glass beads art dolls
jewelry mixed media
This lampworked Eye Idol talisman is based on the figures found in great
quantities at 4th millennium BC archeological sites in North Syria. At the “Eye Temple”
at Tell Brak there were estimated to be twenty thousand figures and fragments.
These eye idols may have been votive gifts associated with a specific god and were
thought to be extremely sacred.
Two spirit dolls we created from muslin, fibers,
hand stamped, handpainted, bead embellishments.
Lampworked swirl bead study. Done for a bead exchange.
We had to let the tiny dragons play with them for a while!
Macro shot of a lampwork dichroic pendant it's in our
private collection because of the bubbles in the glass.
Bali silver toggle bracelet with Firekin beads very elegant evening look!
wearable prayers
bohemian spirit
sacred adornments
alchemical energy
inspired self expression
art initiation
eclectic luminosity
magical colour
Our wearable art allows you to take your gallery with you. In the busiest place you can relax for a moment and enjoy its beauty.
about firekin beads
Using the ancient technique of lampworking we individually create each bead . The molten glass is worked in a propane oxygen flame at temperatures in excess of 2000 degrees . We use Moretti Effetre glass imported from Italy and dichroic glass which is a dazzling mix of colours that changes before your eyes. Molten glass is wrapped around a stainless steel rod, (called a mandrel) which has been dipped in a clay based bead release, to prevent the glass from sticking. Layers of glass, color, detail and shimmering effects make each bead like no other.
To embellish and add intricate details we use gold, silver, luster powders, enamels, and ground glass to enhance the look of the vessels and beads we create. The fluidity and movement of the molten glass is frozen in time as the surface and core temperature is gradually lowered and then each bead is annealed in a kiln overnight for lasting strength and durability. After soaking the beads in water to loosen the bead release, the beads are removed from their stainless steel mandrels and cleaned of the separator using diamond files.
Historically Beads have been the basis of most primitive economies, as well as a strong root for culture and ritual of ancient communities. Every important archaeological dig has proven this by uncovering beads and ornamentation of some sort. The contemporary art glass movement has seen a wonderful resurgence of this ancient and respected art form.
Our inspiration is derived from myriad sources geometric, cellular, molecular, and genetic structures to more abstract concepts of space/time and spirituality. Creating art beads is a deeply meditative practice for us each microcosm of glass is imbued with intention and spirit. We enjoy teaching others the ancient art of making beads - to dance with fire, molten glass and their own spirit of inspiration.
Spirit dolls are used in many cultures as a tangible connection to God, the sacred forces of nature, and our deepest inner selves. These dolls are made with the intention of connecting all who view them with their own creative energies. If one speaks to your soul open your mind and listen closely... Each art doll is created from sculpted polymer clay, textiles, fibers, beads, and found objects.
