The "Coloures of My Creations!"

NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

The "Coloures of My Creations"

Walking the streets of Mexico many years ago stirred wonderful pictures in my head and consequently, another trip: one with beads!

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and see our Etsy inventory at:
www.https//beadazzledoforegon.etsy.com

NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

The "Coloures of My Creations!"

NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

More "Coloures of My Creations!"

 
 

The "Coloures of My Creations!"

NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

The "Coloures of My Creations!"

The "Coloures of My Creations!"

NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

You Can't See Me!

Here I Am!

This is what I find now-a-days at my feet while I work in my little beading studio. Lucy is now 6 months old, packed full of energy, love and spirit. She knew from a very young age how to get the attention she needed and quickly trained us to comply:)  Seemingly she was born with a major spring in her hind section; bounding off the back of the couch to the floor and without fear, careening from the bed.  Her "roommate" 7 year old Abby has now happily accepted that she is here to stay and they have become inseparable. This little 8# ball of fur provides free entertainment from morning to night; it's hard to get much uninterrupted beading accomplished.  Ah, challenges, challenges!

 ...from the blog of lorigreenberg.com

(with her permission!)

 

A little about critiques…

Recently there has been a discussion on Facebook about art critiques and it got me to thinking about so many things that were said in response to some feeling stung by juror comments. These critiques were provided as a part of a scholarship entrance for the ISGB Gathering. While I was not part of the jury process, I do believe that the intent of this more advanced artist type of scholarship was meant to help people grow in their design, presentation and skill to take it to the next level. The intent was not to judge the current work but to illuminate what might help an artist move beyond the current level of craft or artistry or to recognize what others might see when looking in. I would go out onto a limb and say that even the most accomplished, established artist who would have entered this process would have gotten constructive criticism to help them push themselves.

Therein lies the nature of the discussion though..”constructive criticism.” It is not easy to hear any criticism about our work, our hearts poured into our pieces. We over-identify with our pieces and we become them, they, us. Some of the critique comments didn’t have the finesse that we have come to enjoy when posting our work in front of our peers in a show and tell thread or on a Facebook sharing page. I would point out that those are not critique pages. Critiques are not fun. Period. Been there, done that…I PAID for four years of professors critiquing me. We yearn for that “job well done” from those teachers and peers and parents and friends and when we don’t get it we feel deflated.

In the late 80s I was an undergraduate textile design major in art school taking classes with the graduate students. One assignment was to make a 4′x6′ rug. Learning to formulate and dye lots of yarn, come up with designs and weave/hook it. I LOVED my rug, the colors, the pattern, etc. It was a very long but satisfying process. The quality of my piece was impeccable, right down to the finishing of the loose ends on the back. I poured my heart into that damn rug.

My professor’s critique? “It looks so 70s. Reminds me of the formica of that era.”

Ouch.

There was no pussy-footing around. At the time I thought it was crass and cruel and he should have had more tact. I don’t even remember if there was anything constructive said…all I heard and remembered was that comparison, and I related my experience to friends. How can he call himself a teacher? How do they think that helps new students in a program? We’re here to learn, so teach us, don’t criticize us! Basically, tell me I’m good enough, encourage me and point out my strong points but when it comes to any weaknesses, be gentle with me and don’t hurt my feelings.

In an ideal world (maybe?) that is how it would work. But then I wonder would that really “work”? Some people would push themselves based on praise but, what if that straightforward crass teacher was really saying what some other people might be thinking? While there may be a lot of people giving praise, what about those who thought like he did? What then was my goal? Was it to make work for those who saw the world as I did at that time, or was it to be an ‘arteest’ who had something bold, daring, moving to put out into the world that is uniquely me? There is a place for everyone and I needed to decide who I was, what I wanted to do.

For a while after that critique I decided that I liked the process of making art but the design side was not my thing. I decided I wanted to go into production of someone else’s designs and essentially be a skilled worker rather than an artist. That was safe. I couldn’t get my feelings hurt doing that. Right out of college I did just that. I worked in a weaving studio, weaving all day, making minimum wage, and putting out someone else’s designs that they sold to Bloomingdales and the like. I loved it…for about 6 months. Bo-ring. I actually quit to do temp clerical work.

I hate when people say that hearing something that feels hurtful is the real world and that you have to grow a thick skin. I have found though, that if I want to get better as an artist and seek the feedback of others that is exactly what I needed to do. That didn’t mean suck it up and become a hard ass and crass myself. That meant, learn to hear it and not internalize it. Learn to use it or leave it behind without being crushed. Learn to consider the source and glean from it what I could or run far away from a$$holes. I couldn’t control what others said and no matter how accomplished or esteemed someone might be in their field (my field) it doesn’t mean that they have a way with words or know how to teach. They can only share their opinion. In order to hear the constructive part (and sometimes dig deeper to pull it out from between the lines) I needed to be able to get past the maybe-not-so-tactful approach of those who have gone before me. Unfortunate maybe, but true. There is a lot we can miss out on if we dismiss the jaded artists of our circles. I’m one of them…I just don’t show it.

Over time I realized that that professor really was right; there was so much truth in his assessment. While I didn’t see the 70s comparison, the design was dull (vibrant colors can’t change that), the colors while rich, were  uninteresting in relation to each other and the piece didn’t really say anything. That was before I realized that art should probably say something, not just put something well-made in front of you. I made many more pieces that were equally as boring in those four years and he probably wanted to pull his hair out. I just didn’t get it. Not one time did he talk to me and try to explain it…he left me to learn it on my own.

I have learned that if you have worked your hardest and put your best into something that a critique is never easy. I have learned to become my own ‘worst’ critic in an effort to explore all sides, point out to myself when something isn’t quite right, push to fix it, look for how I can do any little element in a different way and ask myself, how is this ME, uniquely ME? EVERY. Single. Little. Component. Color. Curve. Element. Expression. M-E.

I have learned that I have to be satisfied with my own work whether it has mass appeal or niche appeal (which I crave most, although mass appeal is pretty nice for the bank account). I have learned that everything builds on the thing before and while I don’t like to hear (or acknowledge) suggestions, sometimes there is a nugget of truth in them and that nugget can motivate and elevate me and my work. I have learned that I need to sit with things before I can integrate (or not) the comments I receive.

I have learned that people really do not mean to be mean or cruel. They do not realize the impact of their words and really, people do operate out of best intention. Yes, there are exceptions. I have learned better to separate the person from their words and behaviors.

I have also learned to be more careful with my own words outside of my circle of friends who know how to take me. I have also learned that a lot of what is in my head doesn’t need to come out of my mouth. I have also learned to better accept hard honesty and know that I have the choice to internalize it, use it or leave it behind.

I still don’t have a ‘thick skin’ and hate feeling ‘so sensitive’ like it’s a bad thing, but I have learned

to prepare myself when I go seeking opinion and know that if I don’t want to hear it, I don’t ask or put myself in that position. It is not someone else’s fault for being honest and I cannot control how they say things. I can be straightforward and I would like to be accepted for that and I try to accept others for their unique personalities too.

Because of that one harsh critique early in my art education, the work I make and call art is very different than what I would be making if all I got was easy praise and pats on the back and gentle critique. I am sure of that. Does that mean that I like how it was said to me? No, not at the time but today I am grateful for it and I try to see it from that vantage point when someone comes up to my booth and tells me that my work looks like someone else’s or they insist that my mosaics are made from seed beads.

For me, that is what critiques, can lead to.

I thank anyone who not only takes the time to examine and explore the work of others when requested but also has the fortitude to say what is hard to hear. It is my responsibility of how to take it and use, not use, act or react to it.

 

COMING SOON!! - The "Soba Scarves" by http://www.dyedianadye/ and Beadazzled's (http://www.beadazzledoforegon.etsy.com/) "Beaded Doodles" that mate with them! SOBAS (Japanese for noodle) are gorgeously hand-dyed batik scarves dreamed up and designed by my friend Diana Hughes. The DOODLES are created to pair with the coloring of the scarves. Both scarves and Doodles can be purchased in each individual's shop - and if you find a Doodle you love but there's no Soba that works well, Diana is ready to custom make the scarf. By the same token, if you fall in love with that fabulous rust/purple scarf at Diana's and fail to find a blended beaded Doodle, I'm always ready to create one just for you. Here are some photos of the prototypes. Fabulously fun, isn't it? You'll definitely be the only one in your neighborhood with one of these original pairings! Be the first!

