This nautilus beadweaving necklace called Beauty of the Sea at Sunrise is by Mary Ellen Beads, Albuquerque.

Nautilus Beadweaving Stirs Seaside Story

Rhythmic pounding. Wave after wave smashing against the pier. Continuous noise, louder, then fading. The powerful sound of water is unfamiliar for me, land-locked as I am in the Southwest desert.

This nautilus beadweaving was inspired by the Pacifica, CA coastline for Mary Ellen Beads.
©2016, Mary Ellen Merrigan, Pacifica, CA pier

I recall a recent trip to Pacifica, CA, on the outskirts of San Francisco. When I touch the shell, I imagine I feel the power of the waves, the mist of the salt water and the look of coastline beach meeting sky. I appreciate color, lines, shape and remember sound.

The power of a completed piece of jewelry lies in its ability to transport the wearer to another time and place. This is the power of generating story.

This nautilus beadweaving necklace called Beauty of the Sea at Sunrise is by Mary Ellen Beads, Albuquerque.
©2016, Mary Ellen Merrigan, Beauty of the Sea at Sunrise necklace

Shibori silk enhances my shell and small pearls nestle in its folds. A few wondrous finds of coral mix with the strong, dramatic colors that only further emphasize drama. When I look more closely, a sparkle hints at secreted treasures. Although I know it’s due to cup chain, the shimmer fascinates me.

This nautilus silk beadweaving by Mary Ellen Merrigan of Mary Ellen Beads will be on display at Amapola Gallery in June 2016.
©2016, Mary Ellen Merrigan, Beauty of the Sea at Sunrise beadweaving

Dramatic coin pearls, large circled pearls and amber glass complete the presentation: Beauty of the Sea at Sunrise.

You can see Beauty of the Sea at Sunrise at Amapola Gallery, 205 Romero St NW on Old Town Plaza Albuquerque. Lose yourself in art stories as you gaze at the variety of work on display.

Amapola Gallery is home to 40 artists. Give yourself an artist date to remember during the month of June. See my featured artist display.

You’ll also enjoy the works of other member artists in this art cooperative. Amapola Gallery, open daily, 10am – 5pm, is located on the west side of Old Town Plaza in Albuquerque.

You’ll find my beadweaving and dozens of other story-generating art objects at Amapola Gallery.

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