Global polymer trends

Julie Picarello’s “Boheme” polymer clay necklace reflects a little of a trend you may have spotted. There’s a looser, almost primitive style that’s gaining ground. French polymer artists excel at the look.

Ronna Sarvis Weltman gives step-by-step instructions in her newest book, Ancient Modern, and in the past few weeks I’ve been stunned and delighted by the number of versions her book has spawned.

When a style gets in the air, it starts popping up everywhere. I like how Julie has reinterpreted the wrapped wire look to go with her unmistakable designs (and she may have never seen Ronna’s book…I didn’t check).

Grant Diffendaffer’s workshops have caused a similar phenomenon with experimental recursive molded beads popping up all over the world. Today was my day to catch up on the web and these global waves of new designs really struck me.

French polymer clay connections

Poking through the polymer clay on the French PerleRouge site launched me into an afternoon at the computer. (I’ve streamlined the trip for you.)

I surfed from there to Crea’Sofimo (pendant at the left) who credits Mathilde Colas (the green necklace to the right) as her teacher and inspiration. Somehow I landed on the site of Cecilia Mabcrea, a French artist working in Xiamen, China.

This whirlwind web surfing made me marvel at how fast concepts travel and at the polymer clay community with its connections that span the globe.

Fresh looks from Europe

Looking for a little “April in Paris”? Here are a couple of fresh european (France and Belgium) sites for you to explore.

On the left we have Cecile (no last name) whose posts are filled with consistently good work and lots of experiments with a flair (many of them inspired by Nanetta’s book).

On the right we have Adaya’s bracelet, polymer pushed through filigree metal which was inspired by Susan Rose a while back.

Adaya’s site contains a treasure trove of links and great stuff. Susan Turney is responsible for our travels today.

Wire and polymer clay

Wire and polymer clay don’t often mix well. But France’s Celine (aka gris bleu) does a masterful job of it. (Please write if you know her last name.)

The wire is well integrated into the pieces in surprising and delightful ways that combine nicely with her strong colors. Her interview on the Parole de Pate blog translates fairly well and may give you a fresh perspective to start your week.

Note: I’m moving the furniture around on PolymerClayDaily and widening the page to three columns. The arrangement isn’t perfect yet so don’t be surprised if you feel a little disoriented as I tweak the type and smooth the rough edges. Pardon my dust. Let me know if I mess up something on your screen in the process.