I'm feeling like a proud Mama after recently receiving an advanced copy of my fourth book on polymer clay. This one's a whopper, weighing in with over 200 pages. Several friends and on-line acquaintances graciously submitted images of their artwork for the inspiration gallery. A few these images are also sprinkled throughout the pages. I'm so grateful to have these talented people represented in this offering. Some of the names will be familiar to the clay/creative worlds as the most notable artists/instructors including but not limited to: Friesen, Igou, McGuire, Schwarzenberg, Shriver and Welker. Others are up and coming artists who you'll be hearing much more from I'm sure. I was pleased as punch that no fewer than nine of my local clay guild members artwork was selected by publisher to make the final gallery cut.
Unlike my previous books, this one is much more in depth about technique, and lighter on projects, though you can still find some step-by-step projects as well. These photos are just a taste of what's inside.
Many of the sample images that showcase techniques can be deciphered by those with even a bit of clay experience. I hope that anyone getting the book realizes that as an author, I have little-to-no say in the final title and that it's part of a creative series of "Complete" titles from my publisher Taunton Press. I humbly acknowledge that no one can ever know everything there is to know on a subject as far-reaching as polymer clay. Nor, could the complete wealth of knowledge on the subject be contained in a single book. Fortunately my publisher let's me address this in the introduction. I would go so far as to say it's very comprehensive, covering both old and new concepts for clay.
This was the first book in which I took most of the photos myself. An interesting and arduous task to say the least, but one that I would happily tackle again in my next book which I hope to be on a different medium. I'm actively outlining one of these as I write, but it's a secret for now. You'll just have to wait and see. Until then, I have some articles that need my attention and a year chock full of travel to look forward to with 2011 planning already underway. Too bad a girl's gotta sleep!
As for resolutions, I usually avoid them. Life being what it is, why set yourself up for disappointment!? All kidding aside, I really do have a resolution. Being blessed to travel and meet so many people, I find that it's getting harder and harder to remember names. Advancing age doesn't seem to be helping either. time was, I at least remembered faces, but even many of these are starting to meld into the same person. For this reason, I've resolved to try and be better at remembering names. It's such a sinking feeling when someone has taken a class with me before, even multiple times, and I can't remember their name. I lie awake at night agonizing over having hurt anyone's feelings if I've done so. I know it's a futile endeavor, but those of you who've invested your time and money by spending time with me at a class mean more than words can express. I beg forgiveness of anyone who's name I've ever forgotten or gotten wrong. And, if I've ever passed you by at a show,lost in my own little world, don't be afraid to pull me out of my reverie by stopping me in my tracks. Talking with other instructors, I realize that I'm not alone. With that in mind I'll do my best to improve and not be ashamed to admit when I can't recall a name.
Thanks for all the love, friendship and support in the past year from family and friends who are too numerous to mention. I've had a ball learning the joys of social networks like Facebook and Twitter. I look forward to reaching more people with my creative passion in the coming year. I wish all of you reading this the best for you and everyone you care about. I remain...Creatively Yours -Lisa
