Curiosity and Beauty

Light From Darkness

2011-08-24T15:26:00.000-07:00

Showing at Lustre Gallery in Nelson, NZ from September to October 2011.

Mixed media paintings by Louise Douglas inspired by the poem "The Dark Forest" by Edward Thomas. This post also features jewellery from the new Ocean Botanicals Collection. Click the link to see them in full colour.

Sprouts Grow From Darkness-NZ$185.00

The Dark Forest

by Edward Thomas
Dark is the forest and deep, and overhead
Hang stars like seeds of light
In vain, though not since they were sown was bred
Anything more bright.
And evermore mighty multitudes ride
About, nor enter in;
Of the other multitudes that dwell inside
Never yet was one seen.
The forest foxglove is purple, the marguerite
Outside is gold and white,
Nor can those that pluck either blossom greet
The others, day or night.

Sea Star Necklace-NZ$185.00

http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CN02

Night Garden-NZ$185.00

Small Gold Lace Pod Earrings-NZ$175.00

http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CE07-G

Moonlit Pods -NZ$245.00

Ocean Vine Earrings- NZ$175.00

http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CE13

Blooms- NZ$235.00

Gold Floating Lotus Necklace-NZ$175.00

http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CN03-G

Tone it down!

2011-07-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

I love bold and over-the-top jewelry! I'm thinking - the eighties, red carpet at the Oscars, a night at the opera, or Paris fashion runway.

But let's be honest, most of us rarely have the occasion to wear such pieces as the ones featured in this funky photo shoot by jeweller Vilaiwan. http://vilaiwan.com.

So, I decided match them up to some more "pared down" pieces from my brand new Ocean Botanicals Collection.... just to show how you can get a glamorous and fashionable look that still suits the scale of your wardrobe and lifestyle. Have fun accessorizing!

Sea Star Stud Earring- http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CE05

Ocean Vine Necklace- http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CN06

Leaf Lariat- http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CN04

Sea Star Necklace- http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CN02

Sea Shell Necklace - http://www.louisedouglas.com/?style=CN01

Artist in Focus-Suter Art Gallery, Nelson.NZ

2011-06-29T02:17:00.000-07:00

Nothing's Perfect

A collection of works by Louise Douglas

July 2011 - Suter Art Galley Store , Nelson . NZ

In a world where we are taught to strive for perfection, I am drawn to the beauty in things imperfect, impermanent and incomplete.

A fallen leaf eroded by the elements.

An abandoned sea-pod casing holding remnants of ocean treasure.

The colours and textures of decay.

The marks and layering of growth.

Damaged and worn yet delicate and curiously attractive.

While nature's duality with perfection and imperfection fascinates me, in this work I also encourage the viewer to challenge their own expectations of perfection and to discover how it relates to their personal perception of beauty.

From the words of Salvador Dali "Have no fear of perfection - you'll never reach it."

My passion for working in metal through fabrication, embellishment, mark making, scratching and removing allows me to investigate those issues relative to a sense of beauty. This is what drives the focus of my work.

Chilling out in Raglan....

2011-04-08T01:44:00.000-07:00

Introducing Raglan...one of New Zealand's top surfing and holiday destinations!

This cool small town not only has world class surfing, stunning beaches and gorgeous natural surroundings, it also has a cluster of great little eating establishments and funky shops.

One such shop is the Kanuka Design Gallery and it's one of my newest retailers. Kaunka Gallery has an eclectic array of New Zealand art, jewellery and collectables. http://www.kanukadesign.co.nz

Here is a selection of Raglan images, my jewellery and a few photos taken on a holiday about two years ago. That is my son popping out of the Teepee. Now that is a perfect way to chill out in Raglan!

Inside Kanuka Design Gallery

For more information about the great little town of Raglan go to http://www.raglan.net.nz

How to pick the perfect earrings for your face shape.

2011-02-20T23:57:00.000-08:00

Large earrings are a big trend right now, but I often find people aren't always sure what kind of earring is best for them. Here are a few tips on how to pick the right earrings to flatter and frame your particular face shape.

I have paired my design choices alongside these cool illustrations by http://peggywolf.com.

1. If your face is round, it’s better for you to choose long or angular earrings to pull the eye down. Drop earrings would look amazing on you while also making a stylish statement. Try to stay away from wide earrings like big hoops to avoid the appearance of a bulky face.

