This month Component of the Month challenge was set by Jenny in the Art Elements team. Jenny produced some beautiful polymer clay heart beads and cabochons.
Out of the cabochons above I choose one like the centre that lovely soft ivory/white with gold flecks.
My original idea was bridal, but 'love unrequited' kept sticking in my head and the image of a bridal piece of jewellery just wouldn't work for me.
I have been experimenting with art journalling which I do find a challenge. I have HUNDREDS of sketch books that I have scribbled and doodled in over the years, some have messages and diary style extracts next to them but the whole adding mixed media is completely new to me. I came across a lovely quote 'when the world says give up, hope says try one more time' and it really hit a nerve with me. My whole life has been a fight for survival on almost every level, whenever I feel like giving up something happens, a spark burns in me and anger gives me strength to not be beaten and try again.
My heart had found its muse.
The Chinese coin is one that I had in a box at the back of the wardrobe, I have had it for years and it is supposed to bring luck, I can't even remember where I got it from. The playing card is representative that life is a game of chance - a tarot card would have worked here too.... - the shells, beautiful shell creations in bronze clay and ceramic and made by Lesley the former and I think one of the other members possibly Cathy, I wish I would stop losing the cards to say who did what! Shells remind me of living by the sea and as a child holding the shell to your ear to hear the wind and maybe your future dreams. The skeleton leaves are signs of death in Autumn but also that when Spring comes they will live again.
It is unfinished. I wanted to do so much more but mixed media is a struggle for me I want it to be so full of ideas and drama and things to touch and read and colour.. but my control freak artist side wants to just use line and structure. I do love the idea of this though and I love how the heart inspired it. The quote inspired me to finally stop procrastinating and print my doodles as cards and prints you can find them on my FB group page which you will need to join and eventually in my Etsy shop - link on the side of the blog if you want to come and find me :)
A list below of all those that joined in the challenge so grab a cup of tea and join me in blog hopping to see what other creations these hearts have inspired.
Guests:
Art Elements team:
