AussieJules

Find me on Facebook!

2011-06-20T15:22:00.003+09:30

I have decided to stop blogging for a while, and start updating Facebook more regularly.

Find me on Facebook via this link: www.facebook.com/AussieJulesFB

I'll let you know what markets I am doing, exhibitions that are coming up, new beads and jewellery and anything else I might find interesting!

Jules

Continuing from last week....

2011-06-06T15:19:00.002+09:30

I sometimes think that it can be harder to be creative these days when there is so much inspiration all around us. The internet is filled with images that can help get the creative juices flowing. You can buy more than one book on any topic that you are interested in. I go to the library a lot and borrow books, but I also have a serious addiction to buying books too. Magazines, magazines, magazines. And then there is walking into a shop and looking at what is deemed "on trend". I am not sure if it makes me feel more creative or less creative to be honest! I get a bit of stage fright. I hope that whatever inspiration goes into my mind and stews in there for a while, that whatever comes out is MY WORK!

Down Time

2011-05-29T13:14:00.002+09:30

Sometimes you need some down time to generate new ideas, new directions, new energy. I've had a bit of down time lately, it's been a chance for me to do some other things, like sewing, crocheting, and reading, things I don't ever really seem to have the time to do. It's also nearly winter, and I find winter a really hard season to get through! So, I've let myself have some time off in order to generate some renewed enthusiasm for everything! It's been a good chance to think about what I'm doing, where I want to go with everything.

I don't know all the things that are going to change right now! I guess it's not a short-term process, but a continual process of evolution. For now, I'm reading tutorials on making beads, trying out new techniques, looking at jewellery differently, thinking about different materials. It's hard sometimes to try new things, but I am trying new things, and I'll show you what happens when I'm happy with it!!

Green Depression Glass

2011-05-23T18:16:00.003+09:30

My adventure into making recycled glass beads started with Green Depression Glass for SALA in 2009. Since then I've recycled all sorts of objects from wine bottles, beer bottles, old vases, and windows. But I keep coming back to the Green Depression Glass. It makes the prettiest beads, the colour is amazing, the clarity of the glass is nearly always perfect too.

For SALA 2011 (August 5 to 28) I am going back to where it all started with Green Depression Glass. I am making a variety of jewellery with different embellishments. Here is a sneak peak of one of the pieces.

Happy Mothers Day

2011-05-06T11:48:00.003+09:30

I remember my first Mother's Day, I was even more excited than on my birthday! I was so happy to be spending the day with my little girl Ciara, and my partner Nick.

This year will be my 3rd Mother's Day, and it won't be quite the same as the first one, as I'll be working at the markets, but it will still be wonderful, a chance to reflect on what being a mum means to me! And a chance for me to get spoiled (hopefully)!!

I love being a mum, it is an awesome responsibility. It certainly doesn't get any easier, the challenges just change! There are days when I wish that all I had to do was to be a mum! But, that is not the case, I am also running a small business, running the household, and trying to find time for other creative things like sewing and crocheting. Some days it's hard to find "Jules-time"!

I did get time to make a selection of one-off pieces to celebrate Mothers Day at Tarts (Gays Arcade). A couple of the pieces have already sold, but here is a photo I took of one of the necklaces that is left. It is coral mixed in with some of my handmade glass beads. Very different from my usual work!

Happy Mothers Day to my mum!

Exhibitions....are they worth all the effort??

2011-04-29T18:19:00.005+09:30

My first ever solo exhibition (if you could really call it that), was in 2008 for South Australian Living Artist Month (SALA) when I had several glass cabinets in the Mitcham Civic Centre. I literally spent hours and hours getting ready for that exhibition (concept, design, making beads, making jewellery, promoting etc), and all for about $200 worth of sales at the event! (Although eventually all the pieces have sold).

It was so much work, and I had to question...was it worth the effort?

Well since then, I have done lots and lots and lots of exhibitions, both solo and as part of a group, and I have to say....it is definitely worth the effort!!! The exhibition deadline forces you to come up with a new idea, new beads, new jewellery, and hopefully shows your work to a whole new audience (depending on where you exhibit).

The picture I have posted is of a necklace that I made as a result of my SALA exhibition at The Bead Tree last year, where I made lots of these little star beads. And I had lots of them left over! No one knew how to use them, so one day I sat down and strung them all together, and they looked great! I wore that necklace, got lots of compliments on it, made some more in different colours, and continue to make them as people seem to really like them!

I am currently brainstorming ideas for SALA 2011 to be held in August. I am wondering, where should I exhibit? Definitely somewhere new, somewhere different! With some new work, that goes without saying. But where....I need to decide this week!! Stay tuned.

Market Square Adelaide

2011-04-23T15:41:00.005+09:30

When Rundle Street Market closed earlier this year, it gave me a chance to think about whether or not I wanted to do markets any more, or whether I wanted to concentrate on galleries and shops. At that stage there were no other markets in Adelaide for me to go to really. I've done the suburban markets in the past, and while they are OK, they are not a sustainable proposition for me in the long term. That's why I stayed at Rundle Street from the very first day of trading, because given the good and the bad times down there, it was a viable market for me.

So, it was a turbulent time, wondering what I would do with myself. And then along came Market Square Adelaide. A brand new outdoor city market, located in Hindmarsh Square. We had our first ever day of trade last Sunday, and it was actually pretty good. The atmosphere was great, it was perfect for families venturing out, and there were lots of really good stalls there too. I think the organisers did a great job in starting this market up.

