tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73049076533977293172022-11-22T07:12:56.778-08:00Create My World DesignsPolymer, Upcycled and Digital creations by Beth Petricoincreatemyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.comBlogger120125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-17784959171747426322018-03-13T20:22:00.000-07:002018-03-15T07:54:14.154-07:00Stretching and personal growth<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's been a while since I've written anything here on the blog. Part of that is because I haven't really devoted much time to working in the studio since last October. I chalk much of that up to a general malaise over what's happening to this country, which has deeply affected my motivation. Another part of the picture was simply the hustle and bustle of the holidays, paired with parental hospitalizations, plus household ailments from cold and flu season. And lastly, late in 2017, I decided to turn inward and focus on self-improvement. At the end of October, I began a routine (near daily) practice of yoga, which has both helped my physical and mental wellbeing. And early in 2018, I decided to tame the nutrition beast and begin the journey of losing the weight that has crept on over the years since I turned 35, that magical number when easy weight loss suddenly became unobtainable despite a regular fitness routine. I'm happy to report, after 2 months of dedicated whole-food nutrition, I'm down 12 pounds so far, and feeling SO much healthier! This year is shaping up to be the year of "me", focusing on re-making myself into the healthiest version of me.<br />
<br />
But, despite all of the aforementioned obstacles to feeding my muse, I haven't been totally out of my studio... Back in the fall I committed to participating in an online design course (that was scheduled to begin in December), which was offered by <a href="http://www.allovercreation.net/">Christine Dumont</a> and <a href="https://www.donnagreenbergarts.com/">Donna Greenberg</a>, through <a href="https://voila.eu.com/">Voila!</a> This course was specifically focused on jewelry design and the design principle of balance using symmetry and asymmetry. The course was held online, and was attended by a fantastic group of polymer artists. Though we each worked on interpreting the course material in our own ways, the sharing of assignments in our online group not only spurred conversation and camaraderie, but also generated a bounty of inspiration. If you've read my blog before, you already know about my artist crush on the work of <a href="https://www.donnagreenbergarts.com/">Donna Greenberg</a> from previous posts mentioning her. <a href="http://www.allovercreation.net/">Christine Dumont's</a> meticulous graphic style is mind-blowing to me, and she is another polymer artist who I have admired. I had the good fortune to meet both of these ladies in person last August at <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2017/08/synergized.html">Synergy4</a>. When the opportunity to take this online class presented itself, I knew immediately that this was an experience I shouldn't miss. <br />
<br />
Now, the class was supposed to wrap up within a certain time period, but because of holiday, health and personal issues, some of us did not complete our final projects until sometime later. Our instructors have graciously kept the group open and kindly continue to provide a final assessment of our finished projects. This past week, I was happy to finally complete the piece that I designed as a result of this course experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g2lx_bLTjXM/WqhTyrcv02I/AAAAAAAACK0/A5oOsr4tV60eneDa8xrhZMHGR3qF7HNRgCLcBGAs/s1600/metro12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="755" height="638" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g2lx_bLTjXM/WqhTyrcv02I/AAAAAAAACK0/A5oOsr4tV60eneDa8xrhZMHGR3qF7HNRgCLcBGAs/s640/metro12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
My jumping-off point for this piece was a necklace that I designed last year, with some of the cut polymer quilling strips. But I wanted to push the curvy swirls from that necklace into something more defined and sculpted. I've always been drawn to art nouveau styling and I wanted this new piece to reflect that design influence. My brain started to focus on the remembrance of the art nouveau styled metro stations in Paris. Perhaps this was because one of my best friends from my high school/college era, with whom I spent some time in Paris, was concurrently taking classes to reinvigorate his French. He and I enjoy reminiscing those years of our youth, and these metro stations in Paris have captivated me from the first time I saw them:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1289/3635/1600/paris-abbesses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="294" data-original-width="400" height="470" src="https://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/1289/3635/1600/paris-abbesses.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8dd5c1ihzEI/TqWtx8DgORI/AAAAAAABizo/RYiv6mW5Ehg/s800/hector-guimard3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="800" height="571" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8dd5c1ihzEI/TqWtx8DgORI/AAAAAAABizo/RYiv6mW5Ehg/s640/hector-guimard3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's the necklace that was my jumping-off point:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8yOCzGXAd5g/WqiDUJSw-VI/AAAAAAAACLE/y-s4gWLRtXMhXK8orBvxPs8tooxgE-CxwCLcBGAs/s1600/curvaceous3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="800" height="345" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8yOCzGXAd5g/WqiDUJSw-VI/AAAAAAAACLE/y-s4gWLRtXMhXK8orBvxPs8tooxgE-CxwCLcBGAs/s400/curvaceous3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As you can see, my design changed quite drastically from the jumping-off point. You can see the stronger influence (including the color scheme) from the art nouveau metro station images. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For those interested, below I will detail my full process for creating this piece. There will be more photos of the finished piece and a video which demonstrates the physical flexibility and position-ability of this piece. To start, I sketched out a few ideas. After pairing down features that didn't work, I chose the sketch in the next image to be the starting point. Also in the next image is the wire armature that I created, this wire armature is what allows the necklace to be customized by positioning it to contour the wearer's body. The wire armature is a 16 gauge aluminum wire. At the points where 2 wires meet, they are wound with a thin 28 gauge wire for joining.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YKi4z8sMgHc/WqiGNcZyEbI/AAAAAAAACLQ/egUGhBJ5CJw0aeP70iVScjYOCOzdPBf-QCLcBGAs/s1600/wired.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YKi4z8sMgHc/WqiGNcZyEbI/AAAAAAAACLQ/egUGhBJ5CJw0aeP70iVScjYOCOzdPBf-QCLcBGAs/s640/wired.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The next step in the design process was a base layer of polymer. Keeping in mind that I wanted this piece to flex without breaking, I decided to go with a 50/50 blend of Cernit translucent and Bake 'n Bend white. Below is an image of the base layer before curing:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-2PJzl7NDA/WqiHDQbaOOI/AAAAAAAACLY/ByxcRpNB-Boc0ETBS6BtKnt0egS7w2GeACLcBGAs/s1600/base.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-2PJzl7NDA/WqiHDQbaOOI/AAAAAAAACLY/ByxcRpNB-Boc0ETBS6BtKnt0egS7w2GeACLcBGAs/s640/base.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
During curing of this base layer, some areas cracked. I'm not sure why this happened, perhaps from the heat of the wire, perhaps from the temperature of the oven... I filled in the cracks and re-cured until the entire piece was solid and ready for the decorative layers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I started by covering the piece in another blend of Cernit (this time in the Shiny green color) mixed with Bake 'n Bend in the green color. This blend was approximately a 75 percent (Cernit) to 25 percent (BnB). I decided that the best way to cover this piece was to start with the back. I wanted a line inscribed texture for the back and scratched that into the surface before curing. Here's a shot of the backside of the necklace:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cOdB2Wy8siU/WqiJHUkDW9I/AAAAAAAACLk/5LIcRrfrzW02dcQrCexQkb5oLDy9RUBbACLcBGAs/s1600/metroback4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cOdB2Wy8siU/WqiJHUkDW9I/AAAAAAAACLk/5LIcRrfrzW02dcQrCexQkb5oLDy9RUBbACLcBGAs/s640/metroback4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After the backside was sculpted, it went in for another cure. Once cured, I began the decorative layer on the front. I worked one half of the necklace at a time, as seen in the next photo, and cured the necklace after the first half was sculpted before starting the decorative layer on the second half. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aEkORDiJRoA/WqiJtzzv_wI/AAAAAAAACLs/_454chEGso8awus3etl8dpB3pDpCcnWiACLcBGAs/s1600/firsthalf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aEkORDiJRoA/WqiJtzzv_wI/AAAAAAAACLs/_454chEGso8awus3etl8dpB3pDpCcnWiACLcBGAs/s640/firsthalf.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once both sides were covered and sculpted to my liking and put in for the final curing, I added some antiquing using a matte polymer varnish with Paynes grey acrylic paint to the green areas. The gold rounds were treated to a dusting with gold mica while raw, but after curing they were then painted with a coating of a gloss polymer varnish, some metallic bronze paint was added to some of this varnish for painting around the bottoms of the rounds to give depth and simulate pearls. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iS0GyL59s6s/WqiLTu9L_6I/AAAAAAAACMI/ybhPckLfUMklfFgNlEaeNsFmRKsfXq5qQCLcBGAs/s1600/metro2model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="405" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iS0GyL59s6s/WqiLTu9L_6I/AAAAAAAACMI/ybhPckLfUMklfFgNlEaeNsFmRKsfXq5qQCLcBGAs/s640/metro2model.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12Vp1GXexQw/WqiLUbq49pI/AAAAAAAACMM/wM1ly9B8-ls8d5zgXnrT5Vd9S0sE9F7NgCLcBGAs/s1600/metro4model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="573" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12Vp1GXexQw/WqiLUbq49pI/AAAAAAAACMM/wM1ly9B8-ls8d5zgXnrT5Vd9S0sE9F7NgCLcBGAs/s640/metro4model.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZ-yX2Mg278/WqiLVEElcGI/AAAAAAAACMQ/mldw2oOan3wTmJQTxEu2lQRKZf3PSP25ACLcBGAs/s1600/metro8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZ-yX2Mg278/WqiLVEElcGI/AAAAAAAACMQ/mldw2oOan3wTmJQTxEu2lQRKZf3PSP25ACLcBGAs/s640/metro8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Ss-a6LnZvA/WqiLP1PH6BI/AAAAAAAACL4/_jAEkkiipxwBLYoMWOXn0WPYxGQyxsJpQCLcBGAs/s1600/metro11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Ss-a6LnZvA/WqiLP1PH6BI/AAAAAAAACL4/_jAEkkiipxwBLYoMWOXn0WPYxGQyxsJpQCLcBGAs/s640/metro11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ur6eSKHrKBw/WqiLR2C-DHI/AAAAAAAACMA/M5sgrGtXV5QDfnazi3Hr653os5rG_9XTgCLcBGAs/s1600/metro16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="965" height="496" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ur6eSKHrKBw/WqiLR2C-DHI/AAAAAAAACMA/M5sgrGtXV5QDfnazi3Hr653os5rG_9XTgCLcBGAs/s640/metro16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hbNe288lI7Q/WqiLRWMzAZI/AAAAAAAACL8/_oNyhBcPY2gdhdJ0E09WBlfl2WRoZIPHwCLcBGAs/s1600/metro17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="910" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hbNe288lI7Q/WqiLRWMzAZI/AAAAAAAACL8/_oNyhBcPY2gdhdJ0E09WBlfl2WRoZIPHwCLcBGAs/s640/metro17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jqLN8dEg7BQ/WqiLSwFrcBI/AAAAAAAACME/-FZr9ogjIsAfRRXwyWPuJONESVFCjeJvQCLcBGAs/s1600/metro19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jqLN8dEg7BQ/WqiLSwFrcBI/AAAAAAAACME/-FZr9ogjIsAfRRXwyWPuJONESVFCjeJvQCLcBGAs/s640/metro19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am quite pleased with the finished piece. I've already worn it when we went to a concert on Saturday, and happily report that it is very comfortable to wear, which is an important factor. While this piece will likely remain in my permanent collection, I think there is a strong possibility that I will create other iterations of it in the future. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This was my first time using Cernit. I chose this brand based on what I saw at Synergy4 in the pieces of <a href="http://www.mariesegal.com/">Marie Segal</a> (another polymer artist and kind soul who I admire). I was impressed with the strength and flexibility of the Cernit pieces that Marie brought to Synergy, many thanks go to Marie for discussing the benefits of Cernit with me. And thanks go to the generous <a href="https://mariaalexandroucreations.com/">Maria Alexandrou</a> for demo-ing her flexible cuff tutorial at Synergy4, it was from that demo that I learned the possibilities of mixing bake n' bend with regular polymers to add flexibility. Speaking of which, here's that video showing the flexibility and position-ability of this piece: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/81HN_vLnAqI/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/81HN_vLnAqI?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My experience with the Voila course was superb, and I plan to participate in the next class offering by Christine and Donna, which is listed on the website as TBA in 2018. I am already looking forward to how that class will stretch my design skills and knowledge even further. Another huge Thank You goes out to Christine, Donna, and all the other polymer artists who participated in this course. If you are a polymer artist, and you are wanting to push your design skills to another level, I highly recommend taking one of the upcoming <a href="https://voila.eu.com/">Voila</a> courses. Please do take some time to view <a href="https://www.donnagreenbergarts.com/">Donna's</a> and <a href="http://www.allovercreation.net/">Christine's</a> amazing work at their respective websites. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you're still with me (I know this was a long blog post), and if you have any comments or questions for me, I'd love to hear what you think about my latest creation.... Please do leave me a comment below! I do plan to get back to creating on a more regular basis; at the least, I hope it won't be another 5 months before I have something new to share. Until then, Thanks for stopping by my blog!</div>
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 153px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 1394px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 153px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 1394px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-48470235565911775852017-10-15T20:07:00.004-07:002017-10-17T12:28:04.498-07:00Moonlighting at Ephrata Unexpected<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ephrata Unexpected was certainly an appropriate title for the multicultural event that occurred last night at the small, restored train station on Main Street in Ephrata, PA. There were stunning qualities about this affair, which was designed to benefit The Ephrata Public Library (one of our local crown jewels) and Downtown Ephrata Inc. (a Pennsylvania Main Street program). Who would have thought that in a small town nestled in Amish country, foods from Ethiopia, Latin America, and the Caribbean would be served up by friendly vendors alongside vinters and mead brewers, artisans and craftsmen? Modern vegetarian cuisine was well represented across the courtyard space. Native American and Mariachi music played out into a balmy October evening, a roaming fiddle player wandered about the crowd and the event concluded with a drum circle set up by the Earth Rhythms shop (which is located near Reading). Whoever thinks you need to be in a big city to live a cultured life or experience a diversity of cultures is mistaken. Our library staff deserves a lot of credit for making this wonderful event happen. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSlyTK7ooj8/WePvh6zyETI/AAAAAAAACD8/dQH4s8dPocsfTsQqg9yrGneJ2DUrjFVtACLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_60c.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSlyTK7ooj8/WePvh6zyETI/AAAAAAAACD8/dQH4s8dPocsfTsQqg9yrGneJ2DUrjFVtACLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_60c.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The food vendors (all local or from near-by vicinities) who participated in this event offered delicious and diverse fare. Attendees could treat themselves to foods from: Aromas Del Sur, an Ephrata family business that specializes in Columbian fare; Awash Ethiopian Cuisine, located in Lancaster; Caribbean Cuisine Catering, a business that came in from Pottsville, Garofalo's Calabria, an Italian eatery located at the Green Dragon in Ephrata; Isabelle Cuisine, featuring West African cuisine and located in Ephrata; Javateas, a gourmet coffee café, also located in Ephrata; Meduseld Meadery, Handcrafted Mead produced from local honey, located in Lancaster; Root, and all vegan restaurant locate in Lancaster; The Stroopie Company Inc., a Lancaster based company that makes a specialty Dutch treat of a cinnamon waffle cookie with caramel filling; Ten Thousand Villages, located in Ephrata this store features fair trade products and ethnic fare in their café; Three Sisters Park, a Khmer-Thai restaurant located in Ephrata; Upohar, featuring Ethnic Cuisine and located in Lancaster; Weathered Vineyards, Wine sourced from Lehigh Valley grapes but hosted at The Historic Smithton Inn in Ephrata, for local wine tasting; and St. Boniface Brewery, Ephrata's local micro-brewery. With so many delicious options, we had full bellies by the end of the evening!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YsNNJCNoX6o/WeP007EmDfI/AAAAAAAACEg/OutcT3EUVCk5JyTtqzTCBtjS36WlOnAmQCEwYBhgL/s1600/aromas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YsNNJCNoX6o/WeP007EmDfI/AAAAAAAACEg/OutcT3EUVCk5JyTtqzTCBtjS36WlOnAmQCEwYBhgL/s320/aromas.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2pFIsrxcyE/WeP0sdYXfnI/AAAAAAAACEg/17j6A-WIAyENtRQDbPZAssrW851bKxmKACEwYBhgL/s1600/awash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2pFIsrxcyE/WeP0sdYXfnI/AAAAAAAACEg/17j6A-WIAyENtRQDbPZAssrW851bKxmKACEwYBhgL/s320/awash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n98O1OnwrcI/WeP0z96KfkI/AAAAAAAACEg/HcDveoRP1o42U2MPggpD6kEFKfsfUS5zACEwYBhgL/s1600/boniface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n98O1OnwrcI/WeP0z96KfkI/AAAAAAAACEg/HcDveoRP1o42U2MPggpD6kEFKfsfUS5zACEwYBhgL/s320/boniface.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zYDkdKOJ9Rc/WeP1OMko2DI/AAAAAAAACEg/YGOPCkxhJSQsZDhKoTGvFpyZrmUEp4GQACEwYBhgL/s1600/carribean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zYDkdKOJ9Rc/WeP1OMko2DI/AAAAAAAACEg/YGOPCkxhJSQsZDhKoTGvFpyZrmUEp4GQACEwYBhgL/s320/carribean.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qgYZMySB-YU/WeP1VPQs7CI/AAAAAAAACEo/gRUL9IQN6vQBTwCUaBlJDbOIBuW3ieZnwCEwYBhgL/s1600/earthrhythm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qgYZMySB-YU/WeP1VPQs7CI/AAAAAAAACEo/gRUL9IQN6vQBTwCUaBlJDbOIBuW3ieZnwCEwYBhgL/s320/earthrhythm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wy480j7cDbI/WeP1cvrrDKI/AAAAAAAACEo/czs_kdEsR7MPO70LtktSDY7EvIsX6h0NACEwYBhgL/s1600/garofalos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wy480j7cDbI/WeP1cvrrDKI/AAAAAAAACEo/czs_kdEsR7MPO70LtktSDY7EvIsX6h0NACEwYBhgL/s320/garofalos.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmhnCl9FDHI/WeP16BFUSUI/AAAAAAAACE8/GawDYDLfG-EfgwGorDwcy5mzxWrh1emYwCEwYBhgL/s1600/isabelles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TmhnCl9FDHI/WeP16BFUSUI/AAAAAAAACE8/GawDYDLfG-EfgwGorDwcy5mzxWrh1emYwCEwYBhgL/s320/isabelles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FPe1rHSvxdw/WeP14-UhmrI/AAAAAAAACE8/IYC9F4EwoFU8wy-0OmiZ8C9SO6bHFaD2gCEwYBhgL/s1600/khmerthai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FPe1rHSvxdw/WeP14-UhmrI/AAAAAAAACE8/IYC9F4EwoFU8wy-0OmiZ8C9SO6bHFaD2gCEwYBhgL/s320/khmerthai.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lbb9q0DWVGo/WeP2NOxeiII/AAAAAAAACE8/2MrR11rjJBoGk6_vD8W3LplIRIaeAdzJQCEwYBhgL/s1600/rickshaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lbb9q0DWVGo/WeP2NOxeiII/AAAAAAAACE8/2MrR11rjJBoGk6_vD8W3LplIRIaeAdzJQCEwYBhgL/s320/rickshaw.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nIjkK6JktYA/WeP2ifnbDWI/AAAAAAAACFQ/o5Slv-IwO0Uos9Kq26tYVC4RLr3cok35wCEwYBhgL/s1600/root.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nIjkK6JktYA/WeP2ifnbDWI/AAAAAAAACFQ/o5Slv-IwO0Uos9Kq26tYVC4RLr3cok35wCEwYBhgL/s320/root.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jNeEsW2d_U4/WeP2xEALhoI/AAAAAAAACFQ/vapEiozEY84qkz4-GwZN06eGbhCSiv0TgCEwYBhgL/s1600/stroopie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jNeEsW2d_U4/WeP2xEALhoI/AAAAAAAACFQ/vapEiozEY84qkz4-GwZN06eGbhCSiv0TgCEwYBhgL/s320/stroopie.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DBwbanDH4eQ/WeP231E_sgI/AAAAAAAACFQ/IUT2PrXfkBclUDyk9YtmuMTDAQvAm3IHgCEwYBhgL/s1600/tenthousandvill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DBwbanDH4eQ/WeP231E_sgI/AAAAAAAACFQ/IUT2PrXfkBclUDyk9YtmuMTDAQvAm3IHgCEwYBhgL/s320/tenthousandvill.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A1Y7dpGi5E4/WeP3B95pzOI/AAAAAAAACFQ/CTvmobGelBQvwRBBIP1-CJdGzOu98XBSACEwYBhgL/s1600/upohar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A1Y7dpGi5E4/WeP3B95pzOI/AAAAAAAACFQ/CTvmobGelBQvwRBBIP1-CJdGzOu98XBSACEwYBhgL/s320/upohar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8spz7B8s2t8/WeP3JmrnfdI/AAAAAAAACFs/5htPdtIto9kCxvWooEyZiiHB9a8Ulsx9wCEwYBhgL/s1600/weatheredvinyards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8spz7B8s2t8/WeP3JmrnfdI/AAAAAAAACFs/5htPdtIto9kCxvWooEyZiiHB9a8Ulsx9wCEwYBhgL/s320/weatheredvinyards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please do click on each of the small photos above to view them at full size and to check out our varied vendors! I know I missed getting photos of some of the stands, but this gives one a fairly good sampling of what was present. I was most impressed by the Stroopies business. The woman you see in the photo of The Stroopie Co. stand is the owner of this business. Aside from creating a delicious and unique product, she uses her business to provide meaningful employment to the refugees that resettle in the Lancaster area. Each year, this area takes in about 1000 refugees. This woman is providing a valuable service as well as a fantastic product. You can try Stroopies from wherever you live, as she does take mail-orders. And shipping is free with orders of $30 or more. Visit <a href="http://www.stroopies.com/">www.stroopies.com</a> for more info.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sadly, it was not all cookies and cream for me... Attendees participated in a contest to create the most spectacular settings for their tables (including tablecloths, place settings and centerpieces). This is where my latest creative effort came into play and which, in the end, was a source of great disappointment. As they say, there’s no accounting for taste. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="text-align: left;">I’m no stranger to art competitions in all their forms. There is almost always someone who produces something that makes your head spin even when you think you’ve got something special. I didn’t think it would be any different as we drove into town last night, but once we arrived, I was surprised. Even a quick glance at the settings made it clear that, whatever degree of curb appeal they had, most were made primarily of store bought items that required minimal effort to asemble. Anyone with a decent eye could have done as much. Now, I should say that I have no problem taking a loss. It happens more often than not, and usually I can see why. But this was Ephrata Unexpected. Incredibly, the judges chose one of those store bought assemblies over our table, which was dressed in a hand sewn fitted table cloth, runner and handmade folded (star shaped) napkins to match our theme, this was topped with examples of my polymer work. The flatware was glossed in gold, also by hand. Our presentation suffered a bit since the glow of our centerpiece didn’t come to full life until both the daylight and the judging were done. The look of a candle or lamp can be anticipated, but not the backlit glass and clay moon in the center of our space. Still without the drama of the lighting at full bloom, it was easily as well designed as any of the other colorful displays. As the evening progressed, several attendees stopped to share good will and a lot of "oohs and ahhs." We made some new friends and ran into some old ones. Even one of the judges came to share condolences after her lobbying effort failed to sway her male counterparts away from the winning choice, a Morrocan-themed table. Ironically, I have the same lamps that this table included as its anchors, and I had thought about doing something similar. It was very nice, fitting neatly into the multicultural backdrop. But it was less created than merely constructed. There were 2 other tables that earned much more of my respect. One had hand carved wooden plates and bowls, accented by gourds filled with beans in a creative three sisters theme. It wasn't flashy or grand, but it took some serious skill to make those pieces. The second table that I thought had merit for handmade talent and engineering was one that incorporated painted and carved pumpkins and an overhead lighting display. </span></span><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5xuDPF8MJg/WeP7-kef7QI/AAAAAAAACGA/w7o-k-Y_yloBWHGEDrVkLRdMDzaJG6_yACLcBGAs/s1600/event1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5xuDPF8MJg/WeP7-kef7QI/AAAAAAAACGA/w7o-k-Y_yloBWHGEDrVkLRdMDzaJG6_yACLcBGAs/s640/event1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u5VsUROu73U/WeP_AiZOCxI/AAAAAAAACHM/lbpyYV8KH5YLpb63OEGqVvGTPoLZ-n-WQCEwYBhgL/s1600/event2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u5VsUROu73U/WeP_AiZOCxI/AAAAAAAACHM/lbpyYV8KH5YLpb63OEGqVvGTPoLZ-n-WQCEwYBhgL/s320/event2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwl2t5WVj0E/WeP9pUWVncI/AAAAAAAACGs/gp23XuhEnj8MG4ytd8TQpUJg5dm6vMgJwCEwYBhgL/s1600/event3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwl2t5WVj0E/WeP9pUWVncI/AAAAAAAACGs/gp23XuhEnj8MG4ytd8TQpUJg5dm6vMgJwCEwYBhgL/s320/event3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qCUKJDY9_AY/WeP96P26EAI/AAAAAAAACGs/doHAJeMEgHEiRZpVJulZRKA1aBAkRGwDACEwYBhgL/s1600/event4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qCUKJDY9_AY/WeP96P26EAI/AAAAAAAACGs/doHAJeMEgHEiRZpVJulZRKA1aBAkRGwDACEwYBhgL/s320/event4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Qd277vKM34/WeP-IMJI5TI/AAAAAAAACG8/cwqjCuQ7Kes7DfXjpXBxROcwIh-CiZspwCEwYBhgL/s1600/event5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Qd277vKM34/WeP-IMJI5TI/AAAAAAAACG8/cwqjCuQ7Kes7DfXjpXBxROcwIh-CiZspwCEwYBhgL/s320/event5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sYSrvGt8B8I/WeP-W-I11xI/AAAAAAAACG8/FjRsJVRPjfoFVIiWdg0Q4SZdH_14_TA6ACEwYBhgL/s1600/event6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sYSrvGt8B8I/WeP-W-I11xI/AAAAAAAACG8/FjRsJVRPjfoFVIiWdg0Q4SZdH_14_TA6ACEwYBhgL/s320/event6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fC9fhxBQ4E4/WeP-lhTN1sI/AAAAAAAACG8/nVH5Xv2gMpwZap8J4BU-I4b2-py3I3y-gCEwYBhgL/s1600/event7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fC9fhxBQ4E4/WeP-lhTN1sI/AAAAAAAACG8/nVH5Xv2gMpwZap8J4BU-I4b2-py3I3y-gCEwYBhgL/s320/event7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wxd5HXzQv9E/WeP-1LQBNSI/AAAAAAAACHM/6WJ-mn89BnUf9UMRqlEPaI-OOsgjdr3PQCEwYBhgL/s1600/event8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wxd5HXzQv9E/WeP-1LQBNSI/AAAAAAAACHM/6WJ-mn89BnUf9UMRqlEPaI-OOsgjdr3PQCEwYBhgL/s320/event8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1AwJQVA7c4/WeP_lTCByQI/AAAAAAAACHg/O55bvcpbHmMh8eUjglXG0-nU9bpDXptjgCEwYBhgL/s1600/event9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1AwJQVA7c4/WeP_lTCByQI/AAAAAAAACHg/O55bvcpbHmMh8eUjglXG0-nU9bpDXptjgCEwYBhgL/s320/event9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-liC2CGEjKS8/WeP7-aIuJfI/AAAAAAAACGQ/nhsZDguh6GUlUHCCVz5NMY855MZOjwXBQCEwYBhgL/s1600/event10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-liC2CGEjKS8/WeP7-aIuJfI/AAAAAAAACGQ/nhsZDguh6GUlUHCCVz5NMY855MZOjwXBQCEwYBhgL/s320/event10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G5zIunBdCns/WeP8Eth68SI/AAAAAAAACGQ/IQMDGWDTRl09glI6g0JFJQBViMN1d4xbQCEwYBhgL/s1600/event11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G5zIunBdCns/WeP8Eth68SI/AAAAAAAACGQ/IQMDGWDTRl09glI6g0JFJQBViMN1d4xbQCEwYBhgL/s320/event11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1oxdiq6SojU/WeP8tQDqCpI/AAAAAAAACGY/x5v5xu3LligWxK_9q_SvuIfkpuwuRSn8QCEwYBhgL/s1600/event12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1oxdiq6SojU/WeP8tQDqCpI/AAAAAAAACGY/x5v5xu3LligWxK_9q_SvuIfkpuwuRSn8QCEwYBhgL/s320/event12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wM-B5kXH2gU/WeP8p9MHkHI/AAAAAAAACGY/7tC6jQzllLsB1kj9EizBwnJ3ZJie9GHNACEwYBhgL/s1600/event14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wM-B5kXH2gU/WeP8p9MHkHI/AAAAAAAACGY/7tC6jQzllLsB1kj9EizBwnJ3ZJie9GHNACEwYBhgL/s320/event14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mVIsbqA4WHg/WeP8zZwQOWI/AAAAAAAACGY/seUpaSuA7L4OKsgHPRProSA_gNshh3CQwCEwYBhgL/s1600/event15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mVIsbqA4WHg/WeP8zZwQOWI/AAAAAAAACGY/seUpaSuA7L4OKsgHPRProSA_gNshh3CQwCEwYBhgL/s320/event15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tW3Z2iYRx-0/WeP9ZHm8ySI/AAAAAAAACGs/tvy55pliOastHZPkVEHpUtUb2eHoMql1QCEwYBhgL/s1600/event16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tW3Z2iYRx-0/WeP9ZHm8ySI/AAAAAAAACGs/tvy55pliOastHZPkVEHpUtUb2eHoMql1QCEwYBhgL/s320/event16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0CItz8mnjoY/WeP-3MyAt9I/AAAAAAAACHM/XQn4-GOuR4QuBunIz3oTb7Wpqp-7ANDQgCEwYBhgL/s1600/event17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0CItz8mnjoY/WeP-3MyAt9I/AAAAAAAACHM/XQn4-GOuR4QuBunIz3oTb7Wpqp-7ANDQgCEwYBhgL/s640/event17.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z2XjFx_-TZo/WeP_ZPcpwqI/AAAAAAAACHg/1gEg3UP1JYARtzPN15XKn8BZ77tufK7kQCEwYBhgL/s1600/fiddler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z2XjFx_-TZo/WeP_ZPcpwqI/AAAAAAAACHg/1gEg3UP1JYARtzPN15XKn8BZ77tufK7kQCEwYBhgL/s320/fiddler.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hze_vnLrYi0/WeP_0_ej8bI/AAAAAAAACHg/1KH_KW_94nkTwK1TJJfrIr6evH2w6OV5wCEwYBhgL/s1600/mariacci3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1258" data-original-width="1600" height="251" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hze_vnLrYi0/WeP_0_ej8bI/AAAAAAAACHg/1KH_KW_94nkTwK1TJJfrIr6evH2w6OV5wCEwYBhgL/s320/mariacci3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1wppKS87ggg/WeP_lJ9zCTI/AAAAAAAACHg/akWvwYHcEMYDkZGAOmjmTwaEsDDmkGDzgCEwYBhgL/s1600/mariacci.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1wppKS87ggg/WeP_lJ9zCTI/AAAAAAAACHg/akWvwYHcEMYDkZGAOmjmTwaEsDDmkGDzgCEwYBhgL/s320/mariacci.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPionkyP23Y/WeP_8IrOWRI/AAAAAAAACHs/ADKCb8OOu50F-07cfabEXb2yAigzTl5JgCEwYBhgL/s1600/vendors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPionkyP23Y/WeP_8IrOWRI/AAAAAAAACHs/ADKCb8OOu50F-07cfabEXb2yAigzTl5JgCEwYBhgL/s320/vendors.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OeBW3Qqftc/WeP7ZbvtCGI/AAAAAAAACF4/bKvvf9CyBD4lHgqQbsmaEcsALOdq1tMUwCEwYBhgL/s1600/ephrataunexpected2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OeBW3Qqftc/WeP7ZbvtCGI/AAAAAAAACF4/bKvvf9CyBD4lHgqQbsmaEcsALOdq1tMUwCEwYBhgL/s320/ephrataunexpected2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yLkzUX14K6I/WeP7QxEajrI/AAAAAAAACFs/10oPxEtGs_QCLqz5x0o-jbW7Ps6iR07ogCEwYBhgL/s1600/ephrataunexpected.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yLkzUX14K6I/WeP7QxEajrI/AAAAAAAACFs/10oPxEtGs_QCLqz5x0o-jbW7Ps6iR07ogCEwYBhgL/s320/ephrataunexpected.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0xtRR6IXzsg/WeP60KfJ2eI/AAAAAAAACFs/SVSEclaywbQc6H11N-tYJnn6FtLkSA1rACEwYBhgL/s1600/drumcircle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0xtRR6IXzsg/WeP60KfJ2eI/AAAAAAAACFs/SVSEclaywbQc6H11N-tYJnn6FtLkSA1rACEwYBhgL/s320/drumcircle2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3PvBSX_IgA/WeP63_RxO3I/AAAAAAAACFs/q76YrVjTkrQkyblPSXagcpuH2hQSW-r_ACEwYBhgL/s1600/drumcircle4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3PvBSX_IgA/WeP63_RxO3I/AAAAAAAACFs/q76YrVjTkrQkyblPSXagcpuH2hQSW-r_ACEwYBhgL/s320/drumcircle4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWxmcjJlQyY/WeP7NBL8jPI/AAAAAAAACFs/vflTxkKuPI08ObBHwFwziZYCgJcBdYs6QCEwYBhgL/s1600/drumcircle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWxmcjJlQyY/WeP7NBL8jPI/AAAAAAAACFs/vflTxkKuPI08ObBHwFwziZYCgJcBdYs6QCEwYBhgL/s320/drumcircle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If they do this again next year, and I hope they do, I might think twice about investing any time in details that may not be appreciated. Such things are never lost on artists and craftsmen, but it's a roulette wheel when other groups judge creative work. So call it sour grapes if you wish. There are times when you just have to say it like it is, and with a thousand dollar prize at stake, this wasn't just Ephrata, it was a tragedy unexpected. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Again, please do click on the above photos from the event to see them at full size. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
See below for pictures and techniques used in my table setting, including the crescent moon and glassware.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o6AllZMtqvM/WeQEEMkVa6I/AAAAAAAACH0/gICYO83d0aIoGN7QZhXHaFBKe6_PJPWugCLcBGAs/s1600/moonnight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o6AllZMtqvM/WeQEEMkVa6I/AAAAAAAACH0/gICYO83d0aIoGN7QZhXHaFBKe6_PJPWugCLcBGAs/s640/moonnight.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QeVBbysDxXM/WeQED3Fh3EI/AAAAAAAACHw/FxiVdbMfZNo1v0A05tpfOoYMhXqSv8yGQCLcBGAs/s1600/tablenight2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QeVBbysDxXM/WeQED3Fh3EI/AAAAAAAACHw/FxiVdbMfZNo1v0A05tpfOoYMhXqSv8yGQCLcBGAs/s640/tablenight2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica";"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The above 2 photos are of my table setting in the evening. There is a daylight shot of my table at the top of the set of photos from the event tables. Below are more views that were taken at home:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5jCOw9d8ELw/WeQFH_d8blI/AAAAAAAACIA/z0Y2DlPWrJ4Vgq6mu48WPeE0LNaJOleIwCLcBGAs/s1600/set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1262" data-original-width="1600" height="504" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5jCOw9d8ELw/WeQFH_d8blI/AAAAAAAACIA/z0Y2DlPWrJ4Vgq6mu48WPeE0LNaJOleIwCLcBGAs/s640/set.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVyK_LxtR5Y/WeQFRvsxsaI/AAAAAAAACIE/LCvE89UEWskIDbEChkF057VttjImCSwZACLcBGAs/s1600/setting2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVyK_LxtR5Y/WeQFRvsxsaI/AAAAAAAACIE/LCvE89UEWskIDbEChkF057VttjImCSwZACLcBGAs/s640/setting2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gq2BZH-KFQ/WeQFeA7VQlI/AAAAAAAACII/UFewslvCELopRcJ5l5nlX5br3n7LN3W5QCLcBGAs/s1600/floatingcandledetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gq2BZH-KFQ/WeQFeA7VQlI/AAAAAAAACII/UFewslvCELopRcJ5l5nlX5br3n7LN3W5QCLcBGAs/s640/floatingcandledetail.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXCS460rzaE/WeQFpsO2dKI/AAAAAAAACIQ/FsBuDDx6fG0Pedn0d_ne34sTxULwSWLrQCLcBGAs/s1600/glassdetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXCS460rzaE/WeQFpsO2dKI/AAAAAAAACIQ/FsBuDDx6fG0Pedn0d_ne34sTxULwSWLrQCLcBGAs/s640/glassdetail.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RLTCZpIb0Fc/WeQFxeLVzsI/AAAAAAAACIU/dXtYBfJveCMyYqoNi18HfsCyQeK5BG3mQCLcBGAs/s1600/origamistardetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RLTCZpIb0Fc/WeQFxeLVzsI/AAAAAAAACIU/dXtYBfJveCMyYqoNi18HfsCyQeK5BG3mQCLcBGAs/s640/origamistardetail.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So, more about my theme... I had a couple of different ideas and I sketched all of them out and discussed them with my hubby, since he was a part of the event too. We decided on a night theme featuring navy and gold stars and a crescent moon centerpiece. I entitled the theme "Goodnight Sweetheart", as our table was to be a table for two (or as some call it, a sweetheart table). The first thing I did was to create the table cloth, which was fitted to the table size (a card table size). The overall color of the table cloth was navy, but it had corner panels underneath of a gold cloth, so that if the wind would blow, the gold corner would peek through. Next I made the folded and shaped napkins. One side of these is a gold fabric and the other side is the same navy fabric from the table cloth. I folded these in origami fashion to form a star shape in keeping with the theme.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g13eG71sJl0/WeQJbjE6eDI/AAAAAAAACIk/ko5SPQKVR3Iz41u5f9e_J_0x4Q8OUXpBwCLcBGAs/s1600/moon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g13eG71sJl0/WeQJbjE6eDI/AAAAAAAACIk/ko5SPQKVR3Iz41u5f9e_J_0x4Q8OUXpBwCLcBGAs/s640/moon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jOwrMzJnprI/WeQJ9gS_FDI/AAAAAAAACIo/ENnKFrcaf-wvoOrpAhLxPiPOhVLx1rGnwCLcBGAs/s1600/moon2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1371" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jOwrMzJnprI/WeQJ9gS_FDI/AAAAAAAACIo/ENnKFrcaf-wvoOrpAhLxPiPOhVLx1rGnwCLcBGAs/s640/moon2.jpg" width="548" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
The next item I tackled was the center piece. Serendipity would have me find a perfect, large, lentil shaped glass bowl on which to build my half-moon centerpiece. It would prove difficult to find a stand to support the moon, but I came up with the idea of using a napkin holder which I had planned to bend into the shape I wanted. Originally I was going to just paint the napkin holder with gold spray paint, but when I bent it into the V-shape that I needed, the one side broke clean off. Never one to give up easily... plan "B" saw me wiring the broken piece onto the base and covering the entire piece with polymer which was then treated to a stippled texture. I had to include a little "seat" to ensure that the moon would be stable when sitting in the stand. Curing this piece was quite challenging, as the glass bowl meant for the moon needed to stand upright so that the stand could cure while hanging over the top of it in place, to keep the proper form of the V shape. With the glass bowl balanced inside a pan filled with marbles, this curing was a nerve racking couple of hours, as I hoped that nothing would make the glass bowl suddenly slip and tip over. Luckily all survived intact! As a final touch, the entire stand was covered in a transparent gold glitter to help refract the light. Here are shots of the stand by itself:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TLVPWyLkBuI/WeQLcSAAe_I/AAAAAAAACIw/zWra7QbMvDE1q_u2-9HLmAEmLMU-mb25wCLcBGAs/s1600/moonstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TLVPWyLkBuI/WeQLcSAAe_I/AAAAAAAACIw/zWra7QbMvDE1q_u2-9HLmAEmLMU-mb25wCLcBGAs/s640/moonstand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mbnCKRHQzbA/WeQLe6-ZfqI/AAAAAAAACI0/1yo8BOOpaI0TZCadfXvw8OXmqzqldHk2QCLcBGAs/s1600/stand2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mbnCKRHQzbA/WeQLe6-ZfqI/AAAAAAAACI0/1yo8BOOpaI0TZCadfXvw8OXmqzqldHk2QCLcBGAs/s640/stand2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Then it came time to create my half moon on the lentil bowl. I extruded stacks of layered polymer in transparent silver glitter, transparent, white, white pearl, and 18K gold. The extruded strands were then wound in circular spirals and placed next to each other. The gaps were filled with smaller spirals or strands to fill the shapes and in the small spaces I added pearls. With translucent polymer I sculpted a star on the upper area where the ends of the crescent moon meet, and this was covered with an extruded blend of 18K gold and gold polymer. The sculpting of this star wasn't too difficult, the difficulty came from adding support so that the protruding piece of the star wouldn't break due to gravity. Once again, the curing gods were on my side, and the entire piece came out unscathed. After curing, I added the battery operated lights. I wanted more of the light to shine in the upper parts of the moon and wanted one light under the star, so I caulked the lights into place with silicone, since my double-stick tape was refusing to hold. I was absolutely tickled with the results of this piece:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HK2B7WZSUeU/WeQO6xDE9GI/AAAAAAAACJE/hjUlRdJno7Y-fw_41q-DlThY-zeA7e3XgCLcBGAs/s1600/moonlit5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1542" data-original-width="1600" height="616" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HK2B7WZSUeU/WeQO6xDE9GI/AAAAAAAACJE/hjUlRdJno7Y-fw_41q-DlThY-zeA7e3XgCLcBGAs/s640/moonlit5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yN1FFRiHFhg/WeQO8VJz_ZI/AAAAAAAACJI/7PQezy3hAI86eEH73f-5rqH6XQBMykPgQCLcBGAs/s1600/moonlitfavorite2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1511" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yN1FFRiHFhg/WeQO8VJz_ZI/AAAAAAAACJI/7PQezy3hAI86eEH73f-5rqH6XQBMykPgQCLcBGAs/s640/moonlitfavorite2.jpg" width="604" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H9J4R5i9Z6M/WeQVFVKvz-I/AAAAAAAACJ8/eYuq3HCAIz4xtyZH6tqPqoIUf1pmT0EuQCLcBGAs/s1600/moonback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H9J4R5i9Z6M/WeQVFVKvz-I/AAAAAAAACJ8/eYuq3HCAIz4xtyZH6tqPqoIUf1pmT0EuQCLcBGAs/s640/moonback.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EI2zz8R6zrc/WeQVVoxwAPI/AAAAAAAACKE/NanxJDblodUz9CpzWLi6mECWvFCmmQ7PACLcBGAs/s1600/moondiagonal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1469" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EI2zz8R6zrc/WeQVVoxwAPI/AAAAAAAACKE/NanxJDblodUz9CpzWLi6mECWvFCmmQ7PACLcBGAs/s640/moondiagonal.jpg" width="586" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVoOGtcVPrg/WeQV0zO2BLI/AAAAAAAACKM/iPbR7TlvRG4SEjhobeJ6BM2yaS5ZRj1mQCLcBGAs/s1600/moonside2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVoOGtcVPrg/WeQV0zO2BLI/AAAAAAAACKM/iPbR7TlvRG4SEjhobeJ6BM2yaS5ZRj1mQCLcBGAs/s640/moonside2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RXmjxWn25DI/WeQV3fR99aI/AAAAAAAACKQ/57G5KBdRjU0CfhTHB1fIzTd3gj1T706lACLcBGAs/s1600/moonside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1379" data-original-width="1600" height="550" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RXmjxWn25DI/WeQV3fR99aI/AAAAAAAACKQ/57G5KBdRjU0CfhTHB1fIzTd3gj1T706lACLcBGAs/s640/moonside.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FoQdDgWn6kQ/WeQVKli9mQI/AAAAAAAACKA/kMrQ1hL0UUYR1OXQLq7NWBQJmp3-28mwACLcBGAs/s1600/moonback2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="893" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FoQdDgWn6kQ/WeQVKli9mQI/AAAAAAAACKA/kMrQ1hL0UUYR1OXQLq7NWBQJmp3-28mwACLcBGAs/s640/moonback2.jpg" width="356" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
The next piece of the puzzle saw me creating a set of utensils, covering them with extruded strands of blue polymer (infused with silver glitter) in a blue hue that I blended to match the glassware, this blue layer was then inlaid with gold stars. After I had spent hours creating this set, my hubby came home from work and decidedly hated the look of these with the moon (and the moon was a certain keeper)... so another plan "B" was hashed, to find a set of cheap flatware in gold. None of the thrift stores around me had gold flatware sets and with only 2 days to showtime, plan "C" was enacted. I purchased a silver set and taped off the parts that would come in contact with food, and proceeded to paint the handles of each in gold chrome paint. (you can see the flatware in the photos of the entire setting above).<br />
<br />
I needed to embellish the glasses to set them apart from the navy table cloth, so I added some gold and 18K gold polymer in the shape of stars in various sizes. Final touches were the addition of floating gold candles in glasses filled with water and blue glass pebbles in the bottom. I tossed a bunch of glittered gold star ornaments that I had purchased (but glued them in place to look like jacks) around the floating candle pieces. As a last addition, which pulled the entire setting together, I added a shimmery gold fabric table runner down the center of the table. All of these details can be seen in photos above.<br />
<br />
There was a first iteration of the table setting with pieces I put together, but which didn't make the final cut... here's a photo with that polymer handled flatware mentioned above, along with some other accent pieces that weren't used. My hubby's minimalist eye and input helped to push me to find new pieces that would pull the entire setting into a more cohesive and elegant design. Ours was a heated discussion that night, but as always, he's usually right about these things and I ended up much happier with the final version. Here's a peek at that first (rejected) iteration:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHuUdLtYNGg/WeQSezqIgsI/AAAAAAAACJU/vvX9Fs0ytpcVbGSnvexzWLHbQq3TJeUaACLcBGAs/s1600/cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1165" data-original-width="1600" height="466" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHuUdLtYNGg/WeQSezqIgsI/AAAAAAAACJU/vvX9Fs0ytpcVbGSnvexzWLHbQq3TJeUaACLcBGAs/s640/cut.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Finally, I had a little time left to focus on myself, and yep, I had to go there... I made a necklace to match my theme.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xtq6XegIR2s/WeQTmENAUMI/AAAAAAAACJg/eLDssDPJhkQoZsRSLQGDDM2lmy4s604zQCLcBGAs/s1600/goodnightnecklacewhite4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xtq6XegIR2s/WeQTmENAUMI/AAAAAAAACJg/eLDssDPJhkQoZsRSLQGDDM2lmy4s604zQCLcBGAs/s640/goodnightnecklacewhite4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pqq_zJIWXAY/WeQTy0o4YwI/AAAAAAAACJw/cKuWXnoCMk0OwC12OTAwQD_reGBt1Q7vACLcBGAs/s1600/goodnightnecklace2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pqq_zJIWXAY/WeQTy0o4YwI/AAAAAAAACJw/cKuWXnoCMk0OwC12OTAwQD_reGBt1Q7vACLcBGAs/s640/goodnightnecklace2.jpg" width="639" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And oh yeah, when I (last minute) discovered an LED battery operated halloween bracelet and the gears went turning.... Literally, I added this light just hours before we had to be at the event. I'm not sure I'm going to keep the light as I'm not in love with it. But, it was a fun addition to mimic the centerpiece. When a person commented on my necklace, I would flick the switch and show them that it too lit up... this was always met with an additional "OOOh!". </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4RMNcvQVU0g/WeQTwL7GxuI/AAAAAAAACJo/o0eUdHVVyT4R5mIfl7e4gqQXjoX7A7EXACLcBGAs/s1600/goodnightnecklacelit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4RMNcvQVU0g/WeQTwL7GxuI/AAAAAAAACJo/o0eUdHVVyT4R5mIfl7e4gqQXjoX7A7EXACLcBGAs/s640/goodnightnecklacelit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ehnO3K8X954/WeQTxaGv-rI/AAAAAAAACJs/6bZqnvSWfEw3Neq3rVR_cT8pJ_ou-ziEACLcBGAs/s1600/moonsetlit5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1303" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ehnO3K8X954/WeQTxaGv-rI/AAAAAAAACJs/6bZqnvSWfEw3Neq3rVR_cT8pJ_ou-ziEACLcBGAs/s640/moonsetlit5.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wU85cGG6-j8/WeQTptrD01I/AAAAAAAACJk/sSg6j-LiUMke9_eMwDJJdN9DxnsBlmQMACLcBGAs/s1600/moonsetlit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1179" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wU85cGG6-j8/WeQTptrD01I/AAAAAAAACJk/sSg6j-LiUMke9_eMwDJJdN9DxnsBlmQMACLcBGAs/s640/moonsetlit2.jpg" width="470" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, despite losing the contest and the generous cash prize, with all of the disappointment that stems from that, I have to say that I am totally in love with this creation. Perhaps my bias (and the weeks of work and late-nighters) is preventing me from being as gracious about the contest as I ought to be... and if that's the case, my sincere apologies to my readers. But my husband and others have expressed the same (if not greater) disappointment in the judges choices, which supports me in my analysis that when given the judging task, not all people will appreciate the handmade artisan details. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm not certain what will become of all of these pieces, at this point I'm quite attached to the moon centerpiece and am thinking of keeping it in my private collection. If I stumble upon another serendipitous moon shaped bowl, I might just recreate the piece for selling since I adore it so. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As always, I welcome any comments, opinions and questions that readers of my blog might have. Please leave them for me below!! </div>
<br /></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-7500478687622793112017-08-19T22:27:00.000-07:002018-03-13T15:33:49.112-07:00Synergized <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Energized and exhausted, inspired and brain-fried, awed and humbled... this was my week immersed among members of the IPCA international polymer community that attended Synergy4 from August 13th through August 17th. The event was held in Philadelphia (King of Prussia area) this year. When I learned how close the conference would be to my home, I knew I had to attend. I found a roommate to share the expense of the hotel and saved up my pennies well in advance, and am so thankful that I had the chance to experience it.<br />
<br />
When I originally signed on to be an attendee, I dismissed the thought of participating in any of the workshops because of the added cost and because I wanted to keep things simple (i.e. I didn't want to lug a lot of supplies). It was for this reason too, that I opted for the conference (discussions) over the retreat (hands-on). <br />
<br />
Wading in....<br />
<br />
As the months closed in on the conference though, I kept beating myself up for not signing on to a workshop... particularly the workshop offered by <a href="https://www.donnagreenbergarts.com/">Donna Greenberg</a>. You see, Donna is among the very top of the list of polymer artists who's work I idolize, and this chance could be a once-in-a-lifetime-event for me (although I hope that won't be the case). The universe must have heard my regrets at that time, as Donna sent out a Facebook notice that she had received a cancellation for her workshop and a slot had opened. I messaged her with a few questions and soon after jumped on board. This was such a gift to myself, and I couldn't be happier to have had the experience.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UVA_NhTYnIA/WZjA_IB2YfI/AAAAAAAAB-8/UZOPuNy37i8gT09SuS-p4W9klYUu4p8twCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UVA_NhTYnIA/WZjA_IB2YfI/AAAAAAAAB-8/UZOPuNy37i8gT09SuS-p4W9klYUu4p8twCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3443.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The class gathers around Donna Greenberg as she begins to demonstrate her process at Synergy4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With a canteen full of coffee in hand, early Sunday morning I made the 50 minute trek from Lancaster to King of Prussia. Donna Greenberg's workshop was an all day affair, beginning around 8:30AM and wrapping up around 4PM. Donna thoroughly explained and demonstrated each step in the process of creating her <a href="https://www.donnagreenbergarts.com/workshops">Tidal Pool Pendants</a>, and she helped along the way whenever anyone ran into troubles, with tips and design suggestions. She's not only a master of design and of our medium, but she is a patient, generous and giving teacher.<br />
<br />
As a workshop virgin, I'd always heard that taking a workshop with any of the master artists teaches one so much more than the project itself, and that was certainly true of this workshop... I came away with new supply suggestions for paints and finishes, a bigger appreciation for simply using my hands to do more of the sculpting (as opposed to using tools and cutters), and of course the insight into the methods that Donna uses to create her gorgeously sculpted pieces. At the end of the class, it was so fun to see the separate voices of each person, as we all used the same instructions but went in very individual directions. Here's a group shot of some of the pendants from the class:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bgB3WBzEP8M/WZjEGe3xKvI/AAAAAAAAB_I/YM2Lr8vaa2chAAh9IPB-AssBzv1yfSTAACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bgB3WBzEP8M/WZjEGe3xKvI/AAAAAAAAB_I/YM2Lr8vaa2chAAh9IPB-AssBzv1yfSTAACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3445.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group shot of some of the pendants from the Tidal Pool Workshop given by Donna Greenberg at Synergy4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Can you guess which one is mine? If you follow my blog or are familiar with my style, I think you just might be able to pick it out. I wanted mine to incorporate more of the curves and waves that Donna demonstrated. I also wanted to incorporate some tiny sea urchin spines which I had brought along (might be tough to find in the photo above)... After I finished sculpting the piece I was quite pleased with it... I began the painting after Donna's instruction on that part, but mid-way I hesitated because it didn't feel like the piece flowed as well with the addition of color. Perhaps I rushed into my choices, because I was focused on using similar colors to those in the sea urchin spines. Donna came around to my table and suggested that I push further with color to unify the piece. I did push further, when I was finished with painting the front I liked it more, but didn't love it. Donna came around again and chatted with me about it, immediately zeroing in on what I was feeling and the reason why the design wasn't working for me as much as it had when it was unpainted. I had taken it from having a definite focal point to, with my use and choices of the color, diminishing the focal. As time was running out in our day, I resolved to keep working on it when I returned home. Since my return I have managed to squeak in some studio time and I did finish my pendant, added the cord and made a toggle clasp (á la Donna style - yes, she taught us that part too).<br />
<br />
Here's the before tweaking shot:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y74_z6l5kY0/WZjMxR6kTlI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/4MsoewrDb8I-zJiJIHiKp4lRwU2pmUTlwCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_5b2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y74_z6l5kY0/WZjMxR6kTlI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/4MsoewrDb8I-zJiJIHiKp4lRwU2pmUTlwCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_5b2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My pendant before tweaking the colors (you can see two of my sea urchin spines broke in transport)<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here's the after tweaking - I replaced the broken sea urchin spines and added gold flake to the center focal and tiny hints of gold to outer areas:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qERn0f5pTuY/WZjONL2OycI/AAAAAAAAB_o/GuGYh18zTqcnocLngoMJ_btLlpwE3tiLwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qERn0f5pTuY/WZjONL2OycI/AAAAAAAAB_o/GuGYh18zTqcnocLngoMJ_btLlpwE3tiLwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_0088.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v9KaHR787Ao/WZjOJ6w9dWI/AAAAAAAAB_k/PAseRUcF-M0ckQlZogs00iIRQ3yVrrvAwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="669" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v9KaHR787Ao/WZjOJ6w9dWI/AAAAAAAAB_k/PAseRUcF-M0ckQlZogs00iIRQ3yVrrvAwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3514.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TFyJw0QzM80/WZjORCZEwTI/AAAAAAAAB_s/mMS4icQeii0aHzXpZ0Bs6dBPAZtlJHUAwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TFyJw0QzM80/WZjORCZEwTI/AAAAAAAAB_s/mMS4icQeii0aHzXpZ0Bs6dBPAZtlJHUAwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3520.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LoF8ry4Ag9o/WZjOSa1CZeI/AAAAAAAAB_w/TLssoQMgmQg3kZsqL7PUB8vNlTG5Twc7gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LoF8ry4Ag9o/WZjOSa1CZeI/AAAAAAAAB_w/TLssoQMgmQg3kZsqL7PUB8vNlTG5Twc7gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3521.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1yjGal0XaHI/WZjOW-YFeNI/AAAAAAAAB_0/uV-IEwK8Cf481mfixL6wnjlNtSG48DH7QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1yjGal0XaHI/WZjOW-YFeNI/AAAAAAAAB_0/uV-IEwK8Cf481mfixL6wnjlNtSG48DH7QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3524.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VrnYOWi4kOE/WZjObGaYvTI/AAAAAAAAB_8/7ssNivEqkRkMP6Eerw5dQ9lgw3eGgxBxQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VrnYOWi4kOE/WZjObGaYvTI/AAAAAAAAB_8/7ssNivEqkRkMP6Eerw5dQ9lgw3eGgxBxQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3528.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I wish I had made the toggle before I painted the back, but when I colored the leather purple, I decided that the toggle needed to also have purple, and also wanted to bring the gold into that part. I may at some point make changes to the paint on the back of the pendant to unify it with the rest of the piece. I was beyond pleased with the workshop, and really hope that I will be able to do more of them in the future! If you are a polymer enthusiast, if you ever get a chance to take a workshop with <a href="https://www.donnagreenbergarts.com/">Donna Greenberg</a>, do it!!<br />
<br />
Submerged...<br />
<br />
What to say about Synergy... Wow! I'm still processing all of the information and everyone I saw and met. As a major introvert, it was a great benefit to me to have a partner in crime, my roommate... <a href="https://www.facebook.com/higirlsdesigns/">Lisa Rapp of HiGirls!</a> Lisa and I have been online friends for years, we met through the PCAGOE and had met in person previously at our little <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2013/08/polymer-clay-weekend-away.html">PCAGOE retreat</a> a couple years ago. We were both equally exhausted from the full conference schedule.<br />
<br />
To begin, Sunday night we enjoyed the opening reception, mingling with the other attendees while enjoying cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Each day we enjoyed breakfast in one of the hotel restaurants, followed by morning announcements, a morning general session, a snack break, morning break-out sessions (where we divided up into smaller groups and went to discussions we chose based on our interests), lunch (beautifully catered by the hotel), afternoon announcements, afternoon general session, mid-day snack break, afternoon break-out session, and finally demos... the days were packed with information and food!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qpK0YLiwOek/WZj3gwSvkEI/AAAAAAAACBk/D9I82mVlcZg0TtbObiJA53WXRsHlWBK-wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qpK0YLiwOek/WZj3gwSvkEI/AAAAAAAACBk/D9I82mVlcZg0TtbObiJA53WXRsHlWBK-wCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3454.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://intotheforestinstallation.com/2017/08/03/a-sneak-peek-into-the-forest/">Into the Forest</a> installation at Synergy4 (this amazing mosaic was created by Julie Eakes)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MkfW_OVNHDY/WZj3fnhKrEI/AAAAAAAACBg/kGRnjxYBsqANmiNQIdanNETmw-cEgEupwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MkfW_OVNHDY/WZj3fnhKrEI/AAAAAAAACBg/kGRnjxYBsqANmiNQIdanNETmw-cEgEupwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3455.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-apefIV4YgcQ/WZj3bxY7dCI/AAAAAAAACBc/tmbdj0EebzAZt811vtsyv6EegPErRSTZgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-apefIV4YgcQ/WZj3bxY7dCI/AAAAAAAACBc/tmbdj0EebzAZt811vtsyv6EegPErRSTZgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3456.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMjygDzdYVw/WZj3r2cAI3I/AAAAAAAACBo/WPfaK_YQADMDRuuVcxwadXlyzoATSWOuQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMjygDzdYVw/WZj3r2cAI3I/AAAAAAAACBo/WPfaK_YQADMDRuuVcxwadXlyzoATSWOuQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3457.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVK800NdSHk/WZj3thMxePI/AAAAAAAACBs/KaU-2jYO97oM3vYmTU_Wf2SI07pntaDrwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVK800NdSHk/WZj3thMxePI/AAAAAAAACBs/KaU-2jYO97oM3vYmTU_Wf2SI07pntaDrwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3458.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The general sessions included presentations by: <a href="http://www.lauratabakman.com/">Laura Tabakman</a>, <a href="http://www.emilysquireslevine.com/">Emily Squires Levine</a> and <a href="http://julieeakes.blogspot.com/">Julie Eakes</a> on the amazing <a href="https://intotheforestinstallation.com/2017/08/03/a-sneak-peek-into-the-forest/">Into the Forest</a> collaboration installation (the photos above show the mini Into the Forest that they brought to Synergy), Mags Bonham <a aria-controls="js_41y" aria-describedby="js_41z" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=10150122106105495" href="https://www.facebook.com/mags.bonham/?ref=br_rs" id="js_420" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-decoration: none;">Mags Bonham, Really Unique Creations</a> (using digital cutters with polymer), Ellen Prophater <a aria-controls="js_535" aria-describedby="js_536" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=246211575433109" href="https://www.facebook.com/CreativeJourneyStudios/?ref=br_rs" id="js_537" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-decoration: none;">Creative Journey Studios</a> (Magical Mokume Gane), Marie Segal <a aria-controls="js_6hy" aria-describedby="js_6hz" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=191574957520769" href="https://www.facebook.com/Marie-Segals-Art-from-my-Heart-191574957520769/?ref=br_rs" id="js_6i0" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-decoration: none;">Marie Segal's Art from my Heart</a> (Cernit), <a href="http://www.janarobertsbenzon.com/index.html">Jana Roberts Benzon</a> (<a href="https://www.vanaken.com/kato_polyclay.html">VanAken - Kato)</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Loretta-Lam-Art-Jewelry-149142611804745/">Loretta Lam </a>on Creativity takes courage, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jeffrey-Lloyd-Dever-184636474901275/">Jeffrey Lloyd Dever</a> and Nan Roche (a conversation celebrating the 25th anniversary of The New Clay), <a href="http://maggiemaggio.com/color/">Maggie Maggio</a> (The ABCs of color: Learning the language of art), Georg Dinkel <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Vunderkammer/?ref=profile_intro_card" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; text-decoration: none;">Vunderkammer</a> video presentation of his amazing body of work, (Polymer Clay Wunderkammer), and finally <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jeffrey-Lloyd-Dever-184636474901275/">Jeffrey Lloyd Dever</a> (Common ground/distinctive voices - a panel discussion).<br />
<br />
The Breakout sessions that I opted for were: Sage Bray <a aria-controls="js_1rg" aria-describedby="js_1rh" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=175620935829948" href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePolymerArts/?ref=br_rs" id="js_1ri" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-decoration: none;">The Polymer Arts</a> (Green Art: Polymer and the Environmental issue), <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KathleenNowakTucci/">Kathleen Nowak Tucci</a> (Taking a low material high), <a href="http://www.doreenkassel.com/">Doreen Kassel</a>/Donna Greenberg <a aria-controls="js_45v" aria-describedby="js_45w" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=151594531536806" href="https://www.facebook.com/Donna-Greenberg-Arts-151594531536806/?ref=br_rs" id="js_45x" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-decoration: none;">Donna Greenberg Arts</a> (Doreen and Donna's Excellent Adventure), Christi Friesen <a aria-controls="js_5bc" aria-describedby="js_5bd" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=288630834661854" href="https://www.facebook.com/CFOriginals/?ref=br_rs" id="js_5be" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-decoration: none;">Christi Friesen Originals</a> (Exploring New Materials - Timeless Techniques), and <a href="http://www.nicheawards.com/2017-winners/linda-leach/">Linda Leach</a> (The Etching Alternative).<br />
<br />
The demos I had the pleasure of seeing were: <a href="http://karenwoods.home.mindspring.com/about.html">Karen Woods</a> and <a href="http://www.millefioristudio.com/">Alison Gallant</a> (Silkscreen techniques), <a href="https://malexandrou.wordpress.com/polymer-clay/">Maria Alexandrou</a> (Flexible cuff construction), <a href="https://synssculpeyblog.wordpress.com/">Syndee Holt </a>(Urban Raku), <a href="http://patricepfeiffer.com/polymer-art/">Patrice Pfeiffer</a> (enhancing textures and layers with Ultra Light), and Mags Bonham <a aria-controls="js_of" aria-describedby="js_og" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=10150122106105495" href="https://www.facebook.com/mags.bonham/?ref=br_rs" id="js_oh" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-decoration: none;">Mags Bonham, Really Unique Creations</a> (Silhouette Cutter with Polymer)<br />
<br />
The IPCA awards were also announced at Synergy. View the diverse entries and the winning pieces at this link: <a href="https://www.theipca.org/index.php/ipca-awards">https://www.theipca.org/index.php/ipca-awards</a> Congratulations to all entrants and winners!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tksgFh3pIdU/WZjqjGHIOJI/AAAAAAAACA8/v9aBgILpqCMoROuf4aq0HSNdWCaqq2AlwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tksgFh3pIdU/WZjqjGHIOJI/AAAAAAAACA8/v9aBgILpqCMoROuf4aq0HSNdWCaqq2AlwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_0081.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeffrey Lloyd Dever and Nan Roche during a General Session presentation that commemorated the anniversary Nan's groundbreaking book The New Clay, published 26 years ago</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
There's a panoramic photo of the whole group of attendees at this link (tried to embed it here, but it didn't work):<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/IPCASynergyConference/photos/a.541377232584309.1073741840.372497036138997/1372393162816041/?type=3&theater">https://www.facebook.com/IPCASynergyConference/photos/a.541377232584309.1073741840.372497036138997/1372393162816041/?type=3&theater</a><br />
<br />
The biggest take-away for me was how welcoming everyone was. It was a wonderful experience to meet with people that I've only know in an online presence, and make some new polymer artist friends too (I wish I could list them all here). And it was humbling to be among polymer masters and to see and touch their incredible art work in person. Being the introvert that I am, I didn't take nearly enough opportunities to introduce myself to everyone that I wanted to meet, and I didn't take nearly enough photos either (I regret that I didn't ask Donna Greenberg for a photo with her...yes, major introvert here... I took her workshop, you'd think I'd ask for a photo), but I did muster up the courage to ask for photo ops with a few people:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VAJt9undT60/WZjpeYhnb_I/AAAAAAAACAk/_i4EiHTe2Nwtm3rNICK0VbIb8mBYv_23QCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_59e.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1253" data-original-width="1600" height="499" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VAJt9undT60/WZjpeYhnb_I/AAAAAAAACAk/_i4EiHTe2Nwtm3rNICK0VbIb8mBYv_23QCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_59e.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Cynthia Tinapple of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/polymerclaydaily/">Polymer Clay Daily</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZ9uhPjhrWI/WZjpcqx6B2I/AAAAAAAACAg/N5BmN0kOyUUD1_hrhEhbgsBeNhEy0gFeQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_5a1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZ9uhPjhrWI/WZjpcqx6B2I/AAAAAAAACAg/N5BmN0kOyUUD1_hrhEhbgsBeNhEy0gFeQCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_5a1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Ginger Davis Allman of <a aria-controls="js_dkn" aria-describedby="js_dko" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=413999141970335" href="https://www.facebook.com/TheBlueBottleTree/?ref=br_rs" id="js_dkp" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">The Blue Bottle Tree</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F0nkwLHxGYw/WZjpM4txBiI/AAAAAAAACAU/52JZUn-VnTItcJQbt2FkoLZ7shsvEPPZQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_595.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1091" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F0nkwLHxGYw/WZjpM4txBiI/AAAAAAAACAU/52JZUn-VnTItcJQbt2FkoLZ7shsvEPPZQCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_595.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Carole Monahan of <a aria-controls="js_csw" aria-describedby="js_csx" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=279922788728117" href="https://www.facebook.com/CuriousClayCreationsbyCarole/?ref=br_rs" id="js_csy" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">Curious Clay Creations</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e5ejiFFbyLA/WZjpNOE1FbI/AAAAAAAACAY/RvxckWf7iD4255ATjqEklFMJkMqiE7zkQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_59b.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1249" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e5ejiFFbyLA/WZjpNOE1FbI/AAAAAAAACAY/RvxckWf7iD4255ATjqEklFMJkMqiE7zkQCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_59b.jpeg" width="498" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KathleenNowakTucci/">Kathleen Nowak Tucci</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KN1KcZTC8QA/WZjpOUepFiI/AAAAAAAACAc/Rc3-KAjQqxw-bykbPzVkmHnXXHLljcARACLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_598.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1215" data-original-width="1600" height="484" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KN1KcZTC8QA/WZjpOUepFiI/AAAAAAAACAc/Rc3-KAjQqxw-bykbPzVkmHnXXHLljcARACLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_598.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Marie Segal of <a aria-controls="js_92y" aria-describedby="js_92z" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=191574957520769" href="https://www.facebook.com/Marie-Segals-Art-from-my-Heart-191574957520769/?ref=br_rs" id="js_930" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">Marie Segal's Art from my Heart</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W_2RCj0GzXc/WZjpg3aChOI/AAAAAAAACAo/b5vCRLEDvFUrpdNHjMD1A8S-lf29xGlQQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_5a4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1244" data-original-width="1600" height="496" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W_2RCj0GzXc/WZjpg3aChOI/AAAAAAAACAo/b5vCRLEDvFUrpdNHjMD1A8S-lf29xGlQQCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_5a4.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Nan Roche</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qMjnLx8nKQA/WZj0rzksgQI/AAAAAAAACBM/FYMKugclXfIbeIXlSw5wdew5Je2JhAsOQCLcBGAs/s1600/20861714_10210257410217117_6911606292553020554_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1008" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qMjnLx8nKQA/WZj0rzksgQI/AAAAAAAACBM/FYMKugclXfIbeIXlSw5wdew5Je2JhAsOQCLcBGAs/s640/20861714_10210257410217117_6911606292553020554_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Sage Bray (center) of <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=175620935829948" href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePolymerArts/?ref=br_rs" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">The Polymer Arts</a> and Lisa Rapp (right) of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/higirlsdesigns/">HiGirls</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6LTmsXv8xqU/WZj0sd0iiUI/AAAAAAAACBQ/LhW7bQsC0KUvcxGduR408MQhS9f-cS0XQCLcBGAs/s1600/20934867_10210257412057163_4391844057479548590_o-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1008" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6LTmsXv8xqU/WZj0sd0iiUI/AAAAAAAACBQ/LhW7bQsC0KUvcxGduR408MQhS9f-cS0XQCLcBGAs/s640/20934867_10210257412057163_4391844057479548590_o-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Debbie Jackson (left) of <a href="http://www.debbiesadornments.com/columbus_ohio_debbie_jackson_polymer_clay_jewelry/Home.html">Debbie's Adornments</a> and Lisa Rapp (right)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xEYEPk125Vw/WZjpiXM5oPI/AAAAAAAACAs/T5gCDdeCW-Q7bAWNk1eX_JO8lMzMSy-FwCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_5a7.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1224" data-original-width="1574" height="496" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xEYEPk125Vw/WZjpiXM5oPI/AAAAAAAACAs/T5gCDdeCW-Q7bAWNk1eX_JO8lMzMSy-FwCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_5a7.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With EvaMarie Törnström of <a aria-controls="js_7rf" aria-describedby="js_7rg" aria-haspopup="true" class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=565219580228231" href="https://www.facebook.com/mosebackeord/?ref=br_rs" id="js_7rh" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">Mosebacke Horse Sculptures</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The closing reception was brimming with eye candy, everyone was donning some of their art or art that they'd purchased, and the auction was a feast for the eyes, as well as thoroughly entertaining... with Christi Friesen performing auctioneer duties... what a hoot! The last 4 photos above are shots taken at the closing reception and dinner, here are a few more:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPG6_wV7k-Y/WZkOndBKMsI/AAAAAAAACCo/VCOr6zubJkwDyTJuPSZ2e9m-sBMOyg2UgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPG6_wV7k-Y/WZkOndBKMsI/AAAAAAAACCo/VCOr6zubJkwDyTJuPSZ2e9m-sBMOyg2UgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3465.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br />Overview of the reception </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vee_FRBMlG0/WZkOmP4PD8I/AAAAAAAACCk/ZC-Thq4XVkoMn3o0h8AUsfKXQOkqcnW7gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vee_FRBMlG0/WZkOmP4PD8I/AAAAAAAACCk/ZC-Thq4XVkoMn3o0h8AUsfKXQOkqcnW7gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3466.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k-wLj9XxZIE/WZkOncK5w1I/AAAAAAAACCs/bAYcMe9rWtMbkiTXbo_JdM5hrbk3KfKlQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k-wLj9XxZIE/WZkOncK5w1I/AAAAAAAACCs/bAYcMe9rWtMbkiTXbo_JdM5hrbk3KfKlQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3468.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner table-mates, Lorrene Baum-Davis and Gloria Davis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FYUj5o05Yd0/WZkO2Sj9EEI/AAAAAAAACCw/GcKXP0jRWEEw-QPj0pfXZX-7lgyaKXevQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FYUj5o05Yd0/WZkO2Sj9EEI/AAAAAAAACCw/GcKXP0jRWEEw-QPj0pfXZX-7lgyaKXevQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3470.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
Overviews of the Closing Dinner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xycd1jOFOok/WZkPDS0EI6I/AAAAAAAACC4/V-pmNT3rpPA5A1N7Qbsov-dRRC_pQycngCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xycd1jOFOok/WZkPDS0EI6I/AAAAAAAACC4/V-pmNT3rpPA5A1N7Qbsov-dRRC_pQycngCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3471.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-miuddgBmSFE/WZkO8_RODqI/AAAAAAAACC0/_qObYTlZMO0U4RcaatB7L45gTYcva4QgwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-miuddgBmSFE/WZkO8_RODqI/AAAAAAAACC0/_qObYTlZMO0U4RcaatB7L45gTYcva4QgwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3472.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vI1dRMPzcIs/WZkPJ7AVptI/AAAAAAAACC8/dxi2juwXLhIqza9HdrsRNZNR4HrBzueTwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vI1dRMPzcIs/WZkPJ7AVptI/AAAAAAAACC8/dxi2juwXLhIqza9HdrsRNZNR4HrBzueTwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3473.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u28tlitA0CA/WZkPQVf1W1I/AAAAAAAACDA/NM-qJs9gfrUjQJmTqWSGXhho6NiZltwNwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u28tlitA0CA/WZkPQVf1W1I/AAAAAAAACDA/NM-qJs9gfrUjQJmTqWSGXhho6NiZltwNwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3488.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Polymer artists are a lively bunch!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0vAw9G8Y10/WZkPX31qirI/AAAAAAAACDI/cOtfhTuoZ2Y-4MUXytKdKusNtqQPq_V2QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0vAw9G8Y10/WZkPX31qirI/AAAAAAAACDI/cOtfhTuoZ2Y-4MUXytKdKusNtqQPq_V2QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3491.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lori Michels and her sugar maple leaf polymer handbag</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TYapZyNUd0o/WZkP4vgqvaI/AAAAAAAACDQ/6WBjDNdJTrws8x1TBLrGOo_rrpqXUxK1QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TYapZyNUd0o/WZkP4vgqvaI/AAAAAAAACDQ/6WBjDNdJTrws8x1TBLrGOo_rrpqXUxK1QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3490.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fabulous Marie Segal and her equally fabulous woven necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
I remember when I first committed to attending this event and I had reservations about whether I could justify/afford the expense... Goodness, I can hardly believe I had that thought now! Given all the gained information, inundation of inspiration, experience of meeting fellow artists and polymer masters, along with all of the polymer freebies and inclusive meals, it was way beyond worth it and then some! I so hope that I can attend another Synergy event in the future!<br />
<br />
Special thanks go out to Donna Greenberg for her generosity and guidance. Special thanks to Polyform for supplying Premo for the workshops, and for the free bottle of the new Clear Liquid Sculpey. Special thanks to Van Aken for the little take-out box that was full of Kato clay, liquid clay and poly paste, plus the free bars in the swag bag and at the closing dinner reception. Special thanks to Staedtler Mars GmbH & Co KG, for the bars of Fimo gifted to us in the swag bag. Huge thanks go out to the Synergy4 team for putting together a memorable and amazing event. And big thanks to the IPCA members who attended the conference with a sharing and welcoming attitude. Thanks also go out to the Doubletree Hilton at Valley Forge and their staff, for doing a great job catering to this crowd...<br />
<br />
Can't forget to add photos of my loot!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m0bNkw7ozMY/WZkMzw7A9NI/AAAAAAAACCY/0gCFxzYh0t0aR05fmOR70_XX_hY_CiVwwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m0bNkw7ozMY/WZkMzw7A9NI/AAAAAAAACCY/0gCFxzYh0t0aR05fmOR70_XX_hY_CiVwwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3512.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plethora of business cards</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8hwDQfkXao8/WZkK0-GuAcI/AAAAAAAACCA/db27mBTtmrIcYnl748kfSJUCjyVcx_YNACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8hwDQfkXao8/WZkK0-GuAcI/AAAAAAAACCA/db27mBTtmrIcYnl748kfSJUCjyVcx_YNACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3494.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The freebies! (minus 2 bars of Premo that I used in the workshop)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f0NE_TvGZm4/WZkLSGMNo5I/AAAAAAAACCE/FlawNVsr13kx5gCKw_xQ1CoTbzH9mdSNgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f0NE_TvGZm4/WZkLSGMNo5I/AAAAAAAACCE/FlawNVsr13kx5gCKw_xQ1CoTbzH9mdSNgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3495.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The supplies I purchased... can't wait to try the Cernit and Swellegant!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D0wKX8cDUO4/WZkL5ujjxMI/AAAAAAAACCM/MrwnS6NlUKMAJclfhHhqGvY71Sm10W0LgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D0wKX8cDUO4/WZkL5ujjxMI/AAAAAAAACCM/MrwnS6NlUKMAJclfhHhqGvY71Sm10W0LgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3492.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Polymer lovelies... 3 of Ron Lehocky's heart pins, an Into the Forest Flower, a Christi Friesen hanging air planter and a Donna Greenberg leaf brooch! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Whew! what an incredible experience, for which I am beyond grateful! It's back to the grindstone for me... I drove home late Wednesday night, after the dinner/auction and the first day was spent in the garden bringing in tomatoes, thai basil, digging up our potatoes, pulling some onions, beans, peppers, eggplant and blackberries. Much of Friday was devoted to processing the tomatoes for oven roasting, and the next couple days will find me processing more tomatoes and the eggplant... I know it's been a while (8 months) since I've posted here on the blog, much of that has been due to spousal health issues. Now that things are hopefully back on track with the hubby's health, the new school year (i.e. alone time) will hopefully usher in a burst of creativity and projects... stay tuned! As always, your comments are welcomed below, if you have something to say or add, please do leave me your thoughts below! ....If you don't hear from me for a little while, it's because I'm buried under a pile of vegetables! 😉😜<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MoSjzZ2z0Co/WZkTM9e4QyI/AAAAAAAACDc/BKJSTZoUZoQL4Rbo6Zlrd92CZTqxAEPcACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MoSjzZ2z0Co/WZkTM9e4QyI/AAAAAAAACDc/BKJSTZoUZoQL4Rbo6Zlrd92CZTqxAEPcACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3501.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Garden harvest on Thursday </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jq6ppwe_Ng4/WZkTOd9t9_I/AAAAAAAACDg/3lfWHUm4jFwLttx3CdN2qLFH2pE9t3hhACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jq6ppwe_Ng4/WZkTOd9t9_I/AAAAAAAACDg/3lfWHUm4jFwLttx3CdN2qLFH2pE9t3hhACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_0084.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomatoes prepped for roasting on Friday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 113px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 9959px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 33px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 25031px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 33px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 25031px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 33px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 25031px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 33px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 25031px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-89286364296501332882017-01-26T19:58:00.002-08:002017-01-26T19:58:45.793-08:00Scrapping Around<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This month's PCAGOE showcase theme was Minimalism. I had a couple different ideas floating around in my mind, but in the end I decided to use up some polymer scraps that have been sitting around my studio waiting to be put into action.<br />
<br />
Because I'm an environmental advocate, I have a hard time throwing out things that I might someday use to create something. This can be tough to live with, especially as I generally must do a huge reorganize yearly just to keep track of what's what in my studio. And yes, I also save scraps of polymer that just didn't make the cut, or were actual cuts off of pieces that have since been finished. One half of the pieces I'll be showing in this blog post are an example of those kind of scraps, the other half of the pieces in this blog post use a completely different type of scrap. So, let's start with the first, the cured scraps...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cUy_i6n7PIA/WIq6zG8StFI/AAAAAAAAB8w/HYtltfmkBWYKMmULHJW3LITNN3WPJvCjQCLcB/s1600/stripsset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cUy_i6n7PIA/WIq6zG8StFI/AAAAAAAAB8w/HYtltfmkBWYKMmULHJW3LITNN3WPJvCjQCLcB/s640/stripsset.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
These scrap strips of polymer that you see in the images above were cut off my <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2015/06/polymer-art-printing.html">polymer printing textured wall art</a> that I made back in June of 2015. Here's a shot of those pieces:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IkkhUZtYQNk/WIrDWnqe_xI/AAAAAAAAB-g/evIazsxWFD0gO_LMOrRaGBw88R2d0q1HACLcB/s1600/texplateart3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IkkhUZtYQNk/WIrDWnqe_xI/AAAAAAAAB-g/evIazsxWFD0gO_LMOrRaGBw88R2d0q1HACLcB/s640/texplateart3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Texture plate and Polymer Art Prints</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I created those art prints with slabs of polymer that were then pressed with a handmade texture sheet and then colored. The pressing of the texture plate created edges that weren't quite even. So, once all three of the art prints were cured, I used an Xacto knife and a straight edge to make them perfect rectangles of the same size. The thin waste strips that were cut off the art prints still had the color and interesting textures, and I decided then to keep the strips and put them to use in some jewelry. These jewelry pieces were at the back of my mind for a long time, this guild showcase proved just the right moment to dust off that idea. I decided to bend some of the strips back onto themselves to create loops, and I grouped them together in mismatched groupings of loops and straight pieces, and one piece created with just the straight pieces. Each necklace is given a slightly different treatment for hanging, one is beaded, another wire wrapped silk sari, one has a single strand of aqua art yarn and the last one has 4 strands of the same aqua art yarn. Here are a couple close-ups of each piece in this collection:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4AulD_mdpS4/WIq8vZ_KGGI/AAAAAAAAB9A/V81TDfaldbAqjDAk3ZY6fJzjfc8syZz5ACLcB/s1600/lines6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4AulD_mdpS4/WIq8vZ_KGGI/AAAAAAAAB9A/V81TDfaldbAqjDAk3ZY6fJzjfc8syZz5ACLcB/s640/lines6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pick-up sticks necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YyHq6zXzZLw/WIq8yCzQg9I/AAAAAAAAB9E/8VAE3Z3UD4gktJkTimcf1LI7umSTq06LACLcB/s1600/linesnecklace2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YyHq6zXzZLw/WIq8yCzQg9I/AAAAAAAAB9E/8VAE3Z3UD4gktJkTimcf1LI7umSTq06LACLcB/s640/linesnecklace2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pick-up stick necklace pendant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn3qWl41zFU/WIq9bN8-sXI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/8uZLBkvPQtsa3WYPdInHIJjHLRbTGRggQCLcB/s1600/loopy5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn3qWl41zFU/WIq9bN8-sXI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/8uZLBkvPQtsa3WYPdInHIJjHLRbTGRggQCLcB/s640/loopy5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loopy necklace pendant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SEeaZDyMA-Q/WIq9Z3bZLUI/AAAAAAAAB9M/Ud2Xcd-GRCEB-6lTPQISTBnXY1Ai447BwCLcB/s1600/loopy7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SEeaZDyMA-Q/WIq9Z3bZLUI/AAAAAAAAB9M/Ud2Xcd-GRCEB-6lTPQISTBnXY1Ai447BwCLcB/s640/loopy7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loopy necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ayRbeR_ySkM/WIq94K8fQ3I/AAAAAAAAB9U/-hjBvhD9Oi8zaiSEq7aiv_EzkQhBsA0JQCLcB/s1600/simpleloops5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ayRbeR_ySkM/WIq94K8fQ3I/AAAAAAAAB9U/-hjBvhD9Oi8zaiSEq7aiv_EzkQhBsA0JQCLcB/s640/simpleloops5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple loops necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ADnbC4D77M/WIq95f_prVI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/NKhpZ-CdzuEEmA80lZNWgn_8ZrzyrHFzQCLcB/s1600/simpleloops6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ADnbC4D77M/WIq95f_prVI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/NKhpZ-CdzuEEmA80lZNWgn_8ZrzyrHFzQCLcB/s640/simpleloops6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple loops necklace pendant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--7tfOugJOSQ/WIq-W53unuI/AAAAAAAAB9k/8bODmvMbo00oB0faQmKnfOrKXcgRvMnmgCLcB/s1600/smallloops2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--7tfOugJOSQ/WIq-W53unuI/AAAAAAAAB9k/8bODmvMbo00oB0faQmKnfOrKXcgRvMnmgCLcB/s640/smallloops2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little loops necklace pendant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hE7KZr0Fpj0/WIq-V6eH6rI/AAAAAAAAB9g/_7Dn5GLnCRk14tIWBtV4L0nlpKOzu5oxgCLcB/s1600/smallloops4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hE7KZr0Fpj0/WIq-V6eH6rI/AAAAAAAAB9g/_7Dn5GLnCRk14tIWBtV4L0nlpKOzu5oxgCLcB/s640/smallloops4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little loops necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The next grouping of pieces I made with another kind of polymer scrap, these were raw scraps that came from the blades of my pasta machine. I took my pasta machine apart to clean my blades (I hadn't done that ever, so it was many years of thin polymer bits that had accumulated under the scraper blades of my machine). When I cleaned the blades there were these lovely pieces of multicolored polymer that I just had to save to use for something. Here's a photo of the pieces that came off the pasta machine blades, you can see one side is smooth and looks almost agate-like or resembles Fordite, and the other side has this interesting minuscule layered texture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-svmsL_fiy5o/WIrAdUNJqkI/AAAAAAAAB-M/f3h9XOuNhkADT9Z7j63sHulrEJOIMV_LQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-svmsL_fiy5o/WIrAdUNJqkI/AAAAAAAAB-M/f3h9XOuNhkADT9Z7j63sHulrEJOIMV_LQCLcB/s640/IMG_1398.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smooth side of scraps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HvEaqibkF2Y/WIrAcU5qwEI/AAAAAAAAB-E/RXbfwMc3lno4sCXA2aaK9wBl7LvgWB4fwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HvEaqibkF2Y/WIrAcU5qwEI/AAAAAAAAB-E/RXbfwMc3lno4sCXA2aaK9wBl7LvgWB4fwCLcB/s640/IMG_1399.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Textured side of scraps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I found the layered texture side so interesting that I used that side for all of the pieces that I created using these scraps. As of now, these pieces are unfinished... some of them will be brooches, some of them pendants and some of the will be convertible brooch/pendants.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JELyhD8vzlE/WIq_owNa9rI/AAAAAAAAB90/KpjyEnaqlk4lr3BZo2ySZ6nxXHAzQ36JQCLcB/s1600/polyite6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JELyhD8vzlE/WIq_owNa9rI/AAAAAAAAB90/KpjyEnaqlk4lr3BZo2ySZ6nxXHAzQ36JQCLcB/s640/polyite6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QkZmx5CCNTo/WIq_ptIJ-EI/AAAAAAAAB94/fz8cO3RgRU0k_nTavh9dp96eOfeHfgQigCLcB/s1600/polyite8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QkZmx5CCNTo/WIq_ptIJ-EI/AAAAAAAAB94/fz8cO3RgRU0k_nTavh9dp96eOfeHfgQigCLcB/s640/polyite8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YpQoiwB460M/WIq_3uSNxgI/AAAAAAAAB98/_6IfjHOUUhUeHhIihU4LMHijytYU3-FLgCLcB/s1600/polyite2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="582" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YpQoiwB460M/WIq_3uSNxgI/AAAAAAAAB98/_6IfjHOUUhUeHhIihU4LMHijytYU3-FLgCLcB/s640/polyite2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I really had a lot of fun creating these pieces and using some of my polymer scrap stash. I think my favorite piece is the Loopy necklace, though... I'm looking forward to putting some time in the studio to finish up the pasta machine scrap pieces. I'm not sure if I've done Minimalism any justice, it's much harder to do Minimalist well than one would ever think! I always love to hear your thoughts on my work, so be a dear and tell me in the comments which piece is your favorite and why! Most of these pieces will eventually turn up in my <a href="http://www.createmyworld.etsy.com/">CreateMyWorld etsy shop</a>. I'm hoping to get the finished ones listed over this weekend. Be sure to check out all of the other Minimalist pieces that my guildmates have created at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PolymerClayArtists/">PCAGOE Facebook page</a>!</div>
<br /></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-91273145819693941392016-12-31T12:47:00.004-08:002016-12-31T12:50:37.983-08:00Whirligig wind spinner<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I take a lot of walks through the little town in which I live. From spring through fall, gazing balls, wind chimes, plant stakes and all other manner of garden-variety art abound in this little borough. I love seeing the personal touches on the homes of people who put extra care into their dwellings. My favorite pieces of outdoor art are the ones that are meant to catch the wind and spin around displaying mesmerizing patterns. When the theme for this month's showcase for the PCAGOE (Polymer Clay Artist's Guild of Etsy) was decided to be outdoor art, I was fairly set upon coming up with a wind chime or a wind spinner design.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ExHkJw5jIE/WGgNG0LAhmI/AAAAAAAAB78/IUopIdd-koQ5cg8e0IJ-hgyGn5jUCIIKgCLcB/s1600/whirly7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ExHkJw5jIE/WGgNG0LAhmI/AAAAAAAAB78/IUopIdd-koQ5cg8e0IJ-hgyGn5jUCIIKgCLcB/s640/whirly7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I came up with this three sided mobius design after observing some whirligig wind spinners in a shop. I figured that it could easily be done in polymer, and wanted to give it a try. It took a trial and error session for me to figure out how to construct the piece... still not sure what I'm going to do with the first iteration, which was more error than trial, Ha, Ha! After working out most of the kinks of that first iteration, this little sea green one was born.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Va_bhClOKgo/WGgNJOZXZvI/AAAAAAAAB8A/qaulUq2atwcsbfW5bpgX0l6D1k-arh0MwCLcB/s1600/whirly8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Va_bhClOKgo/WGgNJOZXZvI/AAAAAAAAB8A/qaulUq2atwcsbfW5bpgX0l6D1k-arh0MwCLcB/s640/whirly8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The polymer mobius part is only about 6" in diameter, so it's not a very large piece, but still large enough to catch the eye. I decided to add a large polymer clay swirled lentil bead at the bottom and coordinated some glass beads for more decoration. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5EFFRC3q9kM/WGgQl3BuefI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/FCYrZQpO_iEK7rOMPItjc7nX74soxILSACLcB/s1600/whirly12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5EFFRC3q9kM/WGgQl3BuefI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/FCYrZQpO_iEK7rOMPItjc7nX74soxILSACLcB/s640/whirly12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love how the swirly lentil bead echoes the swirls of the mobius, and I believe that I will incorporate that feature into future iterations of this design. I do plan to make more of these, because I really love the idea and the look of this piece. I am also considering creating a project tutorial of these for selling in my etsy shop. Lots of ideas are spinning around in my head, must be the whirligig influence! ;)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A29Dp9bQQOM/WGgQoQup1YI/AAAAAAAAB8c/2WHJW76LFRgwmnTPE7axJ46mWxb_ysPlACLcB/s1600/whirlyside2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A29Dp9bQQOM/WGgQoQup1YI/AAAAAAAAB8c/2WHJW76LFRgwmnTPE7axJ46mWxb_ysPlACLcB/s640/whirlyside2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
With those hopes of creating more of these whirligigs (and also a tutorial for them), I'm reminded of my hopes for the new year. Once again, my #1 New Year's resolution is that I want to spend more time in my studio creating. While I really plan to focus much of my energy on larger-scale art pieces that I've been dreaming up (just for the sake of making myself happy and decorating my studio space), along with those wishes comes the hope that I'll also find time to create some smaller items to put in my etsy shops.... sigh, if only reality will work with the schemes in my head! For anyone who's curious, here is the top-down view of the whirligig:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0RCDPqNKg4/WGgNh2k7xwI/AAAAAAAAB8M/icHQwDeuYz8B1rypFuBE6pZ5V74VhZx0QCLcB/s1600/whirlytop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0RCDPqNKg4/WGgNh2k7xwI/AAAAAAAAB8M/icHQwDeuYz8B1rypFuBE6pZ5V74VhZx0QCLcB/s640/whirlytop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, what do you think of my latest project? Is this something you'd be interested learning the details of how to make and construct? Do you have any New Year's resolutions that you're hoping to carry out in 2017?... leave me your comments below, I always love hearing your thoughts!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Holidays to all during this season of giving. I hope for a Happy, Healthy and Peaceful 2017!</div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 3262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 3262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-68186190117505172962016-12-09T10:26:00.000-08:002016-12-09T15:49:40.347-08:00A Belated Show and Tell<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
About 2 months ago, I had asked polymer artist and dear friend, Betsy Strebe of <a href="http://strebedesigns.blogspot.com/">Strebe Designs</a>, if I could purchase one of her Limoges style boxes. She generously offered to send me one as a gift. Because I know she puts a lot of work into these lovely trinket boxes, I said that if she would like, I'd make something to send to her in return. She agreed, and she sent me this beautiful little box:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4pvn-foksBI/WEruvKMkYPI/AAAAAAAAB7I/j8cJHJxQEj8xgQI5_0WGeR15tO0j67abQCLcB/s1600/PC010461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4pvn-foksBI/WEruvKMkYPI/AAAAAAAAB7I/j8cJHJxQEj8xgQI5_0WGeR15tO0j67abQCLcB/s640/PC010461.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Limoges style box by Betsy Strebe of Strebe Designs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OHNlY3IRRrQ/WErux_0tRAI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/gFCgmYr9N9ccood3-B3O_iAiZM-2gDjtwCLcB/s1600/PC010463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OHNlY3IRRrQ/WErux_0tRAI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/gFCgmYr9N9ccood3-B3O_iAiZM-2gDjtwCLcB/s640/PC010463.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside of Limoges style box by Betsy Strebe of Strebe Designs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Betsy's little box is displayed in one of my polymer art shrines in my studio. This little shadowbox display contains a few of the little gifts I've received from other polymer artist friends over the years... (I have a couple of other polymer art shrines, so this is only some of my treasures from friends)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_HLb9e1Z8c/WEr0Vu1DYEI/AAAAAAAAB7k/De119w-TqZMbhKGuyB72XBo8q9-Mgr5SQCLcB/s1600/PC090476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_HLb9e1Z8c/WEr0Vu1DYEI/AAAAAAAAB7k/De119w-TqZMbhKGuyB72XBo8q9-Mgr5SQCLcB/s1600/PC090476.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In this photo: Top Orange Mokume Gane box by Susan O'Neill of 11BOLDstreet, 2nd shelf Blue Marbled egg by Angela Hickey of Polymer Clay Creations, 3rd shelf Limoges style box by Betsy Strebe of Strebe Designs, 4th shelf Polymer appliquéd glass heart ornament by Linda Riopel of NKDesigns, 5th shelf Millifiore egg by Cindy Matthews of Arrowdale Art Studio, 6th shelf rock and succulent plant pendant by Maiah Tanner of Walk Home Happy, bottom 2 shelves are some little pieces I made (place holders until I get other small polymer gifts to fill those spots!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
As an added surprise, Betsy also gifted me these lovely gift cards that were created with her own hand carved stamps! Beautiful!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o31zXWlO3ow/WEruvvR6uEI/AAAAAAAAB7M/fNlJZz6RrWQPoWVYk8HG3KVZWWbMjLWjACLcB/s1600/PC040466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o31zXWlO3ow/WEruvvR6uEI/AAAAAAAAB7M/fNlJZz6RrWQPoWVYk8HG3KVZWWbMjLWjACLcB/s640/PC040466.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand carved stamped designs on note cards by Betsy Strebe of Strebe Designs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jj96Ti4SAQQ/WEru5F2FGoI/AAAAAAAAB7U/PVOSLrKPl0YOX6fqe8nBQrWC-xOaK0CmQCLcB/s1600/PC040469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jj96Ti4SAQQ/WEru5F2FGoI/AAAAAAAAB7U/PVOSLrKPl0YOX6fqe8nBQrWC-xOaK0CmQCLcB/s640/PC040469.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backside (logo) of hand carved stamped cards by Betsy Strebe of Strebe Designs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It took me a while before I finished the piece I made for Betsy and sent if off to her. When I received her piece, I had been in the middle of a major studio reorganize, where I moved all the furniture around (more to come on that later...). Then I had to spend time creating my Cocky Trump sculpture, then I got busy with Thanksgiving, creating ornaments and finally having to deal with pet injuries and family health issues. So I decided today I was going to sit down and finally get these lovely gifts posted for show and tell! Aren't they gorgeous?! I'm so glad to have an example of my dear friend's work in my collection of polymer art from artist friends! Do you have special collections of art in your home? Tell me about it in the comments, and be sure to go check out Betsy Strebe's work at <a href="http://strebedesigns.blogspot.com/">Strebe Designs</a>!<br />
<br />
Thanks so much again, Betsy!! I absolutely LOVE my beautiful little Limoges box, and the gift cards too!<br />
<br />
Oh, I almost forgot... here's the little container I made and sent to Betsy:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qQ8Poj4gDYY/WEr2fKhWRTI/AAAAAAAAB7s/M4P10LLOkNI7QUwMcecWu-61ULlKoqGQwCLcB/s1600/PB190452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qQ8Poj4gDYY/WEr2fKhWRTI/AAAAAAAAB7s/M4P10LLOkNI7QUwMcecWu-61ULlKoqGQwCLcB/s640/PB190452.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-49617832725269550682016-11-02T10:07:00.000-07:002016-11-02T11:24:03.706-07:00Trumped-Up Cock<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The October challenge for my guild was "Creepy/Weird". I'm sure this post will upset some people with both the title and the subject of my sculpture, but once the initial thought began, it demanded to be made. Try as I might, I couldn't stop thinking about it. I guess it all started after the recent release of the tape recording of Trump on the bus with Billy Bush. The creepy factor of some pervert who thinks he can touch any woman he likes, just because he's famous, wouldn't go away. I kept thinking of him as an arrogant jerk, and that's where the rooster body came into play, the title just fell into place from there. Actually, there were a few different titles I was turning around in my brain (Look who wants to be in charge of the hen house, Chicken Little-hands, Chicken $h!t, Ameraucana Cock, The Cock's Disguise etc.) but the first one is the one that stuck. Because of the sensitive subject and title, I knew that I would not be posting it to my guild's group, as I don't want any negativity reflecting on the guild or my fellow members. I had hoped to finish it by the October 25th deadline. But, I decided to take my time with it and as a result, it took me a whole week to get the face sculpted to where I was somewhat satisfied with the likeness of Trump. Yes, critics will point out that it is not perfectly realistic, and I know that, I was trying my best to portray his identifying traits (a caricature of sorts): the oddly white skin around his eyes surrounded by a fake orange tanned face, his puffy wrinkled and squinty eyes, his multiple chins, that gaping mouth which seems to be captured so often in photos online, and of course, the wild hair and eyebrows.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IWLQylpSR4k/WBoKFM9LDlI/AAAAAAAAB6w/QbkBdOWifiY6RQsFiyUbtOkna2Z0nWENQCLcB/s1600/trumpedupfull2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IWLQylpSR4k/WBoKFM9LDlI/AAAAAAAAB6w/QbkBdOWifiY6RQsFiyUbtOkna2Z0nWENQCLcB/s640/trumpedupfull2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Originally when I had pondered this challenge I had envisioned creating a funky/cool vessel with spikes and open spaces. I did not want to do a Trump sculpture, and honestly, I fought myself over this idea. I mean, who the heck want's a sculpture of Trump?!? (aside from the narcissist himself) Certainly NOT me! But once the idea came, it simply would not stop molesting my brain (pun intended). It didn't help my attitude seeing the people who defended his comments as locker-room banter, all over the internet. Then, one of my friends on facebook, actually another polymer artist, posed a question to her friends asking how many of her women friends had been sexually assaulted. It was stunning to see over just a 24 hour period that 160+ women were publicly acknowledging that they had been assaulted. And I found myself, for the first time ever, publicly acknowledging what happened to me with a simple yes. That was as brave as I could be.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W1jLQVp8G4I/WBoJ7NPyfxI/AAAAAAAAB6s/64cleneQHhMKVpsrH6iDFjcyD6W7LZtZwCLcB/s1600/trumpedupmontage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="522" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W1jLQVp8G4I/WBoJ7NPyfxI/AAAAAAAAB6s/64cleneQHhMKVpsrH6iDFjcyD6W7LZtZwCLcB/s640/trumpedupmontage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Then there came the women who accused Trump of sexual assault, which were followed by denials from him, the campaign and from his followers. This included op-eds and memes which suggested that because these women had waited so long, their story must therefore be fabricated. This infuriated me and has made me just a little braver. You see, the first time I was sexually assaulted, it happened 40 years ago when I was a child. Other than the one who assaulted me (if that person remembers what they did), there is only one person who knows the details, my husband, the only person I could completely trust with something so grave, and it took me 25 years before I was able to share the story with that one solitary person. The details of my story will likely remain buried, because my husband will not break my trust and for me, the pain of bringing the truth to full light would far exceed the pain of concealing it all these years and for the rest of my years to come. Anyone who has known me for all or most of my life will likely be stunned by this revelation. If you know my family, I ask that you refrain from mentioning it to my parents. If you know me well, I simply ask that you respect that I cannot reveal any more details than I've shared here, and trust that I am indeed not fabricating what happened to me, I would swear upon everything that is dearest to me that it did happen. My parents (who do not have online access) would be crushed to learn about this, and they would seek details that I refuse to reveal to them or anyone else. Beyond the first assault, there have been other scary situations and abuses that I've rarely mentioned to anyone (stalked by 2 strange men at the store where I worked in my late teens, which required security guard detail when going to my car late at night; a time when I woke up unclothed in my apartment, with the bedroom and outside doors wide open and no recollection of what had happened since I entered the apartment and locked my door the night before, and yes, I was completely sober that night; random gropings on the subway when I lived in New York City and also at night clubs; forced kisses and bodily contact; typical cat-calls; etc.). After seeing all of the people who wanted to toss aside the women that came forward with sexual abuse stories about Trump, the idea hounded me, and I could not escape the call to complete it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q7OPDn-bZlE/WBlQOhF5YII/AAAAAAAAB5g/CGVS4q2108c8GOSi_lPHqtmPk-spAy5rQCLcB/s1600/trumpedupfull6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q7OPDn-bZlE/WBlQOhF5YII/AAAAAAAAB5g/CGVS4q2108c8GOSi_lPHqtmPk-spAy5rQCLcB/s640/trumpedupfull6.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">"Sexual assault is any type of forced or coerced sexual contact or behavior that happens without consent. Sexual assault includes rape and attempted rape, child molestation, and sexual harassment or threats. In the United States, nearly one in five women has been raped and almost half of women have experienced another type of sexual assault.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"> If you have been sexually assaulted, it is not your fault.</span><br />
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-right: 30px; padding-top: 0px;">
Sexual assault can include:</div>
<ul style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Any type of sexual contact with someone who cannot <a href="https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/sexual-assault.html#d" style="color: #4a006e; text-decoration: none;" title="What does "consent" mean in sexual assault?">consent</a>, such as someone who is underage, has an intellectual disability, or is passed out</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;"><a href="https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/sexual-assault.html#b" style="color: #4a006e; text-decoration: none;" title="What is rape?">Rape</a></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Attempted rape</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;"><a href="https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/sexual-assault.html#f" style="color: #4a006e; text-decoration: none;" title="What is sexual coercion?">Sexual coercion</a></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Sexual contact with a child</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Incest (sexual contact between family members)</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Fondling or unwanted touching above or under clothes</li>
</ul>
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-right: 30px; padding-top: 0px;">
Sexual assault can also be verbal or visual. It is anything that forces a person to join in unwanted sexual contact or attention. Examples can include:</div>
<ul style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Voyeurism, or peeping (when someone watches private sexual acts without consent)</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Exhibitionism (when someone exposes himself or herself in public)</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Sexual harassment or threats</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-right: 30px;">Forcing someone to pose for sexual pictures<span style="background-color: white;">" -- </span><a href="https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/sexual-assault.html">https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/sexual-assault.html</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qhd3mzJ_zU4/WBn_LFab2DI/AAAAAAAAB5w/N1odElI00X8ImDBQr44b5Dq8UJw84ITtwCLcB/s1600/trumpedupfull4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qhd3mzJ_zU4/WBn_LFab2DI/AAAAAAAAB5w/N1odElI00X8ImDBQr44b5Dq8UJw84ITtwCLcB/s640/trumpedupfull4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I began this sculpture by covering a lightbulb with foil to create the body armature. Next, I drilled into a small round metal tin, then I mounted heavy gauge wire through the tin in a U shape and secured it with epoxy clay, to make the armature for the legs. I then filled the metal tin with sand to weigh down the sculpture. I wound the foil body armature with string to keep it all snug and in place, and I mounted the body armature to the leg wires. Next came a base layer of polymer over the legs and body, which was then cured, to give me a solid base layer. Then the face sculpting began. This face went through about 7 iterations before it resulted in what you see here. Certainly not perfect, but for the first time sculpting a face with intention to model it after a live person, I'm fairly happy with the results. There are some angles from where I think it really does look like Trump quite well. This exercise gave me a whole new respect for artists like Mike Viner who is able to capture the character of his models in the full 360˚ round.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DUSQZET4BrY/WBn_wbM963I/AAAAAAAAB58/T7mMfstM_J85F3va_i0FzGQHk3z9eE1iACLcB/s1600/trumpedupclose2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DUSQZET4BrY/WBn_wbM963I/AAAAAAAAB58/T7mMfstM_J85F3va_i0FzGQHk3z9eE1iACLcB/s320/trumpedupclose2.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mJ_1lWHWhZw/WBn_wJ_e2FI/AAAAAAAAB54/Q4EwV9uLCw05Mygqvuik5F1Pk-dsg2VugCLcB/s1600/trumpedupclose3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mJ_1lWHWhZw/WBn_wJ_e2FI/AAAAAAAAB54/Q4EwV9uLCw05Mygqvuik5F1Pk-dsg2VugCLcB/s320/trumpedupclose3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S5HWfn7Q9eA/WBn_vm0yVGI/AAAAAAAAB50/7K0dTVhvFB8I7anu2ruUkvQcsbFwTZVKgCLcB/s1600/trumpedupclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S5HWfn7Q9eA/WBn_vm0yVGI/AAAAAAAAB50/7K0dTVhvFB8I7anu2ruUkvQcsbFwTZVKgCLcB/s640/trumpedupclose.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUChQYEiTIE/WBoAFiqYwvI/AAAAAAAAB6E/5OTxrO4V9FwX7Uq8xbP0chGyMexeYAeXgCLcB/s1600/trumpedupclose5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUChQYEiTIE/WBoAFiqYwvI/AAAAAAAAB6E/5OTxrO4V9FwX7Uq8xbP0chGyMexeYAeXgCLcB/s320/trumpedupclose5.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SyCYDhQ5hhM/WBoAD7Yt4-I/AAAAAAAAB6A/GRx00fl_vmUE1HuqRJy4CQUh2GAxL45RwCLcB/s1600/trumpedupclose4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SyCYDhQ5hhM/WBoAD7Yt4-I/AAAAAAAAB6A/GRx00fl_vmUE1HuqRJy4CQUh2GAxL45RwCLcB/s320/trumpedupclose4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Once I had the face sculpted to satisfaction, I began on the body details. I started with the tail feathers, and built up layers of feathers on the body. There is a specific rooster breed that I used to model the body, that breed is Ameraucana (this similarity of name -to Americana- gave me a laugh). I added a shirt collar and tie, complete with American flag pin. Because Mr. Trump is so prone to fabrication and lying his pants off (<a href="http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/lists/people/comparing-hillary-clinton-donald-trump-truth-o-met/">http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/lists/people/comparing-hillary-clinton-donald-trump-truth-o-met/</a>), for the base I decided that I wanted him to look like he was standing in excrement, so I used a light beige color on the top part of the tin and a brown color on the bottom of the tin. I then sprayed mist paints in shades of brown, black and white to give the effect you see. After I had the base painted to satisfaction, I sculpted the feet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HIjjIOlkDsY/WBoB_0bEelI/AAAAAAAAB6M/Hn_Vg36IlBM304_OtcL0PFGAGXdPRySlwCLcB/s1600/trumpedup_base.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HIjjIOlkDsY/WBoB_0bEelI/AAAAAAAAB6M/Hn_Vg36IlBM304_OtcL0PFGAGXdPRySlwCLcB/s640/trumpedup_base.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
One final cure later, he was finally finished late in the evening on October 31st... appropriate I think. Imagine a rooster deciding to parade around as the Donald on Halloween (or vice-versa), because it's a character he fancies yes, I can see that. It's taken me a couple days to photograph and gather the courage to write the things I've said in this blog post. And still more time and courage to push the "publish" button on this page.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MtOZmgD4QIA/WBoEzb6vxaI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/WvN-ask1uKAydZGWmX3cipdk51ZtZEbdACLcB/s1600/trumpedup3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MtOZmgD4QIA/WBoEzb6vxaI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/WvN-ask1uKAydZGWmX3cipdk51ZtZEbdACLcB/s640/trumpedup3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you have thoughts about the construction of sculpture, or if you'd like to publicly discuss your story of abuse, please leave me a comment below. Here's a warning for trolls: comments from political zealots for the GOP buffoon candidate will not be tolerated. And yes, I do have complete control of which comments get published on my blog, so don't waste your time writing something hateful because you don't agree with my politics. And please don't try to defend this arrogant cock's words or actions, he's proved to me through his demeanor and his own words that he is capable of doing the things he bragged about and the things of which he's been accused. Case closed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pzWRaKlKlak/WBoI5hevigI/AAAAAAAAB6o/CGHCyNb5ZXQc-Zp55fqEv8OflCbB9twWgCLcB/s1600/trumpedupfull5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pzWRaKlKlak/WBoI5hevigI/AAAAAAAAB6o/CGHCyNb5ZXQc-Zp55fqEv8OflCbB9twWgCLcB/s640/trumpedupfull5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
To view the wonderfully creepy/weird creations that my fellow guild mates made last month, please check them out here: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PolymerClayArtists/photos/a.1377143832296216.1073741858.211243825552895/1397378620272737/?type=3&theater">https://www.facebook.com/PolymerClayArtists/photos/a.1377143832296216.1073741858.211243825552895/1397378620272737/?type=3&theater</a><br />
<br />
We're already starting a new challenge showcase for November, the theme is Christmas Ornaments! So check into the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PolymerClayArtists/">PCAGOE facebook page</a> throughout the month of November to see what everyone creates! Should be a fun month!<br />
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 7262px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-55074206707991267972016-09-03T09:40:00.000-07:002016-09-03T09:40:22.387-07:00Whoooo's Voting? ...hopefully you are!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's time to vote for the September 2016 PCAGOE Challenge!! If you'll remember from the <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2016/08/night-owl.html">post about my challenge piece</a>, this month's theme is Owls! Once again, this theme has resulted in some fabulous entries! Feast your eyes on this lot of wonderful artwork:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sajgX48-Mps/V8r8AijaQsI/AAAAAAAAB3k/vHcJ6EhsF-Y_fD4_b4PuUR25h36Pec0kACLcB/s1600/mosaic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sajgX48-Mps/V8r8AijaQsI/AAAAAAAAB3k/vHcJ6EhsF-Y_fD4_b4PuUR25h36Pec0kACLcB/s640/mosaic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I wish I could choose them all in the vote! You only have until midnight on September 7th to decide which 3 are your favorite entries, so don't delay... head over to the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/08/september-challenge-owls.html">PCAGOE blog</a> now to cast your vote! Remember, one lucky voter will be selected to win a free prize... it might be you!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-70864664937741423382016-08-25T18:11:00.000-07:002016-08-25T18:11:38.261-07:00Night Owl<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This month's project brought me inspiration to upcycle some DVD-Rs and to put my sculpting brain to work. The theme for the PCAGOE September challenge is "Owls". I can remember when I was a kid, when owls were very popular, and they've made a popularity come-back once again over the last handful of years.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S09WsNoxIzo/V7-M28zng7I/AAAAAAAAB2o/B0yLfj_8sK8MpgVvWnurZZCaxonfDi-OwCLcB/s1600/nightowlcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S09WsNoxIzo/V7-M28zng7I/AAAAAAAAB2o/B0yLfj_8sK8MpgVvWnurZZCaxonfDi-OwCLcB/s640/nightowlcover.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm not quite sure when the inspiration struck to use the DVD-Rs, but perhaps it hit me when I was in the studio looking at the massive stack of them. You see, my husband makes a lot of recorded DVDs from our over-the-air broadcast movie channels (we don't have cable or satellite, just a big old-fashioned antenna). He records movies so that we'll have a catalog of interesting things to watch for the future, since we don't really watch television programs but we do love movies. Many times, he gets a "bad" DVD-R that just doesn't record the information, or in some cases the online television guide that he uses messed up the broadcast schedule. When these mishaps occur, he tosses those DVDs into the trash. Since I am the one who empties the bins every week, I find them and keep a stack of them for "someday I'll turn these into something" projects. Well, I got to make a small dent into my stack of dvd-rs that have been piling up for the last <span style="text-align: left;">5 years or so. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vhHAz5wvBtA/V7-Mx2AjPsI/AAAAAAAAB2k/o1lXAoKW-eEyVxCEQB502JSt-3RQ5bfogCLcB/s1600/nightowl6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vhHAz5wvBtA/V7-Mx2AjPsI/AAAAAAAAB2k/o1lXAoKW-eEyVxCEQB502JSt-3RQ5bfogCLcB/s640/nightowl6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">The sheen on the recorded side of most of my dvds is a lovely hue of purple, then I have some that are a lighter hue of purple and others that are a silver with iridescent purple sheen. Because of that color variation, I decided that these would make a perfect night sky, if I were to add a thin layer of liquid polymer painted with alcohol inks. I didn't quite like the holes in the centers of the dvds, so I decided to add some clay centers, which I think also add some interest. I made them graduating colors of purple (darkest at the bottom going to lightest at top), with one pearly white center at the top right, to be the moon. I also made sure to paint the liquid polymer in gradation from lighter surrounding the moon dvd to darker for those further away from the moon dvd. After these were cured, I drilled holes in them and strung them together with wire. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VasxxGKhm48/V7-QIICkStI/AAAAAAAAB20/C3qaDxEcaZQ0ZJLMJ67SHYtiEBkajJcHACLcB/s1600/nightowldetail1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VasxxGKhm48/V7-QIICkStI/AAAAAAAAB20/C3qaDxEcaZQ0ZJLMJ67SHYtiEBkajJcHACLcB/s640/nightowldetail1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next came the owl sculpt. I had decided on a barn owl. Although I love all owls, I have a particular fondness for the look of the barn owls. Because I didn't want him to be too heavy, I first made a rough form out of aluminum foil. I draped a large sheet of raw polymer over the foil and cut it to the shape I needed. This first layer was cured, then I started to add the details. I added the black eyes and the beak, and then cured that layer too. Then began the sculpting of the feathers and his legs. The larger wing feathers are where the most of the work was done, handcutting each individual feather. The talons were made by bending a heavy gauge copper wire and cutting it at an angle to make the ends look sharp, these were thrust into the sculpted feet. The beak and eyes were treated to a coating of clear liquid Kato, to give them a glassy shine. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3Yip9UuUUM/V7-R2yW_xZI/AAAAAAAAB3A/oscY-BajS4wSd3WLXXBC7LUWnAQvKQszACLcB/s1600/nightowldetail2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3Yip9UuUUM/V7-R2yW_xZI/AAAAAAAAB3A/oscY-BajS4wSd3WLXXBC7LUWnAQvKQszACLcB/s640/nightowldetail2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After he was fully sculpted I used a cotton swab with varying alcohol inks to give coloring to his wing feathers and to accents of his face and chest. He then went in for a final cure. After he was fully cured, I used some burnt umber water soluble oil paint antiquing to add definition to the wing feathers and to the dimensionality of his body. I didn't notice till after the photos were taken that I need to add a little more of this antiquing to the area between his legs. The sculpting of this area is dimensional, with the back leg is slightly behind the front leg, but because of the white coloring, that is hard to see. I will be adding more shading in that area, to define it better. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KdWgBNGaDyo/V7-TK4hwG1I/AAAAAAAAB3Q/KwWP4pF403Iu_e2o_6BufTqqAqYrmLRQwCLcB/s1600/nightowldetail3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KdWgBNGaDyo/V7-TK4hwG1I/AAAAAAAAB3Q/KwWP4pF403Iu_e2o_6BufTqqAqYrmLRQwCLcB/s640/nightowldetail3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had planned to sculpt a branch for him to perch upon, but I ran out of time... so I ran outside and grabbed this small branch from a storage of tinder that we keep on our property. I actually quite like the way it looks, but I may still sculpt a branch for him (undecided). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QCCCdSAodxw/V7-TK5UB2eI/AAAAAAAAB3M/gjQiIrs0NOkalts8VwCmtjYSf3d2rLk3wCLcB/s1600/nightowldetail4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QCCCdSAodxw/V7-TK5UB2eI/AAAAAAAAB3M/gjQiIrs0NOkalts8VwCmtjYSf3d2rLk3wCLcB/s640/nightowldetail4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is probably the largest sized project I've ever completed, the entire wall-hanging is about 20" by 15"! The owl is about 11" tall... I'm really pleased with this piece, overall. Though, I haven't decided what I'm going to do with him yet. He may become a permanent resident of my studio space, but then again, he might fly somewhere else.... ;) What do you think of my night owl wall-hanging? Do you have any good ideas for how I might use the other multitude of trashed dvd-rs that I have remaining (which are bound to accumulate further)? I'd love to hear your thoughts! Please do take a moment and leave me a comment below!</div>
</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-28038753809831171112016-08-05T17:44:00.000-07:002016-08-05T17:44:35.630-07:00August Vote (only 2 days left!)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So once again, time has slipped past me and I nearly forgot to post a reminder to for the PCAGOE monthly challenge! But, there are still 2 days left, so all is not lost! ;) If you follow this blog, you might remember from my last post that this month's theme is "Seaside", and as is usual, the participating members have all come up with completely unique and inspired pieces. Have a look at all of the loveliness:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DnjW2dWs3iE/V6Ux-8tihqI/AAAAAAAAB2U/03D5s_azAX4mYMhq-O-JVl_JJCPYnrL1ACLcB/s1600/augustmosaic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DnjW2dWs3iE/V6Ux-8tihqI/AAAAAAAAB2U/03D5s_azAX4mYMhq-O-JVl_JJCPYnrL1ACLcB/s640/augustmosaic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I had a tough time choosing my 3 favorite pieces, and you might too! Please head over to the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/07/august-2016-challenge-seaside.html">PCAGOE blog</a> and cast your vote for your 3 favorite entries. Remember, one lucky voter is chosen every month to win a prize of their choosing, it could be you this month! Voting is open until midnight on August 7th, so head over to the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/07/august-2016-challenge-seaside.html">PCAGOE blog</a> now!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-15738730175940324662016-07-25T17:57:00.000-07:002016-07-25T17:57:40.739-07:00Sea Tossed Shell Necklace<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's been a rough month both physically and emotionally, for varied reasons. I nearly bailed on the PCAGOE challenge for August. I think I'm close to a 3 year streak for consecutive months of entries, so I really hated to miss a month. I haven't been in the studio since last month, and I could feel edginess setting in... this is never a good thing! Luckily, I manage to squeak in some time in the studio last night and today to come up with an entry. The challenge theme for August 2016 is "Beach".<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kr_tB3tJQrY/V5anyWgXwJI/AAAAAAAAB08/TmdNUFdUyLwSf0-jnJYqB4NfAHPSQ3Y3QCLcB/s1600/seatossed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kr_tB3tJQrY/V5anyWgXwJI/AAAAAAAAB08/TmdNUFdUyLwSf0-jnJYqB4NfAHPSQ3Y3QCLcB/s640/seatossed2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I originally thought about what I might do for this theme, I had planned to do a piece with a whelk shell and I intended to either film or take snapshots of the process. The plan was to embed a tutorial on my blogpost about the piece. Alas, with the lack of time and last minute studio work, I did not have a chance to do a video or photos, plus, the shell I decided to create is different from the whelk shell that I made for my <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2015/07/she-sells-seashells.html">She Sells Seashells Fairy House</a>, and so the creating of it was another session of trial and error. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TCm7rnTn36w/V5ao6umaG7I/AAAAAAAAB1I/kfsgfFNRvfUVHbQyiM5SYnoPrBGX5oakwCLcB/s1600/seatossed3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TCm7rnTn36w/V5ao6umaG7I/AAAAAAAAB1I/kfsgfFNRvfUVHbQyiM5SYnoPrBGX5oakwCLcB/s640/seatossed3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sometime yesterday I had resigned myself to skipping this challenge, because I didn't have any ideas for this shell piece... I simply wanted to make a seashell but didn't know how that shell would be used. Then I dug around in my stock of unassembled pieces, that I have in a bin, and found the 2 blue circle stacked beads that I had left over from my <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2014/06/cloudy-with-mix-of-tyvek.html">Cloudy with a Mix of Tyvek Necklace</a>. These blue beads kind of reminded me of cascading waves, or even fish scales... and I started thinking about a necklace that would incorporate these beads and a shell pendant. I didn't want the shell to be too dimensional on the wearer, so I decided to create a worn shell, one that was tossed about and weathered by the ocean. I liked the idea of being able to see the various layers of the interior spiral. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sxXDal93XUs/V5aqLQZ5SaI/AAAAAAAAB1U/pQmfQefuLRslyKx6bdYGVffom0NiOn5EgCLcB/s1600/seatossed4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sxXDal93XUs/V5aqLQZ5SaI/AAAAAAAAB1U/pQmfQefuLRslyKx6bdYGVffom0NiOn5EgCLcB/s640/seatossed4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I set about making the shell with a blend of Premo translucent and Premo white. This piece was created in layers and various bakings, starting with the thin core first and working out to the outer layer last. After all the layers were attached and fully cured, I then used alcohol inks to add some coloring and and white acrylic paint to give a water-weathered impression to some of the areas The inner salmon layers were also treated to a thin layer of liquid pc and a shot with the heat gun to give a glossy look, similar to that of a real seashell.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ci8zCx0qTf0/V5auR-FqHYI/AAAAAAAAB1k/cHTzJlTcbbAlGgqp8b3gf_A2iBU1I3p7wCLcB/s1600/seatosseddetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ci8zCx0qTf0/V5auR-FqHYI/AAAAAAAAB1k/cHTzJlTcbbAlGgqp8b3gf_A2iBU1I3p7wCLcB/s640/seatosseddetail.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VbW1elE-F70/V5aubSdPreI/AAAAAAAAB1s/Dat-mi42onwsup4OMWpEWCMRCVIA6UNXQCLcB/s1600/seatosseddetailback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VbW1elE-F70/V5aubSdPreI/AAAAAAAAB1s/Dat-mi42onwsup4OMWpEWCMRCVIA6UNXQCLcB/s640/seatosseddetailback.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Next I drilled a hole in the shell bead and strung it and the blue beads onto a strand of silk sari. The sari necklace is made to be tied to secure it, and so 2 blue glass beads were added to the ends to weigh them down. I think the sari strand gives a nice boho feel to the piece.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KoRk__XOnd4/V5atvvKtupI/AAAAAAAAB1o/hzHR0le1oAofSDHs8vjpU2lWfihwzizaACEw/s1600/seatossed5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KoRk__XOnd4/V5atvvKtupI/AAAAAAAAB1o/hzHR0le1oAofSDHs8vjpU2lWfihwzizaACEw/s640/seatossed5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-64GRyGvuEPw/V5avONYXfjI/AAAAAAAAB18/Pr_qgGaOwO0Zd-MCvCR9COVc96SLoc6UQCLcB/s1600/seatossed6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-64GRyGvuEPw/V5avONYXfjI/AAAAAAAAB18/Pr_qgGaOwO0Zd-MCvCR9COVc96SLoc6UQCLcB/s640/seatossed6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DQ4TQo8JcYM/V5avOVcVEfI/AAAAAAAAB2A/ehe-OwamaHAUXgjytskDsLGOoRlCDueeQCLcB/s1600/seatossed8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DQ4TQo8JcYM/V5avOVcVEfI/AAAAAAAAB2A/ehe-OwamaHAUXgjytskDsLGOoRlCDueeQCLcB/s640/seatossed8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5GyuVRJqCa0/V5avOPqE7HI/AAAAAAAAB14/kRxquGjiLcEjSOVfgmzlB8W_RNHpVH0OgCLcB/s1600/seatossed9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5GyuVRJqCa0/V5avOPqE7HI/AAAAAAAAB14/kRxquGjiLcEjSOVfgmzlB8W_RNHpVH0OgCLcB/s640/seatossed9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uRHcheNXWqU/V5avPXasqnI/AAAAAAAAB2E/heFNb7IdJNkDlXfJmCc3nIwmjfxB_sH-ACLcB/s1600/seatossedmodel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uRHcheNXWqU/V5avPXasqnI/AAAAAAAAB2E/heFNb7IdJNkDlXfJmCc3nIwmjfxB_sH-ACLcB/s640/seatossedmodel2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Excuse the last photo, of me modeling the necklace, I ran out of daylight and couldn't get the focus as sharp as I want. I'll try another day this week, to take a better photo and will update the post with the new photo as soon as I can...<br />
<br />
Overall, I'll pretty happy with this quickie project. I do love how the shell turned out. I'm not convinced that I like it with the blue beads, at least not as much as I thought I would. Someday I hope to make a tutorial on how to make the whelk shells. If you're a polymer artist, is that something you'd be interested in learning? What do you think about the contrast between the blue beads and the shell pendant? Would you swap the blue beads for something else? Leave me a comment below and let me know what you think of my Sea Tossed Shell necklace.<br />
<br />
Voting will open for this challenge on August 1st and will run through till August 7th at Midnight. As always, I'll try to post a reminder here on the blog!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-16685127608314352792016-07-01T12:59:00.000-07:002016-07-01T12:59:21.349-07:00Flute Video & Voting Time!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's time to vote for the PCAGOE July "Music" themed Challenge! Our guild members, as always, have come up with some inspiring entries. It's always so fun to see how each artist interprets the theme differently. Check out the 6 entries for this month:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U6UmeeAKSbo/V3bDVqZvNPI/AAAAAAAAB0o/OG3UM2JHY5Y7XmGmJX7fLHvaGIvC8qyWQCLcB/s1600/July%2BMosaic%2B2x3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U6UmeeAKSbo/V3bDVqZvNPI/AAAAAAAAB0o/OG3UM2JHY5Y7XmGmJX7fLHvaGIvC8qyWQCLcB/s1600/July%2BMosaic%2B2x3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can vote for your 3 favorite entries at the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/07/july-2016-challenge-music.html">PCAGOE blog</a>. Voting is open until July 7th at midnight EST.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was delighted to find the <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2016/06/sound-wave-flute.html">Sound Waves Flute</a> that I made for this challenge <a href="http://polymerclaydaily.com/2016/06/27/polymer-soundwaves/">featured on Polymer Clay Daily</a> early this week! I was grateful too, that some of my favorite facebook pages shared this project (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheBlueBottleTree/">The Blue Bottle Tree</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StrebeDesigns/">Strebe Designs </a>& <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PaisleyLizardDesigns/">Paisley Lizard Designs</a>). Many thanks to all the polymer people and friends who've shared my blog link to this project. Thanks too, for all of the wonderful comments and reactions! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the past week, since the original posting, I've received a lot of questions about the <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2016/06/sound-wave-flute.html">polymer covered flute</a>, most of which were geared toward whether the flute actually plays, and whether the sound was affected by the addition of the polymer. So, I created a video contrasting the polymer flute to the uncovered flute. Forewarning: my flute playing is quite bad, since I do not play more than an occasional once or twice a year "pulling it out of the closet to see if I can still play" session. It has been over 25 years since I played on a regular basis, so keep that in mind when you review the video. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/bnQ6VPlHj-U/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bnQ6VPlHj-U?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't really detect much difference between the sound of the covered flute and the sound of the uncovered flute.... it would be nice to hear the difference with a flautist who can play well, alas I have no such source. I hope this will adequately answer the questions that people have asked. Let me know what you think in the comments below. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And don't forget to head over and vote for the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/07/july-2016-challenge-music.html">PCAGOE challenge</a>, one lucky voter wins a prize every month, it could be you this month!!</div>
<br />
<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 193px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 1072px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: #bd081c; background-image: url(data:image/svg+xml; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 193px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 1072px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-86652469118418701722016-06-25T09:48:00.002-07:002016-06-25T17:31:06.600-07:00Sound Wave Flute<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've had this idea rolling around in my head for a couple of years now.... Growing up, I was a flute player, I still have my 2 flutes and my piccolo, I pull them out a couple times a year and play them. I can still read notes and can play the instruments, but my sound isn't all that great cause my lip is out of shape from disuse. It's still fun to keep on top of it enough that I know if I pull the flute out I'll be able to play it again. Anyway, one of those random playing sessions, I was thinking about my first student flute and thought it'd be really cool to decorate it with polymer. I have sat on that idea for at least 3 years. This month's PCAGOE challenge gave me a chance to bring that idea to fruition. The theme this month is Music!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--oe1Z7m4zGI/V26oe6YW_cI/AAAAAAAABy8/BeSabxhpJ8MX2Bv9sT_DCZMQ8feqql2bACLcB/s1600/montage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--oe1Z7m4zGI/V26oe6YW_cI/AAAAAAAABy8/BeSabxhpJ8MX2Bv9sT_DCZMQ8feqql2bACLcB/s640/montage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After some more thought, being a very sentimental creature, I decided I just couldn't use my student flute to do this project (incase the project ended badly, I didn't want to render that flute useless). I certainly wouldn't use my "good" flute for this either, and definitely not my piccolo, which already has a black wood, or possibly plastic, base for the body. So, I headed to ebay and picked up an old beat-up, but still playable, flute for about $30. This thing had a lot of tarnish on it and a nice ding in the mouthpiece, and the head joint wasn't even the same make as the body (it was marked with a Gemeinhardt seal and the body is a Vinci)... so I felt like I was going to be doing it a service by covering up all the old tarnished and nicked-up nickel. Here's a before shot of the flute:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WhOjmnnI2y0/V26or0p7cxI/AAAAAAAABzE/dXBVnlAv5dgof5kSbx9v6ahIW6MDu218ACLcB/s1600/flutebefore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WhOjmnnI2y0/V26or0p7cxI/AAAAAAAABzE/dXBVnlAv5dgof5kSbx9v6ahIW6MDu218ACLcB/s640/flutebefore.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
For anyone who knows woodwind instruments, you'll know that they have pads underneath the keys. These pads cannot withstand excessive heat or moisture, so the first step was to remove the keys. I took it to a local music shop and they removed the keys for me. I then began the process of covering the body. Since the theme is music, I wanted the pattern to somehow refer to music or sound, yet didn't want to use the traditional music note symbols... I just wanted something less literal when conveying the idea. So I began thinking about the patterns that sound makes visually, if you haven't seen the frequency resonance experiment video yet, you'll understand what I mean once you watch this video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvJAgrUBF4w">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvJAgrUBF4w</a> <br />
<br />
I have never been much of a millefiori caner with polymer. There have been a few canes I've created in the past, but not many. I do love how canes work and really would like to explore doing more of them sometime. I thought this would be a great project for canes. I decided on a palette of ultramarine blue and yellow with white. This color palette felt right because it reminds me of air and lightness, which is often the way I like hearing a flute, with a light airy tune. I made a couple different versions of bullseye canes in the blue/white/yellow color palette and placed slices of them on a sheet of white polymer. After I had the sheet covered the way I wanted, and had it smoothed down so that the cane slices blended into each other, I mounted it on the head joint, leaving the mouth piece uncovered for a contrasting ultramarine solid. Separately, I also unscrewed and covered the tip of the head joint with some of this sheet, then used a snake of white and a snake of blue clay to go around the base of that small piece.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cCvFH2tfoaw/V26sMsFWS_I/AAAAAAAABzU/a9U7lV5sRCc5DqO7D2okXtlBPzJ4X_96ACLcB/s1600/flute20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cCvFH2tfoaw/V26sMsFWS_I/AAAAAAAABzU/a9U7lV5sRCc5DqO7D2okXtlBPzJ4X_96ACLcB/s640/flute20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Because I wanted to use varying cane slices to cover the keys, I decided that I wanted the body and foot to be mostly ultramarine blue with surprise spots of the canes cut into the body. So, I covered the entire body and foot with the blue and smoothed the joins of clay, then cut out holes to insert the canes. After smoothing over where the blue met the inserted canes, these pieces were cured. I cut thin slices of the different canes and made them all uniform in thickness by rolling them through the pasta machine. I then used circle cutters to get them to the right sizes I needed for them to cover the different keys. There were a few that I had to hand cut with an X-acto knife, for the odd-shaped keys. These were cured on a board, to be adhered to the keys after the flute was put back together. Because I wanted this piece to be shiny, but didn't want the hassles of sanding, especially with some of the exposed metal areas of the key holes and the joints where the pieces fit together, sanding would have been an extremely fussy job. So, I decided to use the liquid polymer/heat-gun method. I've seen this method discussed by a couple different artists, but most recently Debbie Crothers wrote about how she gets her gorgeous finish on her faux lamp work beads in t<a href="http://debbiecrothers.blogspot.com/2016/05/heat-gun-vs-embossing-gun-to-cure-kato.html?spref=fb">his blog post</a>. Thanks Debbie, for the reminder, this turned out to be a great way to get the finish I wanted, without the fussiness that sanding would have entailed!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OtsySkCd9u4/V26vQl-4kpI/AAAAAAAABzg/JcM1f6oiv6EVptdHB5OOkJBmoUmk9bfWACLcB/s1600/flutedetail6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OtsySkCd9u4/V26vQl-4kpI/AAAAAAAABzg/JcM1f6oiv6EVptdHB5OOkJBmoUmk9bfWACLcB/s640/flutedetail6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After I had The flute covered and had the finish I wanted, I took it back to the music store to have the keys put back on. Here's where the trouble began. Because I've never done this before, and likely the music store guy has never had someone want to do this, there were areas I covered which needed to be exposed to give the fulcrum of the keys the space and leverage they needed to move the keys... this I hadn't realized when covering the body and foot. So I had to go back to the shop, after they discovered this issue, and I simply used my X-acto knife to cut out the areas that needed that leverage. They put all the keys back on, but because I was running close to my deadline, they still need to do a little work to get it into good playing condition. There is one key who's spring is off and I can't figure out where the spring is supposed to rest, so they will have to adjust that. They also removed some of the corks on the back of some of the keys, so I will need to have those reinstalled. They were concerned that the tone of the instrument would be deadened by the covering. I am not a sound expert, but I've compared the tone of this flute to the tone of my other student grade flute and I cannot discern a difference. So, I have played the flute and it does work, and it will hopefully play well one day soon! My goal in this was to create a beautiful, but also functional instrument, and I'm quite pleased, so far, with my accomplishment. I really hope that the music people can get it up to speed with tweaking the keys to good playing condition. Here are a couple more shots of it, from varying angles and views, so you can see all the decoration around the entire piece:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AOgH2JXx2Dw/V26xzSMDx0I/AAAAAAAAB0E/DDJmwLPP-qkGcKORcwQH6sxDCbr0L0I8QCLcB/s1600/flute7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AOgH2JXx2Dw/V26xzSMDx0I/AAAAAAAAB0E/DDJmwLPP-qkGcKORcwQH6sxDCbr0L0I8QCLcB/s640/flute7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vqA0oz_zfoQ/V26xzX0MmNI/AAAAAAAAB0I/XRLQbMRIxoU2yYIjMmsNVQDHqi3BuwmfgCLcB/s1600/flute9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vqA0oz_zfoQ/V26xzX0MmNI/AAAAAAAAB0I/XRLQbMRIxoU2yYIjMmsNVQDHqi3BuwmfgCLcB/s1600/flute9.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQPh_6BUvK0/V26xwP6s1HI/AAAAAAAABzs/46CHms6Ajb8W3DsumoiNwHTYYs0z67G3ACLcB/s1600/flute19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQPh_6BUvK0/V26xwP6s1HI/AAAAAAAABzs/46CHms6Ajb8W3DsumoiNwHTYYs0z67G3ACLcB/s640/flute19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yIv91p8CPR4/V26xxDXwH-I/AAAAAAAABz4/6ZL6BrrBIAgLorRDu0KoFUjtHzRmuHk8QCLcB/s1600/flute20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yIv91p8CPR4/V26xxDXwH-I/AAAAAAAABz4/6ZL6BrrBIAgLorRDu0KoFUjtHzRmuHk8QCLcB/s640/flute20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRbzpxmZE1M/V26xxBTb1rI/AAAAAAAABz0/gF052OoIngoQC-MvFh1L2urUSHQtU1uSACLcB/s1600/flute23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="638" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRbzpxmZE1M/V26xxBTb1rI/AAAAAAAABz0/gF052OoIngoQC-MvFh1L2urUSHQtU1uSACLcB/s640/flute23.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xVnc20Fp95M/V26xy6uiSzI/AAAAAAAAB0A/RWIIDp6xJVkuHHQic-5d9JN8_Rt0JsUKACLcB/s1600/flute25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xVnc20Fp95M/V26xy6uiSzI/AAAAAAAAB0A/RWIIDp6xJVkuHHQic-5d9JN8_Rt0JsUKACLcB/s640/flute25.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4uK2UNSw2U/V26x09bwXyI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/5OyyG4X2Kk0EX_iPBE0Ujv9nytD-fwbywCLcB/s1600/fluteback2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4uK2UNSw2U/V26x09bwXyI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/5OyyG4X2Kk0EX_iPBE0Ujv9nytD-fwbywCLcB/s640/fluteback2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IlnCFDmamjQ/V26x2fQmwKI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/15yPuoHaFLUZcg2Y-ovDTEv2lOsyz_r3gCLcB/s1600/flutedetail3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IlnCFDmamjQ/V26x2fQmwKI/AAAAAAAAB0Y/15yPuoHaFLUZcg2Y-ovDTEv2lOsyz_r3gCLcB/s640/flutedetail3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As I said, I'm really pleased with this project, and if the music guys can tweak the keys to get it into best playing condition, I might decide to do more of these... I'd really love to get my hands on a piccolo to do this to! ;) If I'd have had this flute as a kid, I'd have been over the moon happy to have such a unique instrument! So, what do you think of my sound wave flute? I'd love to hear your thoughts! Leave me a comment below! <br />
Voting for this challenge begins on July 1st and will run through to July 7th at midnight EST. I'll post a reminder here on the blog!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-41103969173515015452016-06-05T07:30:00.003-07:002016-06-05T07:30:53.401-07:00June Vote!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Goodness, I nearly missed out on posting a voting reminder here! I'm up to my eyeballs in strawberries and busy getting my house and gardens ready for summer, so I've been quite distracted from the computer these days. There are only 2 days left for the June PCAGOE challenge vote! The theme this month was "Quilled" Polymer, and we had a great variety of pieces among our participating members, see for yourself:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp-viMkPD3c/V0kfPbvF7VI/AAAAAAAALjI/0B1eTbKx_FMjHzlct5ptVznYcKGUX4wcwCLcB/s640/June%2Bmosiac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp-viMkPD3c/V0kfPbvF7VI/AAAAAAAALjI/0B1eTbKx_FMjHzlct5ptVznYcKGUX4wcwCLcB/s640/June%2Bmosiac.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Voting is only open until the 7th of June, midnight EST... So head over to the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/06/june-2016-challenge-quilling.html">PCAGOE blog</a> and cast your vote for your 3 favorite pieces! Remember, one lucky voter is chosen every month, to win a prize... it could be YOU this month, but you have to vote for the chance! Thanks to everyone who takes a moment to vote!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-12949983145510186272016-05-25T18:43:00.002-07:002016-05-25T18:52:07.519-07:00Chaos: things don't always go as planned<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Sometimes things just don't go as planned. I'm actually not surprised that my latest project didn't work out as intended. This is the busiest month of the year for me, as I'm knee-deep in lots of house-hold seasonal events: preparing and planting the garden (we have 2 large vegetable gardens); protecting, picking, cleaning, preparing and enjoying my strawberry harvest bounty; protecting the various fruit trees that are pinking or in immature fruit stage; and spring cleaning my house... all this piled on top of other "normal" life activities, obligations and chores. So my life is always a bit chaotic in the month of May, and this polymer project, though not intended to be, is a great reflection of that chaos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SuvIW84h7ug/V0ZJOqhJ3ZI/AAAAAAAABxg/xLs7LQmIH241eCyINdTymfWflRx965OBACLcB/s1600/chaos6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SuvIW84h7ug/V0ZJOqhJ3ZI/AAAAAAAABxg/xLs7LQmIH241eCyINdTymfWflRx965OBACLcB/s640/chaos6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Problem is, I had too many ideas for this project, and I tried to incorporate too many of them into this one piece. **sigh** I had feared that trying to cram too many ideas into one piece might indeed become disastrous, but I just had to try, didn't I? Why? Well, because I was dying to get all the ideas out there and just didn't want to wait. Lessons learned, often the hard way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jFGFJnqv8lM/V0ZK-F2bVJI/AAAAAAAABx8/TbnfuryejGMGa691E-_dDMwA2VIcleavgCLcB/s1600/chaos3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="586" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jFGFJnqv8lM/V0ZK-F2bVJI/AAAAAAAABx8/TbnfuryejGMGa691E-_dDMwA2VIcleavgCLcB/s640/chaos3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So my first idea was to create a portion of a sun image, with lots of flowing lines, but not the entire sun... here's a rough sketch of my first idea (the one I should have probably stuck with):<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e4Ob4AjWlZI/V0ZJpyL53wI/AAAAAAAABxo/D7Mvd92hMKoKmWO3YGi25jVNwh_uPLKZwCLcB/s1600/quilledsun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="636" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e4Ob4AjWlZI/V0ZJpyL53wI/AAAAAAAABxo/D7Mvd92hMKoKmWO3YGi25jVNwh_uPLKZwCLcB/s640/quilledsun.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The PCAGOE theme for this month is "quilled" polymer, and this image would have worked well. Since I've done a couple other quilled pieces in the past, and wrote the tutorial article for The Polymer Arts magazine, I really wanted this to be something special. So I keep thinking about it and over thinking it. And then, I got the idea to upcycle some cds and to incorporate <b><i>layers</i></b> of quilling. Here's where I went terribly wrong. You see, this secondary idea did not follow the sketched image at all, it was something entirely different, and probably would have worked well had I stuck to that idea and the image I saw with it. But I didn't want to abandon that flowing sun image (chalk that up to having tons of rain in the past couple weeks), so I made the decision to combine the two (well, basically three) ideas into creating a layered and now full sun image (in order to incorporate the upcycled cd idea). Oh, and then I had a fourth idea of using curled strips, as I've seen these used in quilled paper art lately. (imagine a rolled eye animated emoticon here)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxOIZuNfluM/V0ZMJBuiKLI/AAAAAAAAByQ/7nFb5R97ILwFDWKgsD-NCZgoZvJiqNFHQCLcB/s1600/chaoshalf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxOIZuNfluM/V0ZMJBuiKLI/AAAAAAAAByQ/7nFb5R97ILwFDWKgsD-NCZgoZvJiqNFHQCLcB/s640/chaoshalf2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
So, beyond being a bear to create this piece, with all the layers and trying to keep everything in place when cured (thanks to heat + gravity concerns that polymer artists know so well), the design just doesn't really work for me in the finished format. Well, I'm not sure it's finished either, I just basically ran out of time since I needed to photograph this with whatever remaining daylight I had at 8PM... I may keep adding to it and trying to salvage something that I like from it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Or, I might just cut it in half. When I cut the photos in half, I kind of like what happens... </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SllaQ-BOdaE/V0ZMIzXUtNI/AAAAAAAAByM/w8T9HgO5hCAFxbcosilvM6VYVej8IQYDgCLcB/s1600/chaoshalf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SllaQ-BOdaE/V0ZMIzXUtNI/AAAAAAAAByM/w8T9HgO5hCAFxbcosilvM6VYVej8IQYDgCLcB/s640/chaoshalf.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And... when I photoshop those halves into how I would hang them on the wall, I'm liking this effect even more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kIwEyOWBltk/V0ZSDgJG32I/AAAAAAAABys/hlIDi7XHkI4mvAGf0AxOSyOt0demXuBkQCLcB/s1600/chaoscut2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kIwEyOWBltk/V0ZSDgJG32I/AAAAAAAABys/hlIDi7XHkI4mvAGf0AxOSyOt0demXuBkQCLcB/s640/chaoscut2.jpg" width="564" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
...or...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6h8EJkeTVuA/V0ZSDU556oI/AAAAAAAAByo/PeXZc0kSb00JTPqOFjPEfVLsmdYXxT_9gCLcB/s1600/chaoscut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6h8EJkeTVuA/V0ZSDU556oI/AAAAAAAAByo/PeXZc0kSb00JTPqOFjPEfVLsmdYXxT_9gCLcB/s640/chaoscut.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, I might be able to redeem the chaos after all... If I do, I'll be sure to post an update about it here on the blog. What about you? Have you had life's chaos, calm or emotions subconsciously effect a project? What do you think of my chaotic work of art? What changes, do you think, would make this piece work better? I'd love to hear your thoughts, so leave me a comment below!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll post a reminder here on the blog for the challenge vote... as always, voting will open on the first of the month, and will be open from June 1st through June 7th. </div>
<br /></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-57308212074312795332016-04-25T18:09:00.000-07:002016-04-26T10:59:26.768-07:00Spring has sprung<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
For a long time, I have been wanting to do an art vessel focused on negative space as the major design element. The theme for the May PCAGOE challenge is "negative space". So, the PCAGOE challenge was the impetus that I needed to bring one of those ideas to life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qD7G1f243Ww/Vx62L2FzegI/AAAAAAAABwc/fIQ7Dl37mGcU3f2lpiCEBU-Vb-qpwoqEgCLcB/s1600/springvessel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qD7G1f243Ww/Vx62L2FzegI/AAAAAAAABwc/fIQ7Dl37mGcU3f2lpiCEBU-Vb-qpwoqEgCLcB/s640/springvessel.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I had the idea to make a continuous spiral as the body of the vessel, combined with some side supports to buttress the spiral shape. I decided to try this with a method that Donna Greenberg generously shared on facebook. Donna used an epoxy clay as the under support for one of her wonderful openwork sculptures. If you're not familiar with Donna's work, you should definitely check her out. She is, without a doubt, one of my polymer heroes. You can find her facebook page here: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Donna-Greenberg-Arts-151594531536806/?fref=ts">https://www.facebook.com/Donna-Greenberg-Arts-151594531536806/?fref=ts</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LdyxNpTDNVw/Vx630moD8NI/AAAAAAAABw4/H0dcT4RqA9MRRHBMOwdB85i8jlCXdaRIwCLcB/s1600/springvessel5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LdyxNpTDNVw/Vx630moD8NI/AAAAAAAABw4/H0dcT4RqA9MRRHBMOwdB85i8jlCXdaRIwCLcB/s640/springvessel5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I had some epoxy clay on hand so I decided to give Donna's method a try. Unfortunately, I initially only made the spiral, my thought was that I'd cover it with polymer before adding the side supports. Well... I wish I had realized that once separated from the form I was using to mold the spiral, it could potentially just become a great big epoxy clay slinky... needless to say, I didn't think of that. I guess I assumed that the epoxy clay would be sturdy enough to hold it's own, but it wasn't, big epoxy slinky is indeed what I got.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UZsle-YFEvg/Vx62ZKjwD4I/AAAAAAAABwk/fMCDsb4-y3safIr1tPIchQQN4reaZXj7ACLcB/s1600/springvessel3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UZsle-YFEvg/Vx62ZKjwD4I/AAAAAAAABwk/fMCDsb4-y3safIr1tPIchQQN4reaZXj7ACLcB/s640/springvessel3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I then had to put the slinky, I mean sculpted spiral, back on the mold form and try to add the side supports. When I finally was able to cover the epoxy clay with polymer it was a tricky undertaking. Difficult first, because the lower spindles of the spiral did not have a lot of space for my fingers to get in and smooth out the clay; and second, because the epoxy clay form (because I removed it from the base too soon) was a little wonky. Yes, that's a technical term. ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k0ZiM1ZbfoQ/Vx62fqz-WfI/AAAAAAAABwo/Qn3H9wiMJ4Mk6i0MTwoGbF3BLXJ6rm7gQCLcB/s1600/springvessel4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k0ZiM1ZbfoQ/Vx62fqz-WfI/AAAAAAAABwo/Qn3H9wiMJ4Mk6i0MTwoGbF3BLXJ6rm7gQCLcB/s640/springvessel4.jpg" width="638" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I decided to wrap strips of black polymer around the epoxy clay spiral shape of the base form. But because smoothing out the polymer was not going to happen easily with the limited space between the lower spiral spindles, I decided to use a technique that I used last year to make a necklace for myself... I took thin crochet thread and wrapped it around the raw polymer, then cured it and removed the thread, then backfilled the spaces that were created by the thread with some acrylic paint. Here's a photo of that necklace (and the sweater I wanted to match it to) that gave me the idea for how to treat the coil of the vessel:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9i43nL3lZc/Vx6etiZIF3I/AAAAAAAABwM/mf_yC4TuEnEx_md4JoQuelsxG1VwVty4ACLcB/s1600/coveloset2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9i43nL3lZc/Vx6etiZIF3I/AAAAAAAABwM/mf_yC4TuEnEx_md4JoQuelsxG1VwVty4ACLcB/s640/coveloset2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This was a good idea, only thing was that with the necklace I was able to smooth out the clay, but with the vessel and the tight spaces, this wasn't feasible, so the vessel's finish is rougher than I would really prefer. Instead of acrylic paint I decided to use some peacock pearl colored Premo mixed with some LPC and thinner to make a paste that would be thin enough to fill the thread voids. I like the fact that this mixture clung to the cured polymer a bit more than the acrylic paint did, which I think gave it a little bit of a mokume gane feel. Here's a shot of me holding it, so you can see the scale of the piece:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1RwLcK6MR-s/Vx64Y11cM0I/AAAAAAAABxA/GQZFQIdeSlwbG7tX6D-GJ8oI58yVk7suwCLcB/s1600/springvesselscale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1RwLcK6MR-s/Vx64Y11cM0I/AAAAAAAABxA/GQZFQIdeSlwbG7tX6D-GJ8oI58yVk7suwCLcB/s640/springvesselscale.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So, while I'm happy to see the idea come to life, I'm not really happy with this piece. I have another idea for how I might construct this next time, and I am considering doing a second iteration very soon. The thing I'm most unhappy about is how wonky the spiral got because of taking it off the form before adding epoxy supports on the side. I also don't like the fact that I had to texture everything because of how it was formed. My new idea for designing this will allow me to finish it smoothly. So, while I'm not completely happy, I am grateful for the lessons I learned and the inspiration I received while making this piece. What about you? Has there ever been a piece that you made which turned out less than you had hoped, but you were still grateful for the lessons learned? Did you do another iteration of that piece and better it with those gained insights? Tell me about it in the comments... and let me know what you think of my Spring Sprung vessel too!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7304907653397729317%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-1RwLcK6MR-s%2FVx64Y11cM0I%2FAAAAAAAABxA%2FGQZFQIdeSlwbG7tX6D-GJ8oI58yVk7suwCLcB%2Fs640%2Fspringvesselscale.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=fw8Pu8AqXJBc&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 3976px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7304907653397729317%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-1RwLcK6MR-s%2FVx64Y11cM0I%2FAAAAAAAABxA%2FGQZFQIdeSlwbG7tX6D-GJ8oI58yVk7suwCLcB%2Fs640%2Fspringvesselscale.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=fw8Pu8AqXJBc&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 3976px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-50959143100189090602016-04-02T09:00:00.002-07:002016-04-02T09:02:04.904-07:00April Flowers Vote<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's time to vote! We had a great turn-out from our guild members, so many beautiful creations for the Flowers theme... it's tough to choose just 3 pieces, I wish I could vote for all of these lovely polymer clay creations! Check them out for yourself:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DbqtzFkNQHI/Vv_sGMHBebI/AAAAAAAABv8/Jq4DEAgENfAM_jy9iHPOWjHnuoZAJ8wLw/s1600/April%2B2016%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DbqtzFkNQHI/Vv_sGMHBebI/AAAAAAAABv8/Jq4DEAgENfAM_jy9iHPOWjHnuoZAJ8wLw/s640/April%2B2016%2B2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Head over to the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/03/april-2016-challenge-flowers.html">PCAGOE site</a> and vote for your top 3 favorite pieces! Remember, one lucky voter is chosen every month, to win a prize... it could be you! Voting is open from now until April 7th at midnight EST, so <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/03/april-2016-challenge-flowers.html">go there now and cast your votes</a>!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-65847176937859203242016-03-25T11:40:00.002-07:002016-03-29T09:16:06.509-07:00Poppy Love<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Turning to spring-like thoughts, the PCAGOE challenge theme for April 2016 is "flowers". To be sure, there are so many flowers that I love, hydrangeas, dogwood blooms, tulips, dahlias... the list could go on, seemingly ad infinitum. There is one frilly face that I especially look forward to seeing in the late spring/early summer days, that of the poppy. I don't have any of these lovelies in my own garden, but a neighbor's house across the street has them, and I am a yearly admirer. I also love the symbolism of using poppies to remember the deceased. It was this time last year when my neighbor with the poppies in her garden passed away. She was a friendly soul, who enjoyed sitting on her porch in the morning. We'd often had a chat standing in that garden of hers as she caught me enroute to or from my morning walk. So, with these things in mind, I decided upon the subject of poppies for my challenge project.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s0.geograph.org.uk/photos/84/76/847625_89576fb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://s0.geograph.org.uk/photos/84/76/847625_89576fb3.jpg" height="466" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is not my original photo, it was taken from the web. Image <span style="color: #141923; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px;">© Copyright Lynne Kirton</span><span style="color: #141923; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px;"> </span><span style="color: #141923; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px;">View image at: <a href="http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/847625">http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/847625</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the things that draws me to these flowers, and which I had hoped to translate in my piece, is the translucency of the petals.<br />
<br />
When the subject was settled, I decided that I wanted to make this into a neck piece. The style of this piece was to be influenced by the work of a favorite ceramic artist, <a href="http://www.carollongpottery.com/">Carol Long Pottery</a>. These two following pieces of Carol Long greatly influenced my neck piece, and they are some of my most favorite works by her:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fln32_qQd-Y/VvVlC-fR83I/AAAAAAAABuM/cJ-cjE9Laf8zxHLqSKkn8peAmAcOBBqFQ/s1600/clong3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fln32_qQd-Y/VvVlC-fR83I/AAAAAAAABuM/cJ-cjE9Laf8zxHLqSKkn8peAmAcOBBqFQ/s640/clong3.jpg" width="502" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQCNvAMAJgE/VvVlCXiThLI/AAAAAAAABuE/pTcdpZzGgKAuDqySshK5T3KburKvVB9MQ/s1600/clong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQCNvAMAJgE/VvVlCXiThLI/AAAAAAAABuE/pTcdpZzGgKAuDqySshK5T3KburKvVB9MQ/s640/clong.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I love the flowing lines, curvy shapes, the Art Nouveau feel, the pearly dots, Carol's work strikes a chord with my personal aesthetic. If you haven't heard of her before, please do check out her many other pieces at her <a href="http://www.carollongpottery.com/">website</a> or on her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Carol-Long-Pottery/158932427517508">facebook page</a>.<br />
<br />
So, with all these things in mind, I set to work sketching out a plan. I came up with a necklace design that I thought would fit my vision.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BSu7BgMOqEU/VvVxUR-sXdI/AAAAAAAABuc/wnZKOXs9ENkaQQMdsxeWa94JSRZ3tfF4Q/s1600/beginnings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BSu7BgMOqEU/VvVxUR-sXdI/AAAAAAAABuc/wnZKOXs9ENkaQQMdsxeWa94JSRZ3tfF4Q/s640/beginnings.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I decided that I wanted an asymmetrical design, that would not incorporate a clasp, i.e. it would wrap around the neck. For this, I decided that it would be built upon wire. My first step was to cut a piece of wire for the base and curve it into the basic shape which I envisioned for the neck piece (above).<br />
Next up came extruding a hollow core tube of polymer, which would cover the wire.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8UEzjgYD2A/VvVy8gl-qOI/AAAAAAAABuo/LGiZ0u4pSNk-G1AC6wuOrfrhLN6F0nyAQ/s1600/extruded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8UEzjgYD2A/VvVy8gl-qOI/AAAAAAAABuo/LGiZ0u4pSNk-G1AC6wuOrfrhLN6F0nyAQ/s640/extruded.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here you can see the extruded hollow tube. Brief plug for Lucy Clay tools: I love my Lucy Clay Czextruder, extruding is a breeze with this tool!<br />
For the clay, I decided to use a blend of (mostly) Sculpey Souffle in the pistachio green color, with a bit of Premo light green pearl and some Premo translucent added to the mix. I've read that Souffle is strong but more flexible. Because the neck piece is designed to bend and wrap around the neck, the most strong yet flexible clay was desirable. It was not super easy to get the tubing to slide over the entire length of the wire, so I gave a coating of cornstarch to the wire and then it slid on easier. Because of the length, I had to approach the wire from both ends with the tubing and then join the two sides in the center. While this piece cured, I set to work on creating the poppies. I made 3 opened flowers, one upturned (side view) flower and two buds opening. For the petals, I chose to use Pardo translucent (because it is known to be the most translucent of all the brands) mixed with some mountain rose and watermelon colored Adirondak alcohol inks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HcjBB-2GW70/VvV1LxrmS-I/AAAAAAAABu0/GoY6NnkZC18k1HX5Iz6GOsTjMeGvlLwNw/s1600/petals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HcjBB-2GW70/VvV1LxrmS-I/AAAAAAAABu0/GoY6NnkZC18k1HX5Iz6GOsTjMeGvlLwNw/s640/petals.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I cut the sheeted polymer with a round cutter and then I placed it between crepe paper (to mimic the veining of flower petals) and rolled it through the pasta machine. Above you can see the before disc laying on the red crepe paper, and the after flower petals laying to the left side of the crepe paper. Though these were quite thin, I still wanted the edges tapered as finely as possible, so I used my fingers to thin out the edges. For the bases of the flowers, I used a piece of wire which I had curled a loop onto the end (the loop ensures that the wire doesn't just slip out of the clay). I built up the center using the same green mix from the stem necklace base, then a disc of black, which I embossed with a starburst pattern. This starburst was then brushed with green/gold mica powder. A larger disc of black was placed on the wire to cup the center. This black disc was cut with a scissors to create the stamens of the poppy. Then, finally the petals were attached. After they were cured, I added a touch more of the watermelon red Adirondak ink, to the petals, to bring out the veining that the crepe paper imprinted onto the clay.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PJqecsquvBM/VvV3nQUUFrI/AAAAAAAABvA/X4FddY44VNgw1QEh2pOZsBnNuij4aA2GQ/s1600/mountingflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PJqecsquvBM/VvV3nQUUFrI/AAAAAAAABvA/X4FddY44VNgw1QEh2pOZsBnNuij4aA2GQ/s640/mountingflowers.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I wrapped the wire ends of the flowers around the previously cured necklace base. After this point, I was so enraptured with creating that I failed to take any further "in process" shots. After all of the flowers were mounted on the green base, it was time to make the intertwining vine. I wanted to mimic Carol Long's black flowing lines. So I took another piece of wire and extruded a hollow tube of Souffle black. This polymer tube, however, was a bit off center. So, I decided to give a twist to the polymer after it was on the wire, this would give strength to the thin areas. I think it was meant to be this way, because I like the fact that it looks more like a twig with this twist in the clay. After curing, I molded the black vine around the green base and the mounted flowers. At this point, I discovered that the flowers were too heavy for the necklace to keep it's desired shape around the neck. So I decided to reinforce the entire piece with a heavier gauge copper wire, and the back of the necklace was fully covered in black Souffle. The final design elements (also echoing Carol Long's style) were added by shaping some pearly dots and placing them sporadically around the perimeter of the piece. These were made with a Premo blend and a dusting of micro pearl mica. After the final cure, I was delighted with the design. Though not strictly adherent to my sketch, it's fairly close to my original vision.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-akjP3U9whPo/VvV7cXDGAFI/AAAAAAAABvc/NbfoD8bHmW0axKLpwiVFfquJiYE9YewqQ/s1600/poppysketchfinal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-akjP3U9whPo/VvV7cXDGAFI/AAAAAAAABvc/NbfoD8bHmW0axKLpwiVFfquJiYE9YewqQ/s640/poppysketchfinal.jpg" width="546" /></a> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVxh9CX7G2o/VvV6PoiD5tI/AAAAAAAABvM/qy8VJlJFTxkIQ4nxE-gFNyzSmqVnXT33A/s1600/poppyneck5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVxh9CX7G2o/VvV6PoiD5tI/AAAAAAAABvM/qy8VJlJFTxkIQ4nxE-gFNyzSmqVnXT33A/s640/poppyneck5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qQk4Bpl4UyU/VvV6mFmCINI/AAAAAAAABvQ/S5sZQZW0BCI84ZFS8JdiWc-8NepS_7gMg/s1600/poppies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qQk4Bpl4UyU/VvV6mFmCINI/AAAAAAAABvQ/S5sZQZW0BCI84ZFS8JdiWc-8NepS_7gMg/s640/poppies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CiHJBVAOUUM/VvV7Rp8YhEI/AAAAAAAABvU/sFHWENN5IEY5wVjMUzPmJuBoluQptAUcA/s1600/sideview4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CiHJBVAOUUM/VvV7Rp8YhEI/AAAAAAAABvU/sFHWENN5IEY5wVjMUzPmJuBoluQptAUcA/s640/sideview4.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
<br />
I was especially pleased with the translucency of the flower petals, here's a detail shot of one of the poppy flowers:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kyKCU4IV1SY/VvV75KyW3jI/AAAAAAAABvg/BRvx7fQXNZ8HBRGyyn0Go991yqRD93z7Q/s1600/poppydetail2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kyKCU4IV1SY/VvV75KyW3jI/AAAAAAAABvg/BRvx7fQXNZ8HBRGyyn0Go991yqRD93z7Q/s640/poppydetail2.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o1CUaxB4dzI/VvV8JGZNRAI/AAAAAAAABvo/wiXB2lza7CIFpfAXey6Ew2xEiY0GyrQ_w/s1600/poppyneckasym.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o1CUaxB4dzI/VvV8JGZNRAI/AAAAAAAABvo/wiXB2lza7CIFpfAXey6Ew2xEiY0GyrQ_w/s640/poppyneckasym.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A pleasant surprise was finding that I could twist the ends upon themselves for an alternative way to wear the neck piece, as seen below:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94eO-KO2XXE/VvV8SPhq_tI/AAAAAAAABvs/moMGAbkAQkItyawYtjVlbxXbuz91XtRHg/s1600/bundled1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94eO-KO2XXE/VvV8SPhq_tI/AAAAAAAABvs/moMGAbkAQkItyawYtjVlbxXbuz91XtRHg/s640/bundled1.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
<br />
I also recently found out (after I had planned out the entire piece), in Christian symbolism, the poppy is seen as a metaphor - the
red petals of the poppy symbolize the blood of a sacrificed Christ in the theme of resurrection and immortality. How perfect for a piece that is due to be unveiled to the world on Good Friday, and Easter weekend!<br />
<br />
So, what's your opinion of my poppy neck piece? Do you have a favorite flower, or many favorite flowers? Does symbolism play a part in your choice of a favorite bloom? I'd love to hear your thoughts, so please consider leaving me a comment! ...and to those who celebrate this holiday, a Blessed Easter to you!<br />
<b><br /></b></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-10388375067224981572016-03-06T12:43:00.000-08:002016-03-06T13:18:33.140-08:00Unexpected Gifts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I don't consider myself to have more luck than the next person, but I sometimes stumble upon fortuitous occasions, for which I am always thankful. So today's post is about giving thanks for, and acknowledgment to those generous souls who offered up these recent gifts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMD167t_WtM/Vtxphd_VSnI/AAAAAAAABrE/JWlgMzvKDP0/s1600/thanks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMD167t_WtM/Vtxphd_VSnI/AAAAAAAABrE/JWlgMzvKDP0/s640/thanks.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First of all, I must acknowledge the wonderful gifts I received in December from my PCAGOE guild mates, for our holiday swap. (yes, I'm very behind in the thanks for these lovelies, the holidays and start of the new year really ran away from me this year). These beauties were the work of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ThePleasantPheasant">Jackie Sieben of The Pleasant Pheasant and JAE Jewelry</a> (Gorgeous pens and seam ripper, left), <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/11BOLDstreet">Susan O'Neill of 11BOLDstreet</a> (Funky trinket box and fabulous pendant, center) and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/NKDesigns">Linda Riopel of NKDesigns</a> (beautiful caned pendant necklace, right) Check out their work, by clicking their names to view their respective etsy shops.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NINVjfKD9WA/VtyTP3pRauI/AAAAAAAABsM/onChh7X-jIg/s1600/gifts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NINVjfKD9WA/VtyTP3pRauI/AAAAAAAABsM/onChh7X-jIg/s640/gifts.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(I wanted these images to appear together, so please click on the image to see them up close). Thank you again, Jackie, Susan and Linda!! I absolutely love my swap gifts!</div>
<br />
<br />
The first of 2 surprise gifts happened last month, when I was notified that I had won a giveaway from the website, <a href="http://www.beadinggem.com/">BeadingGem Journal by Pearl Blay</a>. Pearl partnered with one of my favorite polymer artists, <a href="http://www.helenbreil.com/">Helen Breil,</a> to give away a bunch of Helen's silkscreen designs. I was one of the lucky winners, and I had my pick of Helen's silkscreen designs! I chose the design "Cabaret". It arrived in the mail about a month ago, and I still haven't had the time to play with it, but here's a photo of the silkscreen package that I received:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gRBLDa7lyTs/VtxqxRxkYQI/AAAAAAAABrM/ekgXJfoDBjw/s1600/breil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gRBLDa7lyTs/VtxqxRxkYQI/AAAAAAAABrM/ekgXJfoDBjw/s640/breil.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I have yet to try the silkscreen technique... so I am really looking forward to a day when I can play around with this fantastic design! Helen has many other designs in both silkscreens and textures, if you're not familiar with her work, please do check out her<a href="http://www.helenbreil.com/"> website</a> (which includes links to where you can purchase her designs for your own use!) And don't forget to check out <a href="http://www.beadinggem.com/">Pearl's site</a> for tons of inspiration, tips and giveaway opportunities!<br />
<br />
The second windfall that came my way happened on Valentine's day. I entered Deb Hart's (of Renaissance Gal of San Antonio) Facebook event, where she generously gave away 3 of her polymer pieces. Deb is known for her fabulous millefiori cane work. The other 2 prizes were a bunch of her original canes and one of her caned owl pendants. The prize I was so very lucky to win was one of her sea turtle trinket boxes!! If you know me, or follow this blog, you probably know I have a little adoration for sea turtles and Native American inspired art... so, to say I was thrilled about winning this treasure was an understatement! Well, my beautiful sea turtle arrived last week. I've taken a couple shots of her to show you how fabulous she is, and for the first time ever, I shot a video to post here on the blog. The idea for the video came about because one of my most favorite features about this treasure is not easily displayed in a still photo, check it out for yourself: (crossing fingers that the video actually works)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/7MFHPZ7gXj0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7MFHPZ7gXj0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
And since the video doesn't do justice to viewing all the wonderful details, here are the still shots...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2L_j7ZAA2m8/VtyN9GRfoEI/AAAAAAAABrg/k2Fd111BaXs/s1600/deb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2L_j7ZAA2m8/VtyN9GRfoEI/AAAAAAAABrg/k2Fd111BaXs/s640/deb1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QtagM5uoKaA/VtyN9C8YRJI/AAAAAAAABrk/9Ui86RiI8Kk/s1600/deb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QtagM5uoKaA/VtyN9C8YRJI/AAAAAAAABrk/9Ui86RiI8Kk/s640/deb2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_NI5VwGzFk/VtyN9QHy3nI/AAAAAAAABro/p_pgyGbRYRA/s1600/deb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_NI5VwGzFk/VtyN9QHy3nI/AAAAAAAABro/p_pgyGbRYRA/s640/deb3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQk13mXAQh4/VtyN9o893GI/AAAAAAAABrs/l_WKEe6VaDI/s1600/deb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQk13mXAQh4/VtyN9o893GI/AAAAAAAABrs/l_WKEe6VaDI/s640/deb5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xZf8EyP82PU/VtyN91PKd9I/AAAAAAAABrw/MaZH_dr1nhw/s1600/deb6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xZf8EyP82PU/VtyN91PKd9I/AAAAAAAABrw/MaZH_dr1nhw/s640/deb6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H8JmTlWIkeY/VtyN-H4mNvI/AAAAAAAABr0/IOp-SIicbSQ/s1600/deb7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H8JmTlWIkeY/VtyN-H4mNvI/AAAAAAAABr0/IOp-SIicbSQ/s640/deb7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D6dOSII2d4c/VtyN-tgpoII/AAAAAAAABr4/bCrFDhe6xEs/s1600/deb8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D6dOSII2d4c/VtyN-tgpoII/AAAAAAAABr4/bCrFDhe6xEs/s640/deb8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pl2U6Z711CE/VtyN-7txmrI/AAAAAAAABr8/EEZo0ZA3p7w/s1600/deb9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pl2U6Z711CE/VtyN-7txmrI/AAAAAAAABr8/EEZo0ZA3p7w/s640/deb9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4V5Ijvhh_c/VtyN8lPEvNI/AAAAAAAABrc/ajpFK63vKok/s1600/deb10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4V5Ijvhh_c/VtyN8lPEvNI/AAAAAAAABrc/ajpFK63vKok/s640/deb10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Can you tell I'm absolutely in love with this turtle? ;) She has found a permanent and prized spot on my nightstand, where I can admire her every day. If you love this as much as I do, and you don't know about Deb Hart's work, you should definitely check her out! You can find Deb here on her <a href="http://rengalsa.blogspot.com/">blog</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DebHartPolymerDesign">etsy</a> (where you can purchase a turtle similar to this one!), and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rengaltx/">Facebook</a>. And if you want to learn how to make some of Deb's creations, she offers a <a href="http://craftartedu.com/instructors/index/view/id/157/">great variety of classes at CraftArtEdu.</a><br />
<br />
So, again, a big Thank you to (my guild mates) Jackie Sieben, Susan O'Neill and Linda Riopel for my holiday swap items, and huge Thanks to Helen Breil, Pearl Blay and Deb Hart, for their generous hearts and the wonderful prizes that I received! Aren't they all wonderful? Have you had luck in winning online contests or participating in swaps? Leave me a comment below, and tell me your thoughts!<br />
<br />
And as an aside; if the video worked in this post, I hope to do some tutorial videos to post on the blog in the future.... and, if you like the Thank you image (first image of this post), you can find that as a printable digital postcard file in my graphics shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/yourdigitalworld">YourDigitalWorld</a>.</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-12882146376617715762016-03-02T20:42:00.000-08:002016-03-02T20:42:23.025-08:00Time to vote for March Challenge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Yes, it's time to vote again! The March PCAGOE "Rings" themed challenge opened for voting yesterday... it will run through to March 7th at midnight EST. Look at all the lovely entries our members created this month:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wZ82VdWeevk/VtfAB_OsCZI/AAAAAAAABqw/XGkxF0O0Sdc/s1600/March%2Bmosaic%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wZ82VdWeevk/VtfAB_OsCZI/AAAAAAAABqw/XGkxF0O0Sdc/s640/March%2Bmosaic%2B2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't know about you, but it was tough for me to pick just 3 favorites! Head over to the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/02/march-2016-challenge-rings.html">PCAGOE blog</a> to cast your vote... remember a lucky voter will be randomly chosen to win a prize, and that could be YOU! Go <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/02/march-2016-challenge-rings.html">here</a> to vote now! Thank you!!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-84913107393060709662016-02-25T17:11:00.001-08:002016-02-25T18:18:52.057-08:00Ring Bling<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I had so much fun with this month's theme for the PCAGOE challenge! The theme is Rings. For me, these were like eating a bag of chips... you can't stop at one! As a matter of fact I made 10 of them, but only 5 are ready for prime-time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PJVO470b9bw/Vs-czXNumSI/AAAAAAAABpU/LjwTHegU_Xg/s1600/ringsgroup3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PJVO470b9bw/Vs-czXNumSI/AAAAAAAABpU/LjwTHegU_Xg/s400/ringsgroup3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vXewezHyfKw/Vs-ctEy61CI/AAAAAAAABpM/gkVlfrQkZFs/s1600/ringsgrouphand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="638" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vXewezHyfKw/Vs-ctEy61CI/AAAAAAAABpM/gkVlfrQkZFs/s640/ringsgrouphand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fQYkUcNa0vY/Vs-czMskF6I/AAAAAAAABpQ/cxEibZ7A05c/s1600/ringgroup1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fQYkUcNa0vY/Vs-czMskF6I/AAAAAAAABpQ/cxEibZ7A05c/s640/ringgroup1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I first made one out of a solid piece of cured polymer, with inclusions, that I had cut into slices and slabs. I took one of the slabs and drilled a hole in it. Because of the inclusions that I had used in the polymer, it needed much reinforcement, and that is one of the ones on which I'm still working... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But, I decided to use one of the slices from that piece of cured polymer for one of my rings. There are iridescent inclusions in this polymer, and the way it was mixed left some funky holes and swirls in the natural form. I made a ring shank out of a blend of translucent & 14k gold Premo in a triune type shape (which is actually quite comfortable to wear), and attached the inclusion slice to the shank with bonding agent. Unfortunately, because it was a rainy day here and my sunlight was limited, the photos are not the best. But if you click on the individual photo, you'll see a larger size of the image, where you can view the wonderful swirls and holes that happened with this inclusion technique. My gears are spinning with the cool result of this inclusion technique. Here's the result:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vfvQ2DZnims/Vs-eZ0-82aI/AAAAAAAABpg/tx3XdlAC9Iw/s1600/lemonslicering.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vfvQ2DZnims/Vs-eZ0-82aI/AAAAAAAABpg/tx3XdlAC9Iw/s640/lemonslicering.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QjUXosCkCpE/Vs-ietcwGVI/AAAAAAAABqM/8pvO1NWUxJw/s1600/lemonslicehand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QjUXosCkCpE/Vs-ietcwGVI/AAAAAAAABqM/8pvO1NWUxJw/s640/lemonslicehand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
When I knew that the first idea (of the cured slab ring) was going to take more time and patience, I decided that I wanted to make some gems out of polymer, which I would "set" in a polymer ring setting. I then got the idea to use wire to secure the gem. The first iteration of this was this faux opal bead (made with Premo's opal clay) that I set in a polymer ring setting (again on a triune shaped shank) and secured with wire which makes a decorative pattern:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0BpASwFT4lI/Vs-fiaxM9zI/AAAAAAAABps/zhYnd70vPUQ/s1600/fauxpal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0BpASwFT4lI/Vs-fiaxM9zI/AAAAAAAABps/zhYnd70vPUQ/s640/fauxpal.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qhTKkitTDpA/Vs-ilU9qV0I/AAAAAAAABqQ/EuMZzdkbeXw/s1600/fauxpalhand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qhTKkitTDpA/Vs-ilU9qV0I/AAAAAAAABqQ/EuMZzdkbeXw/s640/fauxpalhand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The second iteration skipped the polymer gem and used a faceted acrylic button, again nesting on a polymer setting and secured and bedecked with wire in the shape of a star that runs across the "gem". The wire got a bit messy on this, I need to figure out a way to make the wire less wonky, perhaps this will entail using a thicker gauge wire... This one is on a super comfy hexagon shaped ring shank, which I embedded with a strand of the wire:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R-zSpO6n_wY/Vs-gFw_bGPI/AAAAAAAABpw/uaaDz1jc5MQ/s1600/hexstar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R-zSpO6n_wY/Vs-gFw_bGPI/AAAAAAAABpw/uaaDz1jc5MQ/s640/hexstar.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKb05MkoybQ/Vs-irWVizHI/AAAAAAAABqU/HXdjRFyjsaU/s1600/hexstarhand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKb05MkoybQ/Vs-irWVizHI/AAAAAAAABqU/HXdjRFyjsaU/s640/hexstarhand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The third iteration of this idea saw me hand cutting/sanding a faceted a polymer gem, which was then set in between a simple textured band of polymer using wire that also adds a decorative element. I think this may be my favorite of this grouping of rings:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qE6jqrADPNE/Vs-gff68PtI/AAAAAAAABp0/Su-ToW6622M/s1600/spungoldring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qE6jqrADPNE/Vs-gff68PtI/AAAAAAAABp0/Su-ToW6622M/s640/spungoldring.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZqH_rNsGaE/Vs-iww56SkI/AAAAAAAABqY/yP4c91Atsdc/s1600/spungoldringhand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QZqH_rNsGaE/Vs-iww56SkI/AAAAAAAABqY/yP4c91Atsdc/s640/spungoldringhand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The final ring came together quite quickly, as I had a one-off button that I had made in a lovely shade of robin's egg blue. I embedded some wire in the hexagonal ring shank and had the two ends coming out at the point to secure the button. I twisted the wire down next to the button and added a decorative focal to cover it up. I also antiqued the nooks and crannies with some gold acrylic paint and some burnt sienna in the center. I love this one just for it's colors and design simplicity:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmRLEgOJwKs/Vs-iLr3pNoI/AAAAAAAABqI/FK0dXHzgOdw/s1600/robinseggring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmRLEgOJwKs/Vs-iLr3pNoI/AAAAAAAABqI/FK0dXHzgOdw/s640/robinseggring.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bd0xuHRNxOI/Vs-i3NvpA3I/AAAAAAAABqc/1Ccu57Q3Lt0/s1600/robinseggringhand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bd0xuHRNxOI/Vs-i3NvpA3I/AAAAAAAABqc/1Ccu57Q3Lt0/s640/robinseggringhand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm thinking that the last 2 will become part of my collection... I like the others a lot, but they're a little chunky for my personal style. What do you think of my funky rings? Leave me a comment and tell me which one(s) is your favorite! I'd love to hear your thoughts!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I plan to head back to the studio soon to finish up those other 5 rings that are still waiting to be finished. These are so addictive, I will likely do a whole lot more! I have another blog post coming soon too, on some fabulous items that I was lucky enough to win this past month... Look for that post after the voting reminder post for this month's challenge. Voting for this challenge opens on March 1st and will run through to March 7th at midnight EST. As usual, I'll post a reminder here when voting is open!</div>
