Susan Wyngaard and Mary Ellen stand in front of a towel that says "Drink your wine. We have crafts to do."

Thanks for joining the Studio Tour

Sandia Heights Artists Studio Tour Participants Visit MaryEllenBeads

This collage shows views of Mary Ellen Beads studio tour.

Thanks to all who visited my studio during the 12th annual Sandia Heights Artists Studio Tour.

The beautiful weather during the weekend only added to the joy of visiting with old and new friends and neighbors. Throughout the two days and a steady stream of traffic, I discussed my treasure necklace, fielded questions about where I buy beads and components and just chatted away.

Photographer Chris Almeira and Seamstress Susan Wyngaard joined me this year. We had a terrific time and I came away with a new respect for each of their mediums. I love sharing the energy of creativity, don’t you?

These photos show Chris Almeira, photographer, Susan Wyngaard, seamstress and the three of us together at Mary Ellen Beads' Studio.

The three of us discussed all manner of new projects and committed to presenting together again next year. By the end of our tour weekend, Susan and I were ready to relax.

Susan Wyngaard and Mary Ellen stand in front of a towel that says "Drink your wine. We have crafts to do."

Kudos to my sister Sally for the charming towel. Appropriately, Susan and I stood in front of it just prior to collapsing.

One of the most gratifying parts of the tour was the giving nature of participants. At our stop on the tour we collected donations for the Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentor 2.0 program, for which I’m a participant. Some of my upcycled jewelry went exclusively to support that cause. Our efforts support education for young people. My mentee is now a sophomore in High School and we are beginning to discuss college. All in all, it’s a deserving program and one in which I’m proud to participate.

If you missed the tour, feel free to see my beads any day at Amapola Gallery in Historic Romero House on the square in Old Town Albuquerque.