Masters: Beadweaving: Major Works by Leading Artists

by Carol Wells, Lark Books, Ray Hemachandra

Versatility, innovation, inspiration—that’s what The Masters series offers crafters, with an engaging and up-to-date survey of the finest contemporary work by approximately 40 leading artists in specific media. Beadweaving takes the spotlight here, and readers will find the showcased pieces eye-opening in their originality.
Each highlighted master takes center stage in an informative eight-page feature that includes nearly a dozen gorgeous, high-quality photos and a short essay by the curator placing the impressive work and its creator in context. These outstandingly talented and imaginative artists include Valerie Hector, whose beaded designs are a statement in bold modernity; Jeanette Ahlgren, who fashions intricate loom-woven vessels with subtle gradations in color and graphic, geometric patterns; and Marcia DeCoster, who uses her right angle weave techniques to create shimmering jewelry in rich jewel tones.
Beadweaver and author Carol Wilcox Wells served as the juror of this remarkable collection.

Genres: Jewellery, Beading

300 pages, Paperback

First published October 7, 2008

Reviews

[Melody · Rating 4 out of 5]

Remarkable artists doing astonishingly glorious things with beads. Again, as with other Lark books, I find that the photography leaves somewhat to be desired.

[Edie Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midway through the book I signed up for a bead weaving class. Not that I could ever achieve the levels of these artists, but just looking at these pieces inspired me.

Each individual selected explains their techniques, attitudes or inspirations. Full color examples accompany the commentary. Interestingly enough there are 36 artists and only 4 are men.

As usual, you’ll find a huge range of works. A great deal (though not all) could be classified as jewelry. You’ll probably not like everything you see, but surely you’ll find much that you do.

[Erin Hannan · Rating 4 out of 5]

First time I’ve ever read a coffee table book cover to cover. All the art is spectacular! There’s at least one mistake in it; the titles for two pieces called “Motorcycle Mama” and “Baba Yaga” are clearly swapped.

[Elaine Meszaros · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most people hearing the words "seed beads" probably think of Native American clothing and hippie bracelets. The master beadweavers in this book go far beyond the traditional decorations. From modern covered vases, kimonos, sculptures , plants, flowers and sea creatures these pieces of art are fantastically detailed and amazing. All the artists in this book are both immensely skilled technically and wildly creative. Anyone looking for a creative kickstart of some kind will find it in this collection.

[Slynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous examples of beading eye-candy.