Now you must realize this project is currently in the prototype stage; Sobas are ready to purchase at Diana's but I'm in the process of designing multiple uses for your new Doodle; i.e. around-the-pony tail, hanging from a jean pocket like a fob and even worn as a necklace! Why pay for one when you can get 3...or more?!  Ideas are churning around in my head. So when I have the drawings off my desk and into reality in my studio, I'll post the photos of the finished products right here for your viewing pleasure. Stay tuned, it won't be long!

hugz, Dini & Diana

 

 

Dressed for Mexican Train!

 

 

This fun necklace was just listed in my Etsy shop: beadazzledoforegon.etsy.com. We love to play Mexican Train with friends and when I wore this last week our buds loved it! It's perfect for a custom made necklace in the colors of your own choice.  OOAK (one-of-a-kind) piece only at Beadazzled!

NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

"The Prancing Peacock!"

 The Prancing Peacock

 

I created a simple beaded necklace, done in a netting stitch, to this gorgeous genuine peacock feather focal piece. Using the irredescent colors of this unique bird, I duplicated the colors in both the necklace rope and the triangle that holds the feathers which are solidly attached to a felt backing. This is guaranteed to make a statement when you wear it! Find it in my: Etsy SHOP.   See you there!

 



NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

Snowflakes...

Beading Grandmothers...

 

"Grandmothers (and Beaders) are like snowflakes...

 no two are alike!"

NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

Visiting Studio Friends

 

Friends from the Forest

 

 

Springtime brings out the best of the forest! New growth can be seen everywhere. The pond refills after a very dry winter. With the warmth of the rays, the dragonflies reappear hovering over the top of the water. Warmth grows the algae, a food product for the resident ducks and Canadian geese and the pond's fish life. Tadpoles a' plenty cover the areas close to the shore. When the temperatures remain warmer they will grow their legs and become frogs.

 

 

Our home is blessed especially with both of nature's creatures! When we leave the front door open they enter freely and spend the day with me in my studio!  The "ribets" of the frogs sounds like we have a bull frog in tow. Nope, it's only one of those brilliant, green thumb-size little guys but they have a voice that carries afar! Amazing! A handful live under my bedroom window and the racket  they bring to our neighborhood is unparalled.  It's a pond to bring these creatures into our lives. There is nothing like the peacefulness of beading and being blessed with the company of quiet dragonflies and singing frogs.

 

 

 



What Would You Do?

"What would you attempt to do

if you know you could not fail?"



 

NOTE: Double click on photo for close-up view.

 

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What's on my Beading Board Today?

So, I picked out the beads for my customer's necklace. She had sent me a gorgeous bead and mentioned that she'd had it for a few years, having not found a right-fit with a designer. After a journey through my Etsy shop, (beadazzledoforegon.etsy.com), she contacted me and we started working on a dialog about what she envisioned this piece needed. Thank you for choosing beadazzledoforegon.com, Deb!

While walking from my studio to the family room with my beading tray I managed to successfully trip over one of our Shih Tzus ~ the mix up of the beads wasn't the worst disaster I'd ever had for sure, but the ones that hit the tile floor went in a thousand directions!

 

 

 

It's a fabulous 2-sided gem!

 





So the challenge is to freeform bead in such a way as to leave the bead able to swivel from one side to the other - what fun! It will also be adjustable from 20-26". Using rich browns and tans, a bit of white and silver, with a pop of teal and royals, I have a feeling it's going to be a handsome addition to her jewelry box! I will post the final piece right here so stay tuned....

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A Trip North

Saturday I'll pack up the Jeep, complete with bead tray, walking cane, groceries, and Shih Tzu (Libby), and head north to one of our big kid's house. Grandson, Carson, will also head up there from college to fish with his uncle on the McKenzie River. It'll be great fun, a small unit out of our big family (6 big kids and their families and their families!) but a great unit! Since my serious 2013 health challenges, I haven't been able to watch granddaughter Kayla (16) at the riding arena so that's on my calendar for Monday. And granddaughter Kendra (14) has recently gotten into the cooking mode so we'll work their kitchen over! She's also a movie buff so if we can find a movie she hasn't already seen more than once, we'll head to the theater.  I have missed getting to be an "active" Gramma! Here are some of my "special people":

 

Carson (much younger - now @ Chico College, CA)) 

Kayla (much younger)

Kendra (@ the stables)

Kendra (younger)

Our Son, Keith

Our D-I-L, Kristi (Photographer extraordinaire!)

