We all start somewhere. This picture shows my first beads - some 16 years ago... Like dry sponges, we soak up everything thats put before us. We wrestle with techniques and diligently practice, practice, practice. Starting anything is a journey where we are inspired by someone or something. We emulate someone while learning the basics... while the world watches. Back in late 1998 I saw lampwork beads on eBay that piqued my curiosity. I searched online for resources about lampworking. I eventually ended up on Sundances site - making lists of what Id need to get started. After devouring the site - I found a hidden reward link theyd posted that went something like this: “...because you’ve been so diligent and read so thoroughly, we are offering a beginner’s set - free...” I ordered the kit and was soon on my way. It consisted of a small fiber blanket, release, mandrels and a few shorts of glass. I added a plumbers torch from the local hardware and I was on my way. The oxygen deprived flame scorched and muddied most of the opaque colors - (see attached picture) but even so, I knew I was hooked! I kept a blog for awhile where I posted images of my works progression. I also found an article in an early issue of Bead and Button magazine (circa 1996) that interviewed Andrea Guarino (Slemmons) I strongly agree with what was said, that while we all need to start somewhere - copying is ok, but its always good manners to credit your teacher/source. (Please forgive my memory - as I cant find that issue anymore - but loosely - this is what it said to me.) It went on to say that when you master a technique, move on and modify it to make a design thats your own. In other words - Find Your Own Voice, this helps to define who you are as an artist. While coming up with a design that is your own is great - its usually not very long before people are copying it *in some form or other*... so - always be moving forward on to new things AND if youre still making that signature bead , youd better make sure that YOU are the one who still does it best! My own scheduled website update each week has helped me always move my designs forward. This self-imposed deadline is paramount to my work, as people come looking for things that delight, NEW things each week, or they dont come back. I think many factors go into the making of an artist - these are just some of the things that shaped me into who I am and how I think... what and/or whom inspired you? Smiles, Jill
Posted on: Thu, 21 Aug 2014 13:23:04 +0000
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