2. If you have an oval face, you’re incredibly lucky in the earring world. An oval face can carry a bunch of different styles. These earrings would be my pick.

3. With a heart shaped face, lean towards shapes that expand at the bottom. Earrings that start off thin and get wider as they fall are ideal for your face shape. A simple teardrop shape would be perfect for everyday wear or try these for a more dramatic look.

4. If you have a square jaw line, your face is made to carry beautiful statement dangling earrings without them overpowering your features. Try, what I like to call “shoulder dusters” which are earrings that are so long they brush your shoulders. Turn up that drama and get the look with these...

5. If you face is narrow, try simple studs or wider shapes like chandelier earrings to add fullness to your face. Don’t shy away from chunky earrings as they would look great on you. Big hoops or simple studs are the way to go. Try to avoid dangling earrings that will make your face appear long. These studs are so simple and chic.

Edible jewellery picnic....say what?

2010-12-06T00:21:00.000-08:00

Are you feeling hungry? Another fun and fabulous community jewellery project in Nelson-NZ.

Local jewelers and crafters came together on this gorgeous sunny Sunday afternoon to show off their edible and wearable creations. This is a great project to do with kids too... as you can see, the skies the limit.

My marshmallow medallion and shoulder brooch.

My son finding it hard to resist.

Delicious fresh strawberry ring and edible nasturtium flower necklace.

Fabulous veggie rings and gummy bear bracelet.

Clever seven carrot ring and an edible borage flower set in marzipan-Yum!

A simple but effective radish pendent.

Cool carrot crown with a chili pepper and olive necklace.

A broad bean and red pepper necklace...matched beautifully with her dress.

Exhibition Month!

2010-11-13T23:13:00.000-08:00

November has been a big month for exhibitions!

WOW, Quoil, Pataka and Form galleries have all held exhibitions and I have been lucky enough to be invited to submit pieces for each of them.

See the posters and the examples of what will be on show at each one below! If you happen to be in one of these cities, why not check them out!

World of Wearable Arts Museum in Nelson N.Z presents:

"Klustre 2010" Oct 14th- Nov 15th

http://www.wowcars.co.nz

Poster featuring Louise Douglas Jewellery branch bangle!

Pataka Museum of Arts and Cultures in Porirua N.Z presents:

"He Kete Aroha -From The Gift Basket With Love" Nov 25- Jan16, 2010

http://www.pataka.org.nz

Form Gallery in Christchurch NZ presents:

"Wish List" 1st-31st December 2010

h ttp://www.for m.co.nz

Quoil Gallery in Wellington N.Z presents:

"Red 2010"

http://www.quoil.co.nz

Tights to new heights!

2010-08-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

I am loving the obsession with tights right now. You can cater to your own personal style and add punch to any outfit, just by putting on a great pair of stand-out tights.

You can also do the same with a unique piece of jewellery for that matter! The good thing about jewellery is you wont get an annoying run in them after a big night out on the town.

Here are few options to choose from; tights and jewellery! It's ok, you can wear both!

Calling All Bridesmaids!

2010-07-25T14:41:00.000-07:00

I was recently commissioned to make earrings for some lucky bridesmaids! It was a fun project because I was asked to design each earring style to match the girls personalities! I love the trend of tailoring the bridesmaids outfits to suit their individual style! Let's hope the days of squishing girls into the same ill fitted taffeta dress have gone!

I took the liberty of pairing each earring with some cute dresses I found out there - just to give you an idea!

By the way, if you are looking for something different for your special occasion just let me know! www.louisedouglas.com

1) The Classic Girl!

http://www.carmenmarcvalvo.com

2) The Funky Rocker Chick!

http://www.lelarose.com

3) The Natural Beauty!
http://www.trelisecooper.com

3) The Cool Trendsetter!

http://www.lelarose.com

Vanuatu Bliss!

2010-07-06T05:34:00.000-07:00

Introducing the beautiful people, colours and textures of Vanuatu!

Pandanus is a cute new store in Port Vila ,Vanuatu and it stocks a nice selection of my jewellery. Owner and fellow Kiwi; Nicola Barnes sells a great range of art, craft and jewellery at her small boutique.

I have yet to visit, but it looks like this stunning country has much to offer. Located in the South Pacific Ocean, The Republic of Vanuatu it is an island nation with a diverse culture and rich landscape. http://vanuatu.travel

I need very little excuse for a tropical holiday and I think Vanuatu could be just the ticket. So can someone please send me there right now!!!

