Inquiry

First, let me take this opportunity to thank all of you that read this blog and find interest in what we are doing and creating @ Ansley Parker. We read every comment and are always happy to address inquiries. A recent poster, “Manny”, inquired about our use of patinas in the Spring ‘08 line and since the answer isn’t a simple one we hope you enjoy our response.

As indicated by the poster, patinas can be tough to deal with because it is a chemical reaction which obviously isn’t easy to control. Because we are environmentally conscious, the patinas I’m working with currently have low environmental impact. The patinas you’ve seen were all done using a torch exclusively. Liver of Sulfur is really as far reaching as I plan to go. Sulfur is a naturally occurring compound, but the formulation isn’t free of other synthetic chemicals, so it’s limited use I can accept. Personally, I prefer the patinas that are created with the use of a torch alone. I’m wearing some pieces with regularity to see how they perform because heat patinas are the weakest. The metal itself has been known to interact with the personal chemistry of the wearer, so that’s an interesting wrinkle as well.

The copper work serves more as a testing ground for working in silver. However, you can’t patina silver with heat. The textures & methods you see on the metal itself will translate to the silver & maybe some limited use of liver of sulfur. This weekend I’ll post a recent cuff that displays several textures and various methods. Since I make the copper ‘test pieces’ I didn’t want to invest time and not make them functional, then of course I received great response. Buyers are waiting, etc. and yesterday I was in a total panic because I can’t find my new favorite pair of oversized copper hoops. :p So maybe they will become a separate line of work. There’s a balance that’s hard to strike when you use copper or brass but invest time in construction.

Again Manny, thanks for your inquiry!

On that John Edwards

This isn’t a late endorsement, but we are the children that watched the “Run Jesse Run” thing back in the 80’s. Pardon our skepticism. The question was never if he or we were ready, our whole existence is based in a hope for a better day. But I’m consistently amazed by the people who ask, “what do you think about that Obama?” with a warm smile. So maybe we can save ourselves from ourselves. OBAMA ‘08

So how do you make a 12 hour drive to Georgia feel like 4 without an ipod? SA-RA!!! Ti$A (of Sa-Ra) released a great “Vote Obama” vid.
Don’t miss the footage from the Broad Contemporary Art Museum (Go Spartans!) @ LACMA, featuring Chris Burden’s Urban Light.

Thanks Nick!

TI$A’s Myspace is rather interesting (nsfw), there’s a great photo of Romare Bearden obscured by two bottles of Bond No.9. LOVE IT.

And just a reminder…

Get that Dirt Off Your Shoulder!
I LOVE the hypeman over his left shoulder!!! Real recognizes real.

The little graphic designer in me adores this logo.

Thawing, finally!

It looks from your side of the screen like I’ve been slacking.  Don’t let the smooth taste fool yah. LOL.  Design of another sort has been a great creative outlet of late, absorbing more time than anticipated, but the jewelry marches on.  I’m still playing w/new techniques, still texturing metals.  SUPER FUN.  So my new fav… granulation.  Frustrating at moments but challenging and rewarding all at once.  There isn’t much to show b/c most of the pieces are for demo, just perfecting the techniques.  I’m still working in copper until the designs and methods are fully articulated, then we’ll move back to silver.  I do enjoy working in copper though, the patinas just can’t be beat.  I’ll snap a few pics soon.

So much has happened… one of my fav couples tied the knot.  Snaps for the kids!!!

Just general fabulousness to share.  Two of my fav super talents, Estelle & Christian Siriano.  Estelle is wearing a most stunning chunky necklace, which is unfortunately hidden in this photo.

Spring has arrived, so a few spring fashion highlights…

I *heart* Tory Birch, probably my fav socialite/business woman of the moment.  Loving the sandals in the collection too.

from the Spring/Summer line

And the bracelet lover in me couldn’t resist posting this tasty morsel.  Gucci Bamboo.

Nanette Lapore… consistent as always.  Contemporary, feminine and comfortable.  Homerun.

Feeding the Diva, Rachel Roy.

I love this dress… Brushstroke Print, Rachel Roy.

Alright Lovelies, next time all Ansley.  Promise. 

Spring ‘09…. yes, ‘09!

I’ve begun Spring ‘09 as well, which will focus on patina rich coppers. Summer ‘08 has more of a resort feel. Mother of Pearl, shell, turquoise, pink agates. Spring/Summer ‘09 will have a rich color pallet, but the designs will provide the lightness of summer. So far the response has been favorable, as I can’t pry my demo earrings from my ears and I’ve had several requests for them already. The shapes of the earrings are themed around curls and tendrils (we’ll get to my hair obsession another day and time). The shapes alone make them so flattering to the face and the rich tones brighten any tone. As this line develops I’ll begin working on surface embellishment and texture. I love where this is going. The camera doesn’t quite capture the tones in the patina. On the constant quest to upgrade the photography… still on the mission, bear with me.

