I'm busy preparing for markets this weekend and next so I'm posting a little letter I have available on my table at markets and shows. It is kind of a 'meet the artist' thing. I hope it lets you get to know me and my passion for beads a little better:
I’m quite chatty and I never miss the opportunity to rave about glass beads! So I thought I’d take this chance to ponder the mystery of beads with you.
For most lampwork artists (myself included) making glass beads is a passion. I’ve thought a great deal about this and I just marvel at the important role beads have played in human history. Beads have been used as currency, to assert social status, as talismans and to express personal and religious beliefs.
Throughout history various cultures have used beads to protect children, win lovers, and buy livestock. We have decorated ourselves, as well as our spears, bows, horses and homes with them. We’ve even buried our ancestors with them so that they can pass comfortably into the afterlife.
When I went to India in 2008 and 2009 I took a big bag of my ‘practice’ beads with me. It was truly amazing how they helped me connect with people. I actually traded them for souvenirs and trinkets! But the main thing they brought was human interaction! Magical!
What is it about a little piece of stone or bone (or glass for that matter) that you can string on a bit of…something…and wear? What is this connection? Whatever it is and whoever you are; fellow lampwork artist, jewelry designer, equipment supplier, or fellow human with a bead interest, I’m very happy to make your acquaintance.
For me making friends and building a network of like minded people is an important part of my work. So you can keep an eye on me (some would say I need watching) on Facebook, Blogger and Etsy. (links are available on my site www.bydelana.com.) You can also request to join my email list.
Wherever your interests in beads take you I wish you an enjoyable journey!
Delana
No comments:
Post a Comment