It is not everyday that you post your piece for a challenge already knowing who the winner is BUT, for me, today is that day! Congratulations to Karin Grosset Grange who is the winner of the Gemstone and Metal Blog Hop hosted by the always awesome Lisa Lodge!!! (much applause and general hoopla!) This event took place a bit over a week ago and so, embarrassingly, that makes me more than respectably late. I won't bore you with excuses and such, but just know that "life" took precedent over posting on time and then since the 19th, I have literally been out to sea sailing with my husband to celebrate our 30th anniversary.
I loved the packet I received from Lisa but, as usual, had absolutely no idea what to do with it! Upon coupling the gemstones with a focal stone of complimentary color from my stash, I realized exactly what this assortment of metal and gemstone pieces was destined to become. The natural "picture" created by the striations within the stone reminded me so much of the amazing art of my friend, Tina Sotis . . . you should definitely check out her website here: http://www.tinasotis.com
Tina and I met while scuba diving in Utila in 2012 and despite the fact that we live on opposite ends of the country, she continues to be a powerful source of inspiration for me. I so admire Tina's ability to find beauty even in darkness and to never be satisfied with the ordinary. Tina seeks out adventure and continuously searches for ways to become a better, fuller, wiser person. This piece celebrates the strength and beauty of my extraordinary friend and is dedicated to her with gratitude for all the many ways she unknowingly has enhanced my life.
Much appreciation to Lisa for facilitating this blog hop and to all my fellow artists for their unique and inspiring creations. I look forward to spending some quiet moments (they do happen periodically!) viewing and commenting on each of the sites below. Thank you for your understanding and patience!
Chris - As usual, I am blown away by the beauty of you piece! What a lovely tribute to your friend Tina. I LOVE the way you utilized the candy jade teardrops! Tina's paintings are so beautiful, and you captured the "feeling of freedom in nature's bounty" so well. When I look at your necklace and her paintings, the feeling that wells up in me is that "Everything in nature is full of wonder and beauty". Thanks for being in the hop!
ReplyDeleteI hope your trip was as fun as it looks in your picture. Wonderful necklace! Definitely worth the wait. :)
ReplyDeleteStunning necklace, the focal goes so well with the gemstones Lisa sent and it is a wonderful tribute to Tina's art. Well worth the wait and I hope you had a wonderful trip with your husband!!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous brio work!
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