One off earrings in blackened silver with aquamarines.

Long Leaf Lariat in mixed metal, garnets and amethysts.

Long Lace Earrings.

One off brooch with freshwater pearls, copper and silver.

Pandanus Store – Port Vila.

Just a little geography!

Seaweed

2010-06-01T00:23:00.000-07:00

I love seaweed! There are so many amazing varieties and I find it conjures up visions of mermaids and mystical sea creatures! But that's just me!

I am also loving the terrarium trend right now. Since I don't really like indoor plants and I am too lazy to look after them, this is a cool solution I could work with. Also, they have such a lovely beachy feel to them! I want to try out the mini light bulb terrarium! Instructions included for you crafty types!

Long Branch Earrings

Me with a Sea Fan in Tulum Mexico

Leaf Lariat

Beach finds!

Caviar and Sea Lace Rings

http://thehipsterho.me/2010/01/how-to-make-a-tiny-terrarium-in-a-light-bulb/

WOW!

2010-05-16T14:39:00.000-07:00

Here is another great local store stocking my work with a cool story to go along with it...

http://www.wowcars.co.nz

WOW which stands for World Of Wearable Arts was the brainchild of creative Nelson sculptor Suzie Moncrieff back in the 1980's. It started as a rural art gallery show that took off to become a world renowned international design and fashion extravaganza. (I love that word!)

To go along with the show, now held in New Zealand's capital city of Wellington they also house all the winning costumes in the fabulous WOW Museum in Nelson. I am lucky enough to show my jewellery at the WOW Museum Gallery.

Check out these amazing costumes. Just for fun I have paired some of my acessories to go with each creation!

I am going to the show for the first time this year! I can't wait!

To see more about this amazing event go to http://www.worldofwearableart.co.nz

Enjoy the visual feast!

Branching Out

2010-05-02T00:42:00.000-07:00

First, I thought I would take the opportunity to show you my packaging...

My work comes with a little fold-out care card, a cream linen pouch and a branded pillow box, all wrapped up with a pretty peach bow! My logo features a stylized branch shape which is a reoccurring theme in my collections.

Check out some of my branch pieces mixed with a few other unexpected branch style images that I really like.

Branch Bangle.

Coral Branch Pendent.

Fabulous branch light fitting by David Wiseman.

http://www.dwiseman.com

Branch and bead earrings.

Just A Bit Of Drama!

2010-04-19T02:33:00.000-07:00

Personally, I love a bit of drama. It runs in my family! Broadway, West End, dressing up, dirty martinis, lipgloss, fancy shoes, and a fabulous new accessory!

For me it is always about the earrings..long, sparkly and glamorous. But take your pick...how about these velvet chokers? They can also be wrapped on the wrist like a corsage....Or maybe some dripping layers of gold and pearl jewellery?

Don't wait for that once a year event, create a reason to dress up and start some drama now! At the very least, I never leave the house without a pair of fabulous earrings on.

From the words of a particular well known socialite..."Life is too short to blend in."

Gold Lace Drape Earring With Coral And Pearl

Special order only $310.00 (NZD)

Peacock Pearl And Velvet Choker $230.00 (NZD)

These Pearl And Velvet Chokers can also be worn wrapped on the wrist like a corsage.

$230.00-$240.00 (NZD)

An assortment of my gold and pearl pieces ready to dress up an outfit!

Or in NZ at http://www.cleverbastards.co.nz/profile/louise-douglas/11757

Soap And Silver.

2010-04-10T02:20:00.000-07:00

Continuing to highlight some of the happenings here at Louise Douglas Jewellery, let me introduce you to COR!

COR is a super cool soap and cosmetics company based in the USA. The brainchild of fellow New Zealander Jennifer McKinley, COR commissioned me to design and produce this special sterling silver and citrine necklace for them.

Evocative of their Silver Soap sitting on its soap dish, they have partnered with The Burn Institute (USA) to donate 10% of all sales from the necklace. Silver has long been used with burn victims due to its known anti-bacterial and cell regeneration properties. The rehabilitation both physical and psychological of burn victims is difficult and long. COR wanted to do their part to support The Burn Institute in their marvelous work.

