July 15, 2015

The Editors Take the Art Bead Scene Challenge

This amazing painting was painted by Dutch Renaissance painter Balthasar van der Ast in the 1600's! You can read all about our monthly challenge here. When I saw this painting I fell in love with that collection of shells. Shells were considered exotic to the growing upper class during the Renaissance, collected from tropical locations from merchants traveling the globe. The Dutch would paint still lives with flowers, insects and other mementos that would not only show off their wealth but had a deeper meaning that all the things of this world are temporary and transient. 

I decided this month to create beads for the challenge. One thing I loved about the painting was the play of pattern, color and shapes from one shell to the next and created small collections of headpins inspired by the shells and berries in the painting. 






These are one-of-a-kind sets and can be found on my website, here

Stop by the Art Bead Scene today to see what our other editors were inspired to create! 

10 comments:

Saraccino said...

I love the organic shapes and colours of every single one! :)

Mary Harding said...

Your shells make such delightful and colorful headpins. I was thrilled to see that you included the berries in the painting as well. Since we have a few red currant bushes growing in our yard,seeing them in a painting from so long ago was a time warp for me. Bundling the shells and berries together as you did brings it full circle. Super!!

Claire Lockwood said...

Fabulous headpins, Heather. I'm sorely tempted!

Sarajo Wentling said...

Very cool! Love these!

Unknown said...

It is always exciting to see how others are inspired by the challenge! Wonderful!

Anonymous said...

Oh, these are totally fabulous. The colors and textures!! I also thought that the shell shapes would lend themselves so well to headpins.... people are going to make some amazing things with these! xo -- Julie

TesoriTrovati said...

You always put your spin on things in such a delightful way! I love the idea of the headpins. That is something I haven't really tried making but will keep that in the back of my mind for a future challenge. I love the bright but crusty texture. Awesome stuff! I wish that I had had time to photograph my limited edition color palette for the Tide Pool Treasures beads for the Club. I quite like how they are turning out! But I thought we were doing Saturday. oops! Enjoy the day. Erin

baymoondesign said...

Great headpins that reflect the inspiration piece.

Linda said...

These are so wonderful. Love all the shapes, textures and colors!!!

Empty nester at last said...

Those are great pieces. You really did a great job. I love them all and could see them making great pairs of earrings!