Karen is a glass artist who creates a really wide range of items in her chosen medium. Although I'll primarily be showing off her lampworked beads today, I suggest that you click through to her shop at http://giapet.etsy.com to see the full range of her work. She has pendants, stained glass items, etched glass, dichroic glass, and sculptural lampworked beads, with more being added on a regular basis.
I have to admit that her beads in this series are probably my favorite things in her shop. In a world full of stimulus, neutral colors can be so restful! The silvered edges on the bead are something I've never seen in glasswork before, and I love how the texture of the bead is a combination of rough and finished. The overall effect is one of a pebble that's been worn by the sand or waves. Nice!
Those of us who don't do beadwork will be pleased to note that Karen's shop has several finished pieces readily available. These pieces blend commercially-made beads with Karen's own lampworked beads, and are a great way to incorporate art glass into your wardrobe.
This is a good moment to point out that Karen, like all those whom I feature in "Seen Around Etsy" (and like yours truly), is a self-representing artist whose work, unless otherwise stated, is entirely handmade by her. Unfortunately, there are scurrilous types eager to cash in on any change in consumer awareness, from a demand for eco-conscious goods to an increased appreciation for handmade items. All too frequently, these folks will present themselves as an artisan, but their output volume and suspiciously low prices (among other signals) reveal that they are indeed a manufacturing concern or are using sweatshop labor from overseas. In a way, it's almost flattering to us artists and crafters--assuming imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery!
Rounding out Karen's work we have these striking lampworked beads. Sets like this are especially nice since it gives one leeway to create multiple matching items from the beads, or perhaps one really attention-getting large item, like a necklace. In case you were wondering how to use a single focal bead, as shown above--a simple but elegant silver chain, or a cord made of silk or leather, is perfect for wearing a stunning bead. Such a setting is economical and requires little skill or investment of time, and looks great!
For more about Karen's artistic background and how she works, check out her Etsy profile or visit her blog at http://fire-n-sand.blogspot.com.
Isabelstudio (http://isabelstudio.etsy.com) is the next shop I'd like to talk about. Isabel is a Portuguese artist who works in a variety of media. Her art quilts, collages, and functional items all have the same colorful, quirky appeal; it's one thing to be sophisticated, but it's another thing entirely to combine sophistication with simplicity, and Isabel's work does that.
As you can see, there's a lot of color and texture in Isabel's work. Her art seems to be telling a story, perhaps one with mysterious meanings. There is a lot to ponder in her collages especially, and a lot we as viewers can bring that affects our responses to the artwork.
Isabel puts her fiber art into a functional form as well, with bags and keychains. The lively patterns of vintage fabrics are combined with hand and machine stitching and hand embroidery to make one-of-a-kind items. It's like carrying artwork with you wherever you go. What's not to like?
Isabel's work is also visible at her blog (http://isabelstudio.blogspot.com/), including some art quilts and paintings not currently for sale. Check it out!
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