Realisation Creations

Snakeshead

2011-05-18T08:36:00.000+09:30

William Morris is endlessly inspiring! When I got my hands on this amazing vintage brass filagree finding, I knew I had to work it into a design based on Morris' Snakeshead printed textile.

Available here.

Always

2011-05-16T04:09:00.000+09:30

Always we hope
Someone has the answer,
Some other place it will be better,
Some other time
It will all turn out.

This is it.
No one else has the answer.
No other place will be better,
And it has already turned out.

~ Lao Tzu

Season from yellena

Yes

2011-05-14T12:54:00.003+09:30

Yes
It could happen any time, tornado,
Earthquake, Armageddon. It could happen.
Or sunshine, love, salvation.

It could, you know. That's why we wake
And look out - no guarantees
in this life.

But some bonuses, like morning,
like right now, like noon,
like evening.

~William Stafford

Things We Hold in Our Hearts, from ara133photography

New Designs

2011-05-11T09:58:00.003+09:30

Lately, I feel like I have been running from one thing to the next, with no time for jewellery...which makes me sad. But - I know there will be time in the future! For now though, these are my newest designs...available in my Etsy store.

New house!

2011-04-22T11:46:00.003+09:30

It's an exciting time for my family and I - our cooling off finished yesterday, on the purchase of our new home! This images were taken the day we went to sign papers to purchase. As you can see - we have copious work to do. The exterior of the house is Angaston stone - from a local Barossa quarry - which unfortunately has been painted with what appears to be a rubberised type of paint - we've been told it's near impossible to remove without damaging the stone, but this needs more investigation.

It's a modest 3 bedroom house, built in 1955, and very much loved by an older couple who has now moved on to a retirement village. We plan initially to polish the baltic pine floorboards, paint, and install wardrobes in the house in order for us to move in. We also need to take down some of the existing garages and shed in the half acre yard (most of which have lean to constructions built on to them) and the chook run, and start again with a large shed/garage and a lined room (which Leon thinks is going to be a party/pool table room, but I covet for my work room...fingers crossed!)

Eventually, we want to build a large light-filled extension onto the rear (this will be when I get my new kitchen and bathroom - more finger crossing here) but we want to live in the space for a while before we start on this.

The garden needs a good tidy up, but has a myriad of plants that are quite old fashioned, some of which I haven't seen before. Does anyone know what tree produces these pods below?

Or what these almost ridiculously fake coloured bulbs are?

Some incredible mature trees here - we're very lucky!

I have this ache to create for this house - to sew, to garden, to cook, to nurture this place, for myself and my family. 30th of June is our settlement, and then the first of the renovations begin!

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring...

2011-04-13T15:02:00.001+09:30

...as you've never heard (or seen!) it before!

Coeur de Pirate

2011-04-11T11:12:00.007+09:30

I've been listening to a lot of Coeur de Pirate recently...and anxiously awaiting a new album!

Tonematrix

2011-04-10T11:17:00.003+09:30

Click on the squares to make music - link here - I spent ages playing with this!

2011-04-08T08:43:00.002+09:30

I'm hopelessly addicted!

I repinned this on pinterest - you can follow me here...warning - addictive!
PS: this quote is oh-so-true...

Abundanceof

2011-04-06T11:17:00.000+09:30

More amazing images and words, found here.

Knitted Loveliness

2011-04-01T08:56:00.000+10:30

Images found here.

New Designs

2011-03-31T11:16:00.002+10:30

I've finally returned to my Etsy store - hooray! Blue seems to be the common thread at the moment.

Wishlist Wednesday

2011-03-30T09:00:00.001+10:30

What Katie Ate

2011-03-29T08:31:00.004+10:30

Described as a "foodie photography blog", this is a site I find myself spending more and more time exploring. The photography is amazing, and the recipes are inspiring.

See What Katie Ate for more drooling!

Cate Parr

2011-03-28T12:09:00.004+10:30

I came across these gorgeous images on Etsy.

I think they have a wonderful, wistful, circa late 1960's quality to them.
You can see more of this incredible artwork here.

Wishlist Wednesday

2011-03-23T10:42:00.000+10:30

Gorgeousness!

Where have I been?

2011-03-08T10:15:00.002+10:30

As you may know, we moved recently - to the gorgeous Barossa Valley in South Australia...and I'm must admit, my muse has taken an extremely long holiday. I'm slowly pushing myself back into creating mode, but this time I'm finding it very very difficult...things aren't flowing like they used to, and I suppose I'm just not quite ready yet!

