For the Love of Creativity

Weekly Creative Challenge for October 2, 2011

2011-09-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

Busy ! Busy! Busy!

Well this past September has been a very busy time for me. So many show, so little time. This is the time of year when many of the art fairs, festivals, and shows all take place. There seems to be some type of event every weekend. During this past month I have participated in 6 shows and It has been a whirl wind of travel, setup and sales. It has been hectic and fun at the same time. For example, I have been in a different show from Thursday to Sunday this past week - I had a trunk show on Thursday, an art walk on Friday, a jewelry show at my job on Saturday during the day, a Mall art show during Saturday evening, and a art fair on Sunday. By Sunday evening my whole body felt it and on Monday morning my voice was going just in time to do an eight hour shift at my job. This was a pretty intense week but through the grace of God (and Lots of Coffee) I got through it and It Was Good!

I have sold many of my design which has made me very pleased. I will be showing you all these designs in the next couple of weeks. Many people like my new lines such as my "Textured Block" series and my free form wire earrings. My "Art within Art" and "Fretwork" lines have been doing very well also. I truly feel blessed.

Well here is a sample of one of those pieces that already has a Home. It is called "Visions on a Cloudy Day." I love the Labradorite faceted rounds and the eyes. I will be continuing this series and update you all on my progress.

Well I have to get back to work.
Take care and stay creative!

Allison B
www. alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenge for September 11, 2011

2011-09-08T18:09:00.000-07:00

The Season Has Begun !

Well, I have started the "Season of Shows". I have participated in my first fall show and it was Great! I showed and sold many of my metal pieces. Also I sold many earrings of both styles. I received a lot of feedback and I'm working on new pieces to be ready for the next upcoming show the weekend of September 16th through the 18th (Mosaics art Fair in St Charles, MO).

I will be working on many new concepts as well. This past show I introduced my "Textured Block" series of smaller metal and gemstone pendants and they were very well received. I made 8 pendants for the show and I sold all 8 of them. I will be working on having at least 12 for this next show and will be featuring them in an upcoming blog in the near future. Then you can see what I came up with.

I'm still waiting to hear the outcome of the jurying process on 2 other shows. I hope it will be good news. If it all goes well I will have 11 shows for the September to December time period. WOOOOOOO ! Yes ! 11 Shows. Keep me in your thoughts. "Tis the Season to be Busy"!

Well, for this week I will feature one of my newer pieces that debuted at the Queeny Fall Art Fair here in Ballwin, MO. This piece is called "Beautiful Flight." I hope you all enjoy my new design. I will have to get back to work now so take care and stay creative!

Allison B
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

ALNB Collections Weekly Challenge for August 28 2011

2011-08-28T19:31:00.000-07:00

In the Planning Stages.....

Well the Fall and Holiday season is approaching. Yes "The Holiday Season". I will be starting the new show season next weekend. This will be my first big show for the upcoming season. I have taken a break from blogging to work on new designs and I have come up with many new designs. I'm at 15 new designs and counting.

I have also started hearing the outcome of some of the shows I have applied to and for this season I will be at 11 shows and counting. Yes! 11 Shows! I know it seems to be a little crazy but I have talked with others artists and they have informed me that this is the "Nature of the Beast." This is the beast season for shows in the artist world. Many of our sales for the year are earned between the month of September to December. A lot of artists don't participate in spring shows because they don't seem to sell as much during that time of year. They usually do shows during the Summer, Fall and Holiday season.

This years show season is also different because I have also included shows that are out of state. I will be by the end of the year have done 3 shows in Illinois. I am trying to spread my wings a little bit. I hope they will enjoy my work there as well. I have a new gallery in Chesterfield, MO in which I have my work. The gallery is called "MindWorks Gallery" and It has been great so far. I'm very interested to see how the holiday will be there. I'm trying to reach more people through social media such facebook, twitter and of course blogging. I now even have a "fan page" with facebook. Working on a business is more than a notion but It is rewarding when someone really likes your designs.

Well starting next week I will be showing my new fall line so keep watching for the new pieces starting in September. Stay in touch to see all the designs and visit me on facebook when you have the chance. I will show you new pieces next week.

Take care and Stay Creative!
Allison B
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenge for the Week of July 3, 2011

2011-06-27T18:43:00.000-07:00

Looking Towards the Future!

This is the time that we as artists are now in the "Hurry Up and Wait" mode. This is the time of year that all of the fall and holiday season shows are doing their "Call for Artist" rush. All of the shows due dates are all coming to a head in early and mid July. There are so many ways to apply now. From email to zapplications to snail mail. They just get it in on TIME!!!!! And Let's not forget the FEES- Applications fee, Booth/Space fee, Electrical fee, and even the Insurance fee must be considered when you apply to all these shows. There are many fees but very little time.

I have to admit this is when it is a great time to compare notes with fellow artists to see what is really happening out there. Many artists have been doing these shows for years and most artists are great about sharing information about things such as if a show is worth doing to who is a great company and who to get your artist insurance from. Networking is a wonderful and important part of this business called "art". I am glad I have become friends with a fair amount of artists who are caring and will share information that will help you with these important and sometimes "Scary" decisions that can shape your career in the long term.

Well I have to finish up this blog entry so I can print up some of these applications and send them on their way. I hope I will hear promising news in the upcoming weeks. But until next week I share with you one of my last creations that found a home earlier this month. Introducing "Gaze from the East." I hope you enjoy this new work and have a wonderful and creative "4th of July" and great week.

Take Care
Allison B
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenge for June 26, 2011

2011-06-19T18:40:00.000-07:00

Stay Focused! Stay Steady!

Well it is very interesting when you finish a big show and you think you have time to relax a little. Well, that might not be the whole truth. It is amazing how time fly's and then you realize that there is another show just around the corner and you have to get back to work designing and creating. Thank God that this is a job you love to do. There is so much that is needed to be done for each event. This is also the time you need to be in multiple places at one time. I think I need to clone myself so I could get everything done.

Just this past week I went out to dinner with my husband James and we began to discuss the plans for this upcoming Fall/Holiday Season. YES! Fall is Fast Approaching. It will be here before you know it. It was very enlightening as I looked over all the shows, events, and art fairs, I figured out that by the end of the year starting in June I will hopefully be in about 15 to 17 shows. When you look at the list it is exciting, but also a little scary. This is when you take a deep breath and ...

STAY FOCUSED!!!

This is when your planning skills will kick into High Gear! All I can say is wish me luck - Pray for Me! I guess this is where the Rubber meets the Road - Or there the Saw Blade meets the Metal! (Ha, Ha!). Well you all will get to take this fun ride with me for I will let you know how it is coming along week to week! Sometimes I might have to skip a week if it gets wild. But it will be fun!

Well, I'd like to show you one of the pieces that sold during this last art fair. It was called "Torn Away"! Hope you enjoy it.

Take care and stay Creative!
Allison B
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenge for the Week of June 19 2011

2011-06-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

Regrouping After A Major Show!

This has been an experience within itself. I was gearing up for this show for at least two months. Working on new pieces, revamping my displays, ordering marketing materials to give out to customers and so on. Wooooooo! What a ride. Then the time comes to do the show. It is truly amazing how 3 days can go by so fast. The set up, the selling, the meeting new customers and making friends with other artist, tearing down after the closing of the event. Before you know it, it's all over.

