Blog Party - 5 Degrees of Inspiration

Today I'm taking part in a blog party called "5 Degrees of Inspiration" where artists from various places are posting about what inspires them. To see other participants in this fun event, just click on the "5 Degrees of Inspiration" picture on the top right hand side of my blog page. Have fun!




"Inspiration refers to an unconscious burst of creativity in an artistic, musical, or other intellectual endeavor. Literally, the word means "breathed upon," and it has its origins in both Hellenism and Hebraism. So I ask myself, what inspires me to create jewelry?"

These are my five inspirations!

1. Color
There's color all around us and yet sometimes, I think we fail to see it. Sometimes though, I'll look at a color and it will arouse certain emotions in me....love, anger, warmth, energy, creativity to name just a few. I love looking at various color combinations in fabrics, in nature, even in what other people choose to wear. Color not only affects my mood but I think the mood of other people around me also.

2. Nature
I love plants and flowers. I look forward to spring and summer so much, just to see the glorious plants that Mother Nature has to offer. If you look closely at flowers and even leaves, you'll see beautiful textures and color combinations. Even the smell of certain plants can be intoxicating. There's nothing quite as relaxing as taking a stroll around a gorgeous garden and just observing the plants and insects. I take tons of photos during the spring and summer and often refer back to them when I'm making jewelry as they are full of inspiration.

3. My Children
There's something about the innocence and simplicity of the way children look at things that can be very inspirational. Sometimes they comment on or get enjoyment out of those things we find so "everyday" and yet if you really listen closely, it's those details that can be very enlightening provide a different way of looking at things.


4. Music
As much as I love a quiet, silent home at times, most of the time I love to listen to music. I find it very relaxing to work while I listening to certain music. If I had to choose a favourite, I love Cuban music...not too slow that it makes me want to put my feet up and do nothing, and not too loud that I'm prevented from concentrating.


5. Other Artists
I'm constantly awed by the talent displayed by other artists. If I'm ever feeling in a blah mood and not very creative, I just check out some of the wonderful artwork created by others. That's usually all it takes to inspire me to get started on a new project! An example is the lovely applique below made by my mother, Val Garnett.


Lastly (yes, I know it was only five !), my husband inspires me. He's my biggest fan. He's always there to support me and offer words of wisdom and encouragement.