I was planning on reopening my Etsy store tomorrow, yet I only have about 6 new items, and haven't taken photos of anything yet. I'm procrastinating so badly - this morning I've done my internet banking, written out a menu plan and shopping list, reorganised my makeup case, done a load of washing, reorganised iTunes, chatted with my brother online, updated twitter and facebook...yet done nothing towards Etsy...I really need a push - how do you do it when you're mid-procrastination attack??

The Hunted

2010-11-12T09:23:00.004+10:30

The stunning new collection from Hopeless - The Hunted. Exquisite work, and exceptional photography.

Among other places, found here.

Moving

2010-11-08T13:10:00.003+10:30

It feels like ages since I blogged. I've been in a state of flux. I've closed my Etsy store for the meantime, as we're moving soon - I'm feeling strangely guilty not doing anything apart from dream jewellery-wise. This morning I went for a walk - this gorgeous beach will be one of the only things I'll miss about where we live - apart from the proximity to some of my dear friends. I'm so ready to move on! Tomorrow my boys will be having a Transition Day at their new schools, and I will have my first shift at my new work - everything is changing, and I think for the first time in my life - I'm not scared. Overwhelmed at times? Absolutely. But scared? No. I'm ready to move, and to move on, and I can't wait to see what the future will bring for me and my gorgeous family.

PS: I have started some very preliminary sketches for my first collection, which will tentatively be released in December/January. Stay tuned!

VAST Nude

2010-10-19T10:19:00.003+10:30

Found these amazing images when looking for the cover art for V.A.S.T's album, Nude.

Found here, here and here.

Jim Morrison

2010-10-14T19:24:00.003+10:30

I just finished this amazing biography of Jim Morrison. I've always been a Doors fan, but never realised just how ground breaking they were. I was fascinated with Jim's ill-fated relationship with Pamela Courson.

Images found here, here, and here.

Verner Panton

2010-10-11T10:07:00.002+10:30

It's with a heavy heart I report that we didn't get this house. But, while on the lookout for cool, mid century modern pieces, I came across designer Verner Panton.

Found here, here and here.

Knapfla

2010-10-10T16:59:00.001+10:30

So gorgeous!

Found here.

Muriel Brandolini

2010-10-06T08:34:00.003+10:30

Some gorgeous interiors from designer Muriel Brandolini.

Found on her site and Elle decor.

Less 365 - Week 3

2010-10-05T17:58:00.004+10:30

A little behind with this! (but I have been decluttering)

Pictured here are a steamer, a honey pot (bought for being delightfully cute but never used), an odd plate (not sure where it came from), a set of 8 cream napkins, an old baking tray past its best, a pizza stone stand, and a battery charger - the batteries disappeared years ago.

My husband came in as I was photographing this, and didn't want most of this thrown out - he's taken them up to the apartment he's using while in Angaston - I hope I don't see any of it at our new house!

Home Love by Megan Morton

2010-10-02T13:04:00.002+09:30

I borrowed this wonderful book from the library, not expecting it to be anywhere near as inspiring and motivating. I now have this on back order from the Book Depository, I simply must own my own copy! you can also buy it here, which I might end up doing if it doesn't come into stock soon!

In the meantime, I have this link bookmarked to read more about Megan.

Daniel Poynton

2010-09-20T09:40:00.002+09:30

To see more of his work, please go here.

Less 365 - Week 2

2010-09-18T17:15:00.003+09:30

This week the photograph below only accounts for a very small amount of items that I have delcuttered, donated, thrown away or recycled. My oldest son was away for the weekend - for the Pedal Prix - so I took advantage of it and reorganised and cleaned his room thoroughly. He was not impressed, but I managed to recycle, throw out, and donate about 3 1/2 garbage bags full...let's see how much he notices is gone, seeing as he knew "exactly where his stuff was".

This week my photo above is of 5 scarves that I did not wear even once this winter, and two handbags I haven't used for at least 3 years...possibly more like 5. Off they go to the Salvos!

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-09-16T17:31:00.003+09:30

A day late again!

Wooden Leaf Puzzle by JustHatched

Lemon Branch by Ginger Caravan

Sterling silver star anise pins from terminy (I so want one of these!)