A lot of times it feels like your in a whirl wind. Going every which way but loose. Then the wind sets you down and your left to ponder just what happened. It is very interesting when you look at your inventory and see all the major pieces you sold that weekend. At first you feel great then you become a little sad because even though you "Got them a Good Home," you miss your work. They become your "little darlings." That's when you pick up your pen or pencil and start sketching those "Oh cant live with out them" new designs and look forward to the new show that is coming up faster than you can imagine. I have another show a little over a week from now. Well everyone this is just a small glance into my world of creative fun. I wanted to show you one of my "Little Darlings" that got a home during the "Art and Air" Art Fair in Webster Groves, MO during the first weekend in June. It was a great show and "Remnants of A Ginkgo" was a great piece to work on. I hope you enjoy this one and have a wonderful and creative week.

Take care!

Allison B.
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenge for May 22, 2011

2011-05-16T20:30:00.000-07:00

When there is a lot on "Your Plate"!

This is differently a busy season. A lot of the artist I spoke to told me that the spring season is usually slow. I have to admit, it have been surprising busy for me. There are many shows and opportunities out there. The fun ( and scary) part is trying to decide which events and exhibition opportunities are best for me and my company. I'm still working on figuring out that puzzle. It seems to be a lot of shows and events popping up all around the metropolitan St. Louis area. There are also many more events in the Illinois and the lower Missouri areas as well. All of then look promising but it is a hard to truly know which one is right for my work. I have spoken to many other artist with far more experience than I and they usually say follow your gut, do your homework, and sometimes you have to just take a chance. Sometimes you will fail but other times you can be pleasantly surprise and benefit for the experience. This year I trying to step out more and participate in more events and find new venues for my jewelry to be shown to the public. It has been a "big process" but I will keep working on it. In June and July I will be in 5 to 6 shows. That is a lot for me. Some are big and some not so big but they're all a chance for me to get my work out there. Wish Me Luck!

Well this week's entry is called "Wind Blows" The swirls makes me think of a cool wind blowing. Just in time before the summer heat begins. This one has already found a home at the Spring Art Walk in St. Charles Missouri but I wanted to show it to you all anyway.

Take care all of you and stay creative!
Allison B
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenge for May 15, 2011

2011-05-10T04:35:00.000-07:00

Out of Fond Memories from "Mom",
a Creative Thought Comes!

I can truly say I have been blessed for I have a wonderful family which has always been very supportive. I feel that much of my talent was formed way before I went to school for art. I think it started under the guidance of my mom and dad. Both of my parents are artists in there own right. My dad was a photographer and my mom was a teacher aid who taught art to grades kindergarten through 3rd. All through my child and teen year, both of my parents where very support of my love for art. They supported me when I was studying fashion design and illustration in Columbus Ohio. They encourage my graphic design career when I worked for my late brother's desktop publishing company and in these later year they have been the strong force behind my quest to become a jewelry and mixed media artist. I lost my dad 2009, but I know he's up there cheering me on to this day. I call my mother the CEO of ALNB Collections. She is the one I go to when I have any important decision to make about my designing career. Every time I do a show, l call her to report on the sale figures and to get insight on how to improve my business and marketing. She is the GREATEST!
I just thought, seeing that Mother's day was yesterday, I would give a shout out to the ones who help to make me the artist I am today. With the Lord's help, a supportive husband and great people like my mom in my corner, the art world looks very promising.
Well just like my mom is a solid line in my life, this piece as a strong solid line as well. This is a mixed metal piece. While the circle is in brass , the aqua line is actually copper. I used a very strong blue patina on this piece. I burnished the patina surface until it became almost shiny. Then I sealed the surface. The blue portion almost feels like "Enamel". It was a fun piece to work on and I will revisit this concept in upcoming designs. Welcome to the ALNB Collections family " Slim Line in Aqua" Enjoy

Take care and stay creative!
Allison B
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weelky Creative Challenge for the May 8th 2011

2011-05-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

Spring has been "Very Promising" for
ALNB Collections

This season has been very promising for the company. This past weekend I participated in the St. Charles Spring Art Walk on Main Street. I was located at the Remington Gallery and it was a great experience. For the past couple of years I have been located in a different location (Jake's on Main - They were Wonderful!!!). This year I was placed in a new location with other artists and it was a wonderful experience. The feedback from other artists, customers, and the different surrounding was encouraging. I made a lot of new contacts and of of course I got the chance to show some of my new designs to a new audience. I also have met a couple of great new artists. One of these artist's and I have decided to collaborate on a couple of new jewelry designs. I will hopefully be featuring these designs during the "Art and Air" Art Fair in Webster Groves in June. I'm so excited about this new collaboration. I can't wait to show you all what we come up with.

But for now I want to show you all my newest creation in Brass! Yes Brass! I know I love to work in copper but lately I have been having fun with brass as well. Welcome "Whirl Wind" to the ALNB Collection family. I hope you enjoy it. Thank you all!

Take care and Stay Creative.
Allison B.
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenge for April 24, 2011

2011-04-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

New Show Opportunities! New Designs!
What's a Girl to Do!

Well in two weeks I will be in the thick of things with another show. This will be an interesting feat because James, my husband, will be representing me at one show while I will be at another event that same night. Yes! It is a little crazy but I noticed that I haven't participated in any shows or events in my town of Maplewood, Missouri. So when I received an email from a wonderful art teacher from our local elementary school with an invitation to show my designs in their art fair, I just couldn't pass it up. So on Friday, April the 29th, I will be in St Charles, MO at the Spring Art Walk while James will be at The MRHE Art Fair in Maplewood, MO. I truly feel honored to be represented at both affairs and hope they will be successful for the organizers and as well as the artists.

Well with so many events on the horizon and that I was truly blessed at the last event, Queeny Park Spring Art Fair, I have to stay focused and work on building up my inventory. So I just wanted so show you all one of my new designs from my silver collection. I don't work in silver often, seeing the cost of silver is through the roof, but this was a design I really liked working on. Welcome to the family "Swirls in Pearls." Hope you enjoy the design.

Take Care and Stay Creative.

Allison B.
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenger for the Weeks of April 10 & 17 2011

2011-04-11T21:15:00.000-07:00

This Week is Full of Creativity and Surprises

Well these two past weeks was full of lots of work and rewards. I have been getting ready for the "Queeny Park Spring Art Fair" for this past month and these past two week have been very crazy indeed. There is just so much to to - Getting displays ready - Finishing up last minute touches on new designs - Sending out invitations via snail mail and the net. - Getting all of the packaging together for purchases - Working on pricing and inventorying the work - Making sure I had all the right equipment for cashing out purchases at the show. Packing up all of my display and making sure I haven't forgotten anything vital and the list goes on and on. I also had to eat sleep, and share time with my family and friends. All I can say is WOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

It was a great challenge and at times I knew I drove my husband a little batty but when it all came together and the show was a success, It seemed ALL WORTH IT!!!!. The show was great and I was truly blessed to be apart of it!. I made a lot of contacts and new customers. The feedback about my work was truly valuable as well.

Well these are two examples of some of the pieces I showed this weekend. They have already found homes during this show but I wanted to show them to you all anyway so here are the entries for this weeks challenge. Welcome "Arching Over Ice and Puddles and Pearls" to the fold.

