06 December 2011
05 December 2011
The show at Masterworks went well.
Got good feedback, some good exposure. Nothing sold, but then, that's how it always is, some sells, some doesn't. Not too fussed about the selling part.
Got good feedback, some good exposure. Nothing sold, but then, that's how it always is, some sells, some doesn't. Not too fussed about the selling part.
Point
Chevalier, March 2011
2011
Brass,
copper, silver, 9ct gold, handmade synthetic cord
Point
Chevalier is one of the places I go when my mind is so overwhelmed that I can’t
seem to untangle my thoughts. I find I can detach myself from the urgency of
daily life simply through walking, and being outdoors. Time slows, thoughts
deepen, and a sense of clarity and vision is reached.
Objects and
details from the surrounding environment reveal themselves as the mind is free
to absorb them. Connection to a place through the interaction with found
objects is highly therapeutic; the feeling of being grounded is never as
accessible as when one is interacting with the world. This body of work is
informed by a collection of objects gathered from one such walk.
My work
functions beyond the wearing of an object, providing the opportunity of
interaction in unexpected ways. It highlights the importance of physical
engagement with one’s environment, and aims to encourage people to seek
opportunities to calm and clear the mind.
“I like
walking because it is slow, and I suspect that the mind, like the feet, works
at about three miles an hour. If this is so, then modern life is moving faster
than the speed of thought, or thoughtfulness.”
- Rebecca
Solnit
01 October 2011
I Want a Messy Table
I'm feeling the lack of having a big table to lay everything out on. And unease of having my work space in two areas.
I miss my big tables at uni where I could have part of it covered in setting rubber/plastic, another smothered in bits of paper and drawings and some scattered pencils and a water tray, and a section on the side for 'things on the go', and some random useless things that added character but had nothing much to do with anything else.
And my pin board that was above it. The flow of that room was amazing! You couldn't go in there an NOT make. It just happened!!
And I miss that.
I miss my big tables at uni where I could have part of it covered in setting rubber/plastic, another smothered in bits of paper and drawings and some scattered pencils and a water tray, and a section on the side for 'things on the go', and some random useless things that added character but had nothing much to do with anything else.
And my pin board that was above it. The flow of that room was amazing! You couldn't go in there an NOT make. It just happened!!
And I miss that.
Too Close for Comfort
Four weeks to go.
In my original, ambitious and, probably a bit naive, self-written brief I wanted to be finished making COMPLETELY by now. Yet what I have to show is no-where near gallery-exhibition standard.
My diary has been wiped of all other commitments (save coaching, hockey and a spin class!) and a big 'JEWELLERY' scrawled across most of the pages for the next 12 days. A big making blitz.
I don't like the feeling of this pressure, yet without it, I appear unable to make. Blinded in the headlights of 'oh I have ages' and not knowing quite where to start....until the due date gets so close that there is no question of WHERE to start anymore.
I seem to work best in big fits and bursts of making.
This will have to be something to factor into my work time-line in the future.
Go with the grain, not against it.
Yet, while Ive been ever so slowly getting to the point of enough pressure to get me making, I've been thinking of ways I can change the way I work and think and make.
My ways are too linear. I think of something, I draw it up, then I make it.
Ta-da!
But I never move within the idea, or change. I've spent too long NOT making and out of an environment where I am constantly pushed to try new things and experiment, that I've forgotten how to do it.
After this I have a 24-ish week gap before the next exhibition. So some time to sit down and have a think about 'where-to-next' and some new fresh ideas, or at least ways of making.
Bring back the experimentation...and perhaps bring a few more tools into the wee workshop to help!
In my original, ambitious and, probably a bit naive, self-written brief I wanted to be finished making COMPLETELY by now. Yet what I have to show is no-where near gallery-exhibition standard.
My diary has been wiped of all other commitments (save coaching, hockey and a spin class!) and a big 'JEWELLERY' scrawled across most of the pages for the next 12 days. A big making blitz.
I don't like the feeling of this pressure, yet without it, I appear unable to make. Blinded in the headlights of 'oh I have ages' and not knowing quite where to start....until the due date gets so close that there is no question of WHERE to start anymore.
I seem to work best in big fits and bursts of making.
This will have to be something to factor into my work time-line in the future.
Go with the grain, not against it.
Yet, while Ive been ever so slowly getting to the point of enough pressure to get me making, I've been thinking of ways I can change the way I work and think and make.
My ways are too linear. I think of something, I draw it up, then I make it.
Ta-da!
But I never move within the idea, or change. I've spent too long NOT making and out of an environment where I am constantly pushed to try new things and experiment, that I've forgotten how to do it.
After this I have a 24-ish week gap before the next exhibition. So some time to sit down and have a think about 'where-to-next' and some new fresh ideas, or at least ways of making.
Bring back the experimentation...and perhaps bring a few more tools into the wee workshop to help!
06 September 2011
For the Love of Routine
I'm loving working full-time. Something I never thought I'd ever say!!
I love the life style, the routine. I love going out for lunch, going out for dinner after work, having a drink after work, hanging around the a large bunch of people every day, being busy everyday but at 5pm, dropping it all and going home. I love free evenings and WEEKENDS! Omg, weekends, are amazing! I don't miss assignments at all. Not one bit! I also like how precious free-time becomes, and how easily it fills up with events and friends and family.