The other project that I have promised to share for ages… my (incomplete) cuff! I’m sitting with it for awhile, we stare at each other daily at the work desk. There’s a final design element that’s missing. It will come to me or I will find satisfaction as is. The outer piece, w/the squares, had the most beautiful rose-purplish-gold patina. As soon as I lacquered it…. mmhmm, gone. But it has a very rich orangish-gold tone, which is quite spectacular in daylight (and otherwise, but I LOVED the original tone). The inner is made of brass. The two pieces will be riveted together (open rivets), I may add add’l design rivets for effect. It will come to me. The squares were all done with a hand saw & ages of filing. I hope it’s owner someone sincerely appreciates what that means.

Upcoming…
I’ve also begun to cast my own fine silver beads. A few have found their way into pieces. But I’ll gather some for posting. I’m also going to begin casting toggles. A super oversized toggle is on the horizon too. Several earring styles, links/chainmaille, etc. I promise I won’t stray for so long!

Teaser

I’ve been working on several things, but the main thrust is Fall 2008. The collection will feature a series of agates, you can view a piece below that features an agate with an almost leathery appearance. The finish of the stones are matte because they haven’t been treated with acids that give the stones the typical shiny finish. My design focus is heavily geared towards a sort of highly wearable elegance. In creating a design I never want it to feel daytime or evening, because every great piece of jewelry should take you seamlessly from brunch to dinner date. That’s the magical balance I’m always seeking. It has to work Saturday morning and Saturday night.

The fall line will also feature a stunning peacock agate (premier on site), the latest bracelet design using the stone might just be one of my all time favorites. I do have this dreadful habit of falling madly for most of these little confections. :p

UPGRADE!!!
You may notice an upgrade I thought we all deserved. WHITE TOPAZ. Not just any white topaz however, white topaz with an amazing new facet. The facet is so new that supplier couldn’t provide a solid name. They fall on a diagonal, imagine a cross-grain on a gleaming stone with total clarity but a light sparkle. Ab. Fab. It’s challenging to find any restraint using them, seriously.

Enough chatter, right?! Enjoy!

Bizzay!

So this week I have a short break from the design studio. That leaves me just enough time to gather a few photos and share a bit of what I’ve been creating. This isn’t the entirety of the work because among other things I’m working diligently on web development prep. I am quite proud (peacock proud!!!) that I re-created the opening image for the site. I’ll post her for a bit, but she’ll disappear for a proper unveil. Actually she won’t quite look like this, I’ll save that surprise for later. But again, being peacock proud, I have to show you!

Just a site to share. Our friends and Brooklyn’s finest, Groundwave Design Corp., are dedicated to preserving the sexy in web design. They designed one of the coolest fashion sites I’ve seen in a while, Street Peeper, all street fashion, all the time. Makes me thirst for Paris & ache for Montreal. Definitely a good look!

Back in the Saddle

It’s been far too long. I know, I know. The winter blues get me every time. Palm trees MUST be in my future. There’s been much activity. A trip or two, an art gallery or two (or five), boutique scouting, building a dream team, noshing w/friends, dieting for Spring (lol), casting beads, exploring that love-hate relationship w/lost wax, polishing, buffing, shaping, sawing, molding, attempting to master a decent patina (not doing to bad on this one at all ), falling absolutely in love w/this new cut on stunning chunks on white topaz(!!!), trying to think Fall/Winter ‘08 while aching for the Spring, yet constantly covered in snow. It’s a life.

Trying some new things w/the beading. Going w/a very oversized toggle for a bit. Just to see how it works. It seems I’ve been thrust solidly into designing something masculine via a gift of chunky red amber. Thus far I’ve mapped out a pair of earrings. Umm, yeah. Still working on that one. *kicks a rock* Of course I have new magnificent materials. Peacock agate squares and this really mod looking agate I found while traveling have proven to be the winners I’d hoped. Of course any interesting shaped jade catches my eye and now I’m regretting not buying more. My workspace is a mess as usual, but I’ll snap a few pics soon. Seriously.

Can’t come and go without mentioning PR4! CONGRATULATIONS & 3 snaps to the Magnificence known as Christian “You Betta Work” Siriano!

I really do think this is one of the most talented groups they’ve had on the show. So the reality tv fan in me wants what…. an all star show!!! LOL.

All-Star Cast: PR1– Kara Saun, Austin Scarlett, PR2– Daniel Vosovic, Santino Rice, Nick Verreos, Kara Janx, PR3– Mychael/Michael Knight, Lora Bennett, Uli Herzner, PR4– Chris March, Jillian Lewis, Rami Kashou Bonus Pics: Malan (just b/c he’s Malan) & Jack (b/c if anyone deserves a do-over, it’s him)

Okay and maybe Kayne Gillaspie, b/c he and Chris March would just be tooo much fun together!

Some of the fabulousness from Christian. Until next time.

Catching Up

Hi Lovelies!