<br /></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-37090160918101519372016-02-06T14:59:00.000-08:002016-02-06T14:59:23.045-08:00February Vote - Four Seasons <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Wow, time has gotten away from me again! There's only 1 and a half days left to vote for this month's challenge! Here's a peek at the fun pieces my guild members and I have created for the four seasons theme:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFw6xLsrglo/VrZ56-2jW8I/AAAAAAAABo4/IfZKVY1A6OI/s1600/February%2BMosaic%2Blandscape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFw6xLsrglo/VrZ56-2jW8I/AAAAAAAABo4/IfZKVY1A6OI/s640/February%2BMosaic%2Blandscape.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Please head over the the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/01/february-2016-challenge-four-seasons.html">PCAGOE blog</a> and vote for your 3 favorite entries! One randomly selected voter will be chosen to win a free prize... it could be you this month! Voting will close for this challenge at midnight EST on February 7th, so hurry over to the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/01/february-2016-challenge-four-seasons.html">PCAGOE page</a> now!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-51270579104787794802016-01-25T14:46:00.001-08:002016-01-25T14:46:39.161-08:00Seasons of Change<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I think most people on the east coast of USA are ready for a change of season! While I am a lover of all 4 seasons, I must admit that after shoveling the nearly 3 feet of snow, that was dumped on our area this past weekend, has left me not too keen for more of the "white stuff"! I do however love being snowed-in, especially when some of that time can be spent creating... as was the case this weekend. The project that I tackled was my guild's February challenge piece, of the theme "4 seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter)".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bqg-nWKmYBM/VqabzmfoVhI/AAAAAAAABms/S8pIoGIHeDI/s1600/seasons6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bqg-nWKmYBM/VqabzmfoVhI/AAAAAAAABms/S8pIoGIHeDI/s640/seasons6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I kept thinking of one of my favorite songs, by singer songwriter Nicole Nordeman... called Every Season (you can listen to it <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dwpdZdvCl8">here</a>). I love the word imagery Nicole uses in her song to describe and make us sense each season; and this featured in my thoughts while creating this challenge piece. I decided that I wanted to do a series of small wall hangings that depicted the growth changes of a plant from spring to winter. When brainstorming my ideas for this, I was excited about the concept of using the background of each canvas to depict the season's weather. Spring would have raindrops, summer would have hot blazing sunbeams, fall would have a colorful sunset sky, and winter would be a frosted coating of ice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3t-zmATrIdY/VqacYW9iUBI/AAAAAAAABm4/NkTMHeDAvpo/s1600/seasons_springdetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3t-zmATrIdY/VqacYW9iUBI/AAAAAAAABm4/NkTMHeDAvpo/s400/seasons_springdetail.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l7dEmMY7Mg0/VqacYC-1_7I/AAAAAAAABm0/9Xeqh5dWd5A/s1600/seasons_spring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l7dEmMY7Mg0/VqacYC-1_7I/AAAAAAAABm0/9Xeqh5dWd5A/s320/seasons_spring.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HnTMwLSt54s/Vqacb305TsI/AAAAAAAABnE/ItuK30-38Jk/s1600/seasons_summer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5lmcY8yWicI/Vqacca20cGI/AAAAAAAABnI/T9aY_eW4NAk/s1600/seasons_summerdetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5lmcY8yWicI/Vqacca20cGI/AAAAAAAABnI/T9aY_eW4NAk/s400/seasons_summerdetail.jpg" width="400" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HnTMwLSt54s/Vqacb305TsI/AAAAAAAABnE/ItuK30-38Jk/s320/seasons_summer.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EF9SgsOq-I/VqacftpX7XI/AAAAAAAABnU/EhjDHDX1vGg/s1600/seasons_fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EF9SgsOq-I/VqacftpX7XI/AAAAAAAABnU/EhjDHDX1vGg/s320/seasons_fall.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQQ9f-9Rpf8/Vqacf6xwkSI/AAAAAAAABnY/5VlwyAslHDU/s1600/seasons_falldetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQQ9f-9Rpf8/Vqacf6xwkSI/AAAAAAAABnY/5VlwyAslHDU/s400/seasons_falldetail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qMFT37C4hWA/VqacjTz6cvI/AAAAAAAABno/RmAJRf3ETq0/s1600/seasons_winterdetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qMFT37C4hWA/VqacjTz6cvI/AAAAAAAABno/RmAJRf3ETq0/s400/seasons_winterdetail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_I84wZOt4eQ/Vqaci3I0hUI/AAAAAAAABnk/TyzvXZMDVeQ/s1600/seasons_winter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_I84wZOt4eQ/Vqaci3I0hUI/AAAAAAAABnk/TyzvXZMDVeQ/s320/seasons_winter.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I created the backgrounds first, and had a lot of fun doing these! I used inks, washes and paints on the polymer for the winter and summer canvases. Spring raindrops were created using liquid Fimo drops, and autumn background is a simple skinner blend of sherbet sunset colors. The plant begins it's life as an unfurling and budding shoot in spring; leafs out and flowers in summer; changes leaf color, fruits into berries and begins dropping leaves in autumn; and finally is bare branches, picked over berries and decorated with snow for winter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NaaCmrd8mSk/VqafiCiGdhI/AAAAAAAABoE/CriKcy1Dxd0/s1600/seasons2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NaaCmrd8mSk/VqafiCiGdhI/AAAAAAAABoE/CriKcy1Dxd0/s640/seasons2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I created the canvases so that they can be hung separately, I like how this separateness allows for changing up the look of them and gives the owner flexibility in how they will be displayed.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mbspYcZIh_E/VqafiVc7H8I/AAAAAAAABoU/sNyUOqGpX-g/s1600/seasons4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mbspYcZIh_E/VqafiVc7H8I/AAAAAAAABoU/sNyUOqGpX-g/s640/seasons4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had a lot of fun coming up with various ways to shoot them with the camera, imagining different ways in which they could be hung on the wall, or how they might be stacked upon one another in a shop while waiting to be sold.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CDBOOKQD06Y/VqafjIi2U9I/AAAAAAAABok/1Isc6OUphiI/s1600/seasons5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CDBOOKQD06Y/VqafjIi2U9I/AAAAAAAABok/1Isc6OUphiI/s640/seasons5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you didn't notice, the winter background has a treatment of inks with mica, which makes the frosted background appear different at varying angles, you can get a good idea of that effect in the following 2 photos:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XrGRch0pvcU/VqafhoG9VfI/AAAAAAAABoA/7N5GYhVF6WU/s1600/seasons10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XrGRch0pvcU/VqafhoG9VfI/AAAAAAAABoA/7N5GYhVF6WU/s640/seasons10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kpxgUgn6KLA/VqafhqTGufI/AAAAAAAABn4/z3Z69vM5xwM/s1600/seasons12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kpxgUgn6KLA/VqafhqTGufI/AAAAAAAABn4/z3Z69vM5xwM/s640/seasons12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm not sure if I like them best grouped together in a bunch, like the first photo of this blog post, or displayed in a straight line... then there's the option of vertical or horizontal... </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VICiu8wimhM/Vqafhkfn5fI/AAAAAAAABn8/TE5BU6Ex3lE/s1600/seasons14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VICiu8wimhM/Vqafhkfn5fI/AAAAAAAABn8/TE5BU6Ex3lE/s1600/seasons14.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bsjjamQ61eA/VqafizmXBQI/AAAAAAAABoc/bpbwdDD7hh4/s1600/seasonscover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bsjjamQ61eA/VqafizmXBQI/AAAAAAAABoc/bpbwdDD7hh4/s640/seasonscover.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm really quite pleased with the turn-out of these pieces, there's something about each one that I love, but overall I think that the summer one is my favorite. That's somewhat amusing to me, as I'm not a summer girl... while I love all the seasons, the sultry hot and humid heat of the summer is probably my least favorite time of year. Which one of these appeals to you most, and why? Does it correspond to your personal favorite season? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this project, please leave me a comment below! Voting for this challenge will open on February 1st at the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/">PCAGOE blog</a>. I'll post a reminder here when the vote is open!</div>
<br /></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-18130895413225534522016-01-03T19:26:00.002-08:002016-01-03T19:26:53.868-08:00Season of Giving and Making<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I hope that everyone reading this blog has had a wonderful holiday season! And my best wishes to everyone for happiness, health and prosperity in 2016!<br />
<br />
Because it was such a busy month preparing for the Christmas holiday in my home, and making gifts, I didn't get time to create a new piece for the PCAGOE January challenge. Luckily, I had an older piece that suited the theme, which is 50 Shades of Gray... no, not associated with the infamous book, but a study in value! I chose an older necklace that I had created with my silk fabric dye transfer. Here are a few shots of that piece:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TQjYOXNrJP0/VomPfEU001I/AAAAAAAABhs/egRmV6qSpyY/s1600/pillowneck2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TQjYOXNrJP0/VomPfEU001I/AAAAAAAABhs/egRmV6qSpyY/s320/pillowneck2.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUVgT_clqPU/VomPe0j7U4I/AAAAAAAABho/HDEz6d_3UeU/s1600/pillowneck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUVgT_clqPU/VomPe0j7U4I/AAAAAAAABho/HDEz6d_3UeU/s320/pillowneck.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3veGz727bl8/VomPfppFzCI/AAAAAAAABh4/_1kl4q3B_jg/s1600/yinyangpillow4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3veGz727bl8/VomPfppFzCI/AAAAAAAABh4/_1kl4q3B_jg/s320/yinyangpillow4.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uh6lsAuxop8/VomPfLzxn6I/AAAAAAAABhw/-zH2v11qX-0/s1600/pillowneck3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uh6lsAuxop8/VomPfLzxn6I/AAAAAAAABhw/-zH2v11qX-0/s320/pillowneck3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So, what was I so busy doing that I couldn't create a new piece for the challenge? Making gifts for family and friends. First on the list was a stocking that my hubby had asked me to make for him... which, at the moment, I do not have a photo. Basically it's a red stocking edged with candy striped trim, super simple.<br />
<br />
The second project was a pair of slippers that I made for my mother-in-law. She loves these slippers that I make, and she will wear them until they have holes in the soles all the way through to her toes! So I decided it was time she get another brand new pair. This pair is triple reinforced on the soles and upper is made of neoprene, so hopefully they will last a lot longer than her previous pairs have! Here's what they look like:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3UO7qvD10rc/VomStfln9zI/AAAAAAAABiM/TOhRHgOwNjM/s1600/slippers.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3UO7qvD10rc/VomStfln9zI/AAAAAAAABiM/TOhRHgOwNjM/s640/slippers.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
About a week before Christmas I decided that I would make and send out origami stars, which I made out of our Land's End holiday catalogs, to my family and some friends. I generally skip sending Christmas cards because of the thousands of trees that are destroyed to make all of the paper for them. But my traditionalist hubby grumbles every year that I send out a Christmas email in lieu of Christmas cards. So this year I decided to compromise with the origami stars, getting the last minute idea to upcycle my holiday catalogs, which was an added bonus! I made about 70 (give or take a few) stars. And here's a sampling of what those looked like:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p4IIA3MVx_0/Vomh_-Ud9GI/AAAAAAAABig/KWWTdHQPJCs/s1600/stars2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p4IIA3MVx_0/Vomh_-Ud9GI/AAAAAAAABig/KWWTdHQPJCs/s320/stars2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XE0wmpurNe0/VomiAMS67wI/AAAAAAAABio/ZIv1oaOTYh8/s1600/stars3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XE0wmpurNe0/VomiAMS67wI/AAAAAAAABio/ZIv1oaOTYh8/s320/stars3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pyfXFBqDVzo/Vomh_VdfEOI/AAAAAAAABic/t-3mGHQB2nU/s1600/stars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pyfXFBqDVzo/Vomh_VdfEOI/AAAAAAAABic/t-3mGHQB2nU/s320/stars.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Last, but not least came the polymer gifts. I needed a little gift to give to my personal trainer, who gives me the gift of her creativity twice a week, to create challenging and always varied workouts that keep me wanting to return and wishing I could work out with her daily(which is a miracle in and of itself!). And I wanted another special gift for my friend and soul sister, with whom I knew I'd be spending New Year's Eve. In addition, I wanted to create a special gift for my parents. A month beforehand, I had the foresight to start a homemade lavender essential oil, by steeping a jar full of lavender buds in carrier oils for a month long, this was the idea behind the 2 gifts that followed, for my trainer and my friend. I created for Angel, my trainer, this polymer covered bottle which I then filled with my homemade lavender oil:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x-230W3l1LY/VomjzK5ujSI/AAAAAAAABjA/94nnX-Ob6DA/s1600/angelsbottle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x-230W3l1LY/VomjzK5ujSI/AAAAAAAABjA/94nnX-Ob6DA/s320/angelsbottle2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qlq-l66QHeI/VomjpkoDpII/AAAAAAAABi4/2ecYd7tZBB0/s1600/angelsbottle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qlq-l66QHeI/VomjpkoDpII/AAAAAAAABi4/2ecYd7tZBB0/s320/angelsbottle.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I created an inro necklace for my dear friend, Susan. Inros are small vessels, this one was created from a perfume sampler bottle, complete with the wand attached to the lid. After the polymer for this piece was cured, I then filled it with my homemade lavender oil:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e1q72SKvGwI/Vom2guahSDI/AAAAAAAABjU/TibdtJGR_Vo/s1600/susan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e1q72SKvGwI/Vom2guahSDI/AAAAAAAABjU/TibdtJGR_Vo/s320/susan1.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gnmQWtF1qLs/Vom2gtrwEYI/AAAAAAAABjY/ANoxJiZbjws/s1600/susan2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gnmQWtF1qLs/Vom2gtrwEYI/AAAAAAAABjY/ANoxJiZbjws/s320/susan2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x8CBzqSXOIc/Vom2hGHyYSI/AAAAAAAABjg/b4iOki2XYxI/s1600/susan4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x8CBzqSXOIc/Vom2hGHyYSI/AAAAAAAABjg/b4iOki2XYxI/s320/susan4.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iLASrL5fMnU/Vom2gmAzNAI/AAAAAAAABjQ/MKIUHdklDFQ/s1600/susan3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iLASrL5fMnU/Vom2gmAzNAI/AAAAAAAABjQ/MKIUHdklDFQ/s320/susan3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sy2vWcin2qM/Vom2hnISUuI/AAAAAAAABjs/Wi0j_ZLrts4/s1600/susan5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sy2vWcin2qM/Vom2hnISUuI/AAAAAAAABjs/Wi0j_ZLrts4/s320/susan5.jpg" width="316" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cw6BVv0SMzk/Vom2h2i5vNI/AAAAAAAABj0/05eBLqH53CE/s1600/susan6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cw6BVv0SMzk/Vom2h2i5vNI/AAAAAAAABj0/05eBLqH53CE/s320/susan6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And finally, I upcycled a chandelier light bulb into a cardinal tree ornament for my parents. My mom has always loved birds, but especially birds on her Christmas tree. As a matter of fact, her parent's always had the old-fashioned glass birds on their tree. As such, my mom has gifted her children and her siblings a glass bird ornament every year at Christmas. The glass bird she gifted me this year was this sweet owl:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LEGZZlisfUc/Vom6mfRc2tI/AAAAAAAABkE/pEqq64jkeT8/s1600/owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LEGZZlisfUc/Vom6mfRc2tI/AAAAAAAABkE/pEqq64jkeT8/s400/owl.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are two of my other favorite bird ornaments that my parents have given me over the years:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGGnUpWKKTE/Vom68GgpvfI/AAAAAAAABkM/cXCNV5bdk_Q/s1600/bird1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGGnUpWKKTE/Vom68GgpvfI/AAAAAAAABkM/cXCNV5bdk_Q/s320/bird1.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZaSKdipcTA/Vom68gJfi8I/AAAAAAAABkQ/-yIY9GA67K8/s1600/bird2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZaSKdipcTA/Vom68gJfi8I/AAAAAAAABkQ/-yIY9GA67K8/s320/bird2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These bird ornaments, with their fibrous and feathery tails, were the inspiration for the cardinal ornament that I created for my parents. He is quite large though, I'd estimate that he measures about 7" from beak to tail, and about 5" tall. I created him with the red glitter Premo accent polymer, with some black and a little bit of an orange mixture. The legs were made by covering an armature of wire with polymer and baking separately before inserting them into the body of the cardinal. And the plume of tail feathers and comb feathers was created by integrating some sheer red fabric strips into the polymer at those points. My parents both loved him. My only wish is that he were lighter in weight. The bulb was a pretty heavy glass to begin with, but then there was about 2 to 3 ounces of polymer added to him. Here he is:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gQIqCX1K4_c/Vom88W1YUfI/AAAAAAAABkw/wK7dc88eZFY/s1600/cardinal4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gQIqCX1K4_c/Vom88W1YUfI/AAAAAAAABkw/wK7dc88eZFY/s320/cardinal4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z7UnZcZfmk/Vom878gxcDI/AAAAAAAABko/FqCpjWLm76s/s1600/cardinal2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z7UnZcZfmk/Vom878gxcDI/AAAAAAAABko/FqCpjWLm76s/s320/cardinal2.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OnD3WyqODTU/Vom88qHgfjI/AAAAAAAABk8/o4yrkbHjqn4/s1600/cardinal6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OnD3WyqODTU/Vom88qHgfjI/AAAAAAAABk8/o4yrkbHjqn4/s320/cardinal6.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--lqKUG8_RMI/Vom88_eFXJI/AAAAAAAABlA/s9dzXCRPsLc/s1600/cardinal8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--lqKUG8_RMI/Vom88_eFXJI/AAAAAAAABlA/s9dzXCRPsLc/s320/cardinal8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8YETNIDAHy0/Vom87kvMwEI/AAAAAAAABkg/QQ50wqjGb7I/s1600/cardinal11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8YETNIDAHy0/Vom87kvMwEI/AAAAAAAABkg/QQ50wqjGb7I/s320/cardinal11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9fE51Qn7Pqs/Vom89DbrDOI/AAAAAAAABlI/S-v_5yf-9TE/s1600/cardinal9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9fE51Qn7Pqs/Vom89DbrDOI/AAAAAAAABlI/S-v_5yf-9TE/s320/cardinal9.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UbZoIcp2Yew/Vom87x0B4qI/AAAAAAAABkk/jdLSHIiQUo0/s1600/cardinal12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UbZoIcp2Yew/Vom87x0B4qI/AAAAAAAABkk/jdLSHIiQUo0/s320/cardinal12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also created some polymer gifts for 3 of my PCAGOE guild mates, using my handmade texture plate from a previous PCAGOE challenge, for the the gift exchange the guild offers every year. I forgot to take my own photos of the pieces, but these are the photos my guild mates took of the pieces I made for them:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xskT-jVbBmk/VonS5e7ncfI/AAAAAAAABlo/thg66BYC_5o/s1600/bethjackie2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--mk0gYSfcYg/VonS64l-1HI/AAAAAAAABlw/EbHHlAhMLs0/s1600/bethjackie.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--mk0gYSfcYg/VonS64l-1HI/AAAAAAAABlw/EbHHlAhMLs0/s320/bethjackie.png" width="320" /></a><img border="0" height="307" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xskT-jVbBmk/VonS5e7ncfI/AAAAAAAABlo/thg66BYC_5o/s320/bethjackie2.png" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WdzWfJCJ0hw/VonS2-Vre2I/AAAAAAAABlg/3Rlf2Owyhqo/s1600/bethline.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n9wIQMyCqJ4/VonS7XbX1KI/AAAAAAAABl0/Xf2a2KcXNZs/s1600/bethline2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n9wIQMyCqJ4/VonS7XbX1KI/AAAAAAAABl0/Xf2a2KcXNZs/s320/bethline2.png" width="300" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WdzWfJCJ0hw/VonS2-Vre2I/AAAAAAAABlg/3Rlf2Owyhqo/s320/bethline.png" width="307" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iuRI8S8dAbw/VonS8ttd4bI/AAAAAAAABmA/crArh_X74Zs/s1600/bethsusan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iuRI8S8dAbw/VonS8ttd4bI/AAAAAAAABmA/crArh_X74Zs/s320/bethsusan.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are the lovely gifts I received in exchange, from my talented guild mates (in order, from Linda Riopel of NKDesigns, Susan O'Neill of 11BOLDstret, and Jackie Sieben of JAE Jewelry and The Pleasant Pheasant)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFTE--1zzy8/VonWDHVVptI/AAAAAAAABmM/DvP_4aWSBmM/s1600/linda.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFTE--1zzy8/VonWDHVVptI/AAAAAAAABmM/DvP_4aWSBmM/s320/linda.png" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9-XT3jZw0o0/VonWIT6spMI/AAAAAAAABmU/rYG5Hv9TvuY/s1600/susan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9-XT3jZw0o0/VonWIT6spMI/AAAAAAAABmU/rYG5Hv9TvuY/s320/susan.png" width="261" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xENTTI75B1Y/VonWRbk0hFI/AAAAAAAABmc/CDF3KGxZlQE/s1600/jackie.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xENTTI75B1Y/VonWRbk0hFI/AAAAAAAABmc/CDF3KGxZlQE/s320/jackie.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, with making all these gifts, getting my house decorated for Christmas and baking a couple batches of cookies, I did not have any time left to make my challenge piece, thus the older piece that I've entered for this month (above). For anyone who might be interested, that necklace is available in my createmyworld etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/125388133/black-white-necklace-polymer-clay-silk?ref=shop_home_active_7">here</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Whew! That was quite a lot to post about! What do you think of all the gifting creations I made? Do you like handmade gifts to give and receive? What was your favorite handmade gift? I'd love to hear from you, leave me a comment below!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Voting is open for the January challenge, and you can cast a vote for your 3 favorite entries at the <a href="http://polymerclayartists.blogspot.com/2016/01/january-2016-challenge-50-shades-of.html">PCAGOE blog</a>. Remember, you could win a prize! Voting closes on the 7th of January at midnight EST.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7304907653397729317.post-52351764981785144512015-12-03T10:46:00.000-08:002015-12-03T14:32:39.711-08:00PCAGOE December "Re-do" Challenge Vote<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's time to vote for the PCAGOE December Challenge! Here are all of the entries for this month's "Re-do" theme:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OaUbQf-xn9g/VmCMkwnXUdI/AAAAAAAABg4/KeQHT6k3o8k/s1600/susan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OaUbQf-xn9g/VmCMkwnXUdI/AAAAAAAABg4/KeQHT6k3o8k/s640/susan.jpg" width="576" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; color: #212124; font-family: "proxima nova" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-weight: 600; line-height: 18px;">Black and Red Drop Crystal Earrings No. 175 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;"><span style="line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">by </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">Susan of </span><a href="http://11boldstreet.etsy.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #1d7679; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">11BOLDstreet</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;"><span style="line-height: 21.5599994659424px;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">The "before" earrings were an entry for another PCAGOE Challenge. I was never really happy with the lower, translucent element. It seemed too dull and clunky by comparison with the upper focals. So, cut sleek slices from the same rich red as was used in the nugget beads, sanded, buffed them and added a sterling spiral, then re-hung as the new lower element - MUCH better!!</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rWu-XgdigEg/VmCMnuBhO6I/AAAAAAAABhA/vtoRXZX_73s/s1600/lisa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rWu-XgdigEg/VmCMnuBhO6I/AAAAAAAABhA/vtoRXZX_73s/s640/lisa.jpg" width="580" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Fancy Soap Dispenser </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;"><span style="line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">by </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">Lisa of </span><a href="http://higirls.etsy.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #1d7679; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">HiGirls</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">This pink and blue soap dispenser just needed a little bit more. Gray trim with a white wash makes it a little more special. </span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-76atQdpg_k0/VmCMsKJ3PjI/AAAAAAAABhI/E9XRHHC3TJM/s1600/marie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-76atQdpg_k0/VmCMsKJ3PjI/AAAAAAAABhI/E9XRHHC3TJM/s640/marie.jpg" width="582" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Emily </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">by Marie Young of </span><a href="http://www.youngcreative.etsy.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #1d7679; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">MarieYoungCreative</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I loved "Emily" when I first created her 2 years ago, (see "Emily" Before) but my skills have improved so I decided to give her a makeover. I sanded her down and added a new layer of clay to give her features more definition (including sexy eyelids!). I also changed the color palette on her skin tones to provide more contrast.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNidJtNmgfk/VmCMuAiWJ4I/AAAAAAAABhQ/6GKm7hMH1LU/s1600/freda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNidJtNmgfk/VmCMuAiWJ4I/AAAAAAAABhQ/6GKm7hMH1LU/s640/freda.jpg" width="590" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span class=" meta-field photo-title "><b>Steampunk Fish </b></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;">by Freda of </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/FredaK?" style="background-color: white; color: #1d7679; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;" target="_blank">FredaK</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">The first one was made in 2010 and was covered with extruder cane flowers and the other one is steampunk made last week.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dTIav6T_pX4/VmCMxQNWuwI/AAAAAAAABhY/4oDfewQQzVE/s1600/beth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dTIav6T_pX4/VmCMxQNWuwI/AAAAAAAABhY/4oDfewQQzVE/s640/beth.jpg" width="572" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Pod brooch re-do (revised design) </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.5599994659424px;"><span style="line-height: 17.2479991912842px;">by Beth of </span></span><a href="http://www.createmyworld.etsy.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #1d7679; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 17.2479991912842px;">CreateMyWorldDesigns</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I never quite liked the red outer rim of the original brooch, so for the December PCAGOE "re-do" challenge, I decided to change the original piece to something I'd like more, the black and silver outside is the result. To read more about this project, please visit my blog post: <a href="http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2015/11/simple-brooch-re-do.html" style="color: #1d7679;">http://createmyworlddesigns.blogspot.com/2015/11/simple-brooch-re-do.html</a></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To cast your vote for your 3 favorite entries, please go to the PCAGOE Blog. Remember, you could be our lucky prize winner, just for participating in the vote!</div>
createmyworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16461188369833065598noreply@blogger.com0