To find out more about the amazing skin healing properties of the COR Silver Soap or to purchase the COR Necklace visit www.corsilver.com

The delicate necklace I designed for COR.

Jennifer from COR with one of her favorite customers.

"Paris your skin is simply glowing with COR!"

The super chic COR Soap.

The COR Necklace fetured in Newsday USA.

The necklace comes with a personalized COR logo tag. $115.00 USD

Everyone Needs Some Lustre

2010-04-01T17:57:00.000-07:00

This is the first of a series of posts I'm planing on doing. They will highlight some of the wild and wonderful stores who are now stocking my jewellery. Without them I wouldn't be following my dream- creating jewellery for a living. I am so grateful to them.

So here is my first New Zealand store "Lustre" located in my newly adopted home town of Nelson.

Ok, now this is no ordinary jewellery store. Lustre also works as the studio for the owners; husband and wife team Peter Elsbury and Zoe Buchanan. Anyone can rent bench space at this fabulous little store and try their hand at jewellery making under the warm and watchful eyes of the talented owners. It is a hive of activity with locals and travelers popping in to see the work by the local and talented artisans. So, don't come to Nelson without stopping by Lustre Gallery. Say hi to Pete, Zoe and their delightful shop dog Honey from me. They will take great care of you!

The iconic Lustre Contemporary Jewellery Workshop and Galley.

Inside the shop... warm and inviting!

Lustre details.

Zoe hard at work in the workshop.

Silver and Paua shell brooch from the Pacific series by Peter.

http://www.elsbury.ne t

Brooch "Mother" from the Everything Changed series by Zoe.

http://www.zoebuchanan.co.nz

Brooch "Lover " from the Everything Changed series by Zoe.

http://www.zoebuchanan.co.nz

My jewellery display currently in the shop window.

Ms Honey, the faithful shop dog. She works for biscuits!

Back To The Bench...

2010-03-30T21:45:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been tying to find time to design my next collection. It has been a little challenging to get back into it as I juggle other aspects of my business. These next three photos sum up how I feel as I sift through my ideas and get back to a creative space. A little manic I guess! I also just thought they were pretty cool images to share with you.

(Some cute little elves to help would be really nice.)

(The only way I can sleep when I'm designing.)

(Oh, the creative angst.)

My trusty jewelers bench. Yes it usually is this disorganized!

Some results! Sketches, old illustrations, found objets and my new wax model carvings.

Some objects I keep around my studio for inspiration.

More design progress to be continued....

Going Green

2010-02-27T01:46:00.000-08:00

From the words of Kermit The Frog "It's not easy being green" but I can't help it, cool green things keep popping up all over the place. Here are a few of my most recent picks. PS- Don't forget to recycle!

Necklace made from recycled plastic bottles.

Keeping it green with Mary Louise Parker! I love this image.

Two Vintage green landscapes found at the local Nelson flea market. Classic!

Green Emerald earrings by Anna Hu.

http://www.anna-hu.com

The local Nelson Botanical Gardens.

Green leaf butterfly worn very proudly by a certain 4 year old. Made by Mum.

Gorgeous felt bib necklace by Giia.

http://www.kabiri.co.uk/jewellery-1/necklaces/jimmy-hex-bib-necklace.html

Upcycled chairs using old landscape pictures ... loving these!

Some of my own wearable green treasures. Look out for these styles next season.

Light As A Rock- Heavy As A Feather

2010-02-16T23:45:00.000-08:00

Another old favorite tear-sheet inspires my hunt for feathered delights. In contrast, these rocks have also been calling to me. I love the idea of a softened incased rock shape. It's like they hold something magical. In the last example, it's the promise of a clean hands!!

http://www.balmain.com

(I noticed that guy in the background appears to be biting her bottom!)

Lovely feather hoop Earrings by Alex Munroe.

http://www.alexmonroe.com

Masterpieces by the late Mr McQueen.

Plastic Feather like lighting.

Lovely crochet covered rocks.

John Iversen stunning jewels.

Cool felt covered soaps.

A selection of my pebble like rings.

Get hammered...

2010-01-20T00:11:00.000-08:00

I have always been a fan of a hammered or faceted texture- it is organic, tough and edgy.

Now throw some chain in there and it's rock'n roll baby!

NEWS FLASH: I've been blogged again!