New Designs

2010-09-15T18:47:00.005+09:30

My goodness, I am so behind with updating my new designs...these are a selection from the past month or so (please click on the images if you want more information about these :) )

I've noticed I've used lots of yellow in these designs...maybe because it's decidedly Spring here?

H.R. Giger

2010-09-13T11:32:00.000+09:30

Famous for his work on Ridley Scott's Alien, H.R. Giger's disturbing work blends monsters, mechanisms, and erotica together in nightmarish scenes.

To view more of his work, please click here.

Less 365 - Week 1

2010-09-11T11:29:00.006+09:30

Inspired by Sara's recent blog post (from girlscantell) - I've decided to take part in the Less 365 experiment. The premise is to give away, recycle, or bin an item a day, for an entire year! I'm going to photograph my items once a week, and hopefully this will keep me being more mindful of what comes into my home...hopefully...

This week (apart from an embarrassingly large bag of rubbish found in the bottom of a long forgotten drawer) I'm donating a size 18 Grecian style dress I wore to Leon's Christmas do last year - gorgeous, but way too big now (yay!) a weird iPod-y type attachment that I've never used, a table runner I bought possibly 15-odd years ago from Oxfam, and have never used, a Big Audio Dynamite CD (don't ask!) a teensy tiny camel pin (I have no idea where I got this from?), and I am recycling a box I have kept for at least 8 years that my jewellery block came in, and old business cards with incorrect details.

Pac-Man

2010-09-11T11:06:00.001+09:30

So clever!

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-09-08T09:58:00.002+09:30

These lovelies are all part of my latest treasury!

Patio Chair from fillingham

Bus Scroll from TransitDesign

60's Danish Modern Lamp from fabulousmess

Spring Garlands

2010-09-07T17:07:00.003+09:30

Lovely flowery garlands!

Please click on the images for more information.

The Wild Unknown

2010-09-06T13:23:00.003+09:30

Ah! It's definitely Spring here today! The sun is shining, and after the generous amount of wintry weather we've experienced recently, the sunshine is certainly very welcome. These wonderful Spring prints from the Wild Unknown (now sold out) are very sweet reminders of Spring all year around.

To see more lovely prints, click here.

Dreaming...

2010-09-04T08:32:00.003+09:30

I'm completely addicted to looking at house-y type sites at the moment! Have a look at this gorgeous Victorian design situated in San Fransisco. I love that many of the original features were retained, yet the design is crisp and modern - a very liveable space indeed!

You can see more amazing images here.

House Visit: the sequel

2010-08-29T19:13:00.006+09:30

Well. After our visit to the house at Angaston, we are now thoroughly confused. We were not expecting an Arizonan ranch-style inspired house at all! Built in 1964, Leon and I were impressed with the architecture, and now have the unpleasant - but neccessary - task of working out if we can actually afford this beauty!

Stay tuned...

House Visit

2010-08-28T23:34:00.003+09:30

I can't sleep - we're off to see our "maybe" house tomorrow! It's a mid-century modern, but I'm not expecting it to look anything like these amazing images.

Off to try and sleep again! If you want to see more, I found these images here.

Katara

2010-08-27T13:41:00.005+09:30

Whilst browsing Google for images of knives (to name the necklace below, which I ended up calling Katara) I found some quite interesting images!

found here

unknown source

found here

And finally, my new Katara necklace!

Paul Klee

2010-08-23T09:16:00.004+09:30

With a tender fragility and endearing quality to his work, Paul Klee is inspiring and difficult to categorise.

Around the Fish - found here

Paul Klee Centre in Bern, Switzerland

Homage to Paul Klee by Nancy Almazan

Other images found here and here.

Eames...

2010-08-21T09:15:00.002+09:30

Looking for our perfect chair for our wonderful table (which I will eventually photograph and show you!) we ended up deciding on these. A fabulous Eames replica - comfortable, surprisingly sturdy, and ultra stylish). While searching for the "perfect chair", I stumbled across some other Eames designs, that I was not quite so familiar with.

I wish this was my lounge - all it needs is a couple of those wonderful house birds!

Images found here and here.

A Magic Cottage!

2010-08-20T12:29:00.004+09:30

Found here, this sweet little cabin was converted by the owner with flea market finds and salvage shop discoveries...to the tune of $3,000 - amazing!

What a fabulous refuge from the world!