I am, however, finding it difficult to make the time to sit down and make. Which is a bit of a problem with an exhibition in 8 weeks!!! Every weekend I set time aside for making in my diary, usually a 4-5 hour block. But things like lunches crop up, or a walk with a friend, or a brunch that turns into a long gossip session. And then I get home, and I'm tired, so I need to sit down and chill out for a bit, and then, of course, its nearly dinner time, so I 'don't have enough time to get anything decent done' and then its time to go out or to bed! And I've done nothing. And then the next weekend comes around, and my exhibition is one week closer, and I'm still on square one!
I know that all I need to do is sit down and do it....and actually keep the time I set aside FREE for making jewellery, rather than accepting other plans. But other plans just seem so much more attractive than sitting down in the garage by myself!!
Thats where the self-discipline comes in doesn't it.
Yes. Perhaps I've been subconsciously waiting until the deadline is looming closer and closer...get some time-pressure to fuel my creativity.
I know what I'm making, << here's a picture of the collage I'm going to turn into a necklace :)
I just have to go down and do it! Oh, and buy some metal! I seem to have run out...which is not ideal!
And this time, the mechanisms WILL work!!!
I love the life style, the routine. I love going out for lunch, going out for dinner after work, having a drink after work, hanging around the a large bunch of people every day, being busy everyday but at 5pm, dropping it all and going home. I love free evenings and WEEKENDS! Omg, weekends, are amazing! I don't miss assignments at all. Not one bit! I also like how precious free-time becomes, and how easily it fills up with events and friends and family.
I am, however, finding it difficult to make the time to sit down and make. Which is a bit of a problem with an exhibition in 8 weeks!!! Every weekend I set time aside for making in my diary, usually a 4-5 hour block. But things like lunches crop up, or a walk with a friend, or a brunch that turns into a long gossip session. And then I get home, and I'm tired, so I need to sit down and chill out for a bit, and then, of course, its nearly dinner time, so I 'don't have enough time to get anything decent done' and then its time to go out or to bed! And I've done nothing. And then the next weekend comes around, and my exhibition is one week closer, and I'm still on square one!
I know that all I need to do is sit down and do it....and actually keep the time I set aside FREE for making jewellery, rather than accepting other plans. But other plans just seem so much more attractive than sitting down in the garage by myself!!
Thats where the self-discipline comes in doesn't it.
Yes. Perhaps I've been subconsciously waiting until the deadline is looming closer and closer...get some time-pressure to fuel my creativity.
I know what I'm making, << here's a picture of the collage I'm going to turn into a necklace :)
I just have to go down and do it! Oh, and buy some metal! I seem to have run out...which is not ideal!
And this time, the mechanisms WILL work!!!
Click, 2011
Click, 2011, brass, 9ct gold, handmade synthetic cord.
Images of my entry to Neckware 8 at Masterworks.
My piece was the first to sell :)
Was a really good experience, seeing my work in a public space and seeing it among other pieces. Also helpful in seeing how my work portrays itself when its simply hung on a white wall. Interesting!
I have the piece back with me to fix, as the mechanism used tends to loosen...which is a bit sad.
Its the first time I used the mechanism, and looks like it needs some fleshing out.
Was and awesome idea, I absolutely love this necklace, but just not quite as good in real life :)
And that's another thing I'm grateful for....learning things like this!
28 June 2011
Hello Real World
So, after spending 6 months trying to work part-time and make part-time and constantly having no money and saving little tiny amounts of money to 'one day' buy a tool, I have come to realise that right now, for me, I need full-time work.
The same day I realised this, I got a call from my brother saying the company he works for was looking for a receptionist...a sign from above? perhaps....so Monday I send in my CV and recieved a call 3 hours later, Tuesday I have the first interview and get called back for a 2nd interview a few hours later again, Wednesday have 3rd interview and walk away as a future employee at Jasmax in Parnel.
All happened so quickly, still don't feel like its real!!!
I (yes, idealistic me, ever the dreamer) have always been against working full-time, always thought that somehow I'd be able to work and make part-time. But good old reality has hit, and it's unrealistic at this stage. Unless I want to live at home with my parents forever and be in constant debt! Neither of which seem very appealing!
So full-time job it is. And lets see where that takes me!
Sometimes I feel like I've done this all backwards. Spent 4 years studying something that will not bring me an income to survive on (because I don't really want to go down the highly commercial line of work), yet have no other qualifications that will help me on my way to getting a job that WILL pay the bills.
This dilemma reminds me of a conversation I had with Amberleigh from Artists Alliance at the Mentor Meet & Greet party a few weeks ago. She was talking about her line of work and that Artists Alliance aim to show artists that yes, they have a creative degree in a field that doesnt neccessarily lead to a full-time job if you want to maintain the level of enjoyment you get from your chosen field, but, your qualification has taught you many skills and qualities that will make you an even better employee than a lot of people out there currently working in a lot of different positions. The skills you learn from a degree aren't confined only to the one strand you have specialised in. And that was something which really hit home for me, and made me realise that there was a lot I COULD do out in the 'real world'. It is a piece of advice I will happily pass on!!
So, to anyone else just finishing or starting out even, don't be surprised if it takes you 6 months or more to realise that finding your feet in the real world may not happen as you planned or thought it would, and accept every opportunity to learn something new whenever you can. Even if youre doing an 'art/design' degree, you're learning so many other skills at the same time that will help you out later down the track, without even realising it!
I think nothing can really prepare you for your own journey out into the 'real world' as everyones journey is so different. And its one of those hindsight things, once youve DONE it, then you look back and say "so THATS what they were talking about"... then proceed to undertake your own futile attempts to educate and warn those who are about to leave their degrees as to the trials a tribulations of the transition from the safety of tertiary institition and into the real world! :)
Good luck to all!
Oh, and dont, by any means, think that I am out in the clear. I'm still on my journey, and I think it will go on for a lot longer!!!
