FEATURED ETSY SHOP - Fleur De Irk by Ira Zelickman

Gorgeous Carnelian Necklace

by Ira Zelickman

I throughly enjoyed exploring Ira's jewelry shop, FLEUR DE IRK on Etsy. This jewelry artist has some very beautiful, distinctive and elegant creations....! You really must take the time to have a peek into her shop, where you will find a wide selection of evening necklaces, bridal collection, everyday necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and more.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I really can’t say. I had this crafty itch as long as I can remember. There were different crafts along the way.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

My first seed beads came from a broken Czech necklace. The beads were black and white and I made an ornamental bracelet with wire. I was 7 at that time. It is hard to imagine this now but there were no beading books in 1970 in Moscow, so I invented different methods of beadwork myself. I use these methods to this day. It turns out many of these stitches are well-known and have a name. In much later years, I discovered internet shops with all the different materials and incorporated natural stones and pearls in my beadwork.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I love finding the best decoration for a stone. I really enjoy seeing how a beaded setting brings out the beauty of natural material.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

It would be a pomegranate. Composed of small jewel-bright seeds and fit for a most festive table.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

Ceramics. I like it as much as beadwork, and one day maybe I will be able to bring these to crafts together.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

I think there is not enough beauty in our lives, and I try to create jewelry that will make women look prettier.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Go for your heart’s desire! Don’t allow fashion trends to affect your creations too much.

Ira, it has been a real pleasure to have you on DZFANTASY as a featured artist. Your work is quite beautiful! Thanks again, for sharing your thoughts and creativity.

You can learn more about Ira and her creations by clicking on the links below.

FLEUR DE IRK WEB PAGE

DEVIANT ART

FLICKR

LIVE JOURNAL (In Russian)

IF YOU LIKE GIVEAWAYS.....YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS VISTING DZFANTASY IN NOVEMBER!!

OUT HERE ON DZFANTASY, I WILL BE HOSTING 3 OTHER ETSY ARTISTS' GIVEAWAYS STARTING ON NOVEMBER 1ST AND ENDING NOVEMBER 30TH

These artists are generously giving away some great creations!!

I'm sure you won't want to miss out on these delightful creations that are going to be offered. Be sure to stop back and enter all the giveaways.

In addition to the 3 artists listed below, I will also be doing my own giveaways...so it should be a fun time for all!! Just in time for Christmas giving!!

SID'S IN STITCHES

This is Sid's In Stitches 2nd Giveaway on DZFANTASY....her 1st was VERY popular, so be sure to stop back!!

ZEBA

Just a hint...Zeba's giveaway is truly delightful, whimsical and fun!! You won't want to miss the opportunity to win this giveaway!

LULU DESIGN

LU LU DESIGN will be offering the winner a "choice" in what prize they would like to receive!! Both are great!!

Of course, there is no reason why you can't take a look at their shops now!! Hope to have you all come back in November!!

FEATURED ETSY ARTIST - ALISON KELLEY DESIGNS

WELCOME, Alison of ALISON KELLEY DESIGNS!! If you love unique, beautiful jewelry, be sure to visit ALISON KELLEY DESIGNS on Etsy! I'm happy to have Alison out here as a featured artist on DZFANTASY! Below, Alison will share a bit of herself, and her thoughts on what makes her "tick" as a person and a jewelry artist.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I have been making jewelry for over 16 years. It wasn't until my mom inspired me to make a necklace for her in the summer of 2006 that got me motivated and excited about making jewelry again. It had been a while since I had made something for myself too, so I made a necklace for my mom as well as an identical one for myself. I was so happy making it, and with the results that I just couldn't stop myself from making more. Before I knew it I had friends coming over to look at my new jewelry designs, so after their overwhelming feedback this ‘hobby’ soon became Alison Kelley Designs and a full-time business.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

I've always loved beads and it was natural for me to go back to making jewelry with them. My favorite materials are Sterling Silver, Copper, Gemstone Beads, Pearls, Swarovski Crystals, Natural Beads, Shell Beads and Glass Beads.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

Jewelry making is truly my passion. I enjoy every aspect of it. Getting an idea in my mind, sometimes even in my dreams. I imagine the piece already made. and then going through the process of putting my design together step by step is invigorating. Once my creation is complete I can't help but be so proud. Maybe I have that artistic need to create and in creating something it brings me happiness.

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

I would choose "fruit". Not only do I love fruit, but all their color variety. Color is very important to me. It makes me feel alive and happy. Without color I would be drained of life and happiness.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your "creativity", what would that be, and why?

Painting! I used to paint a long time ago, it was relaxing and satisfying.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

My goal is to offer beautiful handcrafted pieces of jewelry that are as unique as they are beautiful. Handmade is a forgotten art to many, showing the importance of it is an endless journey. I myself lost that for a while. After having three children and living in such a busy world, it is easy to forget the beauty of making something yourself or cherishing another person's creations.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Be true to yourself and your art. Don't let the busy world crush your creativity. Flourish it and expand it by continuously learning your art.

THANKS, Alison, for taking the time to share your thoughts and your work with all of us! I enjoyed getting to know a bit about you and how you feel about your chosen form of creativity. Keep on creating!! Below you will links to Alison's Etsy shop and other place where you can view her work. If you are looking for beautiful "bridal" jewelry, be sure to click on Alison's BRIDAL JEWELRY link below.

ALISON'S BLOG

FLICKR

ALISON KELLEY DESIGNS BRIDAL JEWELRY