tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89747093787139889982011-11-27T18:27:59.392-05:00One of a Kind Polymer Clay Creations, Wearable Art, Jewelry and Occasional Musings of Valerie AshleyElysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.comBlogger691100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-45996915308875121432009-12-01T17:18:00.002-05:002009-12-01T17:20:47.803-05:00

Hi all! Just wanted to pop in to let you know I have moved to a Wordpress blog, Elysian Field Originals. Please take a minute to drop in and follow me there. I have tried to move the site here over there and it's not working still. So till then...see ya at me new digs.Love,Valerie

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-59908776935360464772009-04-28T20:38:00.009-04:002009-04-28T21:08:55.047-04:00

I've had a few days off from work and saw something the other day I haven't been able to get out of my mind. I was driving my truck (I work part time for a landscaper) back to the yard this past Friday and saw some commotion in the road ahead of me. There in the middle of this two lane busy road was a tiny Yorkshire Terrier running back and forth in the road!! Cringing because I figured at any

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-20956704622111340822009-04-21T17:35:00.005-04:002009-04-21T18:36:18.286-04:00

Nature's beauty! I am really enjoying using gemstones for healing and well being with my leaf spirits lately, and although this could be worn as a pendant, I have transformed this lovely imprint of a Burr Oak, also called Mossycup Oak, as an ornament. Fashion forward fairies or renn folk could do double duty and use this as a focal pendant worthy of a goddess or fairy queen.Sculpted using a

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-82636109614393481422009-04-21T10:28:00.002-04:002009-04-21T10:31:01.793-04:00

Interesting..What it took to get an 8th grade education in 1895...Remember when grandparents and great-grandparents stated that they only had an 8th grade education? Well, check this out. Could any of us have passed the 8th grade in 1895?This is the eighth-grade final exam from 1895 in Salina , Kansas , USA . It was taken from the original document on file at the Smokey Valley Genealogical

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-33546709640744038882009-04-08T19:01:00.003-04:002009-04-08T19:04:38.467-04:00

Arts in RI team members decided to creatively challenge one another to come up with Mother's Day themed items and post them for you on our blog. We will be running a contest between now and midnight May 9th. All you have to do to enter our contest is leave a comment for the artist about the creation and you will be entered into a random drawing for a basket of handmade goods made by Arts In RI

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-74991994223163719742009-04-03T16:27:00.036-04:002009-04-03T18:03:33.704-04:00

Today I'd like to introduce you to a great group I've become a member of, ArtsInRI, a very diverse and talented group of artisans here in Rhode Island.We are a juried street team on Etsy, as well as very active in the hand made art scene in RI. Every member strives for the highest level of craftsmanship and artistry in what they do, which is committed to offering high quality handmade

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-46147055144043832302009-04-01T14:25:00.007-04:002009-04-01T15:39:47.955-04:00

One of my favorite blogs, Linda Smith Originals, presented me with my very first blogging award! I am extremely touched and very flattered *blushes* that Linda felt I deserved a 'Proximity Award'. I think it’s awesome to give fellow blogger's a thumbs up from time-to-time and it’s especially nice when it comes from someone I respect and am honored to call friend.The award has a special meaning

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-71433018155878586672009-03-30T13:44:00.018-04:002009-03-30T17:01:36.500-04:00

Ever have a moment of drought in your creativity? A moment when no matter what you try to create falls flat? I admit to having plenty of those moments lately, and they usually happen when I stop listening to my muse and try to force a creative idea. On a walk in the woods near my home last week I happened on some beautiful pieces of "live wood" from a fallen pine, and popped them into my

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-9520684528408658192009-03-27T14:43:00.004-04:002009-03-27T15:55:39.673-04:00

The days are getting warmer and my Rhode Island Reds are very happy. The youngest are now starting to lay "practice" eggs which started out the size of grape tomatoes and have now progressed to very small eggs. Needless to say the "girls" are very proud of themselves and strut around the yard like they own the place!I heard someone say that Nature has a way of taking care of itself and

