Ply-Split Workshop

Last weekend we had the pleasure of taking a 2-day workshop in ply-splitting from Barbara Walker of Salem, Oregon.  The good news is that it was an excellent workshop.  The bad news is that I'm totally enthralled with the technique and want to spend all of my time learning it more fully and exploring all of the possibilities, to the detriment of my other work.  We also learned about cordmaking, and that just may be a "find" all on its own.  Ah, such lovely problems to have.

www.barbarajwalker.com/
  


                    

Sterling Bells

One of our adventures while on Lopez, led by a fellow beader who had met this amazing man many years ago, was visiting the gardens and workshop of Gordon Barnett.  After driving down wooded, winding island roads, and walking through his magical garden, we arrived at his workshop (by appointment only).  His sterling silver or bronze bell pendants (and earrings) are absolutely delightful.  The crystal tinkling of bells (since you pick out your bell by both its shape and distinctive ring) still resounds in my ears.  He is truly an outstanding artist and humble soul.

From: http://www.nlshaw.com/?sec=fil&cat=1&gid=4, although he has many, many more!

GRB STERLING BELLS BELLS CREATED BY GORDON BARNETT. Gordon Barnett is an accomplished artist and jeweler, as well as an avid gardner, painter, and calligrapher. His attention to detail is richly recognized from the tip of the bail to the bottom of the clapper. Many enjoy these melodic treasures that make wonderful gifts and attractive collectibles to be admired for generations to come. All bells are individually designed by Gordon Barnett. They are all available in sterling silver and some available in bronze and 14kt gold. Each bell is signed and dated. Each comes with it own unique personality and sound. AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP AT IT'S BEST Alphabet Bell Fish Eats Fish Bell Chocolate Lily Bell Wee Celtic Bell Fish Earrings Chocolate Lily Bell Earrings Chantilly Bell Dragonfly Bell Elephant Bell Baroque Lattice Bell Clown Bell Nouveau Butterfly Bell Ginko Bell North West Duck Bell Thimbell Bell Swan Bell Sufi-Surf Bell Star of Five Bell Seahorse Bell Scallop Bell Mira Bell Lighthouse Bell Chrysler Building Bell Peace Dove Bell

Bead Retreat

Just returned from our annual bead retreat. So many gifted beaders, friends, laughter, tears, inspiration. 

My little beaded basket won first place in the challenge projects!

And I even finished part of a new necklace:

Ferne Jacobs Inspirations

Recently I ran across some photos of work by Ferne Jacobs, and was inspired all over again by her amazing eye for movement and creativity.  Sharing some of my favorites here: