IPCA's 2010 Progress and Possibilities Competition

As my friend Linda Riopel would say, WOO HOO! My Entry is done, the photo uploaded and the application completed!

I had hoped to submit 3 necklaces or 2 necklaces and a brooch showcasing my multiple layer image transfer technqiue, but although I only managed to get one necklace completed, I am okay with that because I have been in "the zone" since Tuesday afternoon at 1:00 (thanks for the time off, boss!) trying to create a suitable entry for the International Polymer Clay Associations's 2010 Progress and Possibilities competition before the deadline tonight.

I have been a member of the IPCA since last August, so this is my first P&P, although I have drooled over photographs of the 2008 finalists and winners since I joined. For the first time, three skill level categories will be implemented: Beginner, Intermediate and Professional.







I started with an idea, that I wanted to incorporate my favorite polymer clay techniques: Image Transfer, Faux and Stamping/Embossing. I also knew I wanted to include my signature cylinder beads, some in image transfer and some stamped, and some of my faux jade.

I can't draw a stick, so I won't show you my initial sketch, but the sketch and the finished necklace are almost identical.







I hope no one minds, but I have posted a bunch of photos. You only get to upload one to P&P, and this was such a long necklace, almost 34", that I couldn't get a really closeup photo of the entire piece, so I am making up for that here!

In addition to my favorite techniques, I also wanted to include my favorite colors, red, blue and black. As anyone who knows me knows, I LOVE red, all shades and tones of red, as well as blue and black. I especially love the tertiary colors on the color wheel, tomato red, teal blue, mustard yellow, olive green. I knew just which images to use, too. These vintage Asian images of Geishas, depicting "a day in the life", so to speak, are gorgeous and colorful, graceful and elegant. The lightbulb came on and I started sketching.

Voila! The finished design! I am really proud of this one. I think it is my best work to date, a rich, sensuous, color-drenched, classic configuration which celebrates a cultural heritage steeped in mystery and intrigue. Regardless of the outcome of the competition, I am completely satisfied with it, a first for me, and would not change a thing about it.