As I look through all the notes I took during the art show, and reminisce about all the inspiring pieces I saw, I realize how hard it is to narrow it down to just one favorite! I said I would write about one artist for each day this week, but that is just way too much pressure! Instead, I thought I would divide them into mediums, and focus on two or three artists from each. Today I have chosen to focus on jewelry design. The first booth that really caught my eye when I first walked in was that of JacQueline Sanchez. She chose to mimic LEGO’s and has turned them into a fashion statement with her Forever Young signature collection. I love silver jewelry and vibrant colors. Add a small diamond into the mix and it was love at first sight! I admire the simplicity of this collection. They appear very durable and clean. All of the art at the show was way out of my price range. If I could have afforded to buy one piece, I would have splurged for something from JacQuelines latest collection. She also had some other pieces on display, from other collections. You can see them all on her website if you go to www.jacquelinesanchez.com. Her story about how she became a jewelry designer is quite fascinating!

Another designer who fascinated me was Karen Gilbert. In comparison to Sanchez, I would say that her work is at the other end of the spectrum. Gilbert pulls her inspiration from things she has observed in nature and in science; under a microscope. She chose to lay all of her pieces flat, on top of large white sheets of paper. This simple presentation helped to accentuate the detail of each piece. Compilations of clear glass and thin bead clusters were paired together in her work. In order to gain full respect for her work, you really need to see it in person! She designs special pieces for her exhibits that are not viewable on her website. Check out some pieces from her collection as well as some sculptures, on  www.karengilbert.com.

What an unconditional sense of pride I felt as I walked through the rows of the art show. With every booth I passed, I became more aware of the energy that surrounded me. I could not contain the urge to smile! All around me, I observed art at it’s finest! Amazing people who have spent their lives perfecting a skill that they finally had something to show for! Whether it be fashion, woodwork, metal making, glass blowing, painting or pottery; every medium of art that was present, took years to master and perfect. I was very impressed with how everyone chose to present their art. Each booth was different, however, the “exhibition style” presentation allowed each piece that was chosen for display, to shine and aw every passing observer. Every detail was taken into account. Some pieces were encased in glass, others were mounted on walls. The lighting seemed to play a big factor. I was also impressed by the variety of business cards and post cards each artist designed. I collected all of my favorites so that I could be sure to visit their websites.

This week, I will blog about my favorite artists whose work I was most impressed by at the art show. Stay tuned, each day I will feature someone new!

Every year, a group of talented artists come to Baltimore to showcase their creations. They come from over 700 countries to join together all under one roof for the American Craft Council Show! This is the most impressive display that I have ever had the opportunity to walk through. The Baltimore Convention Center itself is an expansive and architecturally magnifincent  building. If you live near Baltimore, I would highly recommend that you check out this event. Doors open on Friday, February 27th, 10am - 9pm, and goes until Sunday. Details about Exibitors attending this event, parking and directions, can be found on either website link posted above.