I created this necklace in my ongoing exploration and examination of my faith...something I have been working on for a long time and actually quite afraid to do. I know it sounds silly, but growing up catholic , attending catholic school, and being instructed by nuns....let's just say I carried a lot of guilt with me over the years. This is in one way an exercise to shed some of that guilt, and to be able to celebrate what I believe. I really feared using a religious picture, medal, icon, etc....would be somehow wrong, blasphemous, ignorant. I tried to rationalize in my head, but it took a long time to sink in, and I think it was only by doing it, did I actually feel good about it, and reaffirm my beliefs. I was proud to wear it the other day, and am starting to become so comfortable with it I don't want to let it go...that is until I make another!! I have had talks recently regarding faith with a few artists I admire and respect, and they have also helped me along this journey. For this piece, I tried a technique that Deryn Mentock had published in the March/April 2009 issue of Belle Armoire Jewelry magazine, applying image transfers to chandalier crystals. Deryn"s blog is Something Sublime, and she is a kind, lovely person, and so talented, and is always willing to share. So a new journey of faith begins here, one filled with anticipation and celebration.....and whatever your faith, I hope this post in some little way will help you with your journey also.
14 comments:
I saw that in Belle Armoire, I want to try it too! Your necklace is awesome!
Just fantastic, Sharon! Love how you used your crystal. I am feeling challenged ... wonder what I can come up with.
just gorgeous !!
Sharon, I too grew up Catholic and went to Catholic schools all through high school. I have some of the same feelings. How wonderful that you are working it out through this necklace.
Thank you all!! Yes Heather, I can definitely relate, and it still needs working on!
Sharon, this is beautiful. I see it as very rich with symbolism and having deep respect for the core of your faith. I think art is a wonderful way to explore your beliefs and religious experience. Thank you very much for sharing this part of your journey with us.
Beautiful and inspiring! I wish I had a copy of that Belle Armoire, I have some chandelier crystals that I've been trying to decide how to use. I may have to track that technique down.
Sharon, your necklace is wonderful. I agree with your other commenters, this is a great way to work out your faith and a beautiful way to display it.
I love the way that you combine elements in the necklace. Romantic but rustic!!!! wow!!
Thanks everyone for your kind and encouraging words.... they always help more than you probably realize. Thanks again!
This is an awesome personal devotional piece you have made Sharon, I too love the rustic look of it and what an inspiration you are!
Thanks Tammy....BTW, your blog is always a nice source of inspiration for me with Rob's beautiful pieces.
Finding your blog was a beginning of this process...Thank you!
What a beautiful testament to your faith. I grew up Catholic and went to 12 years of Catholic school and taught at the same school I attended as a student. I know what you mean about blasphemy, but in your case, as in Deryn's, it is an acknowledgement of religious icons obviously created out of love and respect. You can always have your necklace blessed! Beautiful work, as always!
amazing sharon!!!!your best piece!!! i love all in this!!! madonas are my favorite subject!!!!
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