The same day I realised this, I got a call from my brother saying the company he works for was looking for a receptionist...a sign from above? perhaps....so Monday I send in my CV and recieved a call 3 hours later, Tuesday I have the first interview and get called back for a 2nd interview a few hours later again, Wednesday have 3rd interview and walk away as a future employee at Jasmax in Parnel.
All happened so quickly, still don't feel like its real!!!
I (yes, idealistic me, ever the dreamer) have always been against working full-time, always thought that somehow I'd be able to work and make part-time. But good old reality has hit, and it's unrealistic at this stage. Unless I want to live at home with my parents forever and be in constant debt! Neither of which seem very appealing!
So full-time job it is. And lets see where that takes me!
Sometimes I feel like I've done this all backwards. Spent 4 years studying something that will not bring me an income to survive on (because I don't really want to go down the highly commercial line of work), yet have no other qualifications that will help me on my way to getting a job that WILL pay the bills.
This dilemma reminds me of a conversation I had with Amberleigh from Artists Alliance at the Mentor Meet & Greet party a few weeks ago. She was talking about her line of work and that Artists Alliance aim to show artists that yes, they have a creative degree in a field that doesnt neccessarily lead to a full-time job if you want to maintain the level of enjoyment you get from your chosen field, but, your qualification has taught you many skills and qualities that will make you an even better employee than a lot of people out there currently working in a lot of different positions. The skills you learn from a degree aren't confined only to the one strand you have specialised in. And that was something which really hit home for me, and made me realise that there was a lot I COULD do out in the 'real world'. It is a piece of advice I will happily pass on!!
So, to anyone else just finishing or starting out even, don't be surprised if it takes you 6 months or more to realise that finding your feet in the real world may not happen as you planned or thought it would, and accept every opportunity to learn something new whenever you can. Even if youre doing an 'art/design' degree, you're learning so many other skills at the same time that will help you out later down the track, without even realising it!
I think nothing can really prepare you for your own journey out into the 'real world' as everyones journey is so different. And its one of those hindsight things, once youve DONE it, then you look back and say "so THATS what they were talking about"... then proceed to undertake your own futile attempts to educate and warn those who are about to leave their degrees as to the trials a tribulations of the transition from the safety of tertiary institition and into the real world! :)
Good luck to all!
Oh, and dont, by any means, think that I am out in the clear. I'm still on my journey, and I think it will go on for a lot longer!!!
17 June 2011
Update
So, what have I been up to lately?
I've bought a pair of needle nose pliers, yes, tool geek I know! I kept having to go into Unitec to use a pair and it was quite annoying, having to go and do such a small thing at a completely different location. I think the main reason was that I was in the middle of bending a pin and it snapped off so I had to go all the way back home to solder it back on then thought, nah, Ill just go and buy my OWN pliers rather than going back and forth like this!!!
Next on the list??
A swage block!!!
Bit more expensive than a pair of needle nose pliers so may be a wee while away!!! Sigh.
Also, been working at a new job for the past month or so. Reception work which is nice because when I go home, I leave the job at the door!!! And its nice break for my brain and my hands/elbows from the jewellery making :)
AND...been making a few pieces of jewellery for a friend of my brothers. Which has been good. recording time and expenses and travel and things. Getting into good habits. Well, trying to!!
So things are giong, not too fast which is good actually, because it means I can get used to things and slowly adjust!
Never thought it'd take over 6 months to get used to not being at uni tho...think I still have a wee way to go before Im feeling comfortable in my new routines and environments but its getting there, and thats the main thing :)
I've bought a pair of needle nose pliers, yes, tool geek I know! I kept having to go into Unitec to use a pair and it was quite annoying, having to go and do such a small thing at a completely different location. I think the main reason was that I was in the middle of bending a pin and it snapped off so I had to go all the way back home to solder it back on then thought, nah, Ill just go and buy my OWN pliers rather than going back and forth like this!!!
Next on the list??
A swage block!!!
Bit more expensive than a pair of needle nose pliers so may be a wee while away!!! Sigh.
Also, been working at a new job for the past month or so. Reception work which is nice because when I go home, I leave the job at the door!!! And its nice break for my brain and my hands/elbows from the jewellery making :)
AND...been making a few pieces of jewellery for a friend of my brothers. Which has been good. recording time and expenses and travel and things. Getting into good habits. Well, trying to!!
So things are giong, not too fast which is good actually, because it means I can get used to things and slowly adjust!
Never thought it'd take over 6 months to get used to not being at uni tho...think I still have a wee way to go before Im feeling comfortable in my new routines and environments but its getting there, and thats the main thing :)
AMP 'Do Your Thing' Scholarship
The voting for the Peoples Choice award has been open all this month and will be until July 17th!!!
Follow the below link to vote for me :)
http://www.doyourthing.co.nz/2011-01014/stephanie-o-neale
I need as may votes as I can gather, so spread the word!!!
Follow the below link to vote for me :)
http://www.doyourthing.co.nz/2011-01014/stephanie-o-neale
I need as may votes as I can gather, so spread the word!!!
SUCCESS
My necklace that was made for Neckware 8 has been SELECTED to be part of the show!
So exciting!!!!
So, at Masterworks Gallery on Ponsonby Road (inbetween the Fairy Shop and the Garden Party shop) 20 necklaces/neck-pieces will be on show :)
The exhibition runs from Thursday 7th July until Sunday 24th July.
Preview is on Wednesday 6th July at 5.30pm :)
So exciting!!!!
