Guest Post by Craig Ewing

My Creative Journey:

  I was recently asked to put in writing and share my “process, advice, tips or the inspiration” for my work and pieces. I must admit, this happens many times a day at shows, and usually they are asking regarding a specific piece. But to generalize and summarize my artistic, creative journey, is not that easy. But I will try. 

As a devoted and passionate beading artist, my journey is driven by love for creating one of a kind, wearable art pieces. Throughout my artistic endeavors, I have been fortunate to encounter countless moments of inspiration, whether it be in architectural structures, the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, the potential found in upcycling or recycling materials, or the irresistible allure of the Art Deco era, I find myself constantly captivated. 

I am particularly drawn to creating statement pieces with a touch of sparkle, blending various metal tones such as gold, silver, bronze, copper, and gunmetal. My sketchbooks are full of doodles and notes, serving as a testament to boundless ideas. Attending trade shows has become a treasure hunt, as I seek out exquisite precious and semi-precious stones, geodes, and ceramic cabochons crafted by fellow artists, which I incorporate into my artistry. Additionally, my collection of Swarovski Crystals, acquired over the years and now discontinued, holds a special place in my repertoire. 

My Sketchbooks

Designing a single piece differs from embarking on a collection. When creating a single piece, I begin with an inspiration or an existing sketch, meticulously selecting materials and colors that harmonize with the concept. On the other hand, for a collection, I dive into my trove of treasures, gathering materials in a cohesive color palette before transforming one of my envisioned designs into a unique statement piece. Along the creative process, it is inevitable that the original concept undergoes a few design changes, resulting in an exquisite piece, guided by intuition and artistic instinct. 

Sketch of the idea

Over time, I have honed my skills and acquired a profound understanding of bead size, recognizing how different beads interact with one another. The ability to comprehend how altering thread size or color affects even the simplest of stitches has proven to be a crucial skill that enhances the intricacy and impact of my creations. While largely self-taught, I have eagerly sought opportunities to learn from the masters, as well as through the purchase of a few of their instructional kits, continuously expanding my techniques. 

The finished piece

If there is one piece of advice, I would offer to aspiring beading artists, it is to embrace the journey of experimentation and exploration. Allow your creativity to flourish unrestrictedly, you will uncover your own style.