The photo below is a shot of my talisman project with my word for the year. I am fortunate to be able to participate in the Ice Resin talisman project this year. This is my entry, without a chain attached yet. I was generously provided with some Ice Resin and two bezels, and given free reign to create whatever I want, using a word that's significant to me.
Why did I choose Grow? This year I want to do just that, a lot. I don't believe in New Year's Resolutions, but do believe in annual goals. Some years I don't have any (well, that was before I started making jewelry.) This year I have a Lot of goals, and they all involve growing, stretching. Most of them are small business professional goals; to participate in at least six shows, to submit (and hopefully have accepted) work in two jewelry making magazines, to upgrade my etsy shop, to learn new techniques and improve current ones, to participate in challenges, and to improve my blog.
As far as participating in challenges; that's been very challenging! I'm involved in the 8th Bead Soup Blog Party and have designed my piece, but not constructed it. The deadline is May 3rd, which is Way too rapidly approaching.
My other challenge (so far) this year is the Ice Resin talisman project. I've been a long time admirer of all things Susan Lenart Kazmer so I am grateful to be able to participate in the project. I'm a big fan of Susan and of Jen Cushman, the latter whom I've had the pleasure of taking a class from. I've got their books and videos too, which are great. Some day I'll figure out a way to take a class from Susan Lenart Kazmer. Maybe that should be a goal for 2015.
The talisman project is also meaningful because I grew in the process of doing it. I've had a jar of Iced Enamel (Shattered Fire Opal) and a bottle of medium for months, but haven't used them. I like working with enamels, based on the experience I had in a class with Kathy Combs. Iced Enamels are easier to use, quicker to use, and less expensive than glass enamels. I used my Iced Enamel as designed, plus sprinkled flakes of the grungy sparkle in Iced Resin poured over the Iced Enamels and paper ephemera, to seal them permanently in the bezel. Now I want more colors! What a fun new technique to learn and a fun way to Grow! Looks like I chose the right word.
grow (from Dictionary.com)
[groh]
verb (used without object), grew, grown, grow·ing.
1. to increase by natural development, as any living organism or part by assimilation of nutriment; increase in size or substance.
2. to form and increase in size by a process of inorganic accretion, as by crystallization.
3. to arise or issue as a natural development from an original happening, circumstance, or source: Our friendship grew from common interests.
4. to increase gradually in size, amount, etc.; become greater or larger; expand: His influence has grown.
5. to become gradually attached or united by or as if by growth: The branches of the trees grew together, forming a natural arch.