So, at Masterworks Gallery on Ponsonby Road (inbetween the Fairy Shop and the Garden Party shop) 20 necklaces/neck-pieces will be on show :)
The exhibition runs from Thursday 7th July until Sunday 24th July.
Preview is on Wednesday 6th July at 5.30pm :)
24 May 2011
Last Minute - as always
Found an email from Masterworks about a call for submissions for an exhibition called Neckware 8...when I first read it (MONTHS ago) I sort of thought, oh no, I won't enter that. Not yet. I'm not ready.
And I stumbled across it a few days ago and thought...what?! of COURSE I can enter that!!!
Worst that will happen is they will say no thankyou.
So, now i have a week to make, photograph and write up about a piece of work!
haha....so much for missing the deadlines of uni, life seems to have lots of deadlines itself :)
Nice to have to rush to make something though, and to work under a bit of pressure!
So keep your eyes peeled here for pics of this new piece :)
And I stumbled across it a few days ago and thought...what?! of COURSE I can enter that!!!
Worst that will happen is they will say no thankyou.
So, now i have a week to make, photograph and write up about a piece of work!
haha....so much for missing the deadlines of uni, life seems to have lots of deadlines itself :)
Nice to have to rush to make something though, and to work under a bit of pressure!
So keep your eyes peeled here for pics of this new piece :)
20 May 2011
Creative Space
Went into uni last week for a chat.
Really miss going to a place that is creative and productive! And talking to people engaged in creative mediums. Gah. Home just isn't cutting it.
Have been looking at a few studios and stuff around. But they're not that easy to find and I don't know exactly what I need!
And I have a TINY income. Sigh.
What to do?!
Really miss going to a place that is creative and productive! And talking to people engaged in creative mediums. Gah. Home just isn't cutting it.
Have been looking at a few studios and stuff around. But they're not that easy to find and I don't know exactly what I need!
And I have a TINY income. Sigh.
What to do?!
15 May 2011
"It has a life and life creates a patina."
- Christoph Zellweger
http://www.christophzellweger.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/cz-042-059_text.pdf
- Christoph Zellweger
http://www.christophzellweger.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/cz-042-059_text.pdf
Contemporary Jewellery ? :/
Been searching around for questions to answer in my video, and there is some intriguing material out there. The most common question is 'What is Contemporary Jewellery?'.
AskJeeves.com gives us this answer
"Contemporary Jewellery is a type of practice - understood as the contemporary offspring of a craft-based design activity that finds its origin in medieval workshops"
At the most basic level, I'm happy with that. It doesn't to anything to glorify it, yet it doesn't deface it either. Its a type of practice, yes, and it has stemmed from craft-based design and medieval metal work and goldsmithing. I think the craft element here is important in distinguishing it from fine or fashion jewellery. Yet some people hate to be aligned with the connotations that come with the word 'craft'. I don't mind, I don't think that people will look at a piece of work and go...oh its just 'craft'....i think if we push the fact that work has been 'crafted' then thats fine, I think the work should help to redefine peoples perception of 'craft'. Sure, it used to be knitting, crochet, furniture, sewing, but this is the 21st century, and a lot of meanings are changing. If people are confronted with a piece of contemporary jewellery, and they have a perception of that being craft, yet this piece isn't a knitted cardigan....I think that will speak for itself, and people will have to rethink what craft is, or, as the narrow-minded will, dismiss it and carry on. Their loss!
One thing I have picked up on that is really helping me to come to terms with what contemporary jewellery is....is that fact that it only reaches a small audience, and being aware of that isn't limiting. I think it helps push work, because the people who will view and appreciate the work, are essentially aware of whats already been done, whats being done, what ideas are current...rather than trying to 'teach' the masses what contemporary jewellery is...which just seems a bit silly. It'd be like, when the internet first became available, trying reach EVERYONE to teach them how to use it and what its purpose was, not just the few were interested. I do think it is important for us to push the perceptions of as many people as possible, but we need to be prepared for people to not understand, and not be accepting of it. Especially those outside of the contemporary jewellery realm. I think when the jewellery comes into contact with the public it is exciting, but I do not think contemporary jewellery needs to jump out there and try to force people to understand it. I think it needs to be happy with itself, content to not be at the forefront of everyones jewellery needs. If it was...it would just be mainstream wouldn't it...and then it would lose its integrity altogether.
This article with Lisbeth den Besten helped a lot. I recognised her from the video I watched yesterday too.
http://www.klimt02.net/forum/index.php?item_id=948
AskJeeves.com gives us this answer
"Contemporary Jewellery is a type of practice - understood as the contemporary offspring of a craft-based design activity that finds its origin in medieval workshops"
At the most basic level, I'm happy with that. It doesn't to anything to glorify it, yet it doesn't deface it either. Its a type of practice, yes, and it has stemmed from craft-based design and medieval metal work and goldsmithing. I think the craft element here is important in distinguishing it from fine or fashion jewellery. Yet some people hate to be aligned with the connotations that come with the word 'craft'. I don't mind, I don't think that people will look at a piece of work and go...oh its just 'craft'....i think if we push the fact that work has been 'crafted' then thats fine, I think the work should help to redefine peoples perception of 'craft'. Sure, it used to be knitting, crochet, furniture, sewing, but this is the 21st century, and a lot of meanings are changing. If people are confronted with a piece of contemporary jewellery, and they have a perception of that being craft, yet this piece isn't a knitted cardigan....I think that will speak for itself, and people will have to rethink what craft is, or, as the narrow-minded will, dismiss it and carry on. Their loss!