Pimentón Ahumado

2010-08-19T13:36:00.004+09:30

Named for the fabulous spice - smoked paprika - the Pimentón Ahumado necklace is graced by a curved and delicate pendant, enhanced with rich AAA spessartite garnet pointed briolettes.

The pendant has been painstakingly wirewrapped and enhanced with teensy pyrite rondelles - which I love to use, as it gives the appearance of marcasite - I have also used some smooth sterling silver rounds. A length of chain has been securely added to either side of the pendant, and an additional length of chain and a hand crafted "S" clasp completes the design. The entire design was oxidised deeply, and then selectively rubbed back.

This measures an adjustable 39 - 46cm or 15 1/4 - 18" in length, while the pendant measures 6cm or 2.4" in length (from the top of the pendant to the base of the lower spessartite garnet briolette) and 3.4cm or 1.3" at the widest point.

For more pictures, please see here in my Etsy store.

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-08-18T10:28:00.002+09:30

Some lovely earthy items for this weeks Wishlist!

Please click on the images for more information.

Anna Karina and Kate Beckinsale

2010-08-18T09:57:00.004+09:30

Some images of the delightful Anna Karina, muse of the film director Jean-Luc Godard.

And some images of Kate Beckinsale for Mean Mag channeling her inner Anna Karina.

More photos here.

Houses

2010-08-14T20:59:00.003+09:30

As we are getting closer to moving (no sale yet, unfortunately) I find myself losing time dreaming about our new space. What it's going to be like, and the quality of life we will enjoy there. These images are so beautifully light filled, quite neutral, and elegant. I could live with it I think!

Images found here.

Viscountess Rochford

2010-08-11T09:46:00.003+09:30

Named for Queen Catherines' lady in waiting, Jane Boleyn, who met an untimely end due to the secrets she kept from King Henry.

The Viscountess Rochford necklace is graced by two strands of freshwater pearls in colours of nude, beige, pink and a soft bronze. Carefully linked together using sterling wire, each strand terminates in a pendant. The longer strand features a cluster of toning pearls, moonstone and crystal quartz rondelles, and beneath that, a sterling key sways. The other strand features a stunning AAA crystal quartz briolette. An ornate Balinese silver toggle clasp provides a beautiful - and secure - closure. The entire design was oxidised deeply, and then selectively rubbed back.

The shorter strand of this necklace measures 46cm or 17 1/2" in length, while the longer strand measures 51cm or 20". The crystal pendant 27mm or an inch, while the key pendant drops a further 8.1cm or 3.2".

You can see more pictures of this design here in my Etsy store!

Michael Leunig

2010-08-06T14:33:00.005+09:30

One of my favourite Australian artists and cartoonists, Michael Leunig's work is often melancholy and quite poignant. I especially love this first one - very glass-half-full - which I certainly need to remind myself to be sometimes...er...often!

You can view more of his lovely work here.

All images found in a simple Google search.

Melvin Sokolsky

2010-07-29T16:18:00.002+09:30

I found these wonderful images on WHORANGE from Melvin Sokolsky's incredible 1963 Bubble series. Melvin Sokolsky's site is here. Be warned, you could be there for hours!

New Designs

2010-07-26T20:54:00.005+09:30

Lots of new designs! Please click on the images for more details.

No details on this one, as it's a custom order for a very special lady!

I'm currently having a tiny teensy panic as I have an exhibition that I'm participating in, opening on Sunday, and I'm not feeling ready! Details to follow...

Graffiti

2010-07-22T12:50:00.004+09:30

Found in the back streets of Glenelg (which is a suburb in Adelaide, and also a palindrom e - one of my favourite ever words!)

William Larkin

2010-07-17T18:19:00.004+09:30

Looking for art portraying the Lady Rochford, I was fortunate to come across these dazzling portraits by William Larkin.

I feel inspired by the incredible opulence and richness within each portrait, the astounding detail!

Marie Antoinette (1938)

2010-07-14T11:36:00.009+09:30

I've just finished watching this. I've been on a bit of a royal family kick, immersing myself in the marvellous The Tudors and Marie Antoinette was a lovely diversion. Norma Shearer and Tyrone Power starred in this lavish production - I was entranced by the costumes, and engaged by the sympathetic portrayal of "that Austrian woman".

Images found here, here, here, here and here

Mid Century Modern...

2010-07-13T10:35:00.003+09:30

...house - we may have found one all of our own! News as and when it comes in. Until then, enjoy these fabulous pics from MoModerne.