I love doing markets for so many reasons (more than just the financial reasons)! I love the customer feedback on my product, the opportunities people give me as they order new things from me, the opportunity to make things "just right" for everyone. Like that bracelet, but need it shorter, no worries. Like those earrings, but want them in red, can do it!

If you're looking for me at a market, this is where I'll be!

More Components

2011-04-15T07:37:00.003+09:30

So I went to the markets with a lot of component jewellery for sale. I had gone a bit crazy making them, but I just loved them. I arranged them on the table so people could see they could buy them as a complete set, or as two separate components. I wasn't sure what people would want/like/buy, so I opted to try a bit of both.

It was really interesting to see the response to the pieces. Mostly people loved the idea, so that was great. But the thing I wasn't expecting was to see people putting this set, with another set, and to start combining the sets. This is what I love about the markets! I get to see for myself what people want from their jewellery. It made me think a bit more about a lot of things: how to display, how to sell, how to "upsell", how to make them so they will all switch around (needed consistent clasps). Overall a valuable marketing experience, and I was so happy to also sell a few pieces too.

More pictures of available pieces (the red set in the post below has sold).

Component Jewellery

2011-04-09T08:33:00.003+09:30

Doesn't everyone want more value for their money these days? I put that thought into my recent jewellery creation - Component Jewellery. It was an interesting process. I started thinking, if I joined 2 bracelets together I could get a necklace. I made one of the bracelets longer than the other, which made it wearable as both a bracelet (doubled), and a necklace. So with 2 components you are getting "a bracelet + a bracelet = a necklace + a necklace"! Pictures below:

Wine and Beer Bottle Bead Jewellery

2011-03-31T21:43:00.005+10:30

I recently started thinking about how I could make my art more carbon neutral. I use energy from green sources at home, but was thinking about other ways of reducing my carbon footprint. It led me to start using recycled glass. I made some beads from a broken Depression Glass jug to begin with and the result was really pretty beads. I continued my search for unusual glass sources, and found old beer bottles, champagne bottles, and other glass objects all made really pretty beads. People are now starting to give me their broken glass, and asking me to make beads and jewellery for them. It's a nice way of turning something that might be thrown away into a beautiful keepsake, an heirloom for tomorrow! I would love to make beads for you from the champagne bottle that you drank when you got engaged, or the wine you drank at your wedding. I have a variety of different styles of beads and jewellery that I can make, and I am happy to help you pick something that will work for you, to create a keepsake from a great memory that you have.

Banrock Station Wine Bottle Jewellery (etched)

Banrock Station Wine Bottle Jewellery (shiny)

Coopers Pale Ale Jewellery (shiny)

Ninja Princess

2011-03-12T15:26:00.006+10:30

Sometimes things just happen, without planning, without a huge amount of thought! That is exactly how the Ninja Princess necklaces came about. Last year I made a lot of little star beads, really too many! And people liked them, but couldn't quite work out what to do with them. I had a LOT of beads leftover! I didn't really know what to do with them either, but one day while I was sitting down with all of my beads, I just decided to string them all up and see if it would make a nice necklace. It did! And it's very funky. I have been wearing it a lot, and every time i wear it out I get complimented on the necklace. Then one day someone asked if I was planning to make any more. I certainly wasn't planning to, but I decided to make some more in various colours. And here is the result...the Ninja Princess series, because the beads remind me of little ninja stars!

101 Earrings - update

2011-02-19T09:24:00.001+10:30

"101 Earrings" is all set up in Adelaide Arcade. The display case is the one nearest the Grenfell Street Entrance.

I was going to have a competition to give away the "people's choice" pair of earrings. However, my voting box was stolen last night (can you believe it)! If you still feel like giving me feedback, please feel free to email or add a post to Facebook or comment on this blog.

Facebook

2011-02-15T11:38:00.002+10:30

AussieJules is on Facebook!

I have set up a Facebook page for my business. I'm going to use that to keep in touch with everyone about exhibitions and competitions that I'll be having.

Click "Like" when you get there to keep in touch with what's going on.

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=lf#!/pages/AussieJules/178166808893933?sk=wall

101 Earrings

2011-02-14T10:43:00.003+10:30

Last year I set myself a challenge of creating a pair of earrings every day until just before the Fringe started with the idea of exhibiting the result during the Fringe. (Deadlines do wonders for my creativity)!

Things did not quite go according to plan, I didn't make a pair of earrings every day, but I did make 101 pairs of earrings! You can see my exhibition starting Friday February 18. It's going to be in the display cabinet in Adelaide Arcade, near the Grenfell Street end of the Arcade.

I'm also having a competition as part of this exhibition, it's a way of getting some feedback on the earrings I have made. Basically, you just need to work out your favourite pair of earrings, provide some details on a business card, or on the invitation, and post it in the box. The favourite pair of earrings, as voted by everyone, will be given away to one lucky person!

I'll also have a few limited edition pairs of earrings available for sale from Shop 135 upstairs in Adelaide Arcade. My brother is having an exhibition upstairs, and he will be selling some of my work for me. Thanks bro!

Can't wait to set up now, but in the mean time, here is a sneak peak at some of the earrings I have made.

SALA - South Australian Living Artists Month

2010-07-27T12:22:00.002+09:30

I'm excited to announce that I'll have new work in two exhibitions for SALA this year.

