On My Walls

Needed to finish these two series, Amulets and Indigo by framing and hanging them on the wall. Sorry about the bright spots but my walls are not really gallery sites. For me it is essential to finish in this way...the last in the five creative steps is to put ones work in the world. Facebook and this blog accomplish that but going one step further by framing and living with these pieces is good for me and my artist's soul.

'Center Heart Safety'

7"x7", assorted cloth, satin and cotton, copper leaf, beads, hand and machine stitching, tassels and wire and charm.
I am an amulet maker in training. Triangle shapes are often used and its a first for me. How reassuring to have a tangible object that promises protection. Often hung in doorways or on tree branches or beloved animals or baby cribs...an ancient and current practice. The shape, knots, tassels, beads, metals and assorted objects are part of the amulet makers work table. I'm planning on 4-5 in order to take on the beauty of this ancient form of prayer.

"Star Relic"

'Star Relic', 51/2"x7", muslin, beads, machine and hand stitching on rusted, painted stamped cloth. This piece completes my exploration and this one especially will be a reminder to return to at a later time as this one is easily connected to 'between stars' list which is FULL of possibilities for me.

Amulets is the series of choice for now. I'm excited about making beauties of power and protection. I have been reading 'Amulets' by Sheila Paine and learning so much. Of course, I'll take this info and mix it with my imagination and take to my work table. I think its going to be a good ride...more three dimensional and perfect for shadow box frames.

I see this blog has lots of visitors but not so many comments? Please feel welcome to comment anytime...I like the back and forth of thoughts, ideas, etc....!

Sample Amulet 2

Sample amulet, small 5"x51/2", painted cloth, painted paper, assorted beads, stamped, stenciled, machine and hand stitched.
Exploring new directions following my list of six suggestions (Facebook June 4th) and along the way I believe I have found a creative expression in making amulets. In the ancient world there was a thin line between magic and medicine and calling on a "scorpion charmer" was common. This charmer would among other duties, create amulets for a patient for protection?! Ideas are developing but my best way is to plunge in and try this or that...this piece went several directions and I stopped at this point. I had fun stitching beads 'using up' small amounts of leftover glass and plastic beads.