Take Care and Stay Creative
Allison B.
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Challenge for the Week Of April 3, 2011

2011-03-27T21:04:00.001-07:00

This is a Two for One Week Folks!!!

Well, It can happen. I have been working on many projects and getting ready for upcoming shows like crazy. These past 2 weeks have been wild. I have worked on 7 new pieces , drew up 12 new designs and worked on putting together my display at the Mindworks Gallery in Chesterfield, MO. I feel like I have a lot going on. It is a "Pressured yet Rewarding " feeling all at the same time. I enjoy the challenge and It is definitely a "Learning Experience".

I love working in copper. but I know I have to work on some of my designs in brass also. I just purchased a piece of sterling silver to work with as well and boy was that "Painful". I'm not sure if any of you work in silver, but the price sure has gone up lately. I've sold a major part of my silver collection and it was time to create new pieces. The cost is steep but when you finish your designs and people truly enjoy them. It is worth every penny.

Well because the weeks were so full, I have to double up this weeks entry. So here are two designs for one weekly challenge. This week's entries are "Organic Rings #1" -This the first in a series of 12 pieces and "Solid Yet Broken" - This piece reminded me that I have to work more in brass. I really like to golden tone with the Kyanite.

Well everyone have a wonderful week and stay creative. I will be working hard to finish up these new design and will show them soon.
Take care !

Allison L Norfleet Bruenger
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Creative Challenge for the Week of March 20, 2011

2011-03-13T17:56:00.000-07:00

And Now the Fun Begins....

I have plenty of drawing, plenty of concepts, plenty of plans. Now it is time to get into gear. High Gear!

I must admit there is so much to do and so little time. It is Exciting and A Little Scary. I'm not sure if you fellow artists are going through these types of thoughts, this business can be some what daunting. But I love it. This wonderful piece found a home this past show and I also had to create a matching pair of earrings and a bracelet to make a complete set. It was "Great Fun".

I'm now working on new pieces for 3 upcoming shows and new show applications are coming in all the time. It is really a challenge deciding on what shows are truly beneficial for me to participate in. Will this show be a good match for my designs? Do they have a good track record in show attendance and so on. There is a lot to consider when choosing new shows to apply for and I'm still new to the scene so wish me luck.

Well here is this weeks entry. Welcome "Nouveau Essence" to the family. I hope you enjoy the new design.

Take care and Stay Creative.
Allison L Norfleet Bruenger
www.alnbcollections.com
http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Challenge for the Week March 13th 2011

2011-03-08T14:03:00.000-08:00

New Shows! New Designs! New Lines!

It has been a busy weekend. This was the first of the Spring Shows for 2011 and it was Great!. Last year I really didn't apply for spring or summer art shows because of my summer work schedule. Also many other artist informed me how spring shows don't produce the same venue as fall and winter show. Many people do a lot of their shopping for the holidays season and that's why the end of the year shows are more profitable. This year however I thought I would take a chance and step out a little earlier to test the waters of spring. I truly felt I made a lot of new connections with this show and for an artist still in the "beginning stages", it is really a great help and plus I sold some of my major pieces as well. This week's design is one of those pieces that found a home this past weekend.

"Waterfall One" is part of a series of 14 designs in which I will be combining pearls, gemstones, and crystals to create a feeling of flowing waters down a textured background. Most of the pieces will be in copper, but I might play with other metals and textures as well. Keep your eyes open for the other designs as I showcase them. I love finding wonderful pearls and gemstones to enhance my designs and I have been blessed to find such great strands lately.

Well I have a lot on my plate to work on so I will sign off for now. I hope you all enjoy the new line. Take Care and Stay Creative !

Allison B

www.alnbcollections.com

http://www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Challenge for the Week March 6th 2011

2011-03-03T06:02:00.000-08:00

It is Catch Up Time......

Okay, I know two updates in one week is a little crazy but I was trying to kept up my end of the challenge. Well because I was working on the new pieces for this upcoming weekend show, I noticed that I was behind one week.

This is the final design from my previous shows. This piece " Call to Meditation" found a new home this past January on Supper Bowl Sunday. I was a participate in a small trunk show for all of the "Widowed Ladies" because of the Supper Bowl game. It was a fun event and this piece was purchased there. I still wanted you all to see it though. I really want to expand my use of texture and metal forming this year. I love working with the metal to see what type of textures I can create. This look I created using my Chasing Hammer. The Liver of Sulfur patina really brings it out. I also love using local and national Lampwork artist beads in my work as well. It is a way to showcase two artist in one design.

Well I have to get back to work. I have to add some clasps to 3 more pieces and then I will be set for the show. I have already photographed some of the new pieces and I will feature these new designs in the next upcoming weeks in March. I also just got accepted in 2 more shows for the April and June. So I have a lot of work ahead of me. I will keep you up to date on my progress.

Take care and Stay creative!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

http://alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Weekly Challenge for the Week Feb 27th 2011

2011-03-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

Getting Ready for a Busy Season!

I have to admit, I didn't expect the spring season to have so much going on. Everyone I talk to who is "Creating Art" as a living says this is the season for creating new pieces. There are not many shows at this time so this is a good the time to develop new concepts and create inventory. Last year I was trying to take it slow because I was still a beginner ( I still feel that way ! ) and focus on the fall season for shows. This year I wanted to expand my show calender and I never new there where so many shows to apply for. Spring had definitely sprung early this year for me. I also wanted to expand my gallery presence and I'm working on finding some great places to show my work on a steady bases. The search has gone great so far and I will update you with that news very soon. My first show is the Weekend of March the 5th. New Show! New Venue! It is at the Artist Boutique" in Kirkwood, MO. I'm very excited about the new opportunity.

I feel Blessed!.

Well here is a look at one of the ideas I love to work with. I love nature as you know and I love Agate. Geodes are beautiful on their own and with this nature inspired piece, I think they work well together. This piece already has been purchased but I wanted you all to check it out anyway. This is definitely a direction I like to work in. I hope you enjoy this week's entry "Boulders and Geodes".

Take Care and Keep Creating!

Allison L Norfleet Bruenger

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

ALNB Collections Weekly Challenge for the Week of February 13th, 2011

2011-02-13T17:49:00.000-08:00

Back to Basics

One of the main reasons I started to design jewelry was to find a way to have my drawings be incorporated into everyday life, and not to be viewed just as art on walls. Incorporating my drawings into jewelry has been very rewarding because it truly is a marriage of art and fashion. It is "Wearable Art" . As I develop this line, I've enjoy the feedback from customers and other artist who really inspire me to continue to add and raise the bar when it comes to my abilities and subject matter. I love working on new subject matters, custom designs, and custom drawings as well. I thank everyone for these opportunities.

Well this weeks entry is a fun twists on envy and the color "green". Green is one of my favorite colors and this green eyed beauty can cause a little envy in us all. I love the green kyanite sticks and how they pull her eye color out just so. This piece was fun to work on and I hope you all enjoy it as well.

This week holds a lot of challenges for me. I have to complete a series of items before the end of this week to stay on my schedule for an upcoming show the first weekend of March. The "Artist Boutique" in Kirkwood, MO has a long and wonderful reputation and I want to be ready! Wish me luck and remember to stay creative.

Take Care!
Allison L Norfleet Bruenger
www.alnbcollections.com

ALNB Collections Weekly Challenge for the Week of February 6th, 2011

2011-02-06T18:45:00.001-08:00

New Week ! New Challenge

It is Great to be Back!!!!

