New for Bead and Button 2012

These are bronze masters that I carved. They will be cast into pewter to debut at the Bead and Button Show in Milwaukee. The owl is a round bead with a hole going through the top, with a stylized wood pattern on it. The dog charm is part of my 'little blessings' series and says 'puppy love' on the back. The butterfly pendant/link is inspired by Japanese embroidery and says 'unfold your own myth-rumi' on the back.
These are pieces that Greg carved for the show. I think they definitely have a masculine quality! We've had lots of requests for beads and pendants that would appeal to men and I think these do. Especially the zombie head in the middle. The snake bead is beautifully detailed all around and has a nice feel to it. I think Greg should carve the entire Chinese Zodiac to match it! I really love the little gargoyle bead, it has such a charming look to it. I think he should make more of them.

Jessica Wiesel carved this last batch of pieces for Green Girl Studios and I am totally enamored with them! Jess makes the most beautiful miniature animals, her deer are especially wonderful, so its no surprise her deer are so sensitively rendered. She's working on an etsy store that will feature her miniatures and prints, which will open the middle of June. The store name is 'weazilla', so check it in a few weeks to see her amazing creations.

Jess said "I hope your customers like deer!" and I said "It doesn't matter, because I do!". I suppose that's not the best attitude for business, but really, I want to love what we make, regardless of what's popular or on trend. I think it would show if an artist only made what was asked of them. Maybe the pieces would lack verve, or folks eyes would just pass over it....its hard to say. Anyway, I love these pieces! What do you think?