1. Glenelg Art Gallery (55 Jetty Road, Glenelg) - the theme for this was "SALA by the Seaside", so I have created several different ocean inspired jewellery stories! Necklaces, bracelets, earrings in each. It's a lovely collection. Opening Sunday August 1 at 2.00pm.

2. The Bead Tree (Semaphore Road, Semaphore) - the theme for this was "Beadelicious" and I have made lots and lots of yummy little beads! I'm selling finished jewellery as well as the beads. It's really bright and colourful and scrumptious work!

The exhibitions run from July 30 to August 22. Hope to see you there!

Jules

New work at T'Arts

2010-06-17T22:00:00.003+09:30

A couple of weeks ago I put some new work in a mini-exhibition at T'Arts (Gays Arcade, Adelaide). It's all new beads and jewellery, some of it quite different for me. Here are some photos of the beads. You'll have to go to T'Arts to see the jewellery (sneaky)!

Where has the year gone?

2010-04-22T16:12:00.002+09:30

It's going so quickly! I've had my Red/Black/White exhibition at Lustre Galleries, and that went fairly well. Sold several pieces, which made me happy! Got lots of nice feedback on the work. There are still pieces for sale at Lustre Galleries, pop in and see Christine if you're interested.

Then, there was Bowerbird Bazaar. That was a long weekend a while ago now. It was pretty good too. Lots of beautiful designer made work there. I wish I'd had more time to explore it all.

I've also spent a bit of time looking after my big brother. He's been going through various treatments for cancer that left him pretty depleted, so he stayed with us for a month while he finished the treatments and got back on track. Now, he definitely seems to be back on the right track, and he's moved back to his place, and is doing really well.

Stay tuned, I'll have more interesting things happening in May!

Jules

What's Black and White and Red all over?

2010-02-22T22:09:00.002+10:30

The Fringe exhibition that I am part of!

It's being held at Lustre Galleries, 18 Peel Street, Adelaide. You can visit Wednesday to Sunday from around midday til 6.00pm.

As you can guess my work is all black and white and red beads, and I struggle to find a favourite, they are all really nice! I'd wear all of them! Luckily for me there were some leftover beads that I made into a necklace. Here's a piccie of that piece.

David Innocente has beautiful boxes for sale, and Shelley Richards has stunning stencil art there too.

Hope you can make it to the exhibition.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T15:21:00.005+10:30

2009 was a really wonderful year for me. First and most important - I became a mum! What a learning curve that has been! Creatively, I had a successful SALA exhibition, came second in the Jam Factory Contemporary Craft and Design Award, and continued to have good sales in various galleries and at the markets. Every day I am thankful that I am able to live a creative life at home with my gorgeous girl.

2010 is shaping up to be another wonderful year with exhibitions planned for Fringe and SALA, and some other things warming up here and there in between! I'll keep you posted.

To everyone who has supported me in the past, I thank you very much!

Happy New Year,
Jules

Jam Factory

2009-11-13T02:28:00.002+10:30

During SALA I entered the Jam Factory Contemporary Craft and Design Award, and won second prize. That prize was to have my jewellery for sale at the Jam Facotry. I'm excited to announce that my jewellery is now for sale at the Jam Factory in Adelaide. There are pieces in both the Morphett Street and Rundle Plaza stores. I've used both recycled glass and Italian glass in my jewellery, and it's all turned out really beautiful. Just in time for Christmas!

Bowerbird Bazaar

2009-10-02T15:03:00.004+09:30

Only 1 week until Bowerbird Bazaar hits Adelaide! It's going to be a fantastic opportunity for people to find quality (trust me, this will be quality), handmade items just in time for Christmas!! Get your lists ready, I am sure you will find everything you need right here.

Its open to the public Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 October. From 10am til 5pm. At the Queens Theatre, Playhouse Lane, Adelaide.

http://www.bowerbirdbazaar.com.au/ for more information.

Just busy....

2009-09-22T19:49:00.002+09:30

Yep, it's just been a busy time. We're back at the Rundle Street Markets every Sunday, and that has been keeping me busy, along with everything else! It was a slow start for us, but the last couple of weeks have been fantastic. Lots of tourists in Adelaide, which is great.

Do you like my new photo? It's one of my new necklace designs, and it is proving to be a winner. I love wearing it when I can. Ciara thinks it's a rattle, so I don't get to wear it very often, but it's a stunning piece, and gets lots of compliments. I'm really excited about it. Can't wait to see where it leads me, I know there's lots of room for playing with this design.

That's all for now,
Jules

Update...exciting news...

2009-08-25T22:59:00.005+09:30

OK, I just had to share some exciting news with everyone. Last week I found out that I was a finalist in the Jam Factory Contemporary Craft and Design Awards for my SALA "Anti-Depression Glass" exhibition. Nick, Ciara, Mum, David and I attended the awards ceremony and it was a really great night. I didn't win the award, but they created a second prize to acknowledge my work, which was awesome. And they have invited me to put my work in their retail gallery. Really looking forward to that! It has been one of my goals to have my work in the Jam Factory, and I knew it was going to be a long term goal, and I am so pleased to be on my way there now. Here are some more photographs of the work I did for that exhibition:

These beads are made from a Banrock Station Wine Bottle!

This necklace features beads made from a Green Depression Glass Jug.

Anti-Depression Glass Exhibition - Officially Opened!

