera has picked up. Zooming out and standing back away from the monitor, I look for balance of proportion. The camera gives me an unbiased critique. I keep these pictures, so as I refine my sculpture, I can pull them up, side by side, and compare the changes I have made.

Here is a picture of the mermaid's head. She has no hair yet, and is very bald. The shape of her head is not perfect, but, her long hair will cover all but her face. I will add the hair after the first "half-bake", so the hair does not interfere with sanding and polishing of the face and torso. She has tiny bits of fuzz, stuck here and there. But they will be gone, with the first sanding.

Amusement shows mostly in the eyes and mouth. The mouth and eyes need to both be "smiling". The lower lip needs just a tiny fix on the left hand side. And the right eye, lower lid, needs smoothing, but, in general, I am happy with her face.

Next - Sculpting a Treasure Chest

Sculpting a Mermaid Bracelet Master - My Sculpting Media

2009-12-10T12:22:00.001-07:00

All of my sculpting experience has been with polymer clay. I have sculpted everything from jewelry and dolls to my full sized animal sculls with polymer clay. So, I know the media well, and always have some on hand in my studio.

"Balancing Act" Polymer Clay Figure

Best of Show Skull Sculpture, "War Cry"

Polymer Clay Free Standing Cross Sculpture

Polymer Clay Sculpture, "The Guardian"

Detail of Polymer Clay Sculpture, "The Guardian"

First Place Skull Sculpture, "Speedy"

"Wild Horse Turquoise" Free Standing Polymer Clay Horse Sculpture

For me, polymer clay is the perfect medium for creating a jewelry master. It has all the physical properties of a good sculpting media, plus, it has a long library life. I have masters stored away in boxes, going back 10 years, that look just the same, as the day I put them into storage.

My polymer clay jewelry masters have no compatibility issues with the silicone materials I use to make my molds. No mold release is needed, and any heat generated by the mold material curing is never a problem. This is a big advantage for mold making. Mold making, in it's self, can be a real headache. No need to worry about my precious master being ruined. In fact, with proper storage, the same master can be re-used to make countless molds.

Polymer clay sticks well to glass. I always sculpt on clear glass, so I can peek underneath and check for voids. Once "cooked", the sculpture is easily pried loose from the glass.

Polymer clay is cured by heating in a home oven or toaster oven. The clay I use, is fully cured by heating for 15 minutes at 265 degrees, for every 1/4 inch of thickness. One trick is to partially "cook" the clay for say 10 minutes, then progress to the next step and partially "Cook" again. This can be repeated over and over until the sculpture is done and ready for full curing. Did I mention that raw "uncooked" polymer clay sticks well to cured clay? That is another advantage. You can keep adding layer upon layer to your design with no adhesive required between layers.

Once cured, polymer clay becomes permanent and hard, and can be drilled, sanded, polished, sawed, glued, screwed and painted, just like a piece of PVC plumbing pipe. Because it is the same material. Polymer clay is Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with liquid plasticizers added to make it malleable and clay-like.

I buy my polymer clay at the local Hobby Lobby, for $8.00 per 1 pound box. Last week, I bought a new box, and the price had gone up to $12.00 for the same 1 pound box. But, considering how many jewelry sculptures I can make from a pound of clay, that's still not a deterrent. I buy Super Sculpey in the green 1 pound box. I am not concerned about the flesh pink color, since my jewelry masters are not the finished product. I am happy with the consistency, straight from the box. And I find it easy to condition, by hand, without the use of any mechanical devices. Polymer clays must be conditioned, by kneading for several minutes to soften and to distribute the plasticizers throughout the clay. But, I just pinch off the amount I need, and start rolling it between my hands. It's kind of a relaxing Zen thing, conditioning the clay, while my mind is wandering through the design process.

I am sure there are other advantages that I have forgotten to mention. So, feel free to leave your comments.

Next - Sculpting a Mermaid Face (Getting down to the Nitty Gritty Details)

Design Ideas - Where Do They Come From?

2009-12-09T16:18:00.000-07:00

Design ideas, where do ideas come from? Good question. I have been pondering this question, in an attempt to analyze my own creative process. If, I can better understand myself, maybe, I can create a better atmosphere for my creativity. Find a way to channel, and multiply my own creativity. Did that make any sense?

Some ideas come from a need to revise an older design. The design was good, but the process was too expensive. For example, my clear resin bangles, take weeks to make. By the time I factor in my time, with a reasonable hourly wage, the price is too high, for the average consumer to justify. I still make and sell these bangle bracelets, but, only on special order.

Some ideas, just come to life, out of a lump of clay. There you are, kneading the clay, getting it ready to work with, and out pops a design. If you are paying attention, you catch it, before it is lost. For example, my Table Coral Ring Design. It's magical, the way this type of design happens. It's perfect, the first time, and needs no changing or refining.

Some ideas come from a friend's suggestion. Could you make this, but with a few changes? For example, my turquoise cross sculptures. One my gallery owner buddies, saw a small turquoise cross sculpture I was wearing, as a necklace, and asked if I could make the same thing, only larger, wall-sized larger. These have turned out to be good sellers. I have sold every one I've made, with requests for more.

Most of my jewelry designs come to me early in the morning, before I am even out of bed. Funny, I don't remember dreaming about anything. But, there it is, this design vision, and I haven't even had my first cup of coffee. This is an exciting reason to get out of bed and start the day, and a good reason to keep a notebook handy.

Some ideas just seem to multiply from another design. My current mermaid bracelet design, became a series this way. The first design, leads to multiple variations on the same theme. So far, I have a list of 6 new designs for this current bracelet. The second design of this series, is the one for which, I will demonstrate the sculpting process.

Next - Sculpting a Mermaid Bracelet Master - My Favorite Sculpting Media

Sculpting a Mermaid Bracelet Master - The Design

2009-12-08T16:14:00.001-07:00

I am currently working on a new mermaid bracelet master. Sculpting a new master is a long and tedious process, but it is my favorite part of jewelry design.

The idea for this new mermaid bracelet design came to me early one morning, before I had even had my first cup of coffee. That's when I grabbed a quick cup of Joe, a pencil and my design notebook. I started sketching, rough and quick, before any distractions could make me loose the vision in my head. Later, that day, after the the morning rush was over, I was able to sit down again and refine the design parameters. The total circumference, minus the cuff opening width, would be the length I would have to fit the whole scene in to. This left me with 7 inches. The height was my only loose variable, but, from experience, I know that 2-1/4 inches, is about the maximum height for comfortable wear. These dimensions allowed me to create a more detailed layout.

I scanned my pencil and paper layout into my computer, for safe keeping, and then printed it out to the exact dimensions. I always sculpt over clear glass, with the layout taped underneath. This keeps me from getting carried away, and within my dimensional boundries. The layout tends to get dirty, from the oils in the sculpting media that I use, and I can print out a clean copy as needed.

Next, I needed to find a clear glass jar with the exact diameter of the finished bracelet. With my dial calipers in hand, I rummaged through the kitchen cabinets and refrigerator. Success brought me to a jar of Smucker's strawberry Jam. The perfect diameter and adequate height, but I had to find a new container for the remaining jam. Viola! Rubber Maid to the rescue. My family is getting used to these kind of surprises in the pantry, and don't even ask anymore.

Next, More of The sculpting Process...... (or How to Loose Track of Time)

New Mermaid Bracelet Clear Resin Jewelry Sculpture

2009-12-07T16:11:00.004-07:00

Is it a Sculpture? Or is it Jewelry? It's both.

This is the 1st design in a new series of cast resin cuff bracelets. I think she turned out fabulous! I have more mermaid and other sea life bracelet designs on my work bench, and will be blogging about the sculpting process. So come back, for more jewelry design ramblings.
Description:
Titled "The Find" Mermaid Sculpture Bracelet, from my "Iridescent Sea Series", this mermaid and her dolphin and fish friends are a 3-dimensional sculpture. Detailed down to tiny scales on both the mermaid's tail and the fish bodies. I sculpted this magical scene in clay, and then used this clay master to create the mold, and finally hand cast the bracelet in crystal clear, tough and durable, urethane resin. There are shimmering hi-lights, here and there, of iridescent blue, aqua, and golden violet.

Available for sale here: New Mermaid Sculpture Clear Resin Bracelet

Giving Etsy a Try

2009-02-14T17:53:00.000-07:00

I have decided to give Etsy a try. Have bought many wonderful hand-made things on Etsy. So much more economical the eBay, and everyone is so friendly and welcoming. I still need to learn how everything works, but so far I have 5 items listed in my new store. I am keeping my fingers crossed.

Learning to Use The Wood Stove

2008-11-29T07:09:00.000-07:00

My house came with a cute little wood burning stove.
Being the middle of summer I didn’t give it much thought. Coming from Florida, all I know about is air conditioning. But burning wood for heat? That means buying firewood, getting it home, cutting it up, and then stacking it. It means sweeping and cleaning ashes, and the figuring out what to do with the ashes. I needed to collect newspaper and kindling, and learn how to light a fire. Oh yes, and then there is the essential sweeping of the chimney.
My pioneer skills are poor at best. But, I am determined to make friends with my stove.

Midnight Fire Coral Resin Ring

2008-11-12T18:32:00.003-07:00

Elegant and Dramatic in Design.

Simple, Harmonious Forms

Mesmerizing Black and Fire Opal,

Pure Fun and Fantasy

Another new ring, and this one was really fun to make.

The wide, cast resin, textured band simulates tiny Star Coral. An elegantly simple, cast resin Table Coral sits anchored to the top of the ring. Embedded in the "coral polyps" are tiny, 1.7mm, Hyacinth Red Swarovski rhinestones. Nestled inside the coral sits a single Fire Opal Swarovski bicone "sponge". The ring is very light weight for it’s size, weighing 6.6 grams, and does not rotate on my finger.

This cast resin ring is simple, elegant black. The Swarovski rhinestones and bicone are fiery combination of red, orange and yellow. Stunning! Available here In Art Studio on Etsy

Observatory Progress

2008-11-10T06:43:00.001-07:00

This week I have been lending a hand to get the new observatory build before winter sets in. It will house the big telescope and astro imaging equipment. Building this observatory has been Tom's dream for many years. The dome will go up next. Tom will be able to control the dome, telescope and cameras, remotely, from within his "warm room". All very high tech and interesting.

Building this observatory is much like creating jewelry. You start with an idea, and then refine that idea into a do-able design. You gather the materials, and working with your hands, you turn that idea into reality. Different tools, different materials, but the process is the same.
I love taking something from my imagination to finished product. I enjoy solving the problems that crop up along the way, making adjustments to the design or materials. I find the whole creative process exciting and rewarding. With each new jewelry design, comes a chance to learn something new.
Snow is predicted for today, so I am back to work in my studio. I have enjoyed working outside in the beautiful fall weather and getting to use the power tools. Building with wood has been fun and a nice break from the studio.

Another New Resin Ring Design

2008-11-05T19:47:00.001-07:00

I just finished this ring today, and an delighted with the way it turned out.

Neptune's Moon Coral Ring

Elegant and Dramatic in Design.
Simple, Harmonious Forms
Mesmerizing Ocean colors,changing from Blues to Greens to Gold.
Pure Fun and Fantasy

The wide, cast resin, textured band simulates tiny Star Coral. A elegantly simple, cast resin Table Coral sits anchored to the top of the ring. Nestled inside the coral sits a single Swarovski bicone "sponge". The ring is very light weight for it’s size, weighing 6.6 grams, and does not rotate on my finger. Stunning!
This cast resin ring incorporates colors that change from blue to green to gold on a black base. The colors change depending on the viewing angle, lighting, and background.

New Resin Jewelry Rings

2008-10-24T10:22:00.003-06:00

Rings. Can a girl have too many rings? Well, in my case -No. I am crazy for rings. They sit on my finger in front of my eyes all day, and just make me feel fabulous.

I have had some design ideas in mind for a while now, and finally made the time, to start creating the masters and molds. The only problem with rings are, there are so many sizes, and each size requires it's own master and mold. So, it takes more time to produce a line of rings.

My first ring design is done, in sizes 7, 8 and 9. I call it the "Coral Reef Starfish Pearl Ring", and it is gorgeous.

The cast resin band simulates Star Coral, with tiny 1.2mm Swarovski rhinestones embedded in the coral polyps. A cast resin starfish embraces a large 12mm Swarovski pearl. Around the base is scattered iridescent Swarovski rhinestones, bicone beads, glass bubbles, and a cast resin seashell. The rings is very light weight for it's size, and does not rotate on my finger. I love this ring, and am working on two more new ring designs.

Tale of Two Gimmers

2008-10-12T09:01:00.001-06:00

First we have the Full Gimmer, this is what it is called when you wear you pants legs fully tucked into your boots. Then there is the Half Gimmer, this is where you only tuck the inside part of your pants leg into your boots. I still have not figured out which Gimmer is the correct Gimmer for the fashion conscious woman of the West. I don’t want to make a fashion faux-pas, so I try not to tuck my pant legs into my boots at all. I am now on the look out for Gimmers. I hope no one is just pulling my (pants) leg.

Foot Note: Yesterday, I was wearing my jeans rolled up above my boot tops, and was told I had a Modified Gimmer. What do you mean a Modified Gimmer? I thought there were only 2 Gimmers? Now, I am even more suspicious that this whole Gimmer thing is being made up for my benefit. Still, I don’t want to take any chances.

Snow Chains?

2008-10-10T08:54:00.001-06:00

The only kind of chains I know about are the ones that are gold and sparkley. Chains for my tires? Who thought of that one? Probably a man, and one with no girlfriend.

OK, tire chains are jewelry for your car. I can get into that. Hum… Let’s see, I would like something striking, yet sophisticated. Maybe something in silver… yes, silver would be nice. Chains that would be wearable for any occasion. Now, where does one buy these lovely chains for their car?

Clear Resin Jewelry Seahorse Bangle Bracelet

2008-10-07T09:09:00.001-06:00

New!
Clear Resin Turquoise Seahorse and Starfish Bangle Bracelet
Description: A colorful 8 inch long, hand cast seahorse and seashell are encased in water-clear resin. Fun summer colors of turquoise, blue and orange highlighted with tiny orange starfish. The seahorse has a Swarovski Aurora Borealis Crystal eye. Stunning!So Modern, so Chic, so Artsy. Wear this fabulous bangle dressed up or with jeans.
Warning! This product may cause gasps of delight, impulsive arm grabbing, conversations with strangers and glares of envy.

I Miss the Shopping

2008-10-06T08:43:00.002-06:00

We city girls are spoiled. Shopping is just so easy. Get in the car, drive to Miami, and shop till you drop.

But living in the wilds of Colorado is a different story. I live 20 miles from the nearest town. And they don’t even have a Wal-Mart. The largest city is an hours drive away. How did I think I could survive in the mountains without shopping malls?