One thing I have picked up on that is really helping me to come to terms with what contemporary jewellery is....is that fact that it only reaches a small audience, and being aware of that isn't limiting. I think it helps push work, because the people who will view and appreciate the work, are essentially aware of whats already been done, whats being done, what ideas are current...rather than trying to 'teach' the masses what contemporary jewellery is...which just seems a bit silly. It'd be like, when the internet first became available, trying reach EVERYONE to teach them how to use it and what its purpose was, not just the few were interested. I do think it is important for us to push the perceptions of as many people as possible, but we need to be prepared for people to not understand, and not be accepting of it. Especially those outside of the contemporary jewellery realm. I think when the jewellery comes into contact with the public it is exciting, but I do not think contemporary jewellery needs to jump out there and try to force people to understand it. I think it needs to be happy with itself, content to not be at the forefront of everyones jewellery needs. If it was...it would just be mainstream wouldn't it...and then it would lose its integrity altogether.
This article with Lisbeth den Besten helped a lot. I recognised her from the video I watched yesterday too.
http://www.klimt02.net/forum/index.php?item_id=948
14 May 2011
Jewellery Talk - interviews 2006
A film by Kajsa Lindberg and Daniela Hedman
http://www.jewellerytalk.se/
Going to make a video for my scholarship application, so looked online for some examples of people talking about their work. Just spent almost an hour watching this following video. A range of very big people in the contemporary jewellery world are interviewed and its really interesting, especially for me as an ex-student who is kind of struggling to figure out whats going on and what my future path is, to hear them talk about what jewellery means to them, and where they see it going, and some give a little about their past. I love Otto Kunzli in his interview. He is such a passionate man and it is really inspiring to hear him talking about jewellery and his hopes for the future of his school. One thing he said that really struck a cord with me was when he was discussing his disgust at the attitude of students who ask about their employability after they have finished their courses. "Taking the adventure, the risk of a life they don't really know where it leads to, which i think is great, is wonderful, is crazy, is a really crazy thing to do.....employment is the end of creativism, of being creative....without the creating aspect we are not humans anymore".
I just loved that. It kind of gives me a small piece of mind about being confused, and having no idea where Im going to go, and the adventures that will take place. Gives me an acceptance of that, that its okay, and it all will work out.
Which then leads me to one of my favourite quotes...."Everything works out alright in the end...and if its not alright...then its not the end!"
Grab a cup of tea and something to nibble on, as it is quite lengthy :) But worth it for the messages you get out of it
http://www.jewellerytalk.se/
Going to make a video for my scholarship application, so looked online for some examples of people talking about their work. Just spent almost an hour watching this following video. A range of very big people in the contemporary jewellery world are interviewed and its really interesting, especially for me as an ex-student who is kind of struggling to figure out whats going on and what my future path is, to hear them talk about what jewellery means to them, and where they see it going, and some give a little about their past. I love Otto Kunzli in his interview. He is such a passionate man and it is really inspiring to hear him talking about jewellery and his hopes for the future of his school. One thing he said that really struck a cord with me was when he was discussing his disgust at the attitude of students who ask about their employability after they have finished their courses. "Taking the adventure, the risk of a life they don't really know where it leads to, which i think is great, is wonderful, is crazy, is a really crazy thing to do.....employment is the end of creativism, of being creative....without the creating aspect we are not humans anymore".
I just loved that. It kind of gives me a small piece of mind about being confused, and having no idea where Im going to go, and the adventures that will take place. Gives me an acceptance of that, that its okay, and it all will work out.
Which then leads me to one of my favourite quotes...."Everything works out alright in the end...and if its not alright...then its not the end!"
Grab a cup of tea and something to nibble on, as it is quite lengthy :) But worth it for the messages you get out of it
12 May 2011
Western Springs Adventure
pretty!
cute wee skinks trying to hide
weeping willow
so much water
gross, a hundred eels AND a swan. yuck!
Western Springs
Went to gather a collection today. And what a glorious day to have done so! Blue skies as far as the eye could see and no wind at all :) I think I got carried away enjoying myself and didn't really focus much on the collecting. Which is fine, I 'collected' heaps of photographs and 'interacted with my environment'! So thats the most important thing!!!!
I forget how cool Western Springs is! So many different types of 'wild' life there! Heaps of birds but also adorable wee skinks (who all came out and were bathing in the sun, but scuttled away as soon as i got near!), gross eels, wee fish in the ponds. I had a pukeko follow me around the whole place! From start to finish.
Was a lovely way to spend a morning and also helped concrete my desire to encourage people to get out and about and into their environments and explore these types of places again. And regularly!
On the way I saw such an ironic scene. A mother and child were walking to school/daycare and the child was bending over to pick up something from the grass but he could only reach with one hand and was uncomfortably stretched as his mum was holding his other hand and was half bent down and talking on the phone and had NO idea what the kid was doing. I thought....so sad! Why doesn't the mum bend over and look too? Put her phone away while she walks to school with her son. Maybe it was a really important phone call but surely it could have waited 20 minutes!
I forget how cool Western Springs is! So many different types of 'wild' life there! Heaps of birds but also adorable wee skinks (who all came out and were bathing in the sun, but scuttled away as soon as i got near!), gross eels, wee fish in the ponds. I had a pukeko follow me around the whole place! From start to finish.
Was a lovely way to spend a morning and also helped concrete my desire to encourage people to get out and about and into their environments and explore these types of places again. And regularly!
On the way I saw such an ironic scene. A mother and child were walking to school/daycare and the child was bending over to pick up something from the grass but he could only reach with one hand and was uncomfortably stretched as his mum was holding his other hand and was half bent down and talking on the phone and had NO idea what the kid was doing. I thought....so sad! Why doesn't the mum bend over and look too? Put her phone away while she walks to school with her son. Maybe it was a really important phone call but surely it could have waited 20 minutes!