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-82065511917140869292009-03-27T01:22:00.005-04:002009-03-27T15:56:05.172-04:00

Sylvan sprite's will love to add these to their wardrobe this Spring! A recent foray into the forest produced some gorgeous imprints of Silver Maple leaves from which these luminous earrings were created.Hand sculpted leaves of Kato clay cured, hand buffed, antiqued, and accented with mica powders. The earring wires are fancy copper and the spiral attached to the leaves are accented with rainbow

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-89138081899755655112009-03-23T23:40:00.000-04:002009-03-23T23:41:38.861-04:00

DRAGON SLAYERZ from ulteriorproductions.com on Vimeo.Very funny and well done!

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-77766444773970102332009-03-16T20:09:00.008-04:002009-03-27T18:08:13.121-04:00

I love pastel colors and the weighty feel of certain gemstones. So, while digging around in my box of goodies pulled out these amazing adventurine nuggets that I've been saving for a rainy day. On a recent trip to one of my favorite findings manufacturers, Wolfe E Myrow, I also grabbed some gorgeous fire polished Czech beads in a stunning Jonquil color. (some of which I will be adding to my

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-77960623058874054062009-02-24T22:00:00.002-05:002009-02-24T22:08:29.347-05:00

The Tufted Titmouse... known to cause humans to flee with one glance of it's terrifying glare. Well...almost, lol.This picture of a tufted titmouse was taken at my parent's home in Massachusetts this past fall. My dad, who loves all things Nature, takes some of the best pictures of these fine feathered denizens of the sky I've ever seen. Why? Well, mostly because he is able to capture a "look"

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-65903742870113409972009-02-24T12:40:00.009-05:002009-02-24T22:19:06.377-05:00

What a lovely way to start the day than seeing one of my pieces featured on my friend, Silke Janas-Schloesser's blog. Silke recently purchased one of my Nature Spirit pendants which was a real honor as I have been a fan of hers for a long time.For those of you unfamiliar with Silke, you must visit her sites to look at the gorgeous fantasy creatures she creates! Here are just a few of the many

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-49624073323284451792009-02-13T19:26:00.016-05:002009-02-24T22:12:21.026-05:00

What to do when you love to shop but the recession has you down? Having less money means becoming more creative with fashion, and what better way to glam up your wardrobe than accessories?!!!By adding a new pair of earrings to your favorite outfit you can freshen it up while not breaking your bank account.I took a break from painting and sculpting this week to create some creative & colorful ear

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-60023731522407615832009-02-07T15:38:00.008-05:002009-02-24T22:13:15.026-05:00

I've taken these awesome vintage Lucite heart and flower beads and up cycled them into a pair of gorgeous earrings. The beads are a soft frosted clear and will take on the color of whatever you are wearing.The ear wires and findings are sterling silver, and I've accented the earrings with Czech foiled clear beads to give them a bit of extra sparkle. A lovely gift for your sweetie this Valentine’s

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-46060702055680490192009-02-07T15:28:00.002-05:002009-02-24T22:17:21.201-05:00

Arts In RI team members decided to creatively challenge one another to embrace the season of love with Valentine themed products. Between now and Valentine's Day we will share some of these "lovely" designs with you here on our blog. Let us know how you feel about our art by leaving a comment. Everyone who leaves a comment will be entered into a random drawing for an Arts In RI gift basket

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-53842393798836801322009-01-14T14:21:00.008-05:002009-01-14T14:45:38.818-05:00

CLICK on the handbag to ENTER!!Arts In RI team members decided to creatively challenge one another to embrace the season of love with Valentine themed products. Between now and Valentine's Day we will share some of these "lovely" designs with you here on our blog. Let us know how you feel about our art by leaving a comment. Everyone who leaves a comment will be entered into a random drawing for

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-65235856027515637222009-01-07T19:38:00.013-05:002009-01-08T02:26:20.428-05:00