2009-08-11T17:43:00.004+09:30

Thanks to everyone who came along to celebrate the opening of Anti-Depression Glass at Lustre Galleries on Sunday. It was a great afternoon, with lots of people attending. If you couldn't make it to the opening, then I hope you will be able to get to the exhibition at some stage. Lustre Galleries is located at 18 Peel Street, off Hindley Street in the city. Open Wednesday to Sunday from around midday to six pm.

Here are some more photos of jewellery in the exhibition:

Green Depression Glass Earrings:

Necklace made from an old Southern Comfort Bottle:

Necklace made from a set of 6 Harlequin Glasses:

Thanks,
Jules

Sneak Preview!

2009-08-02T21:00:00.003+09:30

My "Anti-Depression Glass" exhibition is ready to go! The official launch is Sunday August 9 at 2.30pm. I am doing an Artist Talk at 2.00pm where I'll have video footage of me making the beads. Should be very interesting.

I have made beads using Carnival Glass, Harlequin Glass, Green Depression Glass, Pink Depression Glass, Beer Bottles, Wine Bottle, and a Southern Comfort Bottle!

Below is a sneak preview of a necklace I made using Pink Depression Glass. I have etched the beads, and they really glow. It's a beautiful piece.

Wish me luck,

Jules

Bliss Birds and Flowers!

2009-07-27T21:52:00.003+09:30

The title of another SALA exhibition that I am involved in. This time it's a group exhibition, and I am one of the artists. There are also other wonderful artists exhibiting, including painters and tea cosy makers!

Exhibition dates are August 7 til 23.

Location: Bliss Organic Cafe
Address: 9 Compton Street, Adelaide (near Central Markets)
Open: Thurs, Fri, Sat 10am til 4pm. Fri 6pm til 9pm.

Bliss is a funky, groovy, relaxed cafe serving organic food. I am exhibiting funky, groovy flower brooches, bird necklaces and bracelets, Kandinsky necklaces, bracelets and rings. All sorts of wonderfully delicious colour combinations!

Bon Apetit!

Anti-Depression Glass Exhibition

2009-07-23T07:22:00.002+09:30

My solo exhibition for SALA is all about using old glass to make new beads and jewellery! I've used Depression Glass from the 1930's, old beer and wine bottles, Harlequin Glass from the 1950's, Carnival Glass from the 1960's etc. It has been really interesting to research the different types of glass, and to make them into something new and useable!

When: August 7 to 23

Where: Lustre Galleries, 18 Peel Street, Adelaide

Times: Wednesday to Sunday 11.30 til 6.00pm

Artist Talk: Sunday August 9 at 2.00pm

Opening: Sunday August 9 at 2.30pm

Hope you can make it!

This photo is of a necklace that I made from a Green Depression Glass Jug!!

Dot beads...

2009-07-19T22:37:00.003+09:30

What can I say? I love dotty beads! This week, I played with dotty beads, and had lots of fun. I think it's my zen place! I love making dotty beads, and I love looking at dotty beads.

Anyway, these dotty beads have the different dot colours spiralled around the bead. It's probably not my best ever effort, but it was fun, and it was something I hadn't done before, so I just scraped in on my challenge!

I have to confess to being a bit preoccupied at the moment as I am madly working on several projects! One solo exhibition and 2 group exhibitions. It's getting down to the wire, and I am determined not to still be running around at the last minute!! Luckily I have built in some contingency into my plan!

I'll let you know the details of the exhibitions in my next blog.

Jules

Canes

2009-07-13T13:37:00.005+09:30

Nick is always encouraging me to make canes, and to use them in beads. I've always been reluctant, as I felt it was a difficult endeavour!! Hence, one that I never found time for. But, with my new goal of making one new bead each week, I set about making some canes.

I started with fairly simple star canes. I learned a lot by actually doing this, such as not to pull the cane too fast or you get really tiny bits to work with!

To be honest, it was kind of fun, and the beads are certainly far from anything I have ever made before.

This is a photo of the cane, and the little bits that I cut.

And this is a photo of the beads that I made.

What do you think?

Jules

Window Beads

2009-07-05T20:53:00.004+09:30

OK, I did it! I made a new bead! Luckily for me I had a tutorial that helped me to make these beads, which I followed to start with, but then once I got going I started making beads that were completely different from my original idea.

The first bead is done as per the tutorial. Then the second bead, I changed slightly, I took away the actual frame, and added some dots to the outside to funk it up a bit. Then I liked the dots so much (surprise), that the final bead I showed off all of the dots.

I already have my idea for next week...stay tuned.

Jules

So, what's new?

2009-07-01T21:01:00.002+09:30

Remember a while ago when I said it was a challenge for me to make new things? Well, I've decided to really challenge myself, and have set myself the task of making at least one new bead each week! The only rule is that it has to be something that I have never made before. Each week I'll set myself a theme, and then I'll play around with a few ideas, and I'll share with you the results. Sound interesting?

What's this weeks theme? I'll let you know in just a sec, but first, a little story about where the inspiration came from.

I recently had lunch with a friend who has started a scrapbook for her baby boy. I have to be honest, I had never seen a scrapbook before, I had never had any interest in scrapbooks before, but her album has changed the way I feel about scrapbooks! It is such a beautiful way of showcasing the moments with Ciara that we have been capturing on film. But, it's not just the photos, its the stories that go along with the photos. I was instantly hooked, and rushed out the next day to get started.

