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Monday, July 26, 2010

July Art Bead Scene Challenge


The ABS challenge this month was Calder's mobile, "Blue Feather." I couldn't resist this challenge because the design had a stranglehold on my consciousness. It was compelled to be created.

As you can see, the piece consists of an orange pendant with an off-center hole ... as in the inspiration piece. I have left the lower edge unenameled because of the fragile nature of enamel and it's tendency to chip if used in a high-friction area. The remaining formed rectangles dangle playfully from the chain. This is what I call a toggle necklace ... there is no clasp. The necklace wears as a choker with the chain cascading down to about 5 inches below the bottom of the circle pendant.

This was fun ... and now back to the studio!

18 comments:

Diane said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Diane said...

Barbara...I absolutely love this piece! Very ingenious. And, thanks for sharing the enamel/friction tip...I will store it away for future use =)
btw...i finally have my set-up ready! I must take the leap...and i will!

Unknown said...

Barbara you were very Spot on with this piece! Really wonderful how you captured the essence! Bravo!!

Nicki said...

Hi, I love it. I actually need to ask you some more enamel questions - I tried to enamel the beads, but it did not quite work out. I think my torch is not hot enough. I might send you an email about it. Maybe you have some ideas. Thanks.

steufel said...

Oh Barbara, this is beautiful and you so absolutly caught the spirit/flair of Calder's mobile. Love it!

Malin de Koning said...

Super duper nice!

You have really captured the lightness feeling of the sculpture, that I was looking for too.

Silver Parrot said...

What a PERFECT interpretation of the original design. I LOVE it!

Anonymous said...

beautiful interpretation, love it!

mairedodd said...

awesome design and execution! love it...

Pretty Things said...

VERY nice!

sharon said...

This is absolutely gorgeous Barbara!

Regina said...

Very nice, very Calder!

Barbara Lewis said...

See what happens when you never post any jewelry on your site ... when people see you have, they come out! Thank you all for your kind words ... they are so appreciated.

Unknown said...

Very nice Barbara...I love the interpretation.

stregata said...

Barbara - this piece is fantastic - a stroke of genius!!! Just perfect!

TesoriTrovati said...

Oh, how cool is that? I wish that I had time to play along. I hope I can next month!
This is a spot on reference to the inspiration piece and I love it!
Enjoy the day!
Erin

Cindy said...

What a beautiful interpretation, Barbara... so cool to see your enameled spin on the Calder piece.
Cindy

Unknown said...

I love Calder & this is a spot on piece, great job!