Thank goodness I have the internet. I can still shoe shop, till I’m blue in the face. But, I miss trying them on and scrutinizing them in the shoe store mirrors. I miss fighting for the perfect parking spot. I miss the rush of adrenaline at finding that unbelievable bargain. But, that is the sacrifice I make to live with of all this peace and beauty.

Clear Resin 4 Natural Color Butterfly Bangle Bracelet

2008-10-05T08:51:00.003-06:00

New Clear Resin Bangle from nightskyjewelry.com
Description: Four different Natural Colored Butterflies encased in water-clear resin. In the rich Fall colors of Autumn, yellows, oranges, browns and black. This bangle bracelet has the beautiful, subtle, natural Autumn colored butterflies, perfect for Fall and Winter. Each butterfly is backed with an iridescent liner for even more shimmer. Tiny black, hex-shaped glitter is tastefully scattered throughout the bracelet. Stunning!

This bangle bracelet is polished inside and out. On the bottom you will find my logo tag, for Night Sky Jewelry.
So Modern, so Chic, so Artsy. Wear this fabulous bangle with your suit to the office or with your new Fall sweater and jeans.

Warning! This product may cause gasps of delight, impulsive arm grabbing, conversations with strangers and glares of envy.

How to Make a Resin Jewelry Bracelet Master

2008-09-18T09:08:00.007-06:00

Thought I'd take some photos to show how I'm progressing on the new 3" inside diameter, resin jewelry bangle bracelet design. I have had requests for my bracelets in a larger 3 inch size. Making the masters for molding is the most tedious and time consuming part of the whole design process. With my 2-1/2 " bangle bracelet design, I used polymer clay to make the master. Much prettier to look at, but, took forever to get the shape and size right.

This time I decided try something simpler. I discovered that 3" PVC pipe, used in plumbing has a perfect 3" inside diameter. But the wall thickness was too thin for my design, only about 1/4 inch thick. So, Tom suggested using a 3 inch, schedule 80, PVC pipe coupling. These are not available at the hardware stores, but must be purchased from a plumbing supply house. They are made to fit over the outside of the 3 inch PVC pipe, so the fit was perfect. The schedule 80 pipe coupling looked huge, and was about 4 inches long. Too long for a bracelet, but it was easy enough to cut off the excess on the chop saw.

I now had a good starting point for my new bracelet master. The total wall thickness of the combined pipe and coupling is .560 inches, or 9/16". The photo above shows the left over piece that was cut off from the combined pipe and coupling. The 3" PVC pipe is white, and the schedule 80 pipe coupling is dark gray. But you can see how well the two pieces fit together, and the combined wall thickness.

Next comes the shaping and sanding. I will post about that next.

Clear Resin Jewelry Tropical Fish Bangle Bracelet

2008-09-10T08:22:00.003-06:00

New Clear Resin Bangle from nightskyjewelry.com
Description: Three little Clown Triggerfish are 3-dimensional and totally encased in water-clear resin. Each little tropical fish is cast with in detail down to their tiny scales. Each has hand painted spots and a Swarovski Crystal eye. Stunning!
This bangle bracelet is polished inside and out. On the bottom you will find my logo tag, for Night Sky Jewelry.
So Modern, so Chic, so Artsy. Wear this fabulous bangle dressed up or with jeans.
Warning! This product may cause gasps of delight, impulsive arm grabbing, conversations with strangers and glares of envy.

This is a HUGE-WIDE bangle bracelet.
Height is just over 2" at 2 5/32 inches,
Inside Diameter is 2 1/2 inches,
Inside Circumference is 8 inches,
Outside Circumference is 11 9/16 inches,
wall thickness is 9/16 inch,
Weight is 189.7 grams or 6.7 ounces.

Kelp Mermaid and Sea Lion Clear Resin Jewelry Bracelet

2008-09-03T08:50:00.010-06:00

Buy it here Clear Resin Jewelry from Night Sky Jewelry
A colorful 8 inch long, hand cast Mermaid and her little seal friend are 3-dimensional and totally encased in water-clear resin. The young Mermaid's long black hair is highlighted with shimmering blue and studded with tiny pearls. She is adorned in lovely green seaweed. Her tail shimmers with iridescent color change pigment that changes from turquoise to blue to violet with Aurora Borealis hi-lights. Her little sea lion friend shimmers in black with iridescent blue. The background is highlighted with iridescent violet-blue and green-gold "seaweed", and tiny red starfish. The Mermaid and her little Sea ion friend both have Swarovski Crystal eyes. Stunning!

Clear Resin Jewelry Mermaid and Dolphin Bracelet

2008-08-27T09:31:00.006-06:00

Buy one like this here Huge Clear Resin Jewelry Mermaid Bangle Bracelet
Description:

A colorful 8 inch long, hand cast Mermaid and her Dolphin friend are totally encased in water-clear resin. Her long black hair is highlighted with shimmering purple and studded with tiny pearls. She wears a crown of red coral studded with pearls. Her tail shimmers with iridescent violet and aurora borealis blue. Her Dolphin friend shimmers in iridescent color-change pigment that changes from turquoise to blue to violet. The background is highlighted with iridescent violet-blue and green-gold "seaweed", and tiny red starfish. The Mermaid and her Dolphin friend both have Swarovski Crystal eyes. Stunning!

Clear Resin Jewelry Butterflies Bangle Bracelet

2008-08-14T09:37:00.014-06:00

Huge Clear Resin Jewelry Butterfly Bangle Bracelet

Here is my latest resin bracelet I have just listed. It turned out even better than the first one. I love making these colorful butterfly bracelets. They are so pretty. And I am learning how to do the videos on YouTube. Here is my YouTube link: inartstudio on YouTube

Description: Four different Monarch Butterflies encased in water-clear resin. Each a different color, each with Hologram jeweled antennae. Each butterfly is backed with an iridescent liner for even more shimmer. Stunning!

So Modern, so Chic, so Artsy. Wear this fabulous bangle dressed up or with jeans.

Warning! This product may cause gasps of delight, impulsive arm grabbing, conversations with strangers and glares of envy.

Note: No real butterflies were harmed during the making of this bracelet.

Clear Resin Jewelry Dolphins Bangle Bracelet

2008-08-06T20:31:00.010-06:00

Clear Resin Jewelry Dolphins Bangle Bracelet

A pod of female dolphins swims through an idyllic glassy sea.

The Grandmother dolphin leads the way, ever conscious, that she needs to keep a slower pace.

The Mother dolphin looks back nervously watching her infant.

The baby dolphin, trying to keep up, looks to his Mother for guidance and reassurance.

The Auntie dolphin swims behind him, giving him encouraging clicks and squeals.

Part Sculpture, part Art, part Jewelry. This is art, you wear on your wrist.

I love the way this one turned out. And my video looks a lot better than the last one.
Description: Four iridescent dolphins are encased in water-clear resin. Special color-change pigments are used to capture the light. The color of the dolphins changes from deep turquoise to light blue-green to lavender. You can see this color change in the pictures above. Each dolphin is hand painted and then given Swarovski crystal eyes. The background is highlighted with iridescent violet-blue and green-gold "seaweed". The "water" is studded with blue, purple and green iridescent bubbles. Stunning!

Creating Arctic Mermaids and Orcas in the Summer Heat

2008-08-01T07:05:00.008-06:00

It's been so hot here, that I work outside early in the morning and late in the evening, and work in my studio during the heat of the day. Tom is building me a new studio addition. I'm so excited! I try to help as much as I can, if you call my feeble attempts at building, help. I will try to remember to take some pictures today of the new room.