The weather here in New England as of late has been a bit crazy. It runs the gamut of warm one day and a couple days later it's freezing. Today was no different. We had an ice storm and while I could I popped out to snap a few pictures in my yard. I wish the sun had been out because the ice coated trees looked like chandeliers, and bushes were brought low by the weight of the ice and looked

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-25816245724545632922008-12-27T23:12:00.000-05:002008-12-27T23:12:41.030-05:00

A quick snap of a piece I created for my mom. She found this leaf and thought I'd like to use it in my art and I thought it would make a pretty pendant for her in turn. The bail is sterling, it's accented with quartz faceted beads, and the adjustable ribbon is hand dyed silk.

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-75457725236314280872008-12-27T22:54:00.003-05:002008-12-27T23:04:42.662-05:00

It seems we have a new visitor to my hen's house. This pesky squirrel insists on making daily raids to steal tidbits and when I've chased him off has the nerve to come back with his two sidekicks and continue to pilfe whatever they can. I literally walked right up to about two feet from them and they just look at me as if I am the intruder bothering them. Cheeky devils!And here are my two newest

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-30054880515886026362008-12-10T00:16:00.002-05:002008-12-10T00:48:04.646-05:00

Wouldn't our world be a better place if we all practiced a bit more "validation"? It's very easy!Thanks to John Halcyon Styn for turning me onto it. YOU ARE AWESOME!

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-88808635604601250372008-12-04T13:26:00.005-05:002008-12-04T14:13:55.614-05:00

Say it isn't so!No more Bratz dolls? Can't say that I'm disappointed in the prosti-pouting plastic divas demise. The thought of a doll dressed in fishnets, boas, heavy makeup and miniskirts marketed to 4-8 year old girls is at the least disturbing, and even more so, is watching companies advocating this sexuality on young children. Wasn't it enough with the busty wasp waisted Barbie?It's a shame

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-40235972196040325542008-12-01T17:10:00.004-05:002008-12-01T17:30:20.088-05:00

Winter's here and fey folk and tree spirits are slumbering.This lovely sleeping dryad is sculpted onto an imprint of a 2 1/2" Oak leaf from my yard in Rhode Island. Hand sculpted of polymer clay and colored using inks, mica powders, and watercolors, the oxidized copper spiral bail signifies the never ending cycle of life that is present in many of my pieces.Available in my Etsy shop and on sale

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-59569682019797151572008-11-30T18:04:00.004-05:002008-11-30T18:17:24.938-05:00

A unique blend of Nouveau and Nature!This tiny art nouveau style bas relief of a tree nymph is set into an imprint of a 2" Norway Maple leaf from Rhode Island. Both are sculpted using Kato clay. The leaf has been colored with inks and mica powders and the fairy nymph is colored using watercolors then sealed.The brown leather necklace is 20" with amber glass beads, silver beads, sterling silver

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-24027468719860197562008-11-22T11:37:00.003-05:002008-11-30T18:15:07.358-05:00

The Holly Tree- symbol of the life force, vitality and immortality. It is considered a lucky tree to grow in the garden because it wards off negative energies. In winter druids would advise people to take holly into their homes, as they believed it would shelter the elves and fairies who could join humans at this time without causing them injury.Holly was also believed to protect against

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-74029971833966055032008-11-21T20:04:00.001-05:002008-11-21T20:41:59.033-05:00

This is a commissioned piece that I just completed for a client in Arizona. She requested a Red Maple leaf with a 14 kt gold bail. I almost want to keep her for myself, lol.