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-07-07T09:24:00.004+09:30

This week all my wishes come from Adelaide - my home town!

Flying Ducks from delilahdevine

Leda ring from bitstoatoms

Paisley Parade by daniellereck

The Passenger

2010-07-06T09:57:00.004+09:30

Searching for Iggy Pop's The Passenger...I came across some of these...

Barossa...again

2010-07-05T16:12:00.005+09:30

Another lovely day in the Barossa! The boys and I started off at Woodside, where I attended a photo shoot for Itchypod at Thomas for Roses, then had a lovely mocha at the Bakery.

William being exceptionally regal on the Clydesdale statue in Angaston.

While Leon finished off at work, the boys played while I soaked up the winter sun.

Then we were off to Maggie Beer's for lunch. This peacock just could not show off enough! He hopped down from the wall where we was sunning himself after the cameras stopped clicking.

Both Leon and Jacob enjoyed a pheasant terrine, while William and I had picnic baskets of cheese and fresh bread.

After a quick photo opportunity by the lake, we started back home. Every time I leave the Barossa to come home to Adelaide, I feel I'm leaving my true home. I am so looking forward to a time where our family is settled there.

The Catherine Window (and a winner!)

2010-07-02T09:26:00.003+09:30

Inspired by my love of stained glass elements in the Gothic architectural style, The Catherine Window necklace features enchanting rich colours. The central gemstone is a jaw dropping AAA oro verde (or green gold lemon quartz) briolette, which has been surrounded by carved rubelite garnet leaves, faceted full drops of lapis lazuli, and teensy "mystic" quartz rondelles. Joined to a generous length of chain using the deepest navy Akoya saltwater pearls, the design is finished with a hand forged "s" clasp and a length of extension chain - with a lapis briolette as a dangle. The entire design was heavily oxidised and lightly rubbed back.

You can see more details of the Catherine Window necklace here.

And, to announce the winner of my giveaway! It was lucky number 24 (thanks to Random.org )

- Michelle from Gyspy Rose Creations!

Thanks to those who entered, I am approaching another milestone, and planning to hold another celebratory giveaway soon.

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-06-30T13:50:00.005+09:30

Dear to the Moss watercolour painting by GollyBard

Patricia top by Ureshii

Heirloom jeweled bouquet by Noaki

Last day to enter my giveaway!

Nico

2010-06-27T16:10:00.005+09:30

I've been reading a biography of Iggy Pop, and came across some photos of the gorgeous Nico. I had heard of her in conjunction with the Velvet Underground before, but did not realise she had been an artist in her own right.

Giveaway!

2010-06-26T12:58:00.008+09:30

I have decided to hold a giveaway to celebrate reaching 500 fans on Realisation Creations on Facebook - due to rules on FB, I can't hold a giveaway there!

Available to one lucky entrant is this delightful Soaring necklace, created with sterling silver, goldfill, and freshwater pearls.

To Enter:

Visit Realisation Creations on Etsy, and then leave me a comment about your favorite item in my store. For extra chances to win:

follow my blog
follow me on twitter
Like me on Facebook
tweet this giveaway
blog this giveaway

(Please leave extra comments for any or all of the above that have been completed, using links if applicable.)

I will announce a winner on the 30th of June, and good luck!

(Please give me some way to get in contact with you - through twitter, facebook, etsy, or an email address - thanks!)

New Designs

2010-06-25T12:54:00.007+09:30

Gosh it's been ages since I last updated new designs! Please click on the images to find out more about them.

(No details on this one online as this was a custom order for a very special lady!)

I'm planning to announce a big giveaway tomorrow - so stay tuned!

Megan Fox - Photos by Craig McDean

2010-06-17T18:44:00.004+09:30

I know very little about Megan Fox, but was entranced by these images. They are for a recent interview done for Interview Magazine.

Full interview, with more pictures here.

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-06-16T09:24:00.003+09:30

Geisha Shirt with Obi belt from AliceCouture

The lantern room canvas from fireflyedesigns

Dancing in the Lemony Wind by jennifermorrisbeads

Open Home

2010-06-15T11:13:00.009+09:30

There are some new favourite parts of my house, now that it's all primped and preened, looking it's best, and ready to be sold.

A trio of vases - the multi hued glass vase was a gift from a dear friend - the pod vase a gift to myself - from whitneysmith.

