This last year was one full of growth for me both personally and professionally. It started with me still being on cloud 9 from the December Polymer Cafe article.
There were three swaps this year.
Rock Purse
http://bluedamselflyjewelry.wordpress.com/2011/04/15/rock-purse-pics-finally/
Colorful Ocean Creatures
http://bluedamselflyjewelry.wordpress.com/2011/11/19/colorful-ocean-creatures-swap-pictures/
Mini Food
pics up in a week or so
The swaps are such a wonderful learning experience and I am so proud of all the participants and blessed to have found this group. I am not sure exactly why I am so blessed to be the proud Swap Ma Ma but I am loving every minute of it. Next swap just opened you should check it out.
This year I made the switch to Kato. It took forever for me to commit to the change and wouldn’t you know it as soon as I do it they change their formula and it is much softer now. The jury is still out on this one but I hope to continue with my commitment to use 100% Kato. I like the way it holds the details while making canes which is my first love. I also like the way it feels ONCE conditioned.
This year I focused on learning new techniques. I had a flower phase…..
http://bluedamselflyjewelry.wordpress.com/2011/07/26/emotional-roller-coaster/
and a wonderful opportunity to take a Carol Simmons class. The Carol Simmons class was defiantly my most favorite part of the year clay wise.
http://bluedamselflyjewelry.wordpress.com/2011/10/02/carol-simmons-class-starts-tomorrow/
I am so blessed to have had the year I did. I learned new techniques, made new friends, and am finding it easier to call myself an artist.
This new year I hope to continue to count my blessings and focus more on my art. Good health is the most important blessing because without that nothing is possible. I hope to lose a few pounds this year (don’t we all?). I also hope to be able to retire from my 9-5 and focus on my art 24-7. No date set yet but I am hoping for sometime this summer.
Finally in the new year I hope to have our summer home finished or very near completion. My studio will be located on the top floor with mountaintop views. This year will be about gathering the necessary supplies to open the new studio.
My first project is already in mind. It will be a housewarming gift to myself and it is a OOAK chess set for the upstairs sitting room and should take a loooonnnnnnggggg time to complete but once done will be a masterpiece I am sure.
With this new year upon us I wish all of you nothing but the best with your art and life. Remember you are your worst enemy and road block. When you get in your own way with self-doubt it hinders you as an artist. Whatever you want to do………….
YOU CAN!
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