I had to take a beak for a while but it feels GREAT to be back blogging and showing my new creations for all to see and hopeful enjoy. I have to admit I have made a fair amount of new pieces that have already found new homes. This past holiday season was a true blessing. I sold a variety of new designs that I didn't get to show online. So for the month of February I can show some of those special items that I created these past 4 months that have found homes.

This piece is call "Straight though the Middle." I Love This Piece. I loved it so much, I kept it. I don't do this often - In fact I own only 2 of my pieces. I enjoyed designing and making this piece a lot. I also enjoyed the color combination of black/gray and copper. This piece also features Hematite, a wonder metal gray - gunmetal gemstones with gives this piece a wonderful look of "mixed metals". It's Cool.

Well this year has many goals to reach, new lines to create and many plans to bring to the surface. I hope you will follow me though it all . Have a wonderful week and stay creative!

Take Care!
Allison L Norfleet Bruenger
www.alnbcollections.com

2010-06-13T06:58:00.000-07:00

A "Light & Airy" Week Forty Two

Is Upon Us !

This week's entry is looking on the lighter side of life. For this week, I focused on using a lighter colors in both my metal selection and my stone color. Chalcedony can be so beautiful and for this Art Nouveau inspired pendant it complemented the design just right. I have to admit, I love the color blue, but I don't design a lot of piece in this color. It is such a wonder color and this year I have to break out of my "Green Mode" and expand my color pallet to include more of the blues, reds, and oranges within my designs. I have spoke with other artists and they say that they go though the same battles as well. It is great to know that I'm not alone in battle to expand my color horizons. I also will be working with different metals as well . So look forward to some new looks coming up just around the corner. I'm working on designs for the late Summer /Fall season of Art Shows and let's not forget the Christmas season ( HO, HO, HO!). Well this piece was great fun creating and I'm happy to say it as already found a great home. Thank you Suzy G. for appreciating my work and being a inspiration to me as well!

Well I thank you All!

Have a Great Week!

Take Care and Keep Creating!!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Forty One of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-05-30T05:11:00.000-07:00

Stepping into the "Rich Colors" of Week Forty One of My Weekly Creative

Challenge

This has been a busy couple of weeks for me and I'm working to keep on top of all of this fun. I will be setting up for a trunk show with other local artists at a local store that features wonder "Arts and Craft" furniture and home accessories in the Tower Grove area here in St. Louis. Then the next weekend I will be at a women's conference at a major church here in Earth City. Also, of course, there is always some major event coming up at the bead store I work at. My boss always is planning new events to excite her customers. These are the times that "creating new pieces" can be challenging.

This piece was fun because it was based on an design I created for a great up and coming jewelry designer. Melanie G. has been working nonstop on creating a wonderful body of work and I helped her by making a copper metal component for one of her beautiful necklaces. After creating the design, I can up this this pendant based off of the original piece and fell in love with the rich color of the copper and the texture I created in the metal. Then I found these great fresh water brown pearls with such rich colors that I felt would be a great fit for this pendant. This was truly a fun project and I thank Melanie G. for her inspiration. I hope you Enjoy "Melanie's Garden" Have a great week and a wonderful Memorial Day!

Take Care and Keep Creating!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Forty of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-05-16T20:07:00.000-07:00

Week Forty!!!!!!!

WOW

The Challenge is ON!!!!!

I can't believe I have been creating new works and blogging about then for 40 Weeks. As I was setting up the graphics for the blog I look at the last entry and couldn't believe my eyes. 40!!!! Really!!!! Wow!!!! It has been fun and trying at times! I find it harder to stay on course when I'm getting ready for an art show. During that period, it is hard to work on pieces, get displays together for the event, get together the supplies for the show, and blog all at the same time. This is what they call "Running a Business". I have been working on this business steadily this past year and even though it can be crazy at times, it is worth it when I get such great feedback from all of you. That's what make blogging so rewarding and I thank you all!

Well let's take a look at the new addition. I want to work on more Nature themes for the "Art within Art" line and little flying creatures are the focus this week. I will be adding to the series very soon. This piece was fun because of all of the fun parts to this piece such as the use of brass and copper, the wire wrapped elements and colored pencils and decorative papers to create the wings. I loved this one because it let me be creative in so many areas. Well enjoy "Regal Moth" and have a wonderful week!

Take Care and Keep Creating !

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Thirty Nine of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-05-09T17:33:00.001-07:00

Week Thirty Nine of My Weekly Creative Challenge and Mother's Day Too!

How Cool!!!

Well let me start with an Happy Mother's Day wish to all of you moms out there and I would love to say Happy Mother's Day to my mom, Katie B.

Without her(and my Dad), I would not exist!

Thanks Mom!!!!!!

I Love You!!!

This week is the week to show off Nature and the use of Mixed Metals as well. As I have stated in earlier blog entries, I don’t work with brass as much as I work with copper or silver and for 2010 this will be changing. This week I wanted to show samples of both patinas and the use of mixing metals to give my pieces that extra something. I really liked the way the brightness of the brushed finished brass worked with the liver of sulfur textured copper. I enjoyed working in both of these techniques and I hope you will enjoy the "Fruits of My Labor" as well.

Take Care and Have a Wonderful Day !

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Thirty Eight of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-05-02T16:38:00.000-07:00

"Color My World" in Week Thirty Eight of my "Weekly Creative Challenge"

I love adding color to my designs. That is why I create colorful drawings to insert into my pendants, or add wonderful crystals, gemstones, pearls, and Czech glass to my designs. I'm now on the hunt to find and experiment with a new way to add color to the metal I use "itself". I use Liver of Sulfur to darken my metal work. I really like how it enhances the texture that I add to my metal work. Now I want to add "real colors". So I'm now working with patinas to add color to my work. This is one of my designs that I truly enjoyed working on. I love that I can add color to different components to my designs. It has been fun so far and I think this technique is a" keeper". Check in with my blog to see upcoming attempts to add just "a little something extra" to my work in the future. So enjoy the new addition "Growing , Growing and Growing". Thank you for checking in.

Take Care and Keep Creating!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Thirty Seven of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-04-25T18:21:00.001-07:00

"Hanging Off the Edge" in Week Thirty Seven of my Weekly Creative Challenge

Well I have been working on pieces for an upcoming show for about 4 weeks straight. I haven't gotten a chance to connect with you all for a long time( just about four weeks to be exact). Sometimes working on new concepts can be rewarding but it can definitely take over your waking hours and you can loose track of time. I was reminded of that fact from a very wonderful lady in the UK. Diane S. of ArtHobbyCraft.com blog sent me a little note to check on me to see if all was good here in Missouri. I felt cared for and "missed". Diane truly made my week and I just wanted to give her and all the great people on AHC blog a GREAT BIG SHOT OUT & THANK YOU!!!

Well this week's entry is a beauty with an India flair. This "Enchanted India Beauty" is the newest addition to my "Art within Art" line. I really enjoyed working with the brass this time. The drawing and the choice of beads for this design worked well with this metal. Well I hope you enjoy this new gem. I missed blogging and I'm glad to be Back!!!!

Take Care and Keep Creating!

Allison B

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

P.S. Please Check Out

http://arthobbycrafts.ning.com

It is a great site with a Wonderful Network of Wonderful Artists!!!!