Gorgeous lidded pot from StudioElan, vintage deco glass lidded jar bought on eBay, and Russell Hobbs salt and pepper whatsits (a little guiding light goes on when you grind seasoning on your food!)

My gorgeous candle that smells completely divine - and it's not even lit yet - from monkeysalwayslook

Whimsical - and wonderful - portraits of my boys by the talented Claire Richards.

A vintage Grundig radio/record player that Leon's parents were going to take to the tip! We rescued him, and he now lives with us. Note this fabulous cushion from tractorgirl.

Another cushion from tractorgirl. (She's so clever.)

Red Lotus cushion from Kainkain and scroll cushion from tractorgirl (as above). I am delighted that we finally have this *incredible* artwork framed and hung. I love it so much! From onesweetorange

What are some of your favourite things in your home?

House Hunting

2010-06-12T09:29:00.005+09:30

So, we have started house hunting in earnest. Our existing house will be photographed on Tuesday and open inspections commence the weekend after - it's all happening! This is a gorgeous house we looked at yesterday. On a 2000 square metre block, I love the imposing look of the circa 1910 house, and the gardens are amazing. Leon and I worked out that we would need to spend more than we can afford getting the inside into a state that works for our family, so with reluctance, we are not pursuing this house any further.

As we left, it was William that asked the pertinent question: "Does the house come with the tyre swing?"

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-06-09T14:03:00.003+09:30

Large Bottle Trio by sarapaloma

Set of four Spring Time coasters by RaineStyleHome

Shell Specimen Fridge Magnets by janedean

Images...

2010-06-06T08:17:00.005+09:30

Nina Maria Kleivan

2010-06-04T11:52:00.003+09:30

Nina Maria Kleivan's images of her baby daughter dressed as infamous dictators is quite confronting. And it's meant to be. Her images explore the potential of each human, as we:

“...all begin life the same. We all have every opportunity ahead of us. To do good, or inexplicable evil.”

You can see more of her work here, and all of the Potency images here.

Busy...

2010-06-02T11:12:00.004+09:30

...getting our house ready for sale. I'm not sure why it is, but we always seem to get organised with our house - only when we are moving! I finally have this gorgeous intaglio from Ambera Wellman framed and hung above our bed. I am so delighted I have finally got around to it, I admire it every time I am passing it.

More artworks are being framed and hung, only to be admired for a short time until we move - and fall in love with them all over.

Michelle Forsyth

2010-06-01T10:22:00.002+09:30

Amazing images from Michelle Forsyth, who has taken pointillism to a new place. These installations are created using paper and dressmaking pins, and each image in the Ostinatos series is a recreation of a disaster scene, in Michelle's words:

Part requiem and part obsession, these pieces are a testament to those who have suffered there in the past.

You can see more of her thought provoking work here.

Gorillaz

2010-05-29T15:01:00.005+09:30

The Gorillaz are an amazing virtual band, fronted by Blur's Damon Albarn. The strong graphics are co-created by comic book artist Jamie Hewlett, who also was the co-creator of Tank Girl.

It's interesting to see the Gorillaz most recent work - Plastic Beach - has taken the artwork of the characters to an entirely new level. You can see their new incredibly realistic look here, and waste hours here on the Plastic Beach game.

Chez Larson

2010-05-28T10:18:00.003+09:30

All these gorgeous images are from Chez Larson a blog that I follow. This blog makes me so yearn for the move (which will happen later this year) and a house I can love and tend.

Brickfields

2010-05-24T08:30:00.000+09:30

Whilst this is an unprepossessing name, the Brickfields earrings are a reminder of the happiest days of my childhood. As a young child, I was fortunate enough to live in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, for a few years. Our wonderful Amah - Jaya Letchumi - called the locale of Brickfields her home (and still does!) and as the generous and warm Auntie she became to me, I was welcomed into her home on many occasions. As I was working on this design, so many fabulous memories came flooding back - the wonderous sights, the busy and noisy house, the array of delicious food, my cheek being painfully pinched, Jaya Letchumi's warm enveloping embrace...I always felt warm, happy and safe there.

Created from a base of goldfill wire which has been shaped and hammered, an overlay of thin sterling wire is punctuated with a flashy labradorite briolette. A length of textured goldfill wire is completed with sterling handforged ear wires, while the crowning glory of this design is the shimmering array of gems that sway at the base of this design. Carefully wrapped to the frame, turquoise and labradorite have been placed on sterling headpins, while the teensy glowing red spinel rondelles have been placed on bright gold vermeil headpins.

