Inspired by: The Beach, Water, Shells

Naturally, summer is a time when many artist get inspired by the beach, lake, ocean, water, sea life, shells, etc.... Well, maybe us that live in the Midwest anyway. I guess if I lived on an island, I might be inspired by it all the time. Not only does the warm weather help, but events like vacations and weddings come along too.

My brother is getting married in a few weeks, so I recently threw a shower for my future sister-in-law. Traveling back to my hometown in Wisconsin, it was held at a restaurant right on Lake Michigan. The theme was "shells", and I had a great time making the invitations, the matching favor boxes, and decorating the tables.
A Mermaid Affair: Celebration of Water has been running here in Battle Creek all summer long. The fact that about a month ago, an oil spill occurred in a neighboring town (polluting the Kalamazoo River) further enforces the awareness of the importance of water to our lives. Seeing the river lined with volunteers to help the animals and cleanup.... I can only imagine what it is like in the Gulf. Here is a pic of my nieces from this weekend, in the entrance to only of the galleries.

You might remember I posted this old pocket watch, filled with treasures I found while combing the beach in Belize.

This long necklace - composed of shells, pearls, wood, labradorite and aquamarine - was inspired by Belize too. The combination of natural materials with some pretty gems reminds me of the rustic luxury we were in. The colors are very muted and unassuming, but when you take a closer look, you can see the shimmer and sparkle. Again, all things you might find while combing the beach. At first, I thought I would string the pocket watch onto this, but it seemed to be too much. Perhaps I could wear them layered.

A friend of mine already claimed this pretty leather cuff, accented with a Humblebead and strands of aqua terra jasper and pearls. I love how it turned out - love the turquoise and brown together.

This necklace is headed for Etsy. A polymer clay focal by Heather Wynn is accented with pretty charms, completed with lava beads and a mermaid toggle.

This too, is headed for Etsy. Etched Lillypilly shells have been drilled and linked together. I love the combination of colors and textures.