Week Thirty Six of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-03-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

A Small Break can do you some Good in Week Thirty Six !

Well I needed a little time to get more supplies and to work on this technique for this weeks entry. I have wanted to start playing around with adding color to my metal piece and this was my first creation in which I used a patina in my work. I sketched this series of pieces a while back and I have been working on getting the colors I wanted. As time goes on, I will be adding new pieces to the series I call my "Single Bud" series.

I also got to experiment with wire wrapping as well with this pendant. At my job they had a wonderful bracelet making class and I love the techniques so I used it as a decorative link in this pendant as a added source of texture and color. I love learning new techniques and merging them into my design style. I thank Mariah M. for the wire wrapping lesson and I look forward to showing more designs from this series very soon.

Take care and Keep Creating

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

alnbcollections2@yahoo.com

Week Thirty Five of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-03-01T20:19:00.000-08:00

"Made to Order" for Week Thirty Five of My Weekly Creative Challenge!

It is time to give a "Hoot"! for my newest creation. This was the second part of a special order I was commissioned to do. My client wanted to have an owl as the main focus of her pendant and this was a first for me. I usually draw the female image as my main focus and this was a definite departure for me. I have to admit it was great fun to create this little "Woodland Creature." She also requested I design custom earrings to go along with her pendant as well. I truly enjoy new challenges and new opportunities. At the time I was designing this pendant, I also drew 3 other concepts for her to choose from, so in the future I might be adding to this series as well. I can't let a good design just sit there on paper only. Well it is my pleasure to introduce "Creature Comfort" to the ALNB Collections body of work. Enjoy!

Take Care and Keep Creating !

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Thirty Four of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-02-14T20:11:00.000-08:00

Week Thirty Four is here &

"Love is in the Air"

Well hello to Everyone and Happy Valentines Day. These past few weeks have been a "labor of love". I have been working on special orders and one order was to create gifts that were to be given on this special day. I love the fact that someone wanted to give one of my creations to say "I care". These two new pieces let my client give " flowers" in a new way. Both of these new "Trinkets & Tokens" necklaces featured a floral motif. I guest you can say "Spring can't come fast enough for me." I also got to use one of my favorite finds from the past year. I love these lamp work beads because of the many colors that they came in and the texture of the bead itself. I think it went perfectly with the texture of my metal tag and gave the piece a very tactile feeling. Well I know I have to get on the ball and create more designs for the "Trinkets & Tokens" line. I've been working on the sketches and will be adding new pieces within this month into the beginning of March. Keep an eye on my new works on www.alnbcollections.com and on this blog.

Well have a "Love Filled Day", Wonderful Week and Keep Creating!!!

Take Care!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Thirty Three of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-02-07T16:57:00.000-08:00

Starting from the Beginning in

Week Thirty Three!

Hi Everyone!

I have been asked how I come up with my designs and I let them know it all starts with "The Drawing". All of my metal jewelry designs start with a idea that I have put to paper. I love drawing out my designs because it helps me to visualize how the piece will be put together and in this stage I can work out most of the kinks of the design. While I was in school, both my jewelry teacher and my ceramics teacher always comment on how detailed my drawing were. They had me show my sketch books as part of my displays because of it gave the viewer a complete view point on how my works were thought out and completed. This design " Entangled Clusters" is part of a 4 part series. I designed this piece for the Chesterfield Arts "Art Feast." I was part of an silent auction last night. This is my second year participating in this event. I really appreciate the opportunity to be apart of this event and I love sharing my work with all of you, Have a great Week and Keeping Creating.

Take Care

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Thirty Two of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-01-31T19:35:00.001-08:00

Week Thirty Two is a week of "Completed Thoughts!

I have enjoyed this week a lot. I predominately design necklaces and pendants. That has been my main focus in my metal work. I started working on bracelets after working at my current job as a sales associate at a bead shop. They have many classes that teach you basic string techniques and I just couldn't resist adding these fun little gems to my already existing metalsmith lines. Now I have had many of my customers ask about earrings to complete their look and this has open yet another venue for me to be creative. For the longest time I didn't venture towards designing earrings because many of my designs are made out of copper and some people have an allergy to certain metals such as copper, but I have found a line of "Nickle Free" earring findings that make it possible for me to complete the "look" my customers desire. I'm very happy about this move. As time goes on you will see many more earring designs added to my lines. Well, for now this is one of my first attempts in designing earrings for that "Completed Look"

Enjoy, Take Care and Keep Creating!!!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Thirty One of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2010-01-24T19:46:00.000-08:00

New Year, New Decade, New Possibilities!!

Welcome Week Thirty One and Welcome Back!!!

Well I'm BACK and I sooooooo excited about the opportunity to create new works of wearable art for all to enjoy! This new year is full of new possibilities and new things to learn and I can't wait so start creating and learning. I have been looking into a variety of workshops and classes that will help me to develop some of the new concepts that I have in mind to add a new dimension to my designs. This year I really want to "push the envelope" when it comes to my designs. I love the thought of combining many techniques and mediums to create that special "one of a kind" piece of jewelry that really is a true "mixed media" creation. This soldering class and the ones I have signed up for for the next 3 months will hopefully put me on the path to creative freedom!!!! These samples are just the beginning. I love these pieces because I got to use my father's photography. Plus I love these photos of my mom and dad. Enjoy !

Take care and keep creating in 2010!!!!!!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Thirty of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-12-26T21:59:00.000-08:00

Week Thirty of my Weekly Creative Challenge is Here!

WOW......

Well we have made it to Week Thirty. I want to thank all of you for following me and my creative process for these past 3o weeks in 2009! This process has definitely help me with my designs and I cant wait to see what we can do together in 2010. This was one of my favorite pieces this past year. I made for the "63119 Art Gallery Crawl" and I sold it that same weekend which was great but I only got to take a few photos of it before it was gone. " Welcome my last entry for 2009 "Poppy on the Side."

I will be taking a two week break from blogging so that I can come up with some new pieces. This break will also give me the time to finish developing a line that I have been chopping at the bit to show you all so I can get your feedback. I love developing new lines and creating new concepts to share with you all. I hope this blog encourages us all to be creative and I truly look forward to 2010.

Take care, God Bless and have a Wonderful New Year!!!!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Twenty Nine of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-12-22T18:41:00.001-08:00

Week Twenty Nine has an "Icy Touch" to My Weekly Creative Challenge

I cant believe there is only one more week left for 2009 Weekly Challenge. It will be great to know that somehow we will make it up to Week Thirty for the end on year. Well this week I wanted to keep it cool and so I went for the "Silver Touch". This is the week of Christmas and I found it only fitting to have my featured piece something that could bring a "Chill to the Air" . I love Fretwork and I love working in Silver. I don't get to create as many pieces in silver because of the cost but when I sketch something up that screams "Silver," I just have to do it. I added the Swarovski crystals to this design to add just a touch of shimmer. The pendant is light weight but definitely makes a statement. Well "Drop of Dew is this week's entry. So Enjoy and have a Wonderful Christmas!!!!

Take care and Keep Creating !