Gorgeously dramatic, I can imagine these being supremely helpful on those days you feel like channeling your inner Bollywood! ;)

These measure 6.4cm or 2.5" in length.

All metal is either blackened (oxidised) fine or sterling silver, goldfill - 12k gold bonded to brass - or vermeil - 22k or 24k gold over sterling silver.

Available here.

A sick day...

2010-05-23T08:00:00.003+09:30

Poor William was home the other day with a very very sore tummy. We are getting him checked for gluten intolerance soon, as his symptoms seem consistent with the information I've been seeking. The poor fellow was not well enough to go to school, but not sick enough to stay in bed, so he was at a loose end. I was making these, so sent him off to his room to play solo Scrabble...and in a manner only William could achieve, he came up with the following...

Notice Me

2010-05-22T08:30:00.002+09:30

I love these wonderful guerrilla signs created by Jock Kinneir and Margaret Calvert.

From the Notice Me site:

In a visually hectic place like London, where graffiti and street art can be too easily lumped into an ignorable and pesky visual attack, 'Notice Me' blends into the city-scape to evade detection, but have maximum automatic readership.

They speak in a caring, loving, surreal and overall positive way, but in the colors of the authority. Although at child height (mostly) they are also for the parents who may notice that their children are being targeted, hopefully sparking a mixed emotion.

New Designs

2010-05-21T11:49:00.002+09:30

I've been very neglectful in posting new designs! (Please click on the image to find out more about these lovelies.)

Most are available in my Etsy store...some are already gone!

Mark Ryden

2010-05-20T09:15:00.000+09:30

These wonderful works are exquisitely rendered, intriguing and disturbing. I love them!

For more about this artist's work, please see here.

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-05-19T12:26:00.003+09:30

Down the Rabbit Hole by BijouxOdalisque

Abstract Painting by mausart

Turnaround Dress by SHIHAR

Images...

2010-05-18T16:21:00.001+09:30

...all found at this lovely blog.

Rothko

2010-05-17T08:28:00.002+09:30

Such powerful and deceptively simple works, Mark Rothko's paintings are as striking and pause worthy today as when they were first painted.

Belly Dancing

2010-05-14T12:42:00.003+09:30

Thank you Hannah, for sharing the amazing clip above!

Nestled In

2010-05-11T17:07:00.002+09:30

All these images are from this fabulous blog.

It won't be around forever, so check it out while you still can!

Inspirational!

2010-05-11T07:21:00.001+09:30

Nautilus House

2010-05-09T09:35:00.002+09:30

A completely amazing house built in Mexico city.

You can find out more about it here and here.

Cats

2010-05-07T13:07:00.002+09:30

My boys loved this!

Although I think William loved this one even more. And how does this poor bloke get any sleep?

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-05-05T10:53:00.003+09:30

Lovely hues of coral...

Auberte earrings by elainehaydonjewelry

Vent by AbstractEntity

Sea Sponge Ceramic brooch by pirilamporiscardo

Banksy

2010-05-04T06:05:00.003+09:30

I've only recently come across images from Banksy - a pseudonymous British Graffiti Artist. his work has appeared all over the world, and he creates his distinctive look using stencils, aerosols and a keen eye for grim humour.

You can view more of his incredible work here.

Talisman

2010-05-03T18:02:00.002+09:30

An organic "urn" shape - hand forged and then wirewrapped - captures high quality gemstones - a marquis-shaped focal of stormy sea blue sapphire is capped by two trios of gems - AAA turquoise and iolite, while more iolite rondelles grace the curves of the pendant. A fringe of graduated toning gems dangle from the base of the pendant. Matching turquoise rondelles secure a textured chain to the pendant; the chain is finished with a sterling silver "S" clasp. The entire design was then oxidised and rubbed back selectively.

The pendant measures 42mm or 1.6" in height and 28mm or 1.1" at the widest point, while the chain measures 47 1/2cm or 20 3/4" in length.

And the winner of the April giveaway is...

2010-05-02T18:01:00.000+09:30

...the lovely Vickie from jewelflyt (as chosen by random.org)
She will receive $40 towards anything in my store!

She makes jewellery too, with a some wonderful fine silver pieces like the one above. You can see her store here.

