Tribal jewelry from Gloria Ewing began with a love of indigenous cultures throughout the world. My jewelry designs have a primitive character and an uninhibited style. Vintage African elements are key to the themes, as well as some of my handmade components, and those of other artisans.
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Metal Therapy
When designing jewelry, my ongoing challenge is finding balance between disciplined technique and crazy unbridled creativity. I really can't have one without the other. Too disciplined is uninteresting, and too crazy is just chaotic. The earrings above lean more toward the disciplined end of the spectrum. I hammered the copper shapes and applied a darkening patina first, then the red patina later, and finished them with wire wrapped connectors. While the earrings below are a little crazier, with two colors of patina (blue and green), that have been wire brushed to reveal some of the brass metal beneath. Then a layer of slate gilder's paste over the patina to give a little added dimension. I have connected the brass charms to donut beads (from Outwest) with antique bronze wire and darkened copper wire.
Chrysalis Jewelry on Artfire
Chrysalis Too on Etsy
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I'd say you have succeeded admirably in balancing your designs, Gloria... these are both lovely!
ReplyDeleteHope the Holiday Season is good to you and yours!
Both are gorgeous... I think my sense of order draws me more toward the first pair. They would be a great go-to pair to have in your jewelry wardrobe!
ReplyDeleteFabulous earrings. My eyes kept coming back to the first pair with the lovely patina. I like how you described your different ways of going at a design.
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