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Twenty Eight of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-12-15T13:22:00.000-08:00

Week Twenty Eight of My Creative Challenge has some of that "Old World Charm"

There are only 2 week left in 2009 and we are coming to the end of a very productive year. This year was full of exploring different styles and techniques. One of the things I discovered is my love of fretwork and the intricate designs of different eras such as "Victorian", "Art Nouveau" , and the "Art and Craft" movement. I love the swirls and nature oriented details of many of the fabrics, interior furniture & accessories and fine art of those times. All of these wonderful areas of style and creativity has influence my style as well and "Victorian Bloom" is just one of those pieces that show that influence. I loved working in copper and I love combining different styles of chain. The lampwork beads in this piece were just that added something which was needed to pull this design all together. These types of pieces make me look forward to what coming in 2010. Well here is this weeks entry "Victorian Bloom" Enjoy

Take Care and Keep Creating!!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Twenty Seven of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-12-06T18:11:00.001-08:00

I feel all "Linked" together for Week Twenty Seven of my Weekly Creative Challenge

Learning a new technique can be so enjoyable and it is even more fun when the pieces you create actually come out the way you image them. This week's entries did just that for me. It all started when two of my favorite customers came into the store with these great bracelets on. The designs were so cool and Ms. Margie O. and Ms. Debbie S. assured me that I will be able to learn this in no time. So these two wonderful ladies met me on a Thursday morning and in less than two hours later, I created my first chain mail bracelet. I love the combinations of deep red and Gunmetal. The second one is a combination of Peridot with a double AB coating and Indian Red Swarovski Crystal all linked together with antique copper rings. Well I give a special thank you to my two "Masters of Chain mail" Margie O and Debbie S. They are two very creative and kind individuals. Thank you both. I hope you enjoy my new creations .

Take care! and Keep Creating!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Twenty Six of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-12-01T18:41:00.001-08:00

Feel the "Chill in the Air" on Week Twenty Six of My Weekly Creative Challenge

The holiday season is upon us and it is time to find that special little something for all those people on our gift list. I know that's where my thoughts should be focused on but all I can think about is what am I going to do in 2010. My mind is on what new lines I will be working on and what will be the focus of my new blog for the new year ( if anyone has any suggestions let me know). Well, I know I need to finish 2009 first and this is one of those pieces that I want to feature before this year ends. So here is my little "Winter Blossom" necklace to start off the holiday season . Enjoy!

Take care and keep creating!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Twenty Five of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-11-23T17:24:00.000-08:00

"Tag You're It" is Week Twenty Five of My Creative Challenge

Well I'm back on track and this week has three entries for all of you to take a look at. I love working on this line a lot. It is fun to come up with different images that can fit into this set limited space. I want the fretwork to be detailed but not to overtake the shape of the "tag" itself. I design these pieces in copper, brass and silver and the price range varies. This is truly a great outlet for me to create little sparks of beauty! I hope you enjoy them just as much as I enjoy making them.

Well I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving and don't eat too much turkey. It might make you sleepy and you won't feel like being artistic!

Take care and keep Creating!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Twenty Four of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-11-10T08:41:00.001-08:00

I'm "Entangled" in Week Twenty Four of My Weekly Creative Challenge

Well I thank everyone for letting me take a break to get ready for this past week's 3 Day Art Crawl in Webster Groves, MO. The show went Great and I was very pleased with al the feedback I received on my new pieces. Iworked on ten new pieces for the show and they all got a great response and some of then were purchased this past weekend. I also worn a couple of samples of new ideas I had in minded to develop for 2010 and those got great feedback as well.I'm always trying out new concepts and I'm very thankful to you all for helping me along the way with all of your comments and support.

Well here is one of those new pieces. This is "Entangled Blossoms in Rose" Again Thank You and have a

Great Week!

Take care and Keep Creating!

Allison B.

www.alnbcolletions.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Nature's Answer to Week Twenty Three of My Weekly Creative Challenge !

2009-10-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

Nature's Answer to Week Twenty Three of My Weekly Creative Challenge !

Working on new pieces is always fun. I wanted to get back to basics and I choose to go back to my love of nature. This piece was fun because of of the little wire wrapped pieces (Woooooooooo). Many of my drawings that I have worked on lately are definitely "Nature Inspired." I think that I'm skipping the winter season and throwing my thoughts towards "Spring". I love incorporating flowers and leaves into swirls of Copper and Silver. Well anyway here is my latest work" Entangled Leaves" Enjoy and keep creating!

Take care !

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Week Twenty Two of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-10-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

Week Twenty Two makes me feel

"All Dreamy"

Well Week Twenty Two is the beginning of staying on course with the create process that will spark 2010. I have been working on a series of drawing that will launch my creative process for 2010. Sometimes you have to get back to basics and drawing out my pieces is how I began to focus on designing. Around a week ago I saw one of my teachers from Maryville University. Her name is Leslie and she was my Ceramics teacher. I loved her class and the one thing she pointed out to me was the importance of drawing out my concepts first. She really enjoyed my sketch books . So I went home and pulled out a couple of those books and took a stroll down memory lane. I realized how much I missed working in clay and how much I missed sketching out all my designs. It was fun looking at how I came up with the pieces I did back then. So I decided to do a series of 24 sketches of necklace and pendant designs to work from for the rest of the year. It will be fun to see how the pieces develop from the drawing stage to the final pieces. This is the first of this series. It's my "Deep Purple Dream" (Yes I did like" Donny and Marie" as a child). Well, anyway Enjoy!

Take care and keep Creating!!!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

www.alnbcollections.blogspot.com

Oh La La! Week Twenty One of My Weekly Creative Challenge

2009-10-11T19:13:00.000-07:00

Twenty One Weeks!

I feel "Creative and All Grown Up!"

Week Twenty One has me realizing that I have I still have a lot of work to create before the year is out. I cant wait to take a tally of how many pieces I worked on since I started this challenge earlier this year.

On Thursday of this week I will be participating in my first Open House. One of my coworkers is having an open house at her home and I and 3 other artist will be joining her in this fun venue. This will be a great change from all the set up and craziness on setting up a tent, displays, and selling in an outside setting. It will be a "Wine and Cheese" affair. OOOOOhhh La La! I'm really looking forward to this event. and here are just a couple of the pieces I will be showing. Well I have to get back to work now. So wish me luck and keep creating!

Take Care!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Week Twenty ! Finally of My Weekly Creative Challenge!!!!!

2009-10-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

Week Twenty! Finally

I made it to Week Twenty!!!

Well I know I have fell off the edge of the world these past weeks. I have been working on new pieces and I participated in 3 shows these past 2 weekends. This is the reason I fell of the blogging map for the past 3 weeks. I have to say they have been a GREAT and productive three weeks and I feel Truly Blessed. The first show was the Mosaics Art Festival in St. Charles Missouri and it was Great ! It was my first outside art show. I had a lot of planning to do to get ready for these 3 show and some how it all worked out. The next week I had to set up for the Green Home festival Craft Fair in St. Louis on Saturday and "Art in the Park" in Francis Park on Sunday. All of them was definitely a learning experience and I feel blessed to have learned so much. The next show I'm getting ready for is a "Open House" with 4 other artist in Oakville, MO and then gallery crawl in Webster Groves, MO in November. I will let you know all about all these events in the upcoming weeks.

I'm Back to Blogging !!!

Take Care and Keep Creating!!!!!!!

Allison B.