My namesake

2010-04-21T09:31:00.003+09:30

I received an intriguing Google Alert this morning for my name - Natalia Bondarenko - and realised it was my namesake. I believe she is an artist in Italy. I have no idea what this is about, but I found it very beautiful. Who would have thought it - two Natalia Bondarenko's obsessed by art!

If you speak Italian, I would love to know what this means!

Keep Calm and Carry On

2010-04-18T10:55:00.003+09:30

Some wonderful parodies of the popular Keep Calm and Carry On.

Cupcakes

2010-04-17T12:32:00.003+09:30

Who doesn't love cupcakes?

Rose Covered Cupcakes (sourced here)

Lego cupcakes (sourced here)

Le Cupcake (sourced here - may I suggest - wear a bib!)

Gorgeous cupcakes from Monnie (you can see more here or on her wonderful site here)

Rosewater and Pistachio cupcakes (sourced here)

Moxy Crochet

2010-04-16T12:25:00.002+09:30

I came across this gorgeous website when looking for crochet instructions (yes, I want to learn to crochet!) Moxy Crochet products are created by seven artisans based in Cape Town's Khayelietsha township - I covet one of their gorgeous throw to snuggle under - the colour palettes they use are gorgeous!

For more about Moxy Crochet, click here.

So many places to see!

2010-04-15T07:50:00.003+09:30

Greece's Mani Peninsula.

Images from the delicious Gourmet Traveller.

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-04-14T08:20:00.002+09:30

Some vintage inspired pin ups on my wishlist this week!

Vintage Girl V by janeheller

Peek a View Pin Up by VANGUARDGALLERY

Vintage Inspired Bullet Bra Bathing suit by queenbeeluxuries

Longing for the country

2010-04-12T17:35:00.003+09:30

Some gorgeous images from a dream house!

From Country Living.

Darkly Lilac

2010-04-11T06:54:00.003+09:30

While creating this, I had romantic images of a beautiful, innocent and ultimately spurned Victorian heroine, waiting in vain for her love...in the lilac arbour at dusk (but of course!)

The design has been created by wirewrapping a spine of AAA sparkly white topaz gemstones together. This simple base was elaborated on with clusters of gems nestled between the white topaz rondelles. Featured are violet/blue iolite, vibrant amethyst, icy rock crystal quartz, mysterious black rutilated quartz, and iris peacock freshwater pearls. Finished with an ornate Balinese silver toggle clasp, the entire design was oxidised in an organic fashion, and then lightly rubbed back. Glorious!

You can see more images of the Darkly Lilac bracelet here.

Sean Farrow

2010-04-10T11:11:00.000+09:30

While looking at some photos of one of my friends on Facebook, I realised they had been taken by his friend, and upon some more research (some people call it snooping, I call it research) discovered his photography portfolio, which features some amazing art!

To see more of Sean's work, please click here.

Realisation Creations

Snakeshead

Always

Yes

New Designs

New house!

Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring...

Coeur de Pirate

Tonematrix

Pinterest

Abundanceof

Knitted Loveliness

New Designs

Wishlist Wednesday

What Katie Ate

Cate Parr

Wishlist Wednesday

Where have I been?

The Hunted

Moving

VAST Nude

Jim Morrison

Verner Panton

Knapfla

Muriel Brandolini

Less 365 - Week 3

Home Love by Megan Morton

Daniel Poynton

Less 365 - Week 2

Wishlist Wednesday

New Designs

H.R. Giger

Less 365 - Week 1

Pac-Man

Wishlist Wednesday

Spring Garlands

The Wild Unknown

Dreaming...

House Visit: the sequel

House Visit

Katara

Paul Klee

Eames...

A Magic Cottage!

Pimentón Ahumado

Wishlist Wednesday

Anna Karina and Kate Beckinsale

Houses

Viscountess Rochford

Michael Leunig

Melvin Sokolsky

New Designs

Graffiti

William Larkin

Marie Antoinette (1938)

Mid Century Modern...

Wishlist Wednesday

The Passenger

Barossa...again

The Catherine Window (and a winner!)

Wishlist Wednesday

Nico

Giveaway!

New Designs

Megan Fox - Photos by Craig McDean

Wishlist Wednesday

Open Home

House Hunting

Wishlist Wednesday

Images...

Nina Maria Kleivan

Busy...

Michelle Forsyth

Gorillaz

Chez Larson

Brickfields

A sick day...

Notice Me

New Designs

Mark Ryden