In the meantime, here is a a new Mermaid Bangle Bracelet I have in the works. She is an Arctic Mermaid, all pale and shimmering with ice crystals. Still trying to decide if I she needs something special in her hair, maybe an ice crystal crown. Her little Orca buddy is almost finished. A bit more painting and then his eye. I need to dig and see if I have any tiny, jet black Swarovski rhinestones. Something about creating Arctic Mermaids and Orcas in the summer heat makes my studio feel cooler.

New Clear Resin Jewelry Mermaid Bracelet

2008-07-28T21:28:00.013-06:00

Huge Clear Resin Jewelry Mermaid Bangle Bracelet

This is a new clear resin cast mermaid bracelet. I think she turned out great, for my first one. I have more of these in the works. This bracelet took 5 separate castings to make. I kept my fingers crossed, that I would not mess up the last cast.
Description: A colorful 8 inch long, hand cast Mermaid and her Surgeonfish entourage are encased in water-clear resin. Her blue-black hair is studded with tiny pearls. Her tail shimmers with iridescent color that changes from turquoise to blue to violet. She is about to pluck a large pearl from a shell she just found. The background is highlighted with iridescent violet-blue and green-gold "seaweed". The Mermaid and her 5 Surgeonfish friends all have Swarovski Crystal eyes. Stunning!

This is a HUGE-WIDE bangle bracelet.

Height is just over 2" at 2 5/32",
Inside Diameter is 2.55 inches,
Inside Circumference is 8 inches,
Outside Circumference is 11 9/16 inches,
wall thickness is 9/16 inch.
Weight is 189.7 grams or 6.7 ounces.

This is my first time making and uploading a video. I tried to keep it simple. Just in case it does not work, I included a picture.

New Modern Resin Jewelry

2008-07-22T07:20:00.011-06:00

Huge Crystal Clear Seahorse & Starfish Resin Bangle Bracelet SOLD

Resin jewelry is in, again. The old vintage pieces are still hot items. The old Bakelite and phenolic and celluloid pieces are fetching high prices. We are a plastics society.

I love plastics. I spent my career designing industrial pumps and motors with plastics. With all of our new plastics technology, and all the new resins on the market, the possibilities are unlimited. Take a look at all the plastics around you. Most of these plastics started out in a liquid resin state. Endless varieties of shapes and colors. Does this get your creative juices flowing? It does mine.

Here is an example of what you can do with plastic resins. This bracelet is composed of 3 different resins. Each resin is cast in 4 different molds, in 4 different pours. This bangle bracelet is just one of my designs.

Challenging? Yes. Fun? Of course. Easy to make? No.
I am currently working with 4 different resins, each with it's own chemical properties, and quirky characteristics. Each must be measured and weighted differently. Each must be handled and cured differently. Then there are the molds. No, not the kind that grow on my shower floor, the kind you cast into. First I sculpt the master. Then the master is used to create a mold. Each type of resin requires a different kind of mold material. I use 4 different kinds of mold silicones. These guys can get expensive. So I baby them, give them frequent bubble baths and mineral oil rub-downs. Ooh! That sounds heavenly.

I have many more designs awaiting birth. There are mermaids, seahorses, dolphins, and some really fun, high-tech designs coming out very, very soon. So, keep your TV tuned to this channel.

I'm Back......

2008-07-13T21:13:00.006-06:00

This has been a trying and busy year, and it's only half over. Lost my little 7 year old Grandson, Nicholas, to cancer. Already had the cancer beat, but it came back, and his little body just could not handle the chemotherapy a second time. We miss him so much. He was such a sweet and tough little guy. He will always be close in my heart.

My daughter and her husband, felt that it was a good time for a change in their lives. So Tom and I drove the truck and trailer back to Florida, loaded them up, and moved them to Pueblo. I love having them so close by. I don't have to worry about hurricane season, no more.

I am getting a 10 x 10 foot addition to my studio. I am soooo happy. It will be nice to have room for all my art and jewelry making stuff. Tom just finished pouring the concrete foundation today. Yipee! Now we get to do the fun part.

We are building an observatory, with a real dome. An automated, computer controlled place to keep that gigantic telescope, besides the living room. I will not be sad to see it go. Tom keeps a sheet over it, and I swear, it looks like a ghost. He is blogging the whole thing here. http://nightskyobservatory.blogspot.com/
So if you are into astrophotograpy or thinking about building an observatory someday, check it out.

I have been busy developing a new line of jewelry, resin jewelry to be exact. Love making the silver, but the price of sterling is through the roof. Time to try some new ideas anyway. Will post pictures soon.

My Poor Florida Truck

2007-11-26T11:07:00.000-07:00

My truck does not like this cold weather. I have to agree. It was born and raised in the tropics. It was modified to not overheat while pulling boats or sitting in traffic with the air conditioning going full blast. The 12 volt battery has given me the most trouble. The truck has had 3 new batteries since the weather turned cold, 2 months ago. And the heater, which has never seen use, does not put out heat. It seems I need a different thermostat, one for cold temperatures. And my coolant hoses are routed incorrectly for cold weather. My radiator is oversized, with no easy way to block the cold incoming air. But at least I have good tires. I still love my truck

Finally Finished Moving

2007-10-11T07:09:00.000-06:00

Just finished moving 50 miles east to La Veta, Colorado. It's a charming little town on the eastern side of the Sangre de Cristos mountain range. Very pretty here.
Packing and loading boxes, hauling furniture and hefting artwork is never fun. But, my new studio is great. Tom, just finshed building it for me. It has walls of windows on three sides for plenty of natural light and afresh coat of paint. What a bright and cheerful room.
I still have plenty of unpacking to do, and with winter approaching there are a lot of outside projects to finish. So I haven't done much artwork lately, but I am so happy to be here.

They Voted NOT to Let Me Enter Clay Show

2007-08-16T07:19:00.000-06:00

They voted NOT to let my polymer clay art in the Clay Continuum show. "They" being the other clay artists. Maybe, by next year, I can change their minds about polymer clay.
While my little polymer clay sculpture, sat waiting at the gallery for a decision, someone came in, and fell in love with him, and bought the little guy. So, "Life is a Blancing Act" is SOLD

New Show for Clay Artists

2007-08-12T20:28:00.000-06:00

This month begins a new show in at the SPACe Gallery. It's called the Clay Continuum.
I dropped by with one of my smaller polymer clay sculptures. Not sure if they will accept me into the show. All the other artists work in earthen clay, the kind you need a kiln to fire. I explained that it is clay and it was fired, just not the same kind of clay. They liked my sculpture, but have to take a vote. I hope they will allow my art work into the show.

"Life is a Balancing Act"
Polymer Clay Sculpture
20"high x 11.5"wide x 7"deep
July 2007 SOLD

Sawing Your Own Lumber

2007-08-06T00:04:00.000-06:00

I sat in the little bit of shade that the pickup truck provided. Wearing my boyfriend’s hat and getting the seat of my pants wet from the rain soaked log I was pearched on. I watched in amazement as Tom took logs and turn them into 2x4’s. They do that here, in Colorado.

Where I come from, if you need some lumber, you make a trip to Home Depot. You pick out the prettiest boards, pay the cashier, and load them into your truck. But, you don’t get to watch your man, all muscles and sweat, playing Paul Bunyan. My goodness! Let me see you do that again, Honey.

2007 Colorado - Best of Show Award

2007-07-18T08:43:00.000-06:00

My animal skull sculpture, "Battle Cry", won the
"Best of Show" Award, at the 2007 Colorado Show in La Veta.

