Dream Horse
Fire Mountain Gems and Beads' Jewelry-Making Contest 2010 featuring Metal Clay, Metal Beads, Wirework and Chain
Category: Necklace
Gold Medal Prize Winner |
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Meet the Designer-Artist
Where do you live?
Naracoorte in South Australia.
Describe your artistic style.
My style varies quite a bit, but is generally quite elaborate and detailed with lots of smaller elements 'hidden' in the main piece.
What inspires you as a designer-artist?
My main source of inspiration comes from Nature and also horses. I make a lot of equestrian themed jewelry. I'm also inspired by the materials that I use such as beautiful gemstones in rich natural color schemes.
What materials do you most enjoy working with?
My favorite material is wire, mostly silver and copper. I also love working with gemstones, metal and Crystals.
What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
Dream Horse
What inspired this design?
My life-long love affair with horses inspired this piece. When I was a little girl I used to dream of owning a horse one day so I dedicate this piece to all those others who dream of horses.
How did it come together? For example, did you plan it out or did it define itself once you began working?
I didn't start off with a plan, but the piece did develop and come together as I was making it.
Share Your Background
When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?
I began making jewelry around 4 years ago. I started playing around with some beads that I'd bought for my mum and I was hooked. Once I discovered wire, I found my true passion with jewelry.
Who introduced you to beading?
I introduced myself to beading and am self-taught.
Do you have an artistic background?
My mother is very artistic, so I was always exposed to artistic things although I wouldn't consider myself an artist.
How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and BeadsĀ®?
I was searching for horse beads a few years ago and came across Fire Mountain's web site. I was blown away with the selection and I've been a customer for some time now. You can't beat Fire Mountain for customer service. Packages arrive in Australia only a few days after ordering and the staff are the best to deal with!
What other hobbies do you have?
My favorite pastime is spending time with my horses and my dog. They help keep me centered and in the real world. I appreciate their wisdom and honesty.
Do you belong to any beading societies or beading groups?
I belong to the Beading Forum (www.beadingforum.com.au) which is a great place to chat with fellow beaders and find out what is going on in Australian beading.
Beading Success
What role does jewelry-making play in your life?
For me jewelry making is a hobby and helps me to wind down and relax when I'm not working.
Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?
Just go for it! Try lots of different things and work on developing your own style.
View all of Liz's designs in the Gallery of Designs. |