Muse:

a. A guiding spirit.

b. A source of inspiration.

I have often been asked from where I find the inspiration for my work. If you have seen any of my art or jewellery, I think it is obvious that much of my work is informed and inspired by my deep connection to the earth. I am so blessed to live in a relatively unspoiled rural area, so I am able to experience and be inspired by the land and all that grows and walks on it, the rivers and everything that swims in them, the wide-open sky and the clouds and birds that soar overhead.

Fabric:

Music is often my muse, either directly as in this painting inspired by “Dance Me to the End of Love” by Leonard Cohen, one of my all-time favourite songs:

or as more often the case with my jewellery-making, indirectly. I find that listening to music while I am working helps me to stay focused on the task at hand. The right music can inspire me to keep working away when I've soldered the same ring 5 times, or to stick with the jobs I find boring (like polishing!). Things are very hectic in my studio right now as I gear up for the holiday season. I find myself continually listening to The Civil Wars. Their soaring, haunting harmonies speak to my frazzled soul, helping to keep me from flying madly off in all directions. Give them a listen if you haven't heard them before.

My tastes in music are very eclectic, including jazz, classical, blues, classic rock, pop, folk, anything that touches my soul. I have been caught singing and dancing around the studio, which is a bit embarrassing, but when the Muse calls, what is an artist to do but follow?

Where/how do you find your Muse?  I'd love to know - just leave a comment below!