This show was juried by artist Albert Anderson Clymer, who gave a
painting demonstration before the show opening. His art works have not
only drawn rave reviews, but have also earned him inclusion in the
prestigious Who’s Who in American Art and Men of Achievement.
Clymer’s art has catapulted into prominence through Paul Gillette’s
book The Single Man’s Indispensable Guide listing him as one of the
top three artists in America today. Here is a link to his bio. Al
Clymer bio. Thank you, Al.

Art in the Park show

2007-06-28T16:13:00.001-06:00

This week end, I will be in my first outdoor art show. Should be fun, and a learning experience. The weather is supposed to cooperate, but I am bringing a huge blue tarp just in case. I have been painting like crazy to get ready.

The show will be in La Veta, Colorado, this weekend, June 30 & July 1 ~ 10 am - 5 pm. They will be having food and live music, a parade and barbacue. Sounds like a fun time.

Do Deer Lift Their Legs to Pee?

2007-06-07T20:08:00.000-06:00

Got up one morning to see three female mule deer in my front yard. Ran to get my camera. Just then, one of the girls squatted on her hind legs to pee. I had no idea that female deer squatted. Later that morning, I was at a friend’s house for my ritual morning cup of coffee and gab. I relayed what I had seen, and asked her, “Do you suppose that male deer lift their hind leg to pee like a dog?” This is a question that we decided needed to be posed to someone with deer knowledge.

"Speedy"Contemporary Art Sculpture, Winner!

2007-05-15T11:05:00.000-06:00

My contemporary art sculpture, Speedy, won the People's Choice award, at the SPACe Gallery, Mixed Media Show. I am so excited! What a fun evening, meeting everyone.
3 of my paintings and my Speedy sculpture can be at the SPACe Gallery, in La Veta, Colorado, till June.

Here is the link to the show: SPACe Gallery - Mixed Media Show.

Details of Speedy, can be seen on my website: In Art Studio - Speedy Sculpture

Fashion and Proper Winter Footwear

2007-05-10T14:11:00.000-06:00

Being a city girl, I love pretty shoes. I have many pairs, and shoe shopping is a favorite sport of mine. Winters in Colorado are cold, and I needed to find proper winter boots. So of course, I am more than happy to go shoe shopping. I buy a pair of cute red lace up granny boots, with black fur trim and 3 inch heels. Stunning, but not very warm. OK, how about a pair of pretty pink suede muck-luks? They look cute with jeans, but have a sole about as thick as a pair of flip flops. Not comfortable for walking on gravel. Turns out my bedroom slippers are the warmest winter footwear I own. I tend to wear them everywhere. Not much of a fashion statement. But they don't look all that bad with my de rigueur "Nanook of the North" winter attire.

SPACe Gallery - Mixed Media Art Show

2007-05-07T23:26:00.000-06:00

I'm in my first show in La Veta, Colorado. Very exciting! The gallery has posted pictures on their website. Those of you familiar with my work, will find it easy to pick out. (The turquoise tetragonal is one of my 4 pieces) I also took my skull sculpture, Speedy. He made quite a hit.
Here is the link: http://www.spanishpeaksarts.org/2007_shows_events/mixed_media_07.htm

My little 8x8" paintings are selling very quickly. I have run out of 8" canvases and am waiting for an order. In the meantime, I am painting some in the 12x12" size. Should have a few ready to list by Wednesday.

Abstract Turquoise Painting #126

2007-05-03T23:22:00.000-06:00

> Abstract Turquoise Painting #126 SOLD

Here is another small 8x8 Abstract Turquoise Painting, from the Geology Series. I have 7 more of these just finished . Just search for "INART"on ebay.

Abstract Turquoise Painting #118 SOLD

Abstract Turquoise Painting #119 SOLD

Contemporary Art Abstract Turquoise Painting #115

2007-05-02T12:32:00.000-06:00

Here is another small 8x8 Abstract Turquoise Painting, Turquoise #115, from the Geology Series. SOLD I have 11 more of these listed on ebay. Just search for "INART"on ebay.

Abstract Turquoise Painting #116, SOLD

The Burn Barrel - Life in Colorado

2007-05-01T07:12:00.000-06:00

Like the city girl that I am, I inquired about garbage days. The Grimwoods provided me with an old blackened oil drum, calling it the “burn barrel.” Coming from South Florida, were burning anything, gets you immediate attention from the local authorities, I was a bit perplexed. “Just throw your garbage in there and light it”, I was told. “But, what about plastics and spray cans?” I inquired. “Just toss ‘em in, they’ll burn just fine.” So I try, like the good tenant, to do as instructed. I light a kitchen match, toss it into the barrel, and run. Problem is it does not want to light. So I try adding newspaper. That does the trick. Soon there are clouds of black, toxic smoke billowing out of the can and wafting towards my kitchen door. I wonder if I should buy gas masks for everyone. There is something just so wrong about this whole concept. I really miss my garbage men.

Contemporary Art Abstract Turquoise Painting #114

2007-04-24T21:30:00.000-06:00

Abstract Turquoise Painting #114 SOLD

I am currently selling my smaller Contemporary Art Abstract Turquoise Paintings on Ebay. They are all the same size 8 x 8 inches. Each painting is unique and beautiful. Highly textured and detailed with veins and copper highlights. Start your collection today!

Learning to Drive in the Colorado Snow

2007-04-23T21:30:00.000-06:00

I have, what I thought, to be the perfect vehicle for Colorado. It is a 4-wheel drive, Chevy Silverado Pickup. Never mind that it has lived in Florida all of it’s life, and I have not crossed anything higher than a channel bridge in 15 years. This snow thing should be a piece of cake. Foolish me. The first time I had to drive on a snowy road, cured me of my over-confidence. I slid left, I slid right, and I scared myself silly. Then I remembered the 4-wheel drive. I did a little better, but I am still an inexperienced Low Lander. I need a lot more practice.

Contemporary Art "Spring Creek" Painting Done

2007-04-19T12:49:00.000-06:00

24" high x 30" long. Acrylic, April 2007. Painting # 071706
Contemporary Art painting, "Spring Creek 101", is finally done. Whew! Now I can take my glasses off. What fun all that color was to paint. Each rock is unique. Looks like you could pluck them right out of the painting, they look so real.
To see details and pictures see the link below: Spring Creek101 Details

"Spring Creek" Painting Almost Complete

2007-04-12T16:44:00.000-06:00

Here is the current painting in progress. The rocks are all done. Colorful, huh? Now I have to paint the ice. The 3 big, light blue rocks have ice on top of them, and the water flowing at the top has some ice on it. I have never painted ice before, and I am eager too try. So, I'm just going to sit, with my canvas, in front of the computer screen, and paint what I see.

New Original Artwork Painting Started

2007-04-10T11:16:00.000-06:00

I went on a hike to Zapata Falls last weekend. The falls were still mostly frozen, but the creek was thawed with a little ice left on the rocks. Took some pictures and ran them through the computer. Wow! The colors were amazing. With just a bit of tweaking, I got a photo I just had to paint.

Why do I get so excited about rocks? I just love them. I see each rock is a unique work of art, created by God, free of charge. I pick them up, bring them home, and squirrel these treasures away. My boyfriend is no longer surprised when he finds rocks in his truck. Good thing he loves me and understands my obsession.

I picked a 24 x 30 inch canvas, so I have room for all that detail. I am using acrylic paint, thinned down like watercolor paint. I love the effects achievable with watercolor paint, but I need the permanence of acrylic. Let's face it, I am a klutz. And, my kitties are still too rambunctious to be trusted around jars of water and brushes. With watercolor, one little splash could make me an unhappy camper.