This leads me to my inspiration...this week I have decided to try making beads that are framed. They are often known as window beads. There are lots of different things that can be done with these beads, and I'm actually going to try making some this week!

Will share my results with you soon.

Jules

A change is coming

2009-06-22T19:38:00.003+09:30

OK, it's time to do something new with my blog! I've given it some thought, and I have a really neat idea. I am still working it through in my mind, and I will have more details next week.

Stay tuned!

Jules

Leaving it til the last minute

2009-06-15T16:12:00.002+09:30

Wow, it never ceases to amaze me that when I have a deadline for something, that it is always the day of the deadline that I am getting things finished, and it is always stressful!! When will I ever learn? You would think that being a project manager, I could organise myself a bit better than this, wouldn't you? I even wrote in my diary that I had to meet today's deadline yesterday, but it still didn't make me get it finished yesterday!! Today has been quite a pressure cooker to get things done, but I guess you can tell that I have done what I set out to do, hence taking some time to write about the experience. Maybe this public shaming will help me!

Jules

Music on, or music off?

2009-06-02T17:57:00.003+09:30

I used to make beads while playing my favourite CD or listening to the radio. But now when I get on the torch, I'm conscious of listening for Ciara in case she wakes up, so I've not been playing any music.

And, you know what? It's been great! I have found myself being more thoughtful about what I'm making, more creative, more courageous! The end result has been some new beads, and then some new ways of doing those new beads. I'll sit there and really think about what I'm doing now, rather than just doing it.

Has anyone else had a similar experience?

Jules

Problem solved

2009-05-21T16:08:00.002+09:30

OK, I now know for sure it was the oxygen concentrator! I got the bad news today on the cost of repairing it. It's at the stage where it almost isn't worth repairing. They also told me how much a new one would set me back. A bigger and better and newer one! It was a tricky decision, there was lots to think about, but in the end I decided to upgrade to the new concentrator. I have to wait a few weeks before I can get it, but in the mean time I have borrowed one, and I'm back in action. Phew!

Jules

Torch down...

2009-05-19T20:44:00.002+09:30

It's always the way, isn't it? Just when I have lots of beads to make, my torch decides it's going on strike. The frustrating part is that I still don't know what's wrong with it. I figure it's a test of some sort. A test to see how committed I am to making beads, and making a go of the AussieJules business.

So, what is the problem with the torch? Well, the problem is that my flame is fluctuating. This is bad because it changes the dynamic of the flame, and it can basically blacken light coloured glass. I spent ages watching the flame the other day, wondering if I could "live with it", but sanity finally prevailed and I realised it was time to work out what was wrong.

Researching my troubles on the internet, I was offered several possible solutions. It could be the LPG regulator. Or it could be the oxygen concentrator. There were several other solutions that I tried too, but haven't changed anything.

I was able to rule out the LPG regulator. I went to the industrial part of town and bought a new one, and changed it over (oh man, I had the shifter cranking that day)! Anyway, I changed it all, tightened all the appropriate pieces, and the flame was still fluctuating. Dang!!!

My last resort was to take my oxygen concentrator back to the place I got it for a service. The unfortunate thing is that this takes several days. Keep your fingers crossed that this sorts it out.

Anyway, I haven't wasted my days, although it has been tempting to have an afternoon nap! I've been planning several exhibitions that are coming up for me. I have 2 SALA exhibitions, and a T'Arts window display coming up. All of them are going to be really different, and feature really new and different work from me! I'm really excited about all of them, and I will keep you updated as to how they turn out.

Jules

Mother's Day...more exciting than my birthday?

2009-05-11T08:12:00.006+09:30

Yes it was! I had the loveliest mother's day yesterday. It was my first one, and it was nearly perfect. If my mum had been here, it would have been perfect. Hopefully next year!

I am having a lovely time with Ciara at the moment. She's starting to do more things, and it's nice to see her developing. This week she has really blossomed (I think). She has started using her hands more, kicking her feet more, using her voice more. I can't wait to see what she does next.

I guess I spent a lot of my life thinking that I wouldn't be a mum, and it didn't bother me much, I just thought that was how it was going to be for me. And then I met Nick, and all of that changed! I feel very, very lucky indeed. Funny how life works out sometimes, isn't it?

I hope all mum's enjoyed their special day!

Jules

Markets

2009-05-03T22:24:00.002+09:30

I love markets! I love going to markets, and I love having a stall at a market. I've done markets for years. I started at the Balmain markets in Sydney, moving to Bondi markets, and finally the Opera House markets. Back in Adelaide, I've tried several markets: Prospect, Burnside, Festival Theatre and finally Rundle Street since they started.

We stopped doing the Rundle Street markets towards the end of my pregnancy, it was getting too hard for me. I just needed to be at home, resting and getting ready for the baby. And we haven't been back to a market since Ciara was born. It's a huge effort to take a baby out for the day with all the nappies, feeding, entertaining etc that needs to take place. Luckily for us, Ciara has been an awesome baby, so we felt ready to venture out to the markets once again.

Our first venture back was to a new local indoor market. Today was the first Semaphore Market. It's going to be a monthly market, first Sunday of each month, and the first one was interesting to say the least.

My sales for the day were OK. I've had better days, and I've had worse days. There seemed to be lots of people around. And people were actually spending money which was good, though it seemed to be the cake stalls that sold out first!