Check it out.. http://carlotta-wwwsplendor.blogspot.com/2010/01/louise-douglas.html

One of my gold plated spike necklaces on leather.

Simple wooden necklace by Stephanie Renee.

http://www.doreshandmade.blogspot.com/

Bronze vase by the very talented sculptor David Wiseman.

http://www.dwiseman.com

I love these handmade wooden blocks. Balance them how you wish and get in the zone!

http://www.zenblocks.com

My one-of-a-kind hammered dog collar with rabbit fur trim.

These make me want to wear Docs again!

Dr. Martens by Subversive Jewelry http://www.subversivejewelry.com

Black and White

2010-01-03T00:09:00.000-08:00

Contrast, texture, black, white and always organic!!

Another favorite image from a Japanese fashion Magazine.

One-of-a-kind pendent made by me. (sold)

Great shoes by Danish designer Camilla Skovgaard. Check out her other great styles...

http://www.camillaskovgaard.com

One-of-a-kind sea drift pin made by me. (sold)

"Days Measured"
Slip cast and hand built in porcelain. By ceramic artist Honor Freeman, Australia.

I thought this was a good title as we say goodbye to another year. I also have a 'thing' with cracks in my bars of soap, I have to throw them out when it happens! So here's to The New Year, and endeavoring to accept the little imperfections life brings us. Happy New Year!

Silver Sea Lace Cuff with fresh water pearls. From my current collection.

Another sixties text book illustration.

Wings and Words

2009-12-13T00:39:00.000-08:00

I spent the day gardening today. This is a relatively new challenge for me since I have previously, for the last fifteen years, lived in city apartments!

Anyway, a perfect monarch butterfly flew by me during mulching and told me to get on to writing my entry on wings! I also came across this quote in a favorite book this week. Must be another sign!

I Dreamt I was a butterfly, flitting around in the sky;

then I awoke. Now I wonder: Am I a man who dreamt of

being a butterfly, or am I a butterfly dreaming that I am a man?

-Chuang Tsu

Ms Knowles looking fierce!

Australian butterflies.

Stunning butterfly necklace by http://www.jeaninepayer.com

The inscription reads...

Dance when you’re broken open...

Dance when you’re perfectly free.

Your deepest presence is in every small

contracting and expanding.

-Rumi, trans. by Coleman Barks

Beautiful butterfly greeting card by my dear and uber talented friend Masha D'Yans.

http://www.masha.com

Necklace made with a real wing by Judy Hudson.

More Australian beauties.

Amazing winged lighting by designer Bodo Sperlein. http://www.bodosperlein.com

My own winged creations, inspired by cicada wings.

Pretty Things.

2009-12-01T23:34:00.000-08:00

I'm not a huge fan of roses in general....but these pictures came up when I was looking through the hundreds of old tear sheets I used to collect when I designed for fashion companies. How pretty are these shots? I love the light and muted colour.

So, what to go along with these two lovely photos? Some inspired and pretty accessories -ofcourse!

A one-of-a-kind beaded open ring by yours truly.

Watermelon tourmalines with green CZ centre.

Rose prison earrings by Penelope Barnhill http://penelopebarnhill.co.nz

http://www.lizziefortunatojewels.com

Jellies

2009-11-25T17:34:00.000-08:00

I love the look of Jellyfish, but apparently they are doing terrible things to the ocean.

They can survive and multiply anywhere and eat anything good in their way!

Yet, there is still something so mysterious about them ... so much so, they inspired a pair of my earrings!

Check out the giant ones found off the coast of Japan- Eeeek!

NEWS FLASH- I've been blogged! Check it out!

http://www.studiohomecreative.com/2009/11/born-of-sea.html

Lantern Earrings Red $275 (NZ)

http://www.cleverbastards.co.nz/the-store/louise-douglas/11757/lantern-earrings/11803

Lantern Earrings Gold And White.

Flower Power

2009-11-21T02:09:00.000-08:00

Proteas are my kind of flowers: robust, saturated in colour and a little bit freaky. They have a very old world quality and last forever- with or without water! Did I mention they get macadamia nuts from the same plant? Cool! Some of you may never have experienced the joy of these amazing flowers as they are mostly found in the southern hemisphere. I found these guys at the Lyttelton farmers market near Christchurch.

So again, here is some fashion and jewellery inspiration from natures bounty!

