I just love conversation about beads, especially at a setting like Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. I am grateful to them for once again giving me the opportunity to share my art with “the world”, as the Believers would say. The bead demo was inside the visitor center, a calm and cool starting place for the Jazz Festival. The set up was perfect, my display table in between two large cushioned benches. Most people were there for the music, but those interested in beads had the opportunity to sit unrushed and settle into long excursions through time and experience the wonder of the human touch and ingenuity of bead artistry that dates back 30,000 years.
Having the displays of the old beads inspired awe. I was glad I had cataloged them, giving people a chance to feel like they were in a museum or library. Learn a bit about a little known subject. It was quite nice to see several visitors stop by as long time friends, adorned with some of my favorite pieces, a nice surprise.
Bead enthusiasts, Cheryl and Stewart
You meet the most fascinating people there. Like the 3 young folks from Oregon (age 12-20) traveling with their mother cross country for the third time. They were on their way to Monticello and Virginia Beach. I wanted to tag along, happy to return to both locations. Imagine the explorations they have had with our precious country.
I was happy to sell Talisman for Mercury to the young woman. Mercury, god of communication and travel, not to mention Gemini, a fitting one for her and I. My mission with my talismans is to connect and exchange in a meaningful way with each other. Exchange is an interesting word. Because really beads have always been a form of trade. In my opinion a really Good Trade. I had a great time talking all day about beads, and think I got a few people hooked on beads.
Talisman for Mercury, Kathleen O’Brien
Two new necklaces came from this demo, Healing Necklace 20 and 21. I’ve been lazy about adding the latest necklaces and bracelets to my site, so this blog might be the only place to see new work.
Healing Necklace 20
Healing Necklace 20
The day after the demo, we returned to enjoy the Jazz Festival and tour the buildings. They have done a wonderful job setting up new displays with Shaker artifacts and information about the restoration in the 1960’s. No matter how many times I see the Center Family Dwelling I marvel at this American treasure, architectural wonder with its 3’ thick Shaker quarried limestone walls in the basement, 4 stories, 40 rooms. I learned so much about their history when I worked there. I’m evermore grateful to live on land that was blessed by them.
Center Family Dwelling at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
I am grateful to Pleasant Hill for once again giving me the opportunity to share my art with “the world”, as the Believers would say.