Bead Dreams and other things

I took some pictures of the polymer clay category of Bead Dreams. They’re not the greatest photos, lots of reflections etc. It’s wonderful to see the amazing array of work in the exhibit, but the layout of the exhibit is always disappointing. It’s in glass cabinets four shelves high. Some of the work is on the bottom shelf which is practically on the floor. I know space is a consideration, but it’s still hard to see some of the most amazing pieces displayed so low.

I also realized I never talked about Friday’s class with Laurel Kubby. It was very small, just two students, but I really enjoyed spending the day with Laurel, her sister and my fellow student Laurie. The project was a 3 strand ndebele bracelet and Laurel’s instructions were so helpful. I have a kit from another teacher that I couldn’t figure out and now I know how to approach it. As with all the teachers I had this year, it was a real pleasure to see Laurel’s beadwork up close. She had some incredibly amazing pieces with her. Her bead crochet pieces, especially her faux lariats were so great! Laurel also does some collaborative work with Dallas Lovett, spectacular pieces. I wish she had a web site to direct you to. If you have a chance to take a class with Laurel Kubby, go for it. She’s an excellent teacher.

The National Polymer Clay Guild had a booth at the Bead & Button Show for the first time this year. The location was great, right near the ticket booth. Judy Belcher did a wonderful job with the layout and staffing of the booth. (NPCG has a great article about the show) I did not get a chance to volunteer because I was in class all the time, but there were plenty of artists who volunteered to demo during the show hours. The booth really looked fantastic with laminated large format photos of work from the 2006 Progress & Possibilities exhibit as well as a beautiful display of a variety of work from various artists who were at the show in some capacity. I had a couple of my new pendants on display. It was great exposure, and I owe a big thanks to Judy for allowing me to participate.

It’s good to be home. I don’t expect to get much studio time in this week (if any!). It’s the last week of school and the kids have short days. My schedule is full of doctor’s appointments (the kids & the dogs), early pickups, sporting events and shopping for camp. I am working on finishing up the beading I started in Milwaukee and trying to digest the rest.

Looking back on this year’s Bead & Button is a bit bittersweet since I recently realized that I won’t be able to go next year. The show falls on my daughter’s high school graduation week. I’ll be busy, but not bead shopping. LOL