January 4, 2014

Challenges, Trends and Inspirations

Hello 2014! I'm starting the new year out by running full steam ahead.  I always have so many planned projects that never see the light of day.  That's over, time to create with wild abanonded. This is going to be the year I step it up.  Last year I coasted between crisises and had my creative super powers sapped by some pretty awful things that happened in my life.  Hopefully this year will be filled with energizing and exciting events, because that's what I'm planning!

One of my goals for 2014 is too rock the Art Bead Scene's monthly challenges with new beads each month.  I jumped right on it this week and created these amazing caladium pendants. This month's challenge is a luscious textile design from Louis Mailou Jones, you can read all about the challenge here.  You must enter this month - how could you not be inspired by the color palette!

As you can see, I certainly have been!  I created a few heart designs showing my love for nature.  I think you need to see more of that butterfly...


My second inspiration is Pantone's Color of the Year - Radiant Orchid.  I just jumped right in with creating pendants based on orchid sketches.  Orchid Pendant.

And I created a second pendant with a stem of orchids.  I kept the backgrounds fresh and clean with a white-wash finish - it just said spring to me with hints of dark brown for depth in the color.  And yes, I am counting down the days until Bead Cruise 2014, a week in the tropics can not get here fast enough!

Tomorrow I'll share my second round of bead inspirations for the start of the new year.

6 comments:

TesoriTrovati said...

Such an inspiring array! I can't wait to see what is in store for the ABS this year. I, too, will continue creating something special each month. And who knows? Maybe we can collaborate some time. Enjoy the day! Erin

Meridy said...

Heather, how beautiful and inspiring! The colors are so nourishing and rich. xoxo meridy

EB Bead and Metal Works, LLC said...

The beads are gorgeous (love the orchid beads and really love those caladium pendants. I am looking forward to your creations each month!

Alice said...

Such beautiful creations with lovely colors. I'm looking forward to seeing more in the coming year. I hope 2014 is all you want it to be, and then some.

Shai Williams said...

Oh I just love your new beads! Now I just wish that I hadn't already spent my budget for the month on beads.

Marie Cramp said...

Can't wait to see more and excited to be a part of it!!