Beads in Space..Part Deux

Ready for another chance at getting your lampwork beads in outer space?  Mission Endeavour Contest is now announced.  Beads need to be at Beads of Courage headquarters by February 26.  Click here for all the details,'
ps...Like that little yellow alien?  That was one of my beads that went into space on a previous NASA mission. Replicas of the beads in space are available for sale through Beads of Courage.

ISGB - Call For Artists - "Surface"

The ISGB sent out the following information for a member show.  If you want to join the ISGB, it's easy.  http://www.isgb.org.  Belonging and entering this show, is one of their  wonderful member benefits.

_______________________________________

ISGB invites its members to create a bead that answers one of two questions: What lies beneath? When is it actually what is on the outside that counts?



Surface is a juried exhibit that will open at the 2011 Bead&Button Show in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Designed especially for the Show, it is another part of the continuing relationship between Bead&Button, ISGB, artists, students, collectors, exhibitors and writers who come together for this amazing annual event in celebration of the many facets of art that unite us all. Surface represents the ISGB's fifth year of presenting extraordinary glass exhibitions with the Bead&Button Show.


The deadline is March 1. To apply, artists should send a completed application, entry fee, and digital image of their bead. Artists may submit as many beads as they like for the competition, however a maximum of one bead per artist will be selected for the final exhibit. Artists will be notified of acceptance by March 30 and winning entries need to be received no later than April 13. Please email Sarah Riggle, ISGB Administrator or call 614-222-2243.


Click here for the Application Form and additional details.

Razorbacks- A Face That Only A Fan (or their Mother) Could Love

So I've been asked to do my rendition of an Arkansas Razorback bead (as a gift-not for sale).  And anytime I do something new, I have to do a little research to see what exactly I'm doing.  Here is their logo. Kind of mean looking critter, isn't it?

And then I also found this close up shot, that would make a more fun bead to do, because there's more personality and different detail.

Rather oozing charm, wouldn't you say?  I do like how his teeth are so rectangular and his face is expressive.

But my favorite form of the Razorback is this picture.  I'm hoping one of you reading this is a fan and can tell me that you own one of these hats.  They sure make me smile.  It kind of looks like an angry red relative to Alf.  (remember him?)

So when I'm done, I'll show you my bead. And in case you're worrying, no need to be concerned about copyright- it's not for sale, but it is for some Beads of Courage parents.  And I'm guessing they need that strength that the hog portrays.

Rainbow Colored Rubber Tubing- Fun for Funky Jewelry

There is something about this combination of joyful colors in a necklace that just makes me want to smile. The designer, Yvonne Irwin says it reminds her of a carnival and I had a similar reaction of thinking that it looks like a visual party.

Yvonne is the shop owner of MyElements on Etsy who sells these rubber tubes, colorful O rings and quite a variety of other jewelry making pieces.  I found her through some of my friends and have to admit, am a bit addicted to the tubing.

You see, it works perfectly in some instances for a quick ending to a memory wire style necklace that uses my lampwork.  It keeps it lighter weight and for me, a quick string.  Here is an example of one that I just recently made.  (It is available if you message me, but not up on my StudioMarcy etsy site.

I love this light periwinkle blue color of the tubing.  It goes with a lot of my spring colors.  I have used plenty of other colors.

The O rings work well for accents between some large hole beads strung on the memory wire + tubing made up choker style too.  I'll show that necklace another day.

So pop by and visit Yvonne's shop.  One of the other options with this tubing is to feed wire through it and bend it around.  You can make corkscrews, loops or whatever you like.  Lots of fun and funky options.

If you've made something already with it, please post a link.  We'd all love to see it.

See you tomorrow!

Horoscope Changes? No way!

Have you heard all the hub bub about there being a 13th astrology sign?  The new one is called Ophiuchus.  Who is going to be able to spell that one?

If this were recognized, my husband would now be a "Ophiuchus" , and although it sounds like it, I can assure you, he does not have eight arms, but just two.

artwork from simboldesign on etsy

You know how the chit chat conversations go...oh, what do you think about such and such.  Well of course, this astrology topic is going to come up when there's a room of artists.

Bottom line, I thought perhaps it was time to read up on it...and an ever more bottom line...looks like it doesn't pertain to me, my family, or anyone nearby.

So I will remain a Gemini, my husband is still a Sagittarius, (although a lot of the new characteristics seemed a lot like him), and I don't need to learn how to spell "that word".  Now that the weight of the Universe is off my shoulders, I can go back to melting glass.