Week Nineteen Smells Like a "Rose"

2009-08-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

Week Nineteen Smells Like a "Rose"

Well I'm back from Detroit and it's time to get back to designing. I have to admit I had a bit of a bus man holiday because while there, of course, I worked on a couple of pieces. This bracelet was one of my favorite so I thought I would feature it for this Week's Challenge. I really liked the color combination of pink / pale rose and copper. I already have 2 orders for this one. It feels like a vintage piece with a little" blush" of color. Well I now introduce to you all "Victorian Rose".

Have a Great Week and Keep Creating!

Take Care

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

2009-08-10T17:54:00.000-07:00

Week Eighteen!

So Much to Do......

So Little Time!!!

I have come to the realization that TIME moves far faster than I can. I can't believe that we are almost half way done with August already. I had to take a little break after the Big A$$ Indie Art and Craft Show. It was great and a whole lot of fun! The next shows coming up are the "St. Charles Mosaics Festival of the Arts", St. Louis Hills"Art in the Park", Green Craft Art Fair, and The Lady Bug Beads "Bead art Fair". The planning for these shows are intense but rewarding!

I thought I would start off slow and I created this little piece of fun. I love jewelry with an Asian feel and this one gave me a chance to wire wrap and string all in one piece. This piece throws me back into the FUN and I look forward to next week's design. I will be heading to Detroit so I might post my blog on Saturday. Well Enjoy and Keep Creating.

Take Care!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Week Seventeen! The Beginning of the "Fall Show" Series 2009

2009-07-26T18:19:00.000-07:00

Week Seventeen!......

Wow the Beginning of the "Fall Show" Series.

Well, the notifications are coming in and I feel very excited about this 2009 Fall - Winter show schedule. As all the information comes in, I began to think to myself "Wow, now I have to create work to sell at all of these events. I must say it's a little crazy but it's a challenge I'm will to take. This week I'm previewing some of the bracelets that will be for sale at the Big A$$ Indie Art and Craft Show at Mad Art Gallery in St. Louis,MO. The opening night is next Friday and I will be working that night to greet the guests and show them all the beautiful jewelry showcased at the event. In September I have 3 shows so far to get ready for (maybe 4). Wish me luck. I will show all of you my progress in the weeks to come.

Take Care and Keep Being Creative!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Week Sixteen : Back in the "Metal" Again

2009-07-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

Week Sixteen finds me

"Back in the Metal Again"!

Well everyone it time for me to get back to my love for the Metal. I have been wanting to start working on this new line for a long time and I finally started getting it together. This is the first installment of my new "Trinkets & Tokens" metal line. This line gives me the chance to explore the use of simple shapes & delicate fretwork with decorative chains, beads and fun finding. I really like this line because I get to create beautiful pendants that are simple, yet unique. Keep Watching for new installments on this line in upcoming blog entries. Also, I have updated my "What's New" page at www.alnbcollections.com with all of my upcoming shows. There are still a couple more shows I'm waiting to hear from. I will add those new dates to my site as the information becomes available.

Take care and Keep Creating!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

2009-07-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

Week Fifteen !!!!!

I Love Learning....

I love Free Classes and learning something new!!! At my wonderful job. ( I must say!) my coworker Mariah taught a class that showed us how to create this fun bracelet. She calls it the "Wagon Wheel" bracelet. I changed it up a little by using drops in my design. Mariah says I always try to go a step further and play with the designs she teaches. I feel that the things they teach us jump start our creative spark. This bracelet was fun to create. I love to weave beads together rather than just stringing. I love coming up with different ways to create new patterns with the different combination of beads I find. I just want to thank Mariah M. for sharing her knowledge. Hopefully we can all get some inspiration from her class. Enjoy!!!!

Take Care

Allison B

www.alnbcollections.com

2009-07-06T18:16:00.000-07:00

Week Fourteen Has a

Purple Haze!

Well it's Week Fourteen and I have to start getting ready for upcoming shows. I have a show coming up this month at Mad Art Gallery here in St. Louis. It's called the Big A$$ Indie Art and Craft Show. I wanted to introduce some of my newer designs here at this show so I have to "Get the Cracking" on new designs.

At my place of employment there is always something new to learn. I would like to work with more seed beads in some of my designs and I love the look of adding "little loops of seed bead" to some of my bracelets so I thought I would give it a try. My boss calls this technique "loopy fringe". It's fun to do but it is a little time consuming. I will be working on a couple more for this upcoming show. I also have 2 (maybe 4) more shows coming up in September. I really need to buckle down and get to work. So Many Designs! So Little Time!!! Oh well I LOVE IT JUST THE SAME!!! Enjoy the week and Keep Creating!!!!!!!!

Take care

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Week Thirteen All Ready!!!

2009-06-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

Week Thirteen All Ready!

Well Hello Everyone!

I must say that staying dedicated to creating is tougher than you think. For me, it is not finding new things to create. I have soooooooooo many ideas I want to work on that it is driving me crazy! It is more of the problem of FINDING THE TIME TO CREATE. I have taken on a second job as an art counselor and I still have my job at the bead store as well. And I have just found out that I have been accepted into two shows that I applied for.

Hooray!!!

Now I have to work on my inventory .

(This is the part I LOVE!)

Well I have started to play with more metal components for my bracelet designs and I really like working with these pieces. I love finding way to create the look I want. This is a great way to gear me up for the upcoming metal pieces I want to work on for these up coming shows. I will let you all know about the shows soon.

Take care Everyone and Keep Creating!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Week Twelve is on FIRE!!!

2009-06-14T18:20:00.001-07:00

Welcome Summertime and

Week Twelve!!

Hello Summer!!

Hello Sun and Fun and hello to hot bracelets to heat up your summer fashions. I don't design a lot with Red as the main color but I must learn to get out of my comfort zone( which are greens, browns and aquas) and embrace the hot colors of summertime and summer fun. I know I have to try some pieces with orange and yellows next but at this time RED will be my "Fling with Summer Heat!!! Happy Summer , keep cool, and have a wonderful week!!!

Take care

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Week Eleven is like Heaven!!!

2009-06-08T19:18:00.001-07:00

Hey I made it past Ten Weeks!!

Hooray!!!!!

Hello Everyone!

I'm sorry I'm sending this blog entry on Monday instead of Sunday but I had to get ready for my new summer job as an Art Counselor at Laumeier Sculpture Park here in the St. Louis area.

Well it's Week Eleven and I have been working one a lot of bracelets lately to get ready to launch my new sell site for my bracelet line. It's always fun for me to work on these pieces. They're like little puzzles I get to to figure out and I enjoy creating these fun bits of art. Well I will show my progress in this area as I go along.

Remember Take Care and be Creative!!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

New way to Display your Work!!!

2009-06-05T18:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I always looking for new ways to display my work out there in the world. This might not be new to all of you but I thought I would share it with you all in the hopes it could help others with their marketing needs as well.

Take Care!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

2009-05-31T16:56:00.000-07:00

Well I made it to Week Ten !

Hi Everyone!

I know I missed last sunday but I went home to Detroit to visit my family. We Need Family!

I did though still have a piece to show you all. It already has a home / sold but I wanted to share it with all of you anyway. This piece is called an "Window Box with a View". I have to admit I love Working with Copper!!!! I love how the copper works wonderfully with patinas and how adding texture to the metal's surface really give character to the drawings and to the designs. It's Cool!

Well I have been working on more bracelets. I will show some of them soon! Take care everyone and have a GREAT WEEK!!!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Week Nine ! So Fine!

2009-05-18T05:21:00.000-07:00

Week Nine! So Fine!

