I just got nothing.
It’s all boring me, so I’m not going to bore you with it.
I get out of bed. I shower (big effort). I try to make it past the sofa, and if I do make it, which is touch and go let me tell you… I go into the studio.
I have been making some stuff so it’s not all bad, but nothing else seems to get done.
To take my mind off it all I’ve decided that the jewelry needs a step up.
Every so often I think this is a good thing otherwise I feel I could become a little complacent, so I’ve decided that now nothing goes through the studio doors until it’s perfect.
Or as perfect as I can get it.
So I’ve slowed down.
I’m a very fast maker. I’ve always been that way. Actually, I don’t know if I’m a fast maker or that I just drop everything when I’m making and enter that zone where nothing else exists.
I don’t think this is particularly healthy, but it sure helps with shutting out all that world stuff.
But now I want to relax into it more.
Take my time and try not to get so excited about seeing the finished piece before it’s halfway made.
I always have at least two pieces on the go and this helps with the impatience somewhat, but how can someone be so particular about making all the fiddly bits that make up a piece of jewelry and yet be so impatient to have it be finished.
Anyway here are the latest.
I finished this.
And this, which was its running mate
Then there was this lovely piece of Willow Creek Jasper
Which slowly morphed into this.
Then I decided to make it a cousin.
Once removed.
And after a cup of tea.
I thought I’d get the ol’ turquoise out again.
Which after much fiddling.
Became this.
Next I decided to go big or go home.
But wasn’t quite sure what to do with them all.
I thought this might be a bit dark and moody for a flowery pendant.
Like a poisonous midnight bloom.
But wasn’t so sure about this one either.
I kind of liked this one.
But not with the tendrils as it looked a bit insect feelers like and creeped me out a bit.
In the end I chose this.
But must have been sleep making when I discovered that the shape was completely off at the top.
I don’t actually mind it, but it definitely needs something on top to balance it out.
So I’m off now to finish it.
I do have another African Green Opal which I’m going to make the other design with, so actually both drawings win, and that’s always a nice thing…
😉
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Wow, you have been busy! It would take me forever to make something like that, even if I knew how to solder like that. I love them all, but especially “the cousins”–I’m really into that elongated pendant shape right now. So graceful! It sounds like you are in the midst of the grief process–normal (and usually involving a little depression too) but debilitating at times too. I imagine that draggy, unmotivated feeling is especially difficult for someone as productive and bursting with creative ideas as yourself! (For lazy people like me, “unmotivated” is business as usual, haha). I am glad you have allowed yourself to slow down with your creating, to sink into it, so to speak. It is obviously therapeutic for you, as well as a calling. I don’t know you at all, and am not in your head, so just ignore me if I am saying things you already know, but I hope you are also allowing yourself to stop and simply grieve whenever that comes upon you. A good cry is no fun, but it helps too.
You know last week I gave myself permission to just lay on the sofa all day and not feel guilty about it. I only spent two days in the studio. In the back of my mind I always feel worried about it though, as though I’m wasting my life. It only happens around the studio and not the housework or other day to day things. As I said to Sue, however, I really think I’m due for a life change and re evaluate how I can balance everything up a little. Not sure it will happen though 😉
Slow? Step it up–how?!!!!
I like that first five-point rounded turquoise piece the best, with its leaves curling in on themselves; the finish turned out great, too. I also like how your backplate circles the Peruvian opal. Now I’m waiting to see what becomes of the dendritic opal, because I love ovals, especially sideways ovals, and that stone is just ovals-upon-ovals!
I should think you’re wearing yourself out, not boring yourself! Always happy to see you make time for that cup of tea….
I like how it looks as though the leaves are feet that are turned in on themselves, toe on toe, in a coy way 🙂 I think I’m definitely getting the tumbling down. It’s taken a lot of frustration out of finishing a piece. A little stumped on the dendritic opal right now, but keeping it on the table so I can see it.
You are so very talented…even when you are bored with yourself! Good grief, girl, I’m not sure how “stepped up” you could get…your work is beautiful! I’ll be back in Houston around June 2nd and am hoping to see these lovelies in person… and maybe we can have a cup of tea together…
Tea sounds great, but might well have to have Campioni’s salad again… just sayin’ 😉
I could not possibly pick a favorite, although turquoise is my stone of choice! All beautiful…and I enjoyed seeing the in-process pics on Instagram/Facebook, too. I wish I could sketch my designs. Sigh..
There is no timeline for grief…except to take the time TO grieve. It is essential…wishing you the best
Turquoise is definitely growing on me. Right now Instagram is good for me motivationally. Not as many words as blogging 😉
Do you take time for a little exercise? A nice walk or bike ride. I find that it help clear out the cobwebs. Your work certainly is beautiful. Maybe you don;t have to rush so much. As they say, take some time to smell the roses or such.
No. I did come back from England thinking that I need a whole change around and that would definitely fit into my plan. Not got there yet, but you may just have spurred me on. Darn Houston weather gets on my nerves for walking though.