This painting has got me so excited, that I don't want to put the paint brush down. I want to do more, and am planning the next painting in my head, as I paint. I'm thinking of calling this one "Spring Creek".

Of Owls and Pussycats or The Great Owl Paranoia

2007-03-29T09:39:00.000-06:00

The Owl and the Pussycat went to sea in a beautiful pea green boat. But not in Colorado!“Watch out for the owls, they will eat your cats.” What? My cats are big, fat, spoiled house cats. I doubt an owl could even pick one up, let alone fly away with it. But these owls, I am told, are huge. I can hear them hooting in the trees at night. So the Great Owl Paranoia begins. My cats get their Nine Lives dinner at 4PM and they are not allowed out afterwards, no matter how much they beg at the door. I still have not seen one of these monstrous, feline eating owls. But, I am sure they are lurking in wait, for a tasty kitty snack.

I'm now listed in The American Artists Bluebook

2007-03-21T14:22:00.000-06:00

Sounds cool, huh?
Check it out at AskArt.com. I have an artists Biography, (which is not finished yet) and a studio with a few of my pieces. But I still have to come up with a professional looking picture to add to my bio.

BTW, I just received my new Colorado drivers licence. Of course the photo is horrendous. I was wearing my red ski jacket. But, it looks orange in the photo, like I am a member of the state prisoner road crew! Yikes! Wish they would have kept my Florida picture. It was taken 10 years ago, back before the wrinkles.

Mountain Moods #103 Contemporary Art Landscape Painting

2007-03-20T12:11:00.000-06:00

"Mountain Moods #103" 12 x 48" Acrylic & Mixed Media, March 2007. This is the third painting in "The Mountain Moods Series" For larger pictures and details see the link: Mountian Moods #103

Mountian Moods #101 Original Painting

2007-03-19T17:57:00.000-06:00

"Mountain Moods #101 12 x 48" Acrylic & Mixed Media, March 2007
"The Mountain Moods Series" is a new series I have just started. This is another example of my innovative Recycled Plastics Technique. The recycled plastic gives the canvas a wonderful surface texture. This texture is not only interesting to look at but creates a desire to touch the piece. This extreme texture is unattainable with any kind of paint gels.

The texture is very 3-D. When view from across the room. this painting looks like just paint on canvas. However, when viewed up-close, the painting comes alive with texture. No matter the angle of viewing, the texture is apparent. The combination of recycled plastic, canvas, glue, and finally, colorful acrylic paint is my own original technique and design. This texture is even more amazing when viewed under dimmed lights. The play of shadows makes it take on a whole new life.
For Larger pictures and details see the link: Mountian Moods #101

Mountain Moods #102 SOLD

Giving Myspace a Try

2007-02-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

Got the scoop about My Space from my buddies at Wet Canvas. Looks interesting enough to try.
And, it's free. That's always good. Myspace is supposed to be a great place for networking. Will keep you posted.

Playing Webmaster is Hard Work

2007-02-21T23:16:00.000-07:00

My butt hurts from sitting in this chair for 3 whole days in a row. I have been slaving over the computer, re-designing my website, In Art Studio. I have consumed gallons of coffee, and might have brain damage from all the caffeine. I look terrible, but new my website looks great. The old design was too artsy, with too many graphics and not enough content. ( that means lengthy description) At least for Google. "Create a useful, information-rich site, and write pages that clearly and accurately describe your content."

They want words and lots of them. They want the links to be in the content, not in the pictures. I needed keywords in my meta tags and the same keywords used over and over again in my content. And they want a site map. What fun! I want to be painting. But here I sit, on my sore butt.

New Sculpture - "Harley" The Biker

2007-01-03T22:04:00.000-07:00

Another new sculpture just finished. "Harley" is a biker. He is bad to the bone, with his custom flame paint job. He wears a black leather Do-rag and sports a gold earring. He is so fun, I love the way he turned out. I wanted him to be free standing and viewable from all sides, so I mounted him firmly to a base. He is finished on all sides, so he looks great from every angle.
To see details and pictures of "Harley" see the link below

"Harley" Free standing Sculpture Size: 15" tall x 12" wide x 21" long

New Sculpture - "Speedy"

2006-12-21T22:36:00.000-07:00

Some friends were over and we started talking about my sculptures. I'm not sure if it was Jim or Cindy that started the idea rolling, but the idea just took off. Each of us making more funny suggestions. So the credit for the idea of "Speedy" was a group effort. I got so excited over the design that I put my present sculpture on hold to start him.
"Speedy" is an adrenaline junkie. That tongue is outrageous! And his lips and eyes are flapping in the wind. He wears special custom made goggles and a funny hat with ear flaps. Of course he goes nowhere without his race flag scarf. He is so fun, I love the way he turned out.

"Speedy" Free standing SculptureSize: 16" tall x 15" wide x 29" long

The Making of "Battle Cry"

2006-11-24T20:08:00.000-07:00

First comes a trip to the "Bone Yard" as I call it. I live on a ranch, and any animal carcasses are dumped in a corner of one of the fields. My problem is matching up and identifying the bones. There are so many of them, and all sizes and kinds. Pretty gruesome. My first visit, gave me the creeps. But I'm getting used to it, and now I find it interesting. I pretend I'm in a CSI episode.

I try to select a skull that is relatively clean and intact. The word "clean" means little, to no nasty bits or bugs. I cart all this home for a through scrubbing and closer inspection. Once scrubbed with disinfectant soap and hot water, the skull is ready to be glued and sealed. I glue any loose joints and always the teeth. Then the whole thing is sealed. I found from experimentation, that this keeps the joints from spreading when exposed to the heat of baking.

The skull, clean and glued and ready for sealing. This is a huge skull. I'm pretty sure it was a yak (Tibetan bison)

Did I mention baking? You have to have a nice large oven for this project. I use polymer clay for the sculpting. It requires baking at 265 degrees F for 30 minutes to cure. Since my only oven is in the kitchen, this is truly a test of one's love of their art. There is a horrid smell produced when baking an animal skull. I was in the middle of my first sculpture, "Father Time", when I had a date over to pick me up for dinner. Might as well let the guy in on my little secret early on in the relationship. Well, to make a long story short, he never called again. Just proves he wasn't the perfect man for me. But I digress.

Once everything is nicely sealed, creating the armature begins. I use all kinds of wire sizes, depending on what the situation calls for. Mostly aluminum and galvanized steel wire, for their non-rusting properties. The skull provides many natural holes for inserting wire, but I always have to drill a few extra holes. With the first sculpture, I made the mistake of wiring the jaw assembly
to the head too soon. With the mouth wide open, I had a hard time fitting the whole thing into the oven. I've learned that the jaw should be attached, only after all the baking and painting is completed. This is the completed armature, ready for clay. The head is not attached, just propped up for visual effect. He's starting to look interesting, huh?

This skull is heavy and huge! Barely fits in the oven. His tongue looks like a giant jalapeno pepper. The color of clay I used was whatever was plentiful, looks silly in orange and green, but it all gets painted.

Applying the clay is the tricky part. The clay needs to be seamless. I roll out large pieces with the pasta machine, and then join them by rolling together between 2 pieces of wax paper. Then I drape and smooth the clay over the armature, trimming any excess as I go. The first bake is never perfect. That's OK because I know I can go back and sand off any lumps and add more clay where needed. This process repeats until I am satisfied.

Once I'm happy with the clay, the whole thing is given multiple coats of gesso, and then I make the stand. And he's ready to stand on his own. The lower jaw is still not attached. Makes it easier to paint the underside.

