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Rhonda McConnell It started about 8 years ago. Although schooled in art and interior design, I’m self-taught in the art of enameling. At first I dabbled with it, experimenting and learning the process. Then, while trying to decide how to use this new found art, my heart was inspired to create my first and ‘signature’ piece, the Jesus Cross. More cross ideas began to happen. Now I enjoy creating crosses, nature designs, and jewelry.
During my first show at the Balboa Island Art Walk a few years ago, a gentleman stopped by and said, “I would like to have this cross for a friend who really needs it.” It was the Jesus Cross. I truly hope that the cross was a comfort to the man’s friend. During other shows, I heard many similar comments that give special meaning to the message behind the Jesus Cross. This is the reason I continue to make crosses, and while working on them, I’m reminded of how truly grateful I am.
Materials used in my designs are powdered glass enamels, raw copper, exotic woods, and natural gemstones. I love using transparent enamels on copper because of the way you can see right through the enamel to the copper underneath. The copper plays with the enamel, sometimes making unique colorings, and there is so much depth with transparents. After the piece comes out of the kiln, it’s fun to see how the enamel changes as it cools and becomes shiny and beautiful. The woods used in my art are hand-picked to ensure quality. Some of the woods used are Purple Heart, African Mahogany, Zebra, Bubinga, Bolivian Rosewood and others. My jewelry is fashioned from gemstones and glass beads. Each piece is creatively hand strung and displays a uniquely designed glass enamel pendant.
Thank you for looking and I hope you enjoy!
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