Looking Within

At art shows, walking around, checking out other artists' work, I often think, "Now, why didn't I think of that". Regardless of how much I love something, I could never steal an idea from someone else. Sure, I get inspired. But copying something so that it is exactly the same as the original is an absolute no no in the art world.

As a jewelry designer, I am constantly challenged to design something unique, something different, yet beautiful. There are so many jewelry artists around. We all have access to the same beads and techniques. To be truly different, one needs to stretch oneself, to have the courage to go down a road less travelled. You see, the design part has to come from deep within you.

I recently read about a wonderful artist and blogger who was accused of stealing someone else's style. The stress and emotional trauma that the entire process created was upsetting to watch. Some people decided to become vigilantes, to harp on copyright laws, to accuse. As artists, we are all inspired by other artists. Many of us became artists because we were inspired by someone else's work. Some of us may have even copied paintings by the great masters, so that we could learn. I am always cautious about accusing someone of stealing someone else's idea. It is plausable that two people got the same idea, isn't it?

As I check logs of people visiting my art website and what they are doing, I find that someone in Europe is copying images of my art. Perhaps they are copying my art to print it for their personal use. Or perhaps they are making copies and selling it somewhere in Europe. Or even worse, perhaps they are copying my style. None of which is right or legal. Regardless, I choose to not worry about it. My focus must always be on becoming a better artist and creating original work. For me, worrying about copyright laws and issues cannot take center stage (smile). That doesn't mean I do not value my art, it just means that I choose not to make it a priority.

Did I tell you that I have been dabbling in macrame? Here is my first attempt at a Macrame choker. I used leather for the inside, so that it is a little sturdier. The outer part (the knots) are made of very thin silk cords that I picked up at my last gem show. These gorgeous lampwork beads were just perfect as the centerpiece. So, what do you think?