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-51505279521869104512008-11-20T13:26:00.001-05:002008-11-20T13:28:44.423-05:00

It's that time of the year again when people are wondering what to gift to friends and loved ones. Take a peek at my Etsy shop for some really cool, nature inspired pieces. I also do custom personalized work and love the creative collaboration it entails. Check out my sold section for more unique gift ideas.Finally, a lovely quote about trees:"They are beautiful in their peace, they are wise in

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-52516588959352561312008-11-17T17:29:00.004-05:002008-11-30T18:14:38.920-05:00

Here is a 2 1/4" miniature fairy baby sculpted of kato clay and wrapped in a Sugar Maple Leaf imprint. I'm thinking it will be a copper spiral wire wrapped focal piece...what do you think?And, here is an updated picture of Ganesh. I will be doing the final details tonight on the eyes and markings.From ganesh

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-482303176739717022008-11-16T22:28:00.009-05:002008-11-30T18:14:09.608-05:00

I am working on an interesting pendant for a client of mine. It is the Hindu God Ganesh theGod of knowledge and the remover of obstacles.Lord Ganesha is also called Vinayak ( knowledgeable ) or Vighneshwer (god to remove obstacles). He is worshiped, or at least remembered, in the beginning of any auspicious performance for blessings and auspiciousness. He has

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-61689539066113354162008-11-16T22:17:00.007-05:002008-11-16T22:28:15.670-05:00

Check out some of the exceptional talent that will be there in 2009!!I wish I could go...

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-13336728951340670492008-11-16T12:57:00.003-05:002008-11-20T13:19:17.547-05:00

Sometimes you have to take time out from all the craziness and just be thankful for the people who make you smile; who you love and who love you back.Here is a collage of three little guys who make my heart happy.

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-79300708518330639812008-11-13T18:45:00.005-05:002008-11-13T18:51:04.897-05:00

The Gucci Resort 2009 collection has been unveiled, and as always with the Italian fashion house, it was a dramatic show of sartorial splendor. Each piece was fit for a luxurious suitcase en route to the… [More]Now this is something that I would wear! Very cool collection worthy of a look!

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-64363737494718297152008-11-13T18:12:00.004-05:002008-11-20T13:19:57.107-05:00

I was pleasantly surprised to see my Red Maple Leaf Fairy as Find of the Day on 365 Gear's site. Check it out, some really cool things there.

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-38365429516565744102008-11-13T02:08:00.004-05:002008-11-20T13:20:43.304-05:00

I really like this new site, and even though it's still in the beta stages it looks very promising.Here's my newest and first item to put on ArtFire. Please take a peek.

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-91635708892697677132008-11-13T00:25:00.004-05:002008-11-20T13:21:31.926-05:00

A three minute video of assorted artworks...

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-55532875452008428092008-11-12T21:49:00.004-05:002008-11-12T22:02:12.482-05:00

Many companies are adopting the reduce, reuse and recycle mentality. When it comes to cardboard, there are many ways to do just that. French designer Paul Coudamy designed a way to have an office area… [More](Note to self:) Hmmm...so when the bottom totally falls out of the economy I wonder if I can save enough cardboard to construct my new house?

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-6943634495856667352008-11-11T17:24:00.007-05:002008-11-13T18:29:25.663-05:00

Dark is back, these two last collections presented yesterday at London Fashion Week seem to claim. Gareth Pugh models looked like warrior queens. The focus was on strong, emphasized shoulders in dark grays and black. A very theatrical collection, with some black samurai-like creations, voluminous skirts all made of goat hair, and dresses made from zippers, safety pins and PVC. The show was

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-72218250822185833952008-11-06T13:03:00.000-05:002008-11-06T13:03:27.724-05:00

It's a rainy day here in Rhode Island, but a good day for finishing up on some commissioned pieces. These pendants have a ways to go yet. A few more layers of color and antiquing, but give you an idea of what they look like before their final finish. Once they're done the 5 maple leaves are off to Florida and the rose leaves are off to the UK where a jewelry designer, Katherine Cooper, will be

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-6429716107247646282008-11-04T09:13:00.003-05:002008-11-04T09:23:37.303-05:00

I listed a piece I completed a few months ago in my Etsy shop last night. A very pretty nature spirit necklace. Check her out.Today I was up early with my neighbor and off to grab a coffee and vote. The lines weren't too bad (living in the burbs has it's pluses), we were there for a half hour and out.Today I'm sculpting some new leaf pieces and if I'm lucky start on a new miniature. Have a

