Gourd Wonderful

I have ordered gourds via the Internet and am always delighted to receive my box filled with the marvels of the plant world. However, there is nothing like going to a gourd farm and selecting your own gourds.

Since moving to California, one of my favorite places to visit is the Welburn Gourd Farm in Fallbrook, California. The farm is located deep in a canyon where the asphalt turns into a dirt road. Though the drive can be long and arduous, the journey’s well worth it. The sight of fields filled with gourds and the racks of dried gourds beckoning with infinite creative possibilities is simply wonderful and exhilarating!

Gourd Vessel Creation

Vessel, Sula, made of gourd and metal leaf. Measurements: 7 x 4 3/4 x 4 3/4 inches. 2009.

Vessel design by Sala Faruq. Photo by Sala Faruq. Copyright © 2009 by Sala Faruq. All rights reserved.

Gourd Vessel Creation

Vessel, Chocolate Raspberry Dream, made of gourd and wood. Measurements: 5 3/4 x 10 1/2 x 6 inches. 2003.

Vessel design by Sala Faruq. Photo by Bob Hill. Copyright © 2003 by Sala Faruq. All rights reserved.

Gourd Vessel Creation

Teapot, Nina, made of gourd, wood, Paperclay and metal leaf. Measurements: 7 3/4 x 3 3/4 x 7 1/2 inches. 2009.

Vessel design by Sala Faruq. Photo by Sala Faruq. Copyright © 2009 by Sala Faruq. All rights reserved.

My Studio

I live/work in a small studio apartment in the heart of downtown San Diego. When I moved, it was a challenge to whittle down my "stuff" to accommodate this new space. I stood in the chaos of boxes, furniture and bags wondering how I was going to make this place my own more times than I can count. After many months of tinkering, I achieved my vision. My place is cozy, artsy and inspiring. It's me!

The desk is where I create my gourd art. I painted the image on the front. It's my rendition of Aaron Douglass' Teneo Te, Africa! When I sit down at my desk to work, I feel inspired.

Gourd Jewelry Creation

Ring, Javier, made of gourd and Paperclay. Measurements: 1 5/8 x 1 1/4 x 1 inches. Size 11. 2007.

Jewelry design by Sala Faruq. Photo by Sala Faruq. Copyright © 2007 by Sala Faruq. All rights reserved.

Gourd Jewelry Creation

Bracelet, Ahmadu, made of gourd and metal leaf. Measurement: 2 1/2 x 4 x 4 inches. 2007.

Jewelry design by Sala Faruq. Photo by Sala Faruq. Copyright © 2007 by Sala Faruq. All rights reserved.

On The Gourdeous Path

In May 2008, I moved to San Diego, CA. I lose my muse somewhere in the process. After more than a year, the girl is back and on The Gourdeous Path.

I am finalizing my website. I opened an Etsy.com shop account, which is almost complete and ready for official launch. Establishing a presence on Facebook is in the works. And, I am working on a video of my work for YouTube. So, stay tuned for exciting developments.