The painting is now well under way. Notice how he's now residing on the kitchen table? He has become too tall to work on comfortably on my workbench. Lovely kitchen decor I think. And the teasing comments from my friends, "Are we having teradactyl for dinner tonight?"

I decide that the feathers need to be detachable, and build a separate armature to hold them. This armature is painted to match and attaches to the back of the scull with 4 tiny screws. I also decided the base was too tall, and cut 5 inches off the bottom of the 2x2.

Well "Battle Cry" is finished, and I'm excited to start the next sculpture, "Speedy." He will be fun and comical. Why am I creating these sculptures? Good question. They really challenge my design abilities, and I love a good challenge. Each sculpture is unique, with new design problems to solve. I have conquered the "gross out" factor, and no longer have that queasy feeling in my stomach. I've learned a lot about bones, and now view them as fascinating material to work with. And maybe in the end, I am somehow honoring the animal by giving it a second life.

Wild New Sculpture, "Father Time"

2006-10-24T21:56:00.000-06:00

We have all seen "Father Time" represented as an kindly, old man with a long beard. My version of "Father Time" is not so gentle and kind looking. I wanted to illustrate time in relation to space. Time as infinity, yet time as short, with teeth. Wake up! Get going, before time bites you in the ass!

"Father Time" was a huge stretch for my design skills. More than once, I thought about giving up and working on something less challenging. I'm glad I didn't, I love the way he turned out. The whole concept started with an old rusty clock mechanism. I wanted to find a way to incorporate it into a sculpture. Then I found an old skull in a creek bed, and the finished sculpture sprang into my mind. I saw it completely painted and assembled in my imagination. But taking an idea from concept to completion is another thing. How in the world could I make this work? The jaw bone was only half there. I had to sculpt the other half, and the eyes, nose, teeth and that wild tongue! I wanted him to be free standing and viewable from all sides, so I had to mount him firmly to a base I made. Then the task of painting began. I used images from the Hubble Space Telescope. There are galaxies, planets, nebulas and stars. And an image of a clock sliding down his throat, representing time sliding into a black hole in space. He is finished on all sides, so he looks great from every angle.

This sculpture was so much fun, that I've started another one. Just how far can I take this whole concept? Just wait and see.

"Father Time" Free standing Sculpture
Size: 27" tall x 9" wide x 17" long

New Pieces - Sculptures

2006-10-08T21:26:00.000-06:00

This is something really new for me, sculptures! It all started with a visit to Firedworks Gallery. The owner saw my 4" faux turquoise cross necklace and asked if I could make the same thing only larger. "Of course I can" I boasted. Did I stick my foot in it or what? After a couple of attempts, I finally came up with a 15" version. It turned out so good, that I had to try something even larger. My design parameters being limited to the size of my oven, I had to remember to scale the horse down a bit. What to do for bases to hold these things up? I remembered that I had a nice pile of beautiful cut timbers in the backyard. Perfect! I borrowed the neighbors tablesaw and squared them up. Then I whittled and cut, and glued and painted the bases.

The gallery loved these, and they took all of my sterling silver jewelry pieces, too. I'm making more with embedded stones and jewels. Of course, my mind is busy thinking of more designs.

"Turquoise Wall Cross" limited edition sculpture 15" tall x 11" wide.

"Turquoise Cross" limited edition sculpture on base 17" tall x 11" wide.

"Wild Horse Turquoise" limited edition sculpture on base 15" tall x 21" wide.

The Big Move- part 4, Yahoo, Colorado!

2006-08-04T21:31:00.000-06:00

I decide not to stress the old truck's transmission pulling the trailer over Raton Pass, and detour North. Turned out to be a good plan, as I later heard that Raton Pass is closed due to smoke. I take a rarely used back road to Walsenburg. Didn't see another car the whole way, so I decide to stop in the middle of the road and do some picture taking. I love this, not a soul in sight. I notice a dark cloud directly in my path. It's unnervingly ominous. I find a spot and decide to pull off the road. To my surprise, it begins to hail. Large balls of ice are bouncing off my windshield, I never expected this in June. When the storm passes, the landscape has turned to white. What a beautiful welcome. Of course I can't resist taking more pictures. Crazy tourist lady with the Florida license plates is my excuse.

I get to La Veta Pass and find it is closed, also. That's OK, it's an excuse to spend the night in a lovely state park with HOT SHOWERS Yipee! I needed that hot shower pretty badly. I pull a blond move, and discover only after I am completely undressed, that the showers require quarters. I can't be the first person to do this, so I dart to the change machine dressed only in my towel. This trip just keeps getting more fun. I feel clean and I smell clean, but best of all, I'm finally in Colorado.

The next morning, the announcement is made that the pass will temporarily be open to traffic. I thank my guardian angle, grab a quick coffee and hurry to get in line behind the escort vehicle. There are fire trucks and fire fighters everywhere. This is almost too much beefcake for a single girl to stand. Ah, Colorado, the colorful State.

Well, I made it, and I have been spending more time goofing off than working. Moved into my quaint little rental house. Been visiting old friends and making new friends, lots of hiking, sight seeing, off roading, and just generally not getting much work done at all. Then I took a side trip to Grand Junction to see Mom and Dad, when inspiration struck. An idea for a whole new series of paintings.
I am really excited about these, and I am on the third one. I call this series, "The mountains are Sleeping." My Mom wasn't sure she liked my new idea. 6 foot, life size paintings of naked ladies, didn't sound proper to her. When I sent her a picture of the first painting, she was relieved.

The Big Move - part 3

2006-07-25T09:54:00.000-06:00

I can tell I'm in the west, when the landscape changes from farmland to grazing land. The trees are short, the green grass turns to sage brush, and the vistas become truly grand. The air changes too, I no longer need the air conditioner to fight the summer humidity. The air is drier, and clearer. The veil of humidity is gone, and I feel I can see so much further. The pets notice the change also, and are eager to sniff this new smell.

I spent the night at a rest stop almost on the Okalahoma/Texas border and awake to a surprise. I find the whole parking area filled to capacity with 18 wheelers. My big truck and trailer looks dwarfed, in amongst all those titans. I feel like I am a part of some large wagon train, bedded down for the night. With a laugh, I hurry to get my camera. Feeling an eager anticipation for the coming day, I can't wait to get back on the road.

The scenery is gorgeous and the weather is perfect. I just might make it to Colorado before night fall.

The Big Move - part 2

2006-07-06T22:02:00.000-06:00

Driving from sun up to sun down and sleeping in my truck at rest stops, was a whole new experience. Truthfully, it wasn't that bad. I met some nice people, learned that there are a lot of women driving 18 wheelers, and found endless photographic opportunities. I found that I could steer the truck with one hand and shoot pictures with the other. The pets and the radio kept me company, and not once did I feel uneasy traveling alone.

The second day I traveled from the Florida panhandle to just outside of Little Rock, Arkansas. Right through the Bible Belt. Churches everywhere and not a bar to be seen. The land is covered with crops, and cat fish farms. The people are friendly and happy to chat with a stranger. Very little traffic and lots of scenery. I enjoyed the drive that day.

I spent that night at a rest stop, parked next to a nice retired couple on their way to Alaska. They were concerned about me being alone, and promised to keep an eye on me. I knew God was keeping me safe, and I slept soundly that night.

The Big Move - part 1

2006-06-30T07:30:00.000-06:00

After many months of preparation and planning, I left Florida and moved back West. I had not been looking forward to hauling a trailer 2400 miles. The idea of driving cross country, alone with no one but myself, to get me out of a jam, intimidated me. I had never towed anything before, and my trailer was loaded to the top. But the day arrived when there was nothing left to do, but load the pets into the truck and start driving.