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-19347131572502880502008-11-03T16:01:00.005-05:002008-11-03T16:25:43.248-05:00

So. I've spent the past 24 hours reading and learning about some of the creative ways people market and promote their blogs. I've joined Twitter and if you've not tried it yet, well, it's a lot of fun and a bit addictive. Give it a try.I'm also trying out Adwords, a service provided by Google. So far in the past 24 hours I've gotten more traffic to my Etsy shop and have actually made a few

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-5250754895118015942008-10-30T14:47:00.007-04:002008-10-30T15:15:16.806-04:00

I have two new offerings in my Etsy shoppe. Both are ornaments that Ive imprinted from leaves collected during the last storm we had. As the cold weather approaches it's fun coming up with new and innovative designs for these leaves. Stay tuned!

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-91925983378067106212008-10-24T23:53:00.004-04:002008-10-30T15:14:20.473-04:00

Here are a couple of new additions to my Etsy shoppe. I'm really enjoying the leaf spirits and will be listing more this weekend.

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-61322162245013521672008-10-21T12:24:00.005-04:002008-10-21T12:32:22.092-04:00

It's that time of year again!! For those of you who loved last years Snowflake babies, here's a peek at a new batch of cuties to adorn your home, tree, or to give as a gift to a special baby.They come is all sizes shapes and colors, so feel free to email me via my Etsy shop to inquire about your special baby. Discounts apply to multiple purchases.

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-55511808331722486592008-10-20T21:52:00.008-04:002008-10-30T15:17:09.371-04:00

It is cold up here in the Northeast. Brrrr... I haven't turned my heat on yet and the temps are dipping into the 30's at night. It's like Custer's last stand with me against Nature; I already know who's going to win in the end, but I am resolute and will hold out till the icicles are hanging from my nose, lol.In the meantime here are a few pictures of some new artwork in my Etsy store.

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-67767740601133993942008-10-16T23:55:00.004-04:002008-10-17T00:00:32.388-04:00

I am going to set up a mailing list for anyone wanting notification when I have new work available. Until them please email me at vashley@gmail.com if you'd like me to drop you a line when new one of a kind works are listed in my Etsy shoppe.Thanks!Val

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-23955192089124212572008-10-16T23:34:00.001-04:002008-10-16T23:38:42.386-04:00

So, Clara & Belle have made themselves quite at home in their new digs. These two are the funniest hens I've ever seen and some of their antics have been the source of non stop chuckles. They love attention and follow me around if I'm in the yard chattering non stop. Here are a few pictures of the "girlz" and their new home. In the last picture Clara looks like she's saying, "You wanna piece

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-27034221194914989362008-10-01T22:18:00.005-04:002008-10-01T22:32:15.117-04:00

So dear friends, I've been away and obviously not blogging like I should. Here is a commissioned piece I've just finished of a very large Norwalk Maple leaf spirit. The leaf measures 6" x 7" and is done in the warm, subtle colors of Autumn. Enjoy!

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-11874073211060495022008-08-27T23:35:00.002-04:002008-08-28T02:16:06.732-04:00

I was talking to some of my friends on Etsy the other night and they were asking how many of us had a PIF in their shops. Now I like to think I'm fairly saavy about Etsy and things in general but I was stumped. What the heck is a PIF? It turns out PIF simply means to Pay It Forward, a practice many Etsians have of creating a handmade item which they in turn put into their shop basically for

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-81423367656409735842008-08-23T11:26:00.001-04:002008-08-23T11:26:51.525-04:00

EEEKS!!! I heard something and thought it was my cat in the back room and when I went to open the door I almost had a heart attack!!! I had to run around the house and open the door (gently) from the outside and it finally left. PHEW!!!

