Collaborations

I have been an admirer of Mary's Granddaughter's (Cindy Steiler)

work since she joined the Etsy community.

I always thought that her embroidery pieces would pair well with my work,

but how and when was the question.

Then, I started my series of pocket watch crystal pendants.

It was Cindy who contacted me.

How about a collaboration of sorts?

I sent her a crystal and she made this embroidery.

She sent both back and

here you have the finished piece.

This is now Cindy's personal pendant.

See her wear it when she teaches a class

at Etsy Labs on Monday, December 13th at 5pm.

For more information, click here.

Collaborations

During our fifth season here in Maine, aptly called Mud Season, I yearn for inspiration in any form. Yes...I know...spring is around the corner but is hesitant to make her appearance. Brown, spoiled, mud-splattered landscapes replace the brilliance of snowcover. When the crocuses delay their emerging and the rains never fall to wash away this unsightly muck, I turn my attention towards creative avenues that distract my bleak opinion towards nature.

Last Mud Season, I focused on felt and embroidery (which ultimately inspired my return to jewelry after a LONG hiatus...but that is a story for another post). This year, I have teamed up with Kim Brennan of Helping Hands Pottery and a fellow Etsy Maine Team member. Kim has created miniature dioramas depicting pastoral farmsteads and forests. She approached me a over our usual Wednesday night brew to design settings for these sweet little sculptures. I heartily agreed and a collaboration was born.

I receive much joy and fulfillment working with a comrade, creating splendid items. The moment when her dioramas find homes in my ring settings is much like spotting the first crocus of spring....a harbinger of great things to come!!!