Inspiration is Everywhere!

What do you see here? Bugs of course, but look beyond what is obvious. I see beadwork! The colorful patterns compose a perfect palette and lay the groundwork for some really creative ideas. There is so much art in nature...we just need to take time to notice it! Granted, we don’t all live in areas abundant with colorful specimens. Sometimes we have to look further than the world on our doorstep.

During winter when our  midwest landscape offers little color I sometimes turn to book on nature for inspiration. I have several filled with interesting flora and faunal specimens from tropical regions.

I also rely on photos that I’ve taken while on vacation. My geometrically bead-woven “Parrot Fish” Cuff is one example. I had been inspired by the abundance of colorful fish I had seen in the Caribbean. A tutorial for this design is available. Incidentally, this cuff was a finalist in the 2020 Fire Mountain Gems and Beads Jewelry-Making Featuring Seed Beads Contest!