A Slice of Life Photography

 



 

Just a Few Beading Board Newbies

A beautiful day here in southern Oregon but now the much-needed rain clouds return for tomorrow's promised rain. I have my granddaughter, Aleah, in CA doing a rain dance for us. Our koi pond is empty, a wonderful 18 year project between me and our grandkids. Each child would choose their own 3-4" koi from our local dealer and most would name them. Then we'd walk down to the pond and in they go!! Every summer most all of our grandkids would visit for their week at Gram and Grampa's and check in on their fish ~ how they grew each year! By 2013, most all were from 2-3 feet long and real beauties! But this winter the pond emptied with lack of rain and our local black bear and our wretched Blue Heron (fishing from the dock)  had fulfilling meals of the left-overs. Alas, over a dozen disappointed grandkids and one mad Grandma hen! Better luck next season and Aleah promised she'd help me re-stock the pond. Keep dancing,Sweetheart!!

A few recent goodies from my beading board to share. Enjoy!!

Hugz, Dini

I'm B-A-C-K!!

Hi Dear Friends/Family and Onlookers,

So, what's been happening here at Beadazzled of Oregon? Well, a quick catch-up ~ as you can see, I have been unable to keep up with my computer duties for some time now. We'll chalk it up to serious illnesses and a new titanium leg! Too many challenges in a short amount of time chained me up and put me in a position of total non-activity; my only mission was: rehabilitation of myself. I was forced to let go (what a challenge!) of all outside activities until the mission was completed. Am happy to report that I'm about 95% there at this time; hooray!

So, with renewed energy and a multitude of goals, let's get started together once again and...thankX always for your patience and support. Without it I doubt if I'd be here now.

Thanksgiving 2013 found our whole family and their whole families back together at Gramps and my place in Grants Pass, OR ~ an annual 5 day marathon where the CA and OR kids of ours and their offspring all get together here for 5 days of food and fun and visiting and laughter and love. There are sleeping bags and blow-up mattresses everywhere for the bodies that land here; under the pool table, in the master bedroom (we kick the older bodies out of there and the kids take over...yes, it's a b-i-g room!). Then there are the 3 couches, the shop office room with futon, and the motor home. When the OCCUPIED sign goes out there are 24 of us!

This year, due to my health issues, 3 of our "older" kids rented a house down by the Rogue River and thinned out the sleeping capacity in our house. Thank you "dahlings"! While I was confined to bed, the whole gang did all the cooking and the grandkids did the cleanup. They took turns coming into my bedroom and entertaining me; it was wonderful!

As Grampa and I were saying our goodbyes to all as they drove out the driveway towards their homes, one of my granddaughters asked me if I could possibly bead her guitar strap; she's headed to Nashville upon graduation... When energy permitted, I had been beading through this past year but this would be a wonderful challenge. I wanted to bead her "story". I choose delicas and for those of you that know beads, they are fabulous to work with but very tiny and my recent diagnosis of MS had clouded my vision. Who cares ~ I got started on it. It took me the better part of 2.5 months to finish but she was thrilled and that's all that seemed to matter to both of  us.

 

Miss Brenley (Peanut Rene)

 

~ Delicas and Love ~

So, here it is, now 2014.  Happy New Year, my friends!! With renewed health and energy, "Let's Get Started"!

You can still find Beadazzled of Oregon and it's wearable beaded art jewelry at:

Love and blessings,
Dini

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WEB: Beadazzled of Oregon
ETSY SHOP: Beadazzled ETSY SHOP
FACEBOOK: Beadazzled FACEBOOK FAN PAGE

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"WHAT INSPIRES YOU?"...Won't You Join Me?

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QUICK! Don't Miss this Opportunity

Some fun news for those of you who frequent the Artbeads website and especially for those of you who may not have found this mecca for all our beading needs. Artbeads has recently launched a new contest called the 'Bead IQ Trivia Sweepstakes.' You can test your bead knowledge by taking the short quiz and then enter the sweepstakes for a chance at winning a $250 'Bead Genius' Prize Package, which includes a $100 Artbeads.com Gift Card and $150 worth of beading and jewelry supplies.

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To play the Bead IQ Trivia Sweepstakes, please follow this link: http://bit.ly/ajdrDF. Good Luck!

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