New Labels, New Look...Same Natural Packaging

I am bummed.  I missed this contest.  Apparently, Chiquita Banana had a contest for new sticker designs.  I know, I should have kept my eyes peeled.  I slipped up on this one.

But here is a link for the creative and fun winners... and it's my understanding that they can now be found at your local grocery stores.

ps  Hats off to Chiquita for updating their look, and also creating a wonderful marketing opportunity.  Smart move and well done!

Dreaming About Glass Corsage Class

Sara Sally LaGrand has just finished teaching a glass corsage class for our Southern Flames group.  I have to say, it's been torture drooling over everyone's wonderful new pieces.  I will be taking the class next month at Austin's Blue Moon Glassworks.  But for those of you who want to see more of Sara's work, just click HERE for her etsy shop.

I have to say, that now that I've looked at everyone's, I've been waking up and contemplating my color choices for when I get to make one.  What soft glass colors would you put together?  Tell me your favorite combinations...  Give me a little more to dream about.

Lori's Metal Stamp Giveaway- hurry!

Lori Anderson of Pretty Things has a wonderful giveaway going on.  It's this fun lower case metal stamp set.  Of course to get in on it, there are rules, but so easy to follow.  Hurry!

Cerebral Boinkfest Blog

I love Cerebral Boinkfest!

And not because Linda used an example of my glass art in this post, but because her words are smart, interesting and there is a fabulous variety of topics. 

Pop by and see for yourself.  This is one that I could spend hours reading the earlier posts.  Her subject matter ranges.  She describes it as, "A blog about the arts, books, flora and fauna, vittles and whatever comes to mind."

And of course, while you're there, please notice the photos of my beads.  Geesh, can't miss that plug, can I? ;)

See you Sunday!

National Squirrel Appreciation Day

Aw nuts!  Who knew?

This One Has Talent!

I love this dog!  Watch the video here.  He not only plays the piano, but he also sings along.  Anyone else have a dog that is supremely talented? I'd love to hear about it.

Jewelry Design Dilemma

So you probably remember my post from Monday, where I showed you some of my new flowers in pastel colors.  I've been dithering over what I want to do with them still.  This is one of my options that I pulled out  I liked the silvery gray sparkle with the opaque flowers and some of the transparent bead in here.  I was thinking perhaps this one should be made into a bracelet?  What do you think?  Stringing ideas?  Change it up to something else?  What would you do?

Fried Food On A Stick?

I found this tongue in cheek food map (literally- ha!) which shows someone's opinion of what each state is famous for- regarding food.  Some states I had to agree, but when I saw Minnesota's of "fried food on a stick",  it was time to chuckle.  Really?  Come on Minnesota buddies, have anything better than that?

So let us know what you really think these states should be famous for.  (Nevada- buffets?)  and if there is a drink that should go along with it.  Funny answers are also requested.

Winter Garden Flower Jewelry

Pastel Flower Garden on Really Stiff Stems

So recently I've been on a funky flower and leaf kick. I've been choosing color palettes and then spending the day working on them with the long range goal of making some jewelry for myself and then selling the other components.  

This is an example of my very light pastel mix.  Atlanta had unseasonal snow and ice, and I think looking out my studio windows at all the white, gave me the inspiration.  We usually only get about 2" a year, and we got over 8" which quickly turned to layers of thick ice and shut down the city.  Kids were out of school for over a week.

But I digress.

My pastels in this palette were fun.  I don't usually work in this combination and was enjoying gray, white, pale pinks, soft blues, lavenders and a touch of CiM's Dirty Martini green, which I love.

So now here is my hard decision..what to design with these "parts"?  I've got such minimal experience in making jewelry.  Any ideas?  Tomorrow I'll show you what I was thinking, but meanwhile, please chime in all of you experts and give me some ideas please!

Oh Deer!

How would you caption this?

I saw this photo which cracked me up.  What are those animals anyhow?  You get bonus points if you can tell me.  (I thought maybe they were lemurs, but couldn't find photos to match)

Post your caption for this photo and give us all a laugh.  And happy Sunday to you!

See you tomorrow.  Hopefully I'll have some photos of glass projects I've been working on.  They're stockpiled on my studio table.

I Tried It At Home

As someone who uses a torch, this hoodie resonated just a bit.  Here is a link to their tee shirts, so if you makes you laugh like it does me, you can get it too.

ps...I haven't quite had that same experience....yet.

Donate to Beads of Courage & Win A Cricket Torch!

This is the Cricket Torch!

I am so excited!  It's time to for a little "pay it forward".  I was so lucky that my friends and family supported me in FlameTree Glass' Christmas contest and how fantastic-- I won a torch.  This one!  But on the other hand, I own one almost exactly like it.  (it's purple too!)