10 May 2011
A into G
Just got a second job!! So income should hopefully be a bit more meaning I have some more cash to spend on purchasing much needed tools! As well as saving up for some bigger things....a trip to Sydney for research would be cool!!! Or Melbourne!1 And a laptop! So I can work anywhere!!
Oh the dreams!
But you see...thats part of the problem! I have all these ambitious dreams but seem to lack the financial finesse to be able to carry them out! hahaha. Will just have to keep at it!
Anyway, new job, more income, new tools, more structure/routine (self-discipline....hmmm), will equal more work, more opportunities...a better journey, and hopefully, some success along the way!
Perfect!
Oh the dreams!
But you see...thats part of the problem! I have all these ambitious dreams but seem to lack the financial finesse to be able to carry them out! hahaha. Will just have to keep at it!
Anyway, new job, more income, new tools, more structure/routine (self-discipline....hmmm), will equal more work, more opportunities...a better journey, and hopefully, some success along the way!
Perfect!
26 April 2011
do not forget Lynn Kelly
Lynn Kelly is a jeweller who's work I come across every now and then and think 'cool' but never jot down!
Silly really.
I really like how her pieces are a bit rough and organic looking, hinting at a texture ... which has been something I have tried to achieve in my own pieces in the past.
I also enjoy the use of colour in her Rosehip pieces (shown). She has used coloured thread and actual Rosehips to add colour in a way that is interesting, but without being overwhelming.
Renee Boyd
Saw NZ ceramicist Renee Boyd's gorgeous work at the NZ 52nd National Ceramics Exhibition, held at the Mt Eden Village Community Centre.
It was a stand out piece for me and I loved the layers, shapes, the cut-outs and the mute, natural tones.
Perhaps I should start piercing some of my charms? Could give it a go.
Would be interesting to find out Renee's creative process and whether she uses drawings as a method to help her create, and if she did, to see some of them!!!
Also interesting is the block colours I seem to be attracted to which is something I havent previously used in any of my pieces. But is also something I was attracted to in Julie Blyfield's work too. Need to investigate ways to colour my pieces in one, even colour....
19 April 2011
Its Official!
I officially hold a Bachelor of Design - Three Dimensional (Contemporary Craft)
Woohoo!!! So good to be done with uni and so nice to have an official ceremony to end it all with!
Gives you a bit of inspiration too, makes you think about the past 4 years and what you've learnt and achieved.
Our guest speaker Yvonne Willering said there were 4 types of people in the world...those that hope things will happen, those that wait for things to happen, those that wonder what the hell is happening...and those that make it happen! The journey and the performance is more important than the success at the end. :)
Wicked chat :)
Good words.
Yay for graduating :)
17 April 2011
Julie Blyfield
She makes gorgeous pieces. I love how they are direct references to objects/plants she has found/seen/collected/photographed. Her process reminds me a lot of my own and it's encouraging to see people out there being successful in something very similar to what I want to be making!
I love the clusters of similar components in her pieces, the texture, the symmetry and the colours of her work.
Very inspiring.
This interview here on the JamPacked-JamFactory blog is pretty good in terms of outlining a few people and places that inspire her own work, as well as providing some insight into her thoughts and her process! :)
Cool!!!
We Live in a Vulnerable World
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/brene_brown_on_vulnerability.html
I found the above talk while roaming around on The Big Idea website.
I really liked it.
I do exactly what she talks about. I'm terrible with emotions. I know it. I don't cry unless I'm having a break down or I'm so tired I don't know what else to do. Maybe thats not so abnormal.
Anyway, I do the whole 'I don't want to feel this way so I'm just going to numb it and stop feeling this particular feeling' and it really hit home when she said you can't selectively numb emotions. I had a wee think about it and it seems true. It appears feasible. It makes sense. So to be truly happy, I have to feel all the crap stuff too....but that's just part of being human. And its part of being human that should be celebrated.
Easier said than done folks.
But I'll give it a try aye?
She also said that every human strives for connectivity. And feeling vulnerable makes us shy away from situations because we feel as if we will damage connections already made or that we want to make. This also seems so true. And feasible. I look at my actions and why I DON'T do things....and usually its because I don't want o be embarrassed, or for someone to think something different of me. To not be accepted. Yet the things we do that set us apart make us who we are. And make us better people, and the more authentic we are to who we are, the more people we can connect with.
Gah!
My work is ALL about connections and I think its interesting to relate my making to this stage in my life. I'm growing up, I'm meeting new people, I'm trying to find myself, to figure out who I am and what makes me me and to accept and love myself for it, and perhaps thats manifesting itself in my work...without me even intending it to :)
I found the above talk while roaming around on The Big Idea website.
I really liked it.
I do exactly what she talks about. I'm terrible with emotions. I know it. I don't cry unless I'm having a break down or I'm so tired I don't know what else to do. Maybe thats not so abnormal.
Anyway, I do the whole 'I don't want to feel this way so I'm just going to numb it and stop feeling this particular feeling' and it really hit home when she said you can't selectively numb emotions. I had a wee think about it and it seems true. It appears feasible. It makes sense. So to be truly happy, I have to feel all the crap stuff too....but that's just part of being human. And its part of being human that should be celebrated.
Easier said than done folks.
But I'll give it a try aye?
