Description
Figure 8 Earrings - Copper by Kristina Chadwick
Kristina's Handmade Ceramics & Jewelry
Earrings made from colored glass seed beads and Swarovski crystals woven into a figure 8 shape
Materials Used: glass seed beads and Swarovski crystals, sterling copper ear wires
0.5 x 1.75 inches
Artist Statement: A scientist by day, I find pottery and jewelry-making a relaxing, creative escape. There is nothing like feeling the clay move through your hands on the pottery wheel as you challenge centrifugal force, pull up a cylinder, and watch a mound of mud transformed into a beautiful ceramic vessel. I primarily make functional ceramic pieces in the mid-fire range using a variety of commercial glazes and an electric kiln. And because I also need something to do while watching TV or listening to audiobooks, my second creative outlet is jewelry. I love anything that can be jazzed up with the sparkle of crystals. My favorite techniques are bead weaving, bead crochet, bead embroidery, chain-maille and wire-wrapping.
In my studio, I attempt to be as eco-friendly as possible. I recycle my clay into slip (liquid clay) and use it for surface decoration and to make ceramic cabochons. Majority of the glazes I use are non-toxic and waste is appropriately disposed of (in the trash as opposed to down the sink). I look to source from local suppliers and fire the kiln efficiently (e.g. when it's full) to minimize impacts on resources.Our house has solar panels which generate 100% of our energy. Some of my pottery is raku, a process inspired by traditional Japanese raku firing
Bio: I have been making wheel-thrown pottery for about 20 years and jewelry for more than 25 years. I got my first pottery education through extra-curricular classes at university and then community art centers but have struck out on my own since moving to NJ in 2005. During COVID I used my extra time to design and create ceramic cabochons which I use in my own jewelry-making as well as sell to other artists for their creative endeavors. Beadwork has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, mixing my own experimentation with artist designs. As a member of the South Jersey Bead Society for 10+ years, I enjoy the fellowship and promotion of the ancient art.
$32.00
*Price is subject to sales tax
Item Number: KC39