So I thought perhaps it's time to give back to all of you, my friends and it's your turn to win it.

I've started a blog with all the details right here.  http://www.GiveBeadsOfCourage.blogspot.com
It has all the details and fine print, but essentially here are the basics.

For every $25 or 25 bead donation to Beads of Courage, you receive a chance to win this GTT Cricket torch pictured above. This promotion is ONLY for the month of February starting on the 1st and ending on the 28th at midnight.  If you donate 200 beads, then you get 4 chances...easy peasy!

Please read the blog and check out the details.  There are some specific, (but easy) things you need to do to be sure you are entered for your donations.  Like send a photo of your donation to me, Marcy Lamberson, to post on that blog.  There are a few more minor points to be sure you can be contacted if you win!

Please join me in supporting kids with cancer and other life threatening illnesses.  Let's make their healing journey a little easier through our art and Beads of Courage.

Surreal Babies

Postcards of babies doing weird and wonderful things from the 1920's and 30's were avidly collected and used as a source of inspiration by Surrealists and Dadaists of that time.  Little is known about their history.

A new book compiled by James Birch,  Babylon: Surreal Babies shows them hatching from eggs, riding in zeppelins, driving cars and so much more.

It makes me wonder, what is its equivalent from last year?  Any ideas?

Studio Lighting- What do you have?

Messy, but well lit table top

"H" shaped track lighting
(If only I knew how to make these two photos go side by side...)

Recently, I was asked about studio lighting.  What did I have, and did I have any recommendations.  That's a pretty broad question, as my goal with lighting is to have "a lot!"

I don't see well enough without it.

So I have included two quick snapshots I took to show my friend as to what my studio has and to show her what it offers.

I have to admit, Home Depot is one of my main sources for just about everything.  It's only 5 minutes away from my house, so that's where I go.  My husband and nephew installed track lighting from there with a lot of the little spotlights, so I could have enough lighting to not only light up the room, but give me a lot of light directly onto my table.  The track is shaped like an "H".  The long lengths of the room have tracks, so it covers my tools and glass on each side and the center, shorter bar goes over the top of my table.  I can add more little plug in lights, if I need them, but this really seems to do the trick well.

But in my conversation with my friend, she mentioned that her ceiling isn't conducive to track lighting and would probably need either table clamp-ons or table top.  So I'm asking you- my readers, who I affectionately call my "Think Tank"...what do you use that you love?  Any tricks or comments for my friend who is looking for a way to light up a dark garage and have plenty of task lighting as well.

Honestly, I'm "of that age" where lighting makes a huge difference.   I bet there are some of you readers who have great ideas to share.  It seems like we are always re-inventing the wheel, when co-operative  sharing would be so much easier.

And while I'm asking for input, if you have questions that you would like this "think tank" to address, please let me know.  I don't want to ask people for trade secrets, but a little sharing makes us all benefit.

See you tomorrow, right here, http://www.StudioMarcy.blogspot.com

10x10 Booth- Now What? Help Me Please

I know a lot of my readers are artisans in a variety of art and craft styles and  this time, I'm asking for your help and expertise.

How do you get the maximum of space in a 10x10 indoor area?  What are your table layouts?  What tips and tricks do you have?  Lights?  What kind?  Photos?  Could you post links.  This is where I am hoping you can teach this old dog, new tricks.

Now I will have products that are all sizes as well, so I'm not just talking glass beads.  So let me know what you know, that you are willing to share.  Got a great resource for a banner, or signage?  I'd love to know.  What about display racks or stands...I know there are a lot of creative ones out there...

I'm looking forward to hearing from you.  I know your experience and thoughts will be greatly appreciated.  Thanks so much!!

A Special Place for Your Kitty

I have to admit I was totally amused by a kitty haven with moose antlers above the entry way.  This is the Cat Chalet available on plasticashop.com's website.  It's made of 100% recyclable cardboard and has everything from a textured cardboard carpet for claw sharpening to other entryway decorations besides the antlers.    And of course, it could be used for small dogs too.

Don't Miss This Calendar

Aw come on, even if you don't use old school calendars, this one will bring a chuckle. United Bamboo's very cool calendar is now on sale and it sports all these hipster kitties wearing United Bamboo clothes.

And if you still can't figure out what to do with it, just cut it apart and frame some of the photos. For me, there's something about cats wearing clothes, that just gets me grinning!

See you Sunday right here, http://www.StudioMarcy.blogspot.com

A Chair with Smile Appeal

This chair created by Nathalie Guez is a limited edition of 50 on ArtfulHome.com. It reminds me of a cross between lollipops and Dr. Seuss, which elevates its appeal very quickly.

