Clay is one of the primary materials I use to make art. But, it’s not the only one. I often embellish the pieces I create with unrelated components to complete the idea that started in my mind. Using a mixed media approach often helps flesh out the functionality of a piece. Plus it’s fun!
The aisles of any hardware store are one resource for materials I use in a project. Copper pipe supports outdoor totem stacks or becomes the perfect perch for a bird feeder; some binding wire is bent into kickstands for recipe holders or flower stems for colorful flora; springs become hair on several angel projects.
Notions like buttons and beads found at the fabric store or an antique shop, accent a design and provide the perfect finishing touch. Fishing line from a sporting goods store supports a hanging creation.
I might combine some of my passions like clay and fiber arts. Leather cord crocheted along the edge of a basket shape converges two of the creative skills I like to practice. I’m even working on an idea with a well-known fiber pattern designer to create a bowl and pattern combination kit so other yarn enthusiasts could create their own unique project.
Mixing materials to achieve a finished piece helps stretch the artistic element of every object I create. It opens the door even wider to possibility and challenges me with ever changing and new ideas. Lately, I've been playing with making jewelry. It's one more way I've been able to mix it up, make something I love, use up collected materials, learn new skills and combine it into a final product.