She also said that every human strives for connectivity. And feeling vulnerable makes us shy away from situations because we feel as if we will damage connections already made or that we want to make. This also seems so true. And feasible. I look at my actions and why I DON'T do things....and usually its because I don't want o be embarrassed, or for someone to think something different of me. To not be accepted. Yet the things we do that set us apart make us who we are. And make us better people, and the more authentic we are to who we are, the more people we can connect with.
Gah!
My work is ALL about connections and I think its interesting to relate my making to this stage in my life. I'm growing up, I'm meeting new people, I'm trying to find myself, to figure out who I am and what makes me me and to accept and love myself for it, and perhaps thats manifesting itself in my work...without me even intending it to :)
I Wanna Do My Thing
I've found a scholarship that I think would be AMAZING to be granted.
It's AMP's 'Do Your Thing'
I always feel silly applying for things like this but what do i have to lose by applying for it?
NOTHING!!
And imagine if I WAS successful!
I don't even want to think about it!
Because it will more than likely end in disappointment!!
Must write the most amazing application and get EVERYONE to vote!!!
There are no jewellers in the past who have won it, and no jewellers in the running for this year!
So who knows? Maybe something different will catch their eye and I'll get a helping hand and a monetary boost to allow me to do all the things I'd love to do but can't with my very limited income!
I can't even say how EXCITING the idea is!!!
http://www.doyourthing.co.nz
It's AMP's 'Do Your Thing'
I always feel silly applying for things like this but what do i have to lose by applying for it?
NOTHING!!
And imagine if I WAS successful!
I don't even want to think about it!
Because it will more than likely end in disappointment!!
Must write the most amazing application and get EVERYONE to vote!!!
There are no jewellers in the past who have won it, and no jewellers in the running for this year!
So who knows? Maybe something different will catch their eye and I'll get a helping hand and a monetary boost to allow me to do all the things I'd love to do but can't with my very limited income!
I can't even say how EXCITING the idea is!!!
http://www.doyourthing.co.nz
Authenticity
I was directed to a TED talk called The Three A's of Awesome. The talk itself was a bit boring (no offence!) but I managed to get the gist of it and two things stuck out:
1)
One of the A's in the talk was Authenticity.
It's something I think is super important.
To always do what YOU want to do and are passionate about, regardless of what the 'norm' is or what is expected of you. And to accept what you do as a part of who you are.
I wrote a list a while ago of some things that I love that keep me inspired that I usually don't yell about in public, because perhaps, they're not so 'cool'. But I realised that these quirky things are what separates me from the rest, and if I am to make it at any rate, its these things I need to pursue and continue loving and enjoying.
- superheroes (esp Superman!)
- cartoon/children's movies
- royal/majestic/powerful/mythical animals - lions, eagles, unicorns, tigers, horses, deer, bears, aligators, wolves..
- dinosaurs!!!
- walking
- collecting objects from places I visit (random things, like a stone, or a bottle cap, or a stick or a shell, or a leaf)
- funny little made-up creatures
- ancient Rome and Egypt - the jewellery techniques made so many years ago, the ruins, the myths, the gods...
- boxes and containers
- dusk...that time of night where the horizon is a silhouette against a sky of brilliant colours
- the sky, especially clouds
- Florence Broadhurst and William Morris wall papers
- trees
- water (in a bath, in a pool, the ocean, a puddle, a drop of rain....especially being in or under it, that silence that happens when you put your ears under and you're floating and the water feels silky and cool)
the list goes on....and on....but some things you look at and say...who DOESN'T like that? I suppose, when you look at it, we're all a bit funny. Normal is boring!
Something i want to be really authentic about in my work is hand-crafting, and making interactive jewellery. Its what I really love doing, and I can tell that I love doing it because I lose track of time, and things happen so quickly!!! And I'll whistle while I'm working :)
2)
That only his mum read his blog to start off and it skyrocketed to being the best blog in the world and being turned into a book! Big things start off small!!!! Positive.
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/neil_pasricha_the_3_a_s_of_awesome.html
1)
One of the A's in the talk was Authenticity.
It's something I think is super important.
To always do what YOU want to do and are passionate about, regardless of what the 'norm' is or what is expected of you. And to accept what you do as a part of who you are.
I wrote a list a while ago of some things that I love that keep me inspired that I usually don't yell about in public, because perhaps, they're not so 'cool'. But I realised that these quirky things are what separates me from the rest, and if I am to make it at any rate, its these things I need to pursue and continue loving and enjoying.
- superheroes (esp Superman!)
- cartoon/children's movies
- royal/majestic/powerful/mythical animals - lions, eagles, unicorns, tigers, horses, deer, bears, aligators, wolves..
- dinosaurs!!!
- walking
- collecting objects from places I visit (random things, like a stone, or a bottle cap, or a stick or a shell, or a leaf)
- funny little made-up creatures
- ancient Rome and Egypt - the jewellery techniques made so many years ago, the ruins, the myths, the gods...
- boxes and containers
- dusk...that time of night where the horizon is a silhouette against a sky of brilliant colours
- the sky, especially clouds
- Florence Broadhurst and William Morris wall papers
- trees
- water (in a bath, in a pool, the ocean, a puddle, a drop of rain....especially being in or under it, that silence that happens when you put your ears under and you're floating and the water feels silky and cool)
the list goes on....and on....but some things you look at and say...who DOESN'T like that? I suppose, when you look at it, we're all a bit funny. Normal is boring!
Something i want to be really authentic about in my work is hand-crafting, and making interactive jewellery. Its what I really love doing, and I can tell that I love doing it because I lose track of time, and things happen so quickly!!! And I'll whistle while I'm working :)
2)
That only his mum read his blog to start off and it skyrocketed to being the best blog in the world and being turned into a book! Big things start off small!!!! Positive.