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-56874003458507988262008-08-14T13:30:00.005-04:002008-08-14T13:57:49.857-04:00

The Norway Maple Spirit pendant is smaller than I usually have been doing, and has a longer accent piece with Olive, Khaki and Jonquil Swarovski crystals to hang it from. Hanger is sterling silver spiraled wire.Here are some new earrings I've just finished, pics are rough and I will take better later on today. The earrings are all about 2" in length. The orange pair are hammered copper with

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-3500397235512989502008-08-13T23:35:00.005-04:002008-08-13T23:44:26.261-04:00

Spent the day out in my screen house with all of my crafty things yesterday. I hauled out the television and set it up so I could watch TV, loaded up on ice coffee, lounged in my chair and created some lovely things for you all.I took an imprint of a 1 3/4" Norway Maple leaf and painted a tiny face of a tree nymph that peers out from under layers of lavender and green mica powders. The hanger is

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-27404482344309400512008-08-13T23:10:00.005-04:002008-08-13T23:43:14.375-04:00

Here are a few pictures I snapped today of a new pair of earrings created from the imprint of a 1" Silver maple leaf. Alcohol inks in different shades of green and a touch of cranberry color the leaf, then the piece is dusted with mica powders and sealed to bring out the depth of color. Khaki, olive and jonquil Swarovski bi cones accent the piece, and I used copper wire as I like the earthy,

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-70748877638969645502008-08-12T16:43:00.006-04:002008-08-12T17:06:43.082-04:00

Last year I created some fun snowflake ornaments with tiny snowbaby fairies in the center. They went over so well I decided to do some more for Xmas this year. They can be made pink for girls, blue for boys, double for twins. They are created using faux stained glass over heavy acetate. The babies are Cernit or Kato clay and ae accented and decorated with micro beads, Swarovski crystals and semi

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-92015089399230848972008-08-09T19:15:00.006-04:002008-08-09T19:28:42.056-04:00

I am really enjoying my venture so far with my wearable art and leaf jewelry. There are so many benefits that I can see:Being outside (which I love) and walking the woods and fields around my home and my parents. It's refreshing to drive and pull over on a random road because I've seen an interesting tree or spot to stop and investigate. Advancing in different techniques and directions with my

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-193234445136944242008-08-04T00:19:00.003-04:002008-08-09T19:29:06.751-04:00

I spent a most enjoyable day with Peter today in my yard, he lounging and watching the races, and I working on some new leaf pieces. I kept hearing something hit the screen house and every time I'd look up nothing would be there so I'd go back to work again. This went on for quite some time and finally I looked up to see a huge dragonfly buzzing around my screen house. I went out to investigate

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-29964046885404042812008-08-02T23:01:00.006-04:002008-08-04T01:16:48.636-04:00

Hello friends, thought I'd post a couple of pictures of three new pendants I created this past week. They are available in my Etsy shop:http://elysianfields.etsy.com

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-59929168632727530062008-07-26T12:04:00.013-04:002009-03-31T23:15:40.238-04:00

I first heard about Type O Negative a year ago when my son introduced me to their music. He was right. I loved the sound, lyrics and most of all the voice of lead singer, Peter Steele. When listening to music there are those far and few between times when a song really touches something deep inside that you can really relate to. I'd never seen the band, never heard of them before but the music on

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-42526431762480002772008-07-19T09:27:00.011-04:002008-07-19T11:10:14.716-04:00

Backyard Vacation by Wanda G. BlackI sit here and gaze at God's blue skyWith white puffy clouds drifting byAnd the vibrant green of grass and treesAnd the flowers all bowing in the breeze Then I look out across the peaceful pondAt the woods and the pasture just beyond.And closer in, flying into viewThe finch, the cardinal, and the bluebird, too.In the redwood swing, I lean

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-72673323071910068942008-07-18T19:12:00.006-04:002008-07-19T10:04:24.892-04:00

According to the ancient Greek myth, all raspberries were once white in color. That was, until the day the God Jupiter was in such a rage that the Nymph Ida, to appease him, went and picked him some wild raspberries. It seems that while she was picking the berries she pricked her finger on the thorns of a raspberry bush. Legend has it that her blood, from that point on, stained all raspberries a