Well week nine has been a "Learning Experience" Literally. I love taking classes and participating in workshops. I think that it truly helps me to expand my creative process which helps me to create original designs that are truly unique. If you don't try new techniques your creative process doesn't grow.

Where I work we have a lot of classes and workshops. I thought I would partake in one called "Wire Wrapping a Tree" and I loved it! It was really fun. I wanted to give a shout out to Angie Stamper - my teacher who was Great ! Also I will be taking two more classes this week and I will show you all how they went this Sunday. Well I hope you all enjoy " The Tree of Life" pendant. Everyone have a great week and Keep Learning Something New !

Take care !!!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Artist Profile: Allison Norfleet-Bruenger

2009-05-13T18:46:00.001-07:00

Artist Profile: Allison Norfleet-Bruenger

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Week Eight goes "Bollywood"

2009-05-03T18:18:00.000-07:00

Week Eight goes "Bollywood"

Well this piece was a lot of fun to create. Combining India's beauty, the warmth of brass, and the rich colors of red jasper into this little gem was labor of love. So welcome to the family "Bali Beauty". I have been working on some new sketches and as time goes on I hopefully will be able to work on those new pieces as well. I also have to make up some more bracelets so I can be ready for upcoming shows as well. Well that's all for now. Take care and have a great week!

Allison B

www.alnbcollections.com

alnbcollections2@yahoo.com

Week Seven of My "Weekly Creative Challenge"

2009-04-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

Well Week Seven!

I have to admit it has been a rough couple of weeks, but I'm working at it. Welcome my new addition "Cherry Blossom." She made her public debut at the 4th Annual St. Charles Riverfront Spring Art Walk this weekend and she got a lot of GREAT feedback. I love working on new projects and this piece has been a labor of love for me. Well that's all for now.

Take care and have a Great Week !

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

alnbcollections2@yahoo.com

Week Six of my "Weekly Creative Challenge"

2009-04-12T20:12:00.000-07:00

It's "Art within Art" Time!

Week Six already. Whoa! I have had a lot of fun working on some of my new additions to my "Art within Art" line. I like to get the chance to work on drawings for my "art centered" jewelry designs. Well this week's addition is "Isabella's Aqua Fantasy". This is a combination of patina hand textured copper and a whole lot of wired wrapped aqua flower. This pieces definitely makes me "Think Spring". Well have a great week and enjoy!

Take care!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Week Five of my "Weekly Creative Challenge"

2009-04-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

Week Five

The Creative Bug stays "Alive"

This week was a join venture. I work at a bead shop here in St. Louis named "Lady Bug Beads". I work with some very creative people there and one of those creative people is a lady named Jo. Well, this time around I brought in my metal components into work to pick out some beads to enhance my design. Where I work there are just so many beads to choose from. This time there where so many great choices that I asked for some opinions on which beads to choose. Well Jo had spotted some new beads that just came in and she wanted to see these great marble Czech beads be utilized. After seeing those wonderful colors marbled within each bead, I couldn't help but to use them with my fretwork design. My new addition is "Encircled Blossom"

So Jo... this ones for you!!

Enjoy and take care!

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Welcome to Week Four of my "Weekly Creative Challenge"

2009-03-29T18:49:00.000-07:00

Bracelets! Bracelets! Bracelets!

Hello to All!

It is week four of my "Weekly Creative Challenge." So far I have worked on my metals and mixed media lines. This week I thought I would work on bracelets for my "Brace Yourself" bracelet line. It was fun working with "JUST BEADS." I have been working with more Lampwork beads this time around. I like how each beads is a "mini work of art" in its own right. Well I had fun putting these pieces together and I hope you will enjoy them as well. Take Care and have a GREAT week!.

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Welcome to Week Three of my "Weekly Creative Challenge"

2009-03-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

Wow! Week Three!!!

The first thing I have to say is "Thank You". I have received a lot of great feed back. Thank you so much for the encouragement. I have been planning and working on several projects at the same time which requires a lot of multitasking. It can be overwhelming at times but it is a necessity that I'm embracing as a part of running a business. I have been working on many new concepts and sometimes it becomes hard to focus on just one. This challenge helps me to do this. "Focus ". So here the new addition. My new baby is the "Ginkgo Adorned" necklace.

Enjoy and Take Care !

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

2009-03-15T18:51:00.000-07:00

Week Two has Arrived!

Well, it is week two of my "Weekly Creative Challenge". I have to admit, this is going to be a challenge. I have so many things going on at one time. I have a meeting with my art counselor director and the art camp assistant to get all of our lesson plans together for the 4 to 6 year old art camp for Laumeier. Then I have to meet with some other artists to research upcoming events and possible selling venues. Oh, and lets not forget my job and my family. Wow! I have to say though, it is exciting to see my drawings come to life. I truly enjoy creating new pieces. This new piece was a design I have been wanting to finish for a long time. I have books and books of drawings that I would say "Oh it will make this one soon!" Well I'm starting that quest now. Welcome the "Regal Dragonfly" to the collection. I'm working on a couple of wire wrap pieces for next weeks blog so take care and keep in touch

Allison B.

Week One of the Challenge

2009-03-08T17:47:00.000-07:00

Well Hi Everyone!

This is Week One of my Weekly Creative Challenge . I was able to create two pieces this week. The first one is called "Vines Within" This piece is a combination of brass, pearls and cloisonne beads. The second piece is a combination of brass and copper wire, beads and original art for me. I've been wanting to learn more about and create with wire wrapping. It's called "Milk and Honey". This is one of the lines I want to work on for 2009 and I'm happy with the outcome so far. Look forward to more pieces in this line. Well it's time for me to get back to work. I will blog soon ! Next Sunday to be Exact!!!!!

Take Care

Allison B.

www.alnbcollections.com

Welcome to the Creative Challenge !

2009-03-01T18:23:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Creative Challenge !

Hello to All!

I have been drawing and planing for the past 3 months about how to get my work out there to all of you. I have been designing postcards to website ads and everything in between. Well I'm happy to say it is now time to get down to work and CREATE ART. I'm so happy about actually working on pieces. I can't wait to share them with you. So I'm introducing the "Monthly Creative Challenge". For the next 9 months I will have to create 1 to 3 pieces per week. I will be posting this blog weekly ( Every Sunday) to show you all my new creations for that week. Please feel free to comment, encourage , or give me "a little kick in the pants" if I don't get to create and post anything for that week. I will be showing everything from my "one of a kind" metal work to my affordable bracelets line. I will also present new works and concepts for upcoming lines and show off some of my ceramics and mixed media pieces when I get a chance. I look forward to hearing from you all and remember "Tell a Friend".

Enjoy the Art and Take Care!

New Year! New Creative Opportunities!

2009-01-15T07:30:00.000-08:00

Well Happy New Year to All!

"Swirling Drop in Brass" Pendant

This year is full of a lot of changes! New year, new president, new surrounding, and new chances to create great works of art to brighten every one's day. I feel so blessed to get the chance to design new pieces to do just that - to brighten one's day. This year I will attempt to blog more and to stay connected with the world at large. It is a exciting time and I just want to add to it by making art and sharing it with all of you!

Have a Great Day!

Welcome!

2008-11-15T19:09:00.000-08:00

Welcome to My World!

Hello Everyone. I just wanted to share some photos of my current work.

I hope you well enjoy!