The Earring Whisperer: Inspiration for Art Journey 4 – Odilon Redon –

I would like to start by saying that I am completely captivated by Redon. The Art Bead Scene used one of his paintings a couple of years ago for a challenge and that was when I truly started exploring his work and fell in love.

This was probably my favorite of the three paintings, so I guess I will begin here! I wanted to convey the softness and dappled textures and felt these lovely enameled art charms by french bead maker Liliemaux complemented the painting perfectly. The brass flowers were constructed from vintage bits and pieces I had lying about.

Here, I concentrated more on the fabric of the dress. The top beads are old and rare, matte gold foiled art glass. They have a beautiful glow and a dreamy quality like the painting. I added vintage ruffled discs to mimic the frilly embellishments and some delicate chain for movement.

The soft painterly tin charms are by Marina Rios of Fancifuldevices. They have the perfect moodiness that gives the earrings depth as well as warmth.

Oh, that sky and clouds! Here is a variety of connected AB vintage crystals. The top pair are Swarovski and they are magnificent in the light.

Vintage glass pearls like puffy little clouds and playful enameled butterflies by Alison Page Studios.

I adore these ceramic butterflies by Candan Imrak! They are quite unique in every way. The moment I saw them I knew I had the perfect vintage beads that would compliment them! Sometimes it happens that way!

I could have used more earthy tones but decided to pack this with an explosion of color! I used a pair of my favorite (and hoarded) oversized tin charms- again, by Marina Rios of Fancifuldevices. These are large and WOW – ha! I loved blending them with natural tone vintage wood beads – it mellowed them and at the same time really brought out the amazing colors. The blackened steel frames added a nice line and contrast.

Back to French bead maker, Liliemaux and her amazing enamel work!! I found the perfect tiny Cat’s Eye beads to bring out those pops of white and used dark wire for contrast.

A special mention to my dear friend, Gaea Cannaday– I recently purchased one of her small paintings which I used as a backdrop for my last couple of earrings. I think her work holds many of the dreamlike qualities of Redon.

So, as I wrote at the beginning of this post – a couple of years ago we had a challenge using a painting of Odilon Redon that started my love for his work. I thought I’d repost one of them as it was an all-time favorite of mine!

Killer intense, rustic charms by Inviciti with rare and altered vintage beads.

I really hope we continue to use Odilon Redon’s work in the future, I find it so inspiring!

* I have attached links to all the artists/shop names for your exploration! Enjoy!

Loralee Kolton xo

Thank you for stopping in!

www.loraleekolton.etsy.com

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