The artist said that the base is wide to accommodate sitting cross legged. I kind of like that in a chair.

So unfortunately, the price and shipping charges are beyond my means, but if I could, I would put one in my family room. It would make me smile, every time it caught my eye.

Project Lampwork by Southern Flames, Atlanta ISGB Chapter

A couple of months back, Southern Flames, the Atlanta based chapter of the ISGB- International Society of Glass Beadmakers, had a meeting called Project Lampwork. I believe it was the brainchild of co-President, Sylvie Lansdowne. Our meeting attendees were divided up into 4 groups- one per set up torch, and each chose a magazine photo to create a bead that was inspired by it.

The team had a few minutes to make their decisions, grab their glass and then each team member had a few minutes to torch and then had to hand off the mandrel to the next team member. It was such a fun meeting, I'd highly recommend it.

We got to know our other team members a little better that evening. It was great seeing where each person went with their "part" of the bead and watching collaborative beadmaking.

The team I was on had two brand new beadmakers and two quite experienced ones. And having a lot of experience, at first I thought I would be doing some of the latter part of the bead. But analyzing it, my best use was getting the initial glass onto the mandrel into a nice shape quickly, so the others could add their decorations and interpretations. With only a few minutes each, we had to look what each person could do in the alloted time. And you know, it was kind of fun getting my turn out of the way first, so I could enjoy watching the others and seeing how they interpreted the inspiration. Each had different ideas and abilities. Each person stretched in different ways and it was an event that the Flames want to repeat in the future.

See you tomorrow at www.studiomarcy.blogspot.com

Urban Oasis for New Year's

After a busy holiday and 2010 being a bit crazy, my husband and I wanted to get away, but again, didn't have much time to travel. So this year, we opted for a "stay-cation".

We decided that a local bed and breakfast would be our choice for a few nights in an area of Atlanta, that we didn't know well.

We're both very casual laid back people and some of the "period" B & B's, were a little too formal for us. Very pretty, but more my Mom's or Grandmother's cup of tea, so to speak.

I was delighted to find Urban Oasis B & B in a kind of edgy part of the city that looked like fun. The last room was available, so I quickly booked it. This photo was taken from part of the upper balcony area.

It is a jumble of colors, textures and light hearted art that directly reflect the owners. There was a colorful fence, white lights, and three adorable basset hounds waiting our arrival in this rehabbed old metal cotton sorting building.

The owners were full of excellent information, the area was unique and close enough to plenty of great restaurants, places to go and the ambience was totally different than my suburban home waiting for me 35 minutes away. Would I do it again? Absolutely. There's so much more to explore.

I'll post more photos another time. There's plenty more to say about our 2 day adventure as well. And hopefully we set a precedence to do a mini escape more often. 2011 will be a year for adventures, I can already tell. (Oh, did I mention it's 2 blocks from a wonderful glass hot shop too?)

Simple Sets

Do you ever go back to your roots? I used to love making organic little beads for sets. I still think they're cool. Perhaps it's the silvered ivory that spreads around and looks a little like it has sprung from the earth. I added a touch of very soft moss green to give them the complete organic style. Here are 4 pairs sold together in my Etsy shop, http://www.StudioMarcy.etsy.com

(please note: this set is sold, but there's a similar set without the green, that was added.)

Just Sayin'

There is a term that is making the rounds that seems to be a current excuse for someone not always wanting to use a little tact. I keep hearing the words, "just sayin'" that follow an observation that can be somewhat bluntly stated or perhaps could be a touch harsh to someone.

The Urban Dictionary defines it by "a term coined to be used at the end of something insulting or offensive to take the heat off you when you say it."

I'm not sure that it's always meant to be offensive, but usually it's meant to tell someone what you're really thinking. Here in the South, another one is often used, "Bless (his or her) heart". Which is usually either preceded or followed by something said about someone that is insulting or mean spirited. It is usually said behind the person's back, which is less hurtful to the person who is the target, because they can't hear it, but perhaps is less "straight forward" than the other one.

I'm all for telling honest truths to someone you care about, but perhaps in a more diplomatic way. And I don't want you to think that I don't make mistakes, (some HUGE), and others a little smaller. But I did want to mention what I've noticed. It bothers me to see people's feelings hurt unnecessarily.

So from someone who is not perfect in any way, I'm just asking you to join me in taking another second or two before speaking if this current urge hits. It might make a big difference and it's so hard to take away words, once they are uttered.

I'm just sayin'