It was a good way to return to the markets for us. Ciara was great. She was content to sleep in her stroller, even with all the music and noise. And when she woke it was easy enough to take her outside to the comfort of the car for a feed and a nappy change.

It makes us think that it will be possible to return to being regular stallholders once again.

Stay tuned for more news on the markets that we are doing.

Jules

Trying something new...

2009-04-27T19:32:00.003+09:30

I have to be honest, I find it hard to push myself to try new things! I am lucky that the beads that I make are successful sellers, and that I can keep making the "same" beads in all sorts of colour combinations. It's not that I am making the "same" old bead, it's always a bit different, and I do try little variations here and there to see where I can take those beads, but to try something completely new....well, that's hard.

There have been a few occasions where I have imagined a particular bead or piece of jewellery, but the end result has been disappointing. Either it hasn't turned out as good as it was in my mind, or I haven't thought about something that has made it impossible to complete the design as I had pictured it. Either way, it means that I am hesitant to try new things. And then there's always the excuse that my current work sells so well, that I don't have time to try new things!

But, now that I have more time to think about beads, and to put that into practice, I have actually made some new pieces. I've had brooches on my to-do list for a couple of years now, but I have never been able to work out how to do them. In my mind I've run into problems, and haven't gotten to the point of being confident in the execution. But, the other day I told myself to stop procrastinating (because I think that is what the real problem is), and just go to the torch and make the beads for the brooches.

I think that the result has been worth it! I should have made these years ago!

What do you think?

Jules

Phew...

2009-04-23T22:12:00.007+09:30

Trust me, there is a reason why I have neglected my website, and my blog recently....

I had a baby! Yep, my awesome daughter, Ciara May Spencer, was born February 24, 2009 at 7.26am. She is now 2 months old, and settling in to life beautifully! I have never felt happier or more content.

It has taken a while to get on track with everything, but luckily Ciara is now letting me spend some time on the torch, and some time on the internet! I'm working on new beads and jewellery, and also keeping my outlets stocked up. I'm even doing a market on Sunday May 3rd! It's a brand new market at Semaphore, and it sounds like it's going to be a wonderful market. It will be open from 10am til 3pm, at St Bede's Church on Military Road, which is just off Semaphore Road. http://www.stbedessemaphore.org.au/

I hope to see you there!

Jules

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-22T08:25:00.003+10:30

I just wanted to take a moment to say Happy Christmas, New Year etc to everyone who has been reading my blog. I am sorry I haven't kept it more up to date, but it's been hard to get everything done. I'm sure next year won't be any easier!

Thanks to everyone who bought jewellery and/or beads from me this year. The enthusiasm for my new work has been inspiring, and I can't wait to start making more new things next year. I'm really ready for some new designs, and ideas! My notebook is overflowing! Now I just need to find the time to put those ideas into action.

For those of you who live in Adelaide, I'll be putting a good selection of my work on sale at T'Arts. Trust me, it will be a generous sale, and worth the trip to Gays Arcade. This will include some bigger pieces, as well as some earrings, and other smaller items. The sale starts after Christmas.

Next year is going to be a very different year for me, as I'll be taking some time off work to be a mum! The baby is due 21 Feb, and this is another change in my life that I am really looking forward to. I'll still be making beads and jewellery (trust me, I tried to stop once, and it didn't work out, it's something I love doing too much)! But I probably won't be at the Rundle Street Markets for a while. You can always find my work at T'Arts, they will have my newest and best pieces.

Thanks again to everyone for a great year, and look forward to a very exciting 2009!

Jules

What's going on?

2008-10-23T13:44:00.003+10:30

Hey there! I've been both slack and busy. I've been slack keeping my blog up to date. But busy trying to keep up with production.

This weekend I am setting up a little window display at T'Arts, which is in Gays Arcade (off Adelaide Arcade). It will feature all new work, so if you're in the city, please swing by and see what I've been up to. The display will be up until November 29. I have to say, I'm very pleased with my new work, and I hope that other people feel the same way.

The Rundle Street Markets have been extremely busy. I've got some great bargains available there at the moment.

All other outlets seem to be ticking along too. You can find my work at Urban Cow, Hahndorf Academy and Murray Bridge Regional Art Gallery.

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope to have more news for you soon.

Jules

Home again, home again...

2008-08-29T12:28:00.002+09:30

Wow, I had a great trip to the States, it was exactly what I needed. The conference was wonderful. The presenters were extremely talented, and I learned lots by listening to them and watching them make their beads. I also had a class with Tom and Sage Holland, which was a great way to end the conference. I had two days on the torch, and was inundated with new techniques and ideas! Very, very inspiring all round.

I was also really lucky that the Australian Dollar was very strong when I was there, so I had a good amount of spending money! Needless to say, I did spend it! I bought some new glass, new tools, and some other things that are going to look really cool in, on or around my beads.

Now, I just need to find the time to put these new ideas into practice!! Stay tuned as I get back into my routine, and start making beads again!

Jules

Off to the USA!

2008-07-29T14:15:00.003+09:30

OK, it's nearly time for me to head over the US for the annual International Society of Glass Beadmakers Gathering!! I'm really excited. This conference is going to be held in Oakland, which is very close to San Francisco. I've just checked the forecast, and it will be nearly as cold there as it is in Adelaide at the moment!! Looks like I won't be getting a tan this trip!

I'll be back on August 15. In the meantime, my brother will be running my market stall for me (thanks DAF)! And my work is available in all the usual outlets: T'Arts, Urban Cow, Hahndorf Academy.