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-18965226709771419012008-07-15T08:53:00.002-04:002008-07-19T11:12:38.511-04:00

"Why I Need the Birds"by Lisel MuellerWhen I hear them callin the morning, before I am quite awake,my bed is already traveling the daily rainbow,the arc toward evening;and the birds, leadingtheir own discreet livesof hunger and watchfulness,are with me all the way,always a little ahead of mein the long-practiced mannerof unobtrusive guides. By the time I arrive at evening,they have just settled

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-19210654546292246782008-07-11T16:57:00.009-04:002008-07-19T11:15:13.757-04:00

I finally was able to list some new leaf ornaments in my Etsy shop today. For the past year I've tried to do my art full time and although I've definitely made forward progress, I can't keep up with the economy, so off I've been to job hunt.Tedious, boring...necessary.Anywhooo, here are three new pieces I've been able to complete. I also have a 6" full sculpt of a tree nymph I am working on as a

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-70660113437555611222008-06-24T22:16:00.008-04:002008-06-26T19:09:30.496-04:00

I took the imprint of the Silver Maple and tried out some alcohol inks on it to see how it'd come out. I used Kato translucent clay, painted a face on the leaf and after it was sealed applied the inks. The result was kinda edgy I think. We had really bad weather so the pics I took outdoors are a bit off but I'm pleased with this one. It's totally different than my other pieces and has a mystic

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-86676352550975850862008-06-22T14:38:00.006-04:002008-06-26T19:11:33.742-04:00

Thought I'd post a few pictures of a piece I'm working on. I went for a walk yesterday and found some beautiful Birch tree and Silver Maple leaves to imprint. I have a few more tweaks to do, then I'll create the bail and necklace pieces.I also decided to do reversible leaf pendants, for an added option. Update:Here is a picture of the finished piece. I listed it on Etsy Monday and it sold that

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-35287461191966453872008-06-21T13:14:00.005-04:002008-07-27T23:29:03.710-04:00

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,And sorry I could not travel bothAnd be one traveler, long I stoodAnd looked down one as far as I couldTo where it bent in the undergrowth.Then took the other, as just as fair,And having perhaps the better claim,Because it was grassy and wanted wear;Though as for that the passing thereHad worn them really about the same.And both that morning equally layIn

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-41645528350491471132008-06-20T12:46:00.003-04:002008-06-20T12:52:20.924-04:00

I was pleasantly surprised this morning to see my work featured on Purfect Little Purses' blog. She really makes the coolest bags and is a super gal. Have a look won't you?Elysian Fields on Perfect Little Purses

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-84056491692310487982008-06-20T10:58:00.008-04:002008-06-26T19:13:38.752-04:00

When I wake each day one of my favorite things to do is go outside with my coffee and sit for a bit. I have bird feeders all along the tree line of my property and each day the variety of birds that visit me is amazing. Birds of every color and hue, melodic sounds as they sing to each other, and the beauty of the day always inspires me. I've been feeding them for so long now that many who

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-37777108767721843722008-06-19T00:47:00.020-04:002008-07-19T10:05:19.702-04:00

"There is a pleasure in the pathless woods,There is a rapture on the lonely shore,There is society, where none intrudes,By the deep sea, and music in its roar:I love not man the less, but Nature more,From these our interviews, in which I stealFrom all I may be, or have been before,To mingle with the Universe, andWhat I can ne'er express, yet cannot all conceal."I saw this excerpt from a poem by

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8974709378713988998.post-12412348526564194002008-06-18T00:38:00.010-04:002008-06-22T00:53:57.386-04:00

I recently took a break from sculpting this past winter, when arthritis flared up and my hands wouldn't cooperate. As weather turned warmer and the dreary colors of Winter gave way to springs bounty, I began to play with my clay again but in a limited capacity. After smushing a dozen sculpts I wasn't happy with, I started making imprints of leaves I collected around my yard. I delight in the

Elysian Field Originalsnoreply@blogger.com4