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/neil_pasricha_the_3_a_s_of_awesome.html
Growing Up
I'm growing up.
I guess we all do at one point.
I can feel it.
Not in a bad way.
But you know what I'm scared of?
What if one day I wake up and find I have lost the capacity to imagine?
What if I start to take myself too seriously and don't realise?
Got to make sure to keep Dr Seuss books close by for some doses of imaginative inspiration!
I guess we all do at one point.
I can feel it.
Not in a bad way.
But you know what I'm scared of?
What if one day I wake up and find I have lost the capacity to imagine?
What if I start to take myself too seriously and don't realise?
Got to make sure to keep Dr Seuss books close by for some doses of imaginative inspiration!
THE DREAM
My wonderful mentor, Lyn Dallison, asked me if I had any long term goals in my mind. And I didn't really. I've never been able to see beyond my Uni years, and now that those have passed...I have no idea where to go! So I sat down and had a wee think and this is what I came up with:
THE DREAM:
To own my own property/shop/store with a studio out the back where I can make, show, and sell my own work.
I will sell a few ranges/lines of mass produced pieces (still on a small scale) as well as:
- selling one off pieces, commissioned or just ones that I decide to make
- making work for exhibitions and shows and competitions
I want the focus to be on hand-crafted objects, keeping true to the craftsmanship of making and producing handmade objects.
I will attend courses/workshops/classes to further extend my skills and widen my horizons.
– share the property/shop/store with another artist/s? Jewellers? Other fields? Is a highly attractive option that I would strongly consider and seek out?
- A place to make, show, and sell our work
- Opportunities for collaboration
- Share the cost of running a workshop/shop/store...electricity, tools, water, insurance, security, rent? (would PREFER to have bought the place...) etc
- Erase the issue of having to sort out pricing with galleries/buyers that we would normally have to deal with
- Would have to generate our own exposure (ie. With a gallery/shop they already have a network and set structure for media and advertising...), we wouldn’t have that
- Would need to hire someone to take care of the money aspect of things so we can focus on work, but need to still be involved so know what’s going on
- Would need to hire and pay own shop staff?? Unless we took shifts to man the shop...ie...three people...two days each in the shop, three/four days making, Sundays closed... will also depend on location. Would be able to work on things if they are on ‘shop’ duty if it’s quiet!!
- Set up a base rate or percentage of sale of each work that will go towards the running of the store/shop...ie...20%? Not sure?! Then the rest is kept by the artist as pay? Something that would have to be trialled or run by someone for advice!!
Ambitious huh? But I like it. The more people say ...'oh, thats a bit ambitious.' it makes me even more determined to make it happen!!!
(check out this link to find a pretty interesting project (where I stole the above image from) http://observatory.designobserver.com/entry.html?entry=13238)
(check out this link to find a pretty interesting project (where I stole the above image from) http://observatory.designobserver.com/entry.html?entry=13238)
Dilemma-Ville
I'm having a dilemma moment. A lot of little things all piling up are just getting to me and i feel STUCK and I don't know what to do.
I'm struggling to find harmony in the spaces I have set up to work in at home.I have gone from having a space that I was comfortable in and that had EVERYTHING I needed in it, to having a disjointed space where my creativity is struggling to flow.
It is a bit of a dilemma.
I can't afford to hire a studio out, and the only desk space I have available is in my bedroom, and my bench is downstairs in the garage. So i have to work in my bedroom (not ideal!) and then go up a flight of stairs and through two rooms to go between the two spaces, when I'm used to just having to turn around on the spot!
I know there will be people out there who say "oh youre not applying yourself hard enough, you shodu lbe more dedicated. MAKE it happen!" and I'd love to, but there is SO much to be said for having a creative space where thoughts flow freely and you are inspired to make just by simply being in that room/space.
I currently am struggling to get into the assignments I have written for myself, and perhaps it's a lot more to do with lacking a constructive work space than a lack of motivation.
I'm starting to itch to get making but I need to buy new solder and a new hearth and I need hammers and draw plates and doming blocks and types of pliers and etc etc etc. And working less than 20 hours a week at my part-time job doesn't really lead to much excess money after such things as petrol, gym membership, presents for friends, and life in general.
Job hunting is proving to be an extremely fruitless effort. I don't hear back from anything I apply for. It's the most frustrating thing in the world! My current job isn't taking me anywhere or teaching me anything thats going to help with my dream (don't think I've put The Dream up here yet...will do so next!) and its not even offering me enough hours to be able to justify it as a decent source of income.
Sigh
Its the catch-22 isnt it.
I need to start making so I can start selling my work and entering competitions and for my exhibition and generating an income, but I need some funds/materials/tools and a creative space to do so.
My overdraft and credit card accounts don't give me the best credentials when it comes to asking for a loan. And I don't want to go further into debt (lets not even MENTION the student loan) than I already am.
Life - sigh!
Anyway, get on with it right?
I'll upload The Dream :)
12 March 2011
Hey there 2011
After some idea tossing and turning, some not-so enjoyable life turmoil, a dash of heartbreak, a lot of life-learning, I feel like I'm FINALLY on track for 2011
I just about have a working studio set up in the home garage (major thanks to the ever-supportive parents!!), and the closer it gets to being complete, the more I can feel my enthusiasm and imagination being re-activated and my ideas creeping back. Looking forward to getting back into it all!
I turn 22 soon and I feel like with the passing of 21, and 2010, good things are on their way.
Thank goodness!!!
So keep your eyes out for Stephanie Grace, because I intend on having an epic 2011 :)
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