Catch y'all when I get back!

Jules

SOLO SALA

2008-07-24T13:57:00.005+09:30

I'm really excited to announce that I am having a solo SALA exhbition! It's already set up and ready for viewing at the Mitcham Civic Centre, which is on Belair Road. It's open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. There is a great mix of jewellery available in this exhibition, a real eclectic collection of my work. It's the first time I've done a solo exhbition, and I have to admit I'm really pleased with the result. It was a huge amount of work, it took me nearly 2 months to get ready for it from when I started planning it to when I finished making the last piece of jewellery, but it was definitely worth the effort.

For those of you who are not familiar with SALA, it is an annual festival for South Australian Living Artists. It runs for several weeks each year, and basically anyone can have an exhibition. Its really cool.

Hope you get a chance to see it.

Jules

Sex and the City

2008-06-08T21:43:00.004+09:30

I've read the book, watched the series, and now I've seen the movie!! I loved it, can't wait to see it again. I laughed, and I cried. I felt for every single character in the movie: Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda, and even Samantha. I can see a bit of myself in every one of them.

The cinema, when we went, was packed with women. There was the occasional man here and there (thanks for coming along Nick, sorry you didn't enjoy it)!! And it got me to thinking - what was it about the book/series/movie that resonated with SO many people? I think it's an interesting study in contemporary culture. There are so many current values all through the book: single career women, the quest for love, waiting until you're older to settle down, being independent as a woman, etc etc.

But, you know what I liked the most about the movie? It was looking at all of the clothes and the jewellery on the big screen! Seeing how important it was, how it made each of the characters individuals. And my favourite scene was when Carrie and Big were reading in bed, she had a pretty night outfit on, and, wait for it, a string of pearls!! In fact, pearls were huge for Carrie.

Stay tuned, see what inspired creations come about as a result of watching this movie.

Jules

Life...

2008-04-25T10:05:00.008+09:30

Has been very busy and challenging lately. I won't bore you with the details! Let's just say that I'm back on track. I've been making new beads and jewellery. Here's some samples of what I've been up to. Visit my website for more information about these pieces (http://www.aussiejules.com/)

Happy Anzac Day, and thanks to everyone who has helped to shape Australia into the country that it is. I love it here!

Jules

My Latest Challenge - Thinking Outside the Dot!

2008-02-11T12:07:00.000+10:30

Nick suggested a little challenge to me yesterday after the markets. Here it is:

Create a bead that is a "Jules" Bead, but without any dots on it.

Hmm, interesting! I looked at all of my beads, and they nearly all use dots (actually, if I'm being really honest, they all use dots)! In my opinion it is one of the fundamental techniques in bead making. It's one of the first things I teach when I have a new student: dots, and the manipulation of dots. So, maybe it is time to think outside the dot?

The challenge is on, and I'm starting to think about beads that I can make, that I might truly love to make, that don't have any dots in the process. So far, the page is blank!

Any suggestions....send them my way....

Jules

Ebb and Flow

2008-02-01T08:02:00.000+10:30

And there I was thinking that January would be a quieter month!

I had to get ready for two exhibitions this month, and it was kind of stressful. Some days I really dislike being the perfectionist Sagittarian that I am! Still, I got everything done, but next time I commit to doing this sort of thing, I am going to learn from the stress that I put myself under this time around! No more last minute preparations. Mostly the trouble was that I had so many ideas for the shows, I had trouble narrowing them down to what I was going to put in.

Anyway, it's all done now. The Ebb and Flow opening night was last week, and it was great fun. My mum and dad came over for it. My auntie Sue and uncle Chris and cousin Jenna were also there. My brother David popped along. And Nick was there! I'm kind of glad it's all over now. If you're keen to see it, it's on at the Bay Discovery Centre in Glenelg.

Jules

Twenty Oh Eight

2008-01-04T15:23:00.000+10:30

2008 already? Welcome to the New Year! I have a feeling that this is going to be a great year.

My to do list for January is already looking jam packed with things to do, including:

"Reflect" Window Display at T'Arts! This will be from January 10 until February 16. I have lots of neat ideas for this mini exhibition, and have already got quite a few of the beads made. I'll be finishing this off on Tuesday, and will post photos when I get a chance. The theme "Reflect" was initially chosen because I wanted to do more work with silver foil and wire, and other shiny materials. But as I started working on my ideas, it became more about reflecting on where I was at with my glass bead and jewellery making, and the direction I wanted to take. So, you'll see some really exciting new pieces, and some variations on old pieces too in this new collection. Come along at some stage to see it. T'Arts is in Gays Arcade (off Adelaide Arcade), and is open Monday to Saturday from 10am til 5pm.
"Ebb and Flow" exhibition with the South Australian Glass Bead Artists at the Glenelg Discovery Centre. Exhibition opening date is still to be confirmed, but should be towards the end of January. This is our first group exhibition, and I'm really excited by it. We got to see each other's work in December, and it was all completely different. It is going to be a great exhibition, and I really need to get some beads made soon for that one!
Rundle Street Markets. I'm also continuing at the Rundle Street Markets every Sunday. Sales were good leading up to Christmas. I'm hoping that leading up to the Adelaide Festival and Fringe Festival and Womadelaide in March that it will stay that way! Come by and visit me. My stall is near the Frome Street end of the market.

Stay tuned, I'll be posting photos soon!

Jules

Happy Holidays!