Protea Cocktail Ring http://www.meadowlark.co.nz

... and from the master Issey Miyake. You know he must like flowers! http://www.isseymiyake.co.jp

I'm thinking Zac Posen could be partial to some floral inspiration himself ! http://www.zacposen.com

The scientific breakdown!

***

A few of my one-of-a-kind pieces.

Chicken!

2009-11-18T00:13:00.000-08:00

I found these lovely feathered beauties at an agricultural show last weekend.

(aka-The Christchurch A&P show-classic!)

These proud boys become the inspiration for my latest finds. So join me and tap into your own inner chicken!

I am a big fan of these cool indie designers. Here is their latest look for Holiday. Cluck cluck!

http://www.prairieunderground.com

Renowned homeware and jewellery designers from Sydney, Australia!

Resin feather bangle and necklace by- http://www.dinosaurdesigns.com.au

Desert flower choker. hematite, oxidized sterling silver, silk. by Mona Wallstom

Take A Number!

2009-11-10T11:59:00.000-08:00

So, now for a little local action... A great jewellery event called "Skate" was held in this fabulous old hall in Nelson, NZ. The premiss was to make an installation with a chair, a music box and some jewellery. Oh, and then to roller-skate around it.

Mad but fun! Check out some of the exhibits by the talented local jewellers!

My piece consisted of three numbered key chains made from old game chips.

The numbers representing generations ..a tribute to my late Grandmother.

Stella Chrysostomou made nori seaweed rings, good enough to eat! www.icebox.org.nz

Kay Van Dyk went retro with little charms in a kiddie music-box! http://kayvandyk.co.nz

Now for some other number embellished goodies....

This bling watch is totally fly by Chronovski. http://www.chronovski.com

I love this numbered work by friend, Christopher Jagmin. He has a great collection of dinnerware and art work. Pick your favorite number and take a seat! http://www.christopherjagmin.com

Tentacles

2009-11-03T23:57:00.000-08:00

For years this has been one of my favorite fashion images. Actually, no real fashion involved, just a watch and the well placed octopi! Continuing the theme, some other interesting tentacle like creations!

Black Mesh Necklace by Pade Vavra http://www.padevavra.com

Necklace and brooch by Natalya Pinchuk http://www.natalyapinchuk.com

Image from "Life Nature Library" Textbook 1963

Convergence

2009-11-01T01:37:00.001-07:00

This is a series of one-of-a-kind pieces that I created some years back with fellow jeweler and friend Nicole Gagne. I still continue to draw inspiration from these works.

To check out Nicole's jewellery: http://www.leoworks.com

‘As in many collaborations between two artists, each individual taps into ideas and thoughts that had been laying dormant in the other. These pieces of oneself were always there, but in need of a second person to draw them out. This creative process evolved into a layering of ideas, which, in turn, translated into integral layers in this series of necklaces. Each component is a separate entity, yet the whole piece is assembled so that each layer gently shelters the next. Although the works are not true narratives, they are intended to evoke feelings of sentimentality, to involve the wearer, and to encourage them to discover a meaning of their own.’

A Little Bit Creepy

2009-10-31T12:05:00.000-07:00

A few slightly creepy things for the Halloween season.

Liv Blavarp http://www.charonkransenarts.com

Trapped Corn by Rachel Douglas

Mijam Hiller http://www.charonkransenarts.com

Amazing Kiwi Jeweller Octavia Cook.

http://www.fingers.co.nz

Inspirational Insects

2009-10-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

Gabriella Kiss, (one of my all-time favorite jewelers) uses the same technique as I do create her beautifully delicate pieces.

The grasshopper pin begins jewelry life in wax, which is then painstakingly hand carved by the artist.

See more of her stunning work... http://www.quadrumgallery.com

http://patchny.com These guys love bugs too, here is your very own to cuddle up to!

Love of bugs runs in the family. I loved them as a kid too. When all the other girls were running away, I was picking them up and making friends!

Nautilus Shell

2009-10-30T01:43:00.000-07:00

"Having survived relatively unchanged for millions of years, nautiluses are often considered to be living fossils."

I have always been enamored with this shape. I think it is partly due to the influence of the Koru spiral shape from Maori culture, mixed with my love of anything ocean. The spiral (Koru) shape represents the concept of always growing and reinventing.

"The circular shape of the Koru helps to convey the idea of perpeptual movement while the inner coil suggests a return to the point of origin." Love it!