The scarriest part of the trip was leaving South Florida. I left at 5am and the traffic was still horrendous. I was told to keep my speed down to around 55mph, and everyone else was flying past me at the usual South Florida pace. (They made the movie "The Fast and the Furious" in Miami for a good reason.) At least Florida has nicely paved highways.

Florida did not want to let go of me that easy. I blew out a tire on my trailer and had engine trouble with my truck before I got out of that state. Thankfully, both problems were easily fixed, and I was quickly back on the road again, headed west.

New E-Commerce Website in Progress

2006-06-01T20:39:00.000-06:00

I have been looking for an alternative to the steep eBay fees involved in having a store, and listing auctions. Many of my fellow eBay Artists will relate to this situation. What to do? Hummm...maybe my own e-commerce website.

I had no idea how much work was required to create a full-blown shopping cart website, especially if you are picky about things like I am. I checked into the ready made stores, where you just up-load your products, but I didn't like the looks of any of the less expensive ones. The expensive ones were way out of my budget. So off I went to research "e-commerce" on Google.

What I found was that I needed a database driven website. SQL is the database part and PHP is the code that manipulates the data in your database. Lovely.

Html, like I use on eBay, is simple compared to this new language. A steep learning curve is involved. After many weeks, I am starting to get the hang of it. It is a scarry thing, though. I have been dreaming about php code!

Well, my new e-commerce website is starting to look pretty good. And as of tonight, everything is working properly. But, I'm not done, every time I make a change, I hold my breath and hope I don't get the white screen with the FATAL_ERROR message. Of couse, I've learned the the Fatal _Error message is no big deal, it just means I have one too many commas or I'm missing a parenthesis. An hour of digging through code and every thing is fixed.

It's still a work in progress, but I'd be pleased if you would take a look and let me know what you think. You can't buy anything yet, as the credit card module is switched off, untill I'm done tinkering. But I have a shopping cart that remembers what you put into it, even after you leave and come back; a customer Wishlist, customers can keep multiple addresses, write product reviews, and many more niceties.

So exciting!

"The Geology Series, Turquoise 111"

2006-03-11T05:57:00.000-07:00

For Sale
The Geology Series, Turquoise 111"

Another Hugh Turquoise Painting, using my Recycled Plastics Technique. This one is 2 panels each 24" x 30" for a total of 30" x 48". See it on my website In Art Studio.com "Turquoise 111" or email me: liana@inartstudio.com

"Lapis 102" - 30" x 48"

2006-03-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

Back to Painting. I love the variation of blues in this one. The more I look at it the more I like it. The colors are so striking. From my "Geology Series" this painting is for sale. See it on my website In Art Studio.com "Lapis 102" or email me: liana@inartstudio.com

Painting Ponies

2006-02-12T07:44:00.000-07:00

Here are some new polymer clay ponies I just finished painting. Will be adding them to a new painting. I will be carving some more horses in the near future. I have lots of new ideas for these little guys.

"Core Samples 101" Painting

2006-02-09T20:25:00.000-07:00

Now this one is really different. It's the first time I have combined my Cut Canvas and Recycled Canvas techniques. I think it's pretty cool. From my "Geology Series" this painting is for sale.
"Core Samples 101" or email me: liana@inartstudio.com

Too busy to get into trouble

2006-02-07T18:48:00.000-07:00

Between trying to finish 4 paintings a week, working on my jewely designs, and sourcing materials on the internet, not to mention the time it takes to photograph and list all this stuff; it's no wonder I don't have a social life. Oops that reminds me, I need to check my internet dating website. :)

"Turquoise & Wild Horses 101"

2006-02-04T19:29:00.000-07:00

For Sale

A good friend was visiting and saw my Polymer Clay horses laying on the work bench. Left over from a past project, they are too large for my jewelry (except maybe a belt buckle) He suggested I put them on one of my turquoise paintings. Great Idea! Turquoise and horses, what could be better? You can view full details here: "Turquoise & Wild Horses 101" or email me:
liana@inartstudio.com

Fun with Polymer Clay

2006-02-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

Been making polymer clay horses. I use the small ones in my jewelry designs. I carved the originals and used them to make silicon molds. Then the horses are individually hand painted. These little guys are tedious to make, but so pretty. I love making them.
Note:Polymer clay is a soft, moldable form of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) that once "cooked" becomes hard and almost indestructible. Just like PVC pipe, it can be sawn, sanded, drilled, etc. Wonderful medium for exploring creative possibilities.
See an example of my jewelry here: "Three Wild Horses" Necklace

Good News!

2006-02-01T11:05:00.000-07:00

My Grandson, Nicholas, started pre-school last week. What a big change in the little guy's life. Instead of being a cancer patient he gets to be a normal little boy. His doctor says school will be good for him. He has enough immune system to handle the inevitable colds and flus. He still goes to the hospital twice a month, to be checked that his leukemia is still in remission. But, the rest of the time he gets to play with other children and learn. He loves school!

It's been 3 months and no one has taken me up on my Painted Artist challenge. So.... time for something new. I have been busy in my studio. Lots of new paintings finished, and sold. Some new ideas starting to take shape. I will be posting some of these soon.

And my jewelry is doing well. I listed some of my jewelry pieces in my eBay store, never thinking they would actually sell. What a surprise! My little polymer clay horses are popular. I enjoy silversmith and beading, as a way of taking a break from painting. And polymer clay is too much fun to work with. It makes you see the world in a whole new light. When I see something cool, I think "I could make that in polymer clay!"

Liana Turnbull Bennett

2005-11-05T23:10:00.000-07:00

My name is Liana Turnbull Bennett and I am a self-representing artist. My style is
Innovative, Unexpected, Unconventional, Out of the Ordinary, Unusual, Unique…Modern, Contemporary? Well, close enough. I am excited and pleased to be able to show you my work.

My Links are:

My Website: inartstudio.com

My Art on Ebay Search for "INART" on ebay

and of course, this Blog: The Painted Artist

I hope you enjoy this Blog. And thank you for stopping by.

Artist Challenge

2005-11-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

My name is Liana, The Innovative Artist on Ebay. Instead of anxiously watching my paintings at auction, I have decided to explore an idea for promoting artists and their artwork.

I am a Self Representing Artist with a website and an Ebay Store. I want to find a way to make the public aware of the multitude of talent to be found on the Internet. But, this needs to be fun. I want to get away from the stuffy professional Gallery Art image and explore the fun and creative side of being an artist.

I am extending this invitation to all self-representing artists. Send a single photo of your own artwork, and links to your websites. Your links can be to your website, your Ebay Store, your blog, etc. But, most importantly, send a photo of yourself - painted.
The painted part can be a hand, foot, face, etc. Have fun with this. Showcase your own personal style, as well as your personality. Is your art flamboyant, serene, playful, conservative? Let that show through. Do you specialize in landscapes, still lifes, portraits, abstracts? Here is your chance to show the world your true inner self. Just remember that you will be representing yourself as a professional artist to the public, so let's keep this tasteful.

Tonight, I will attempt to paint my face. I will be using acrylic paint, as this removes easily with soap, water, and a washcloth. I know this because I have accidentally painted myself on numerous occasions. Being a female, this should be easy. I have had a lot of practice applying makeup in the mirror. I am picking an evening when I will be home alone, hopefully without interruptions. I will attempt to take a decent self-photo and post it so everyone will get a better idea of what this blog is all about.

This is my first attempt a blogging so please excuse any mistakes.

Best Regards to All,
Liana