Inspiration: Elizabeth Catlett

Attempting to expand my knowledge of art, I decided to read-up on one of my favorite artist, Elizabeth Catlett. She describes herself as ". . . black, a woman, a sculptor and a printmaker." Her work is phenomenal. I became aware of her as an undergraduate. While reading the book, Elizabeth Catlett: An American Artist in Mexico, by Melanie Anne Herzog, I realized Catlett was pivotal in my development as an artist. I was mesmerized by her style and command of her medium. I love what she says about technique. "Technique is so important! It is the difference between art and ineptitude. Because our audiences deserve the best, we must equip ourselves to give them the very best. You can't make a statement if you can't speak the language."

Workshop Follow-up

It has been a week since I taught my gourd jewelry workshop. For my first class, it went very well. It is important to be of service. And, what better way to service than to share your passion with others. Marian Wright Eelman said it best "Service is the rent we pay for living."

Gourd Growing Diary Update

My gourd plants have turned into vines. And, I have one white blossom with a pepo or baby gourd so far. I also got this book, Gourds in Your Garden, by Ginger Summit, which has been very helpful. I learned that:

1). Ornamental and luffa gourd plants bloom during the day and have yellow blossoms.

2). Hardshell gourds bloom at night and have white blossoms.

3). Blossoms of all the vines last only 24 hours.

4). The vines have both female and male blossoms.

Gourd Jewelry Creation

Brooch, Rosa, made of gourd and metal button. Measurements: 3 x 1 x 3 inches.

Brooch design by Sala Faruq. Photo by Sala Faruq. Copyright © 2010 by Sala Faruq. All rights reserved.