2007-12-17T16:45:00.000+10:30

OK, I have finally found some time to write a Happy Holidays message!

I'd like to thank all of my customers for shopping with me this year. Whether you found me at the markets, at T'Arts, or somewhere else, I'm really glad you found me, and I hope to keep making glass beads and jewellery that you will love! Keep checking back, there will be new things next year.

Speaking of which, I've been setting goals for next year, and the list is starting to get a little long! Luckily I have a few weeks to tweak it a bit, so I can go into the new year with a new focus. I have lots of ideas, just need to find time to implement them.

I'll keep this short and sweet, as I have to dash (there's still a bit of a mad Christmas rush happening). Have a wonderful festive time with family and friends. And I look forward to a wonderful 2008.

Jules

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-12T18:33:00.000+10:30

OK, so it's not actually Thanksgiving in Australia, in fact, we do not even have Thanksgiving here, but I would like to take a moment to reflect on the thanks that I would give, if we did celebrate Thanksgiving here. I think Thanksgiving is a really nice tradition, and I enjoyed the day when I lived in the States. I wish we had something similar here, or I wish there was a universal day of gratitude or something similar. Wouldn't that be cool?

So, first thanks go to Mum and Dad of course. You know what you've done for me, and I am eternally grateful. Thank you both for always, always being there for me.

Next is Nick. He not only puts up with me now, he admits to enjoying being with me! You've come a long way this year Nick. Thank you for being an important part of my life now, for prompting me to slow down, and for pushing me to be creative. You're lovely!

Thanks Stella for making every day just a little bit brighter for being part of it! You're a crazy little puppy, and you drive me crazy at times, but I wouldn't be without you! Ya punk!

I would also like to say thanks to Joe, for without him, the AussieJules thing may have never happened. Or it might have taken a bit longer. I'll never know, and I have no regrets! Thanks mate.

I feel very grateful to be doing what I am doing, and I absolutely love it! Thanks to everyone who has ever bought anything from me.

Thanks for reading this blog!!

Jules

October already?

2007-10-05T13:09:00.000+09:30

Phew, the year is speeding up again. Roll on Christmas. Not long now. I have some exciting plans in place to make Christmas Shopping easier for everyone this year.

My first idea is to produce gift certificates. They can be to any value you would like. There will be no expiry date. These are available now, so please feel free to contact me for more details.

My second idea is still top secret, but will be revealed at the start of November! Just in time to start your Christmas shopping!

I've been challenging myself to make new beads, and the challenge is starting to pay off. I made some really, really cute beads last week. They need some fine tuning, but will be available for sale in November if all goes to plan. Like my Sturt's Desert Pea beads, they will be uniquely Aussie Beads!! I'm excited, and I hope you'll like them too.

Enjoy the weekend.

Jules

Keeping in Touch

2007-09-25T15:46:00.000+09:30

Sorry I haven't posted for a little while. I have had a turbulent week or so at work, and it has really interrupted my creative time! I try to make around 40-50 beads each week, but last week I only managed to crank 10 beads out. It was not a great week.

But, I'm back on track now! I've made some really pretty heart beads this week already. Trying some new colours, and new colour combinations, and being quite pleased with the result. Will post photos ASAP!

Just in case you were wondering, the shiny silver beads and the Sturt's Desert Pea bead that have been pictured on this blog have already sold. Thanks for loving these beads as much as I do!!

Time to make some more.....

Jules

Mmmmm......beads.....shiny.....

2007-09-13T11:57:00.000+09:30

For a long time I have only been mildly excited by my results with using silver foil in my glass beads. But that increased to wildly excited last week when I finally got the stuff to pop! It's funny, because I don't feel like I'm doing anything really different from before, but for some reason the silver foil is just really working. I'll post pictures tonight.

Sturt's Desert Pea beads

2007-09-07T17:15:00.000+09:30

Here they are! My little babies! I really enjoy making the Sturt's Desert Pea beads, and I can't wait to see which direction they take in the future. It has been great to get people's feedback on them, and they are selling really well at the Rundle Street Markets and at T'Arts.

Blog Number 2 - Imperfect Circles

2007-09-07T17:05:00.000+09:30

While I'm on a roll, I thought I would post a photo of the Imperfect Circles necklace that I was talking about. I've zoomed in on the detail, but if you can imagine a necklace made up of 11 of these interlocking circles, you'll see what I mean about the picture in the magazine. The necklace is a really important part of my life now, and I hang it in my studio so I can be reminded of it every day.

Here's an exerpt from my story about the necklace: And so, the necklace is called Imperfect Circles, because you can keep going in circles trying to chase perfection, but if you just let yourself be yourself, then you are being what you are meant to be, and that’s all you ever need to be. Very profound, isn’t it?

Let me know if you'd like to read more about it!

Jules

My first ever blog...

2007-09-06T14:13:00.000+09:30

I am so far behind the times. I can't believe I have only just "worked out" how to do this blogging stuff. I have been looking at several artist's blog sites, and it has inspired me to do this for myself. I have lots of ideas for what to do on my blog, just need to find the time to do it all. Stay tuned, I'll be keeping this updated more than my website.

Check out the latest Beads Etc magazine....my necklace is featured as a finalist in the Reader's Challenge. The piece is called "Imperfect Circles", and in real life it looks so much better than how it was photographed. Never mind, I'll post a better picture here soon.

That's a wrap for my first blog.

Jules