Monday, October 29, 2007

Something old, something new ...

and not a wedding on the calendar. This necklace really challenged me mentally.
The elephant was part of a vintage bracelet, I almost didn't buy it because it was labelled 'hand carved bone'. After wandering away a few times I realised that I somehow needed to give new life to this old piece - in order to justify the death of whatever animal it was carved from. When I ran the blow torch over the pieces, to highlight the texture, the terrible smell which arose confirmed I was indeed working with real bone.
I sat and looked at this piece for ages- waiting for it to talk to me, wanting to do it justice. I wasted more copper wire, trying a couple of arrangements, than I have in the entire past year.
Now I am happy the piece tells the story I wanted it to and I enjoyed wearing it today. I will list it on etsy later in the week.

The beautiful tassels were my swap with Doreen! They are even more luxurious in real life; I keep running my fingers down them.
The wind spinner below features beautiful buttons (you know I love those), stones and mirrors; it was a gift from Melissa and came with a wonderful canvas and beautiful quiltie. I have definitely been spoilt this week.

8 comments:

Janet said...

The bone piece is very powerful and I think you certainly did it justice by saving it and using it in this way. It is so sad that animals have been, and still are, killed for their bones, tusks, etc.

The tassels are gorgeous and I love the wind spinner, too. You deserve to be spoiled. You do so much beautiful art for others to enjoy.

Steph said...

Oh my, this necklace is awsome ! And so are the gifts you received, love the tassels , how big are they ? Can't wait to see what you do with them !

Melissa said...

The necklace is beautiful - you've made something powerful and meaningful from it. The image and the fact it was made of bone...I don't quite have the words to express the cliche and stupidity(? not quite the word I am looking for) of it. You've lifted it.

The windspinner looks really organic and lovely in that tree! I like it there.

Ro Bruhn said...

What lovely gifts Julie and wow what a beautiful necklace, you certainly did the bone justice. I love the crystal beads, such a lovely colour.
Ro
xo

kelsey said...

Love, love, love how you've incorporated the rusty nail into the piece with the bone elephant! Looks fantastic and it adds an authenticity to it's design....in my opinion of course! lol

Dot said...

You have done a AMAZING job with the bone elephant. And it is a very striking piece. Love the rusty nail. It adds the perfect touch. I know someone will love it!!

As the lucky recipient of one of Doreen's tassles I know how wonderful they are. And how tactile too.

Melissa's wind spinner is stunning!!

Anonymous said...

What a magnificent piece Julie - you are one talented lady.
Mx

Still Waters Studio said...

I love the elephant necklace! I was especially intrigued by the clasp. I assume you made it. It's lovely and the combination of the nail, elephant, and key is great.
I agree that you deserve the beautiful gifts! Such a thoughtful person.
Sherry