|
Well Done
by Elizabeth Weiss
INSPIRATION BEFORE WORK
There are many places where artists are able to find inspiration. For Judy and Jeff Goodwin, they need look no further than their backyard … and it’s a yard that just keeps going and going. After all, it’s hard to beat 100 acres of private property in Arkansas. “Our greatest inspiration is nature,” Judy says. “Just by looking at the colors in the sky or the wildlife … we are constantly jotting down designs and color combinations.”
BAKING BREAD
The Goodwins create jewelry made of porcelain clay that they mix and color themselves. “We create designs by layering different colors of clay and creating a loaf, like bread,” Judy explains. “We then cut off the ends of the loaf to shape a piece of jewelry.” Pins, earrings, and necklaces come to life and are then fired, glazed, and embellished. “We really enjoy “playing’ around with new colors and embellishments,” Judy admits. Their especially popular earrings are born like all their other pieces: before designing a piece, the pair add colors to the clay in different percentages to create test tiles. “We use those samples to choose colors and draw out our design before actually creating a new pattern.”
ART IN THE FAMILY
Now full time artists, Jeff worked as a geologist for 20 years and Judy was a National Park Ranger for 15 years. Judy’s knowledge of clay work came from her training in wheel thrown pottery. “Judy’s brother and sister-in-law are basket makers and potters and have been doing art shows as a living for years,” says Jeff. “They introduced us to trying this new career.” So far, so good. |
|
|
|
|
Necklace with Colored Porcellians
|
|
|
|
Pin with Colored Porcellians
|
|
|
|
Earrings with Colored Porcellians
|
|
|
|
Pin with Colored Porcellians
|
|