Did Project Runway just hit it’s stride or what?! The candy epi followed by the Avant Garde! I LOVE THIS SHOW!!! I was sad to see Chris depart because I thought he was top 5 material. The Prom epi left no clear winners. I retract all statements about Elisa, let’s keep moving. And then there was Ricky. Again, what star was he born under?? It’s AMAZING to me that he’s still on the show. But let’s take a look at my favs one more time.

by Team Fierce (Christian & Chris)

by Victoria & Jillian

I can’t say that either of the casual dress were satisfactory. Jillian just has to make it to Fashion Week. She must. Rami, though I love his style is boring me. I’m tired of the same not. I see now why the panel was anti-Santino but he was never this one note imo. Christian is still a fav. He keeps the show alive and I’m just waiting for he and Chris to do a walk-off.

Okay, so back to real life. I just started two cuffs, working on my hand sawing skills. The plan is to layer metals, but I may layer one and work on patina skills w/the other. I’m on the copper layer now. I’d like to use a bronze and maybe an silver based alloy of some type. Still researching that one. I don’t want to use sterling or fine silver, b/c these are more everyday pieces. Something fun and chunky for the summer. I’ll show you the process as soon as I clean it up a bit w/filing.

Yes, I’m still working on those SAME rings. *insert eyeroll* I think they are finally polished enuff, well almost. I swear I’ve buffed and polished off $150 worth of gold. But whatever. I’m ready to start making the other half. I just want them done now.

I have two beading projects on my desk, a necklace and bracelet. Both are almost done but neither will complete themselves. They aren’t stuck, but they need the wow factor. I have to find it. I also have a nice short list of pieces I want to rework, so maybe I’ll start deconstructing those this weekend. Maybe what I need will be found there.

Next week I’m going to start a braided bead project in fine silver, hopefully I’ll get to this bezel set idea I have bumping around in my mind. I also have a simple bezel I need to finish (another ring). I decided to expand and start a line for men, so the bezel and bead project will become one of my first products in that line. Hopefully they’ll be successful.

XOXO

Metro Detroit Realism

jan 10 – feb 6, 2008

featuring artists

TAURUS BURNS LEMAN LAMBERT RICHARD LEWIS SENGHOR REID MIKE WEAVER

opening reception thursday, january 10, 2008 4:30-7p

 

The Gallery
Marygrove College
Liberal Arts Building, 3rd Floor
8425 West McNichols
Detroit, MI 48221
313.927.1370

Presented by the Marygrove College Department of Art
Curated by Richard Lewis

Images by Senghor Reid

Happy New Year!!!

I’m so excited about 2008!!! How about a wish or my sentiments for the year in TinyPics. Why not?! Let’s start it off w/the new! Before we get to that I wish you all a wonderfully healthy, happy and certainly prosperous new year!!!

First…

Remember…

Reap….

Enjoy the Small Things

Love Life!

Create!

Keep it FAB!

(with accessories by Ansley Parker, of course! :p)
My fav quote of the moment: Life is too short to wear a bad outfit. Word.

**If I can make it there, I can make it anywhere!**

Party!

Love. Hard.

On a final note….

and…

Love Ya! The Ansley Parker kids.

Fresh from the Lab

Seems I neglected to post the work I made last week. I decided to play, with photographing on white. One thing remains the same… I need a photographer!!! The necklace shown is a million times more impressive in person. The turquoise in the pendant is faceted, which I typically don’t care for, but it’s such a stunning piece of stone. It’s the cornerstone piece of the Spring 2008 line, which is in development.

Lately, I’ve remained on the earring grind, which is why it doesn’t look like I’ve done much. But as soon as I make those they go out. I have more slab jasper in different tones, so that’s up next. Maybe right after the Holidays I’ll post some of my fav designers. I’ve been itching to do that for awhile now, but time is at a premium. The smell of baked goods have consumed the homestead and there’s still so much more cooking to do.

I haven’t forgotten about the lost wax cast rings. They remain 50% done, but I like wearing them like stacks. I keep buffing and re-polishing them. Thursday is my last opportunity to finish it up before the semester break. The bezel set ring with the multiple stones… umm, yeah, at a later date. :p

Woodson:: Reid:: Parker — Open Studio

Sunday, December 23 — Open Studio Woodson:: Reid:: Parker

Join us for this very special Holiday Open Studio Sale! Visit the Studio of Artists, Shirley Woodson and Senghor Reid, introducing Ansley Parker ™.

18019 James Couzens

(btwn Outer Drive and Schaefer)

Detroit, MI

Hours: 12-5p

Thank YOU!!!

In the last few weeks I’ve received several wonderful messages from our awesome customers sharing compliments and enthusiasm they received wearing our pieces.   I wanted to thank you all for your support and for spreading the word about Ansley Parker.  Next year we plan to be far more visible and assessable to everyone.  Thanks for being there and helping us grow.  You rock!!!  And u look GREAT in Ansley Parker! :p

XOXO

Annoucements

Your holiday shopping is not complete until you buy that special gift from Ansley Parker™. When your care enough to give… wait… that’s someone else’s.

Saturday, December 8 — Ansley @ Offin River Boutique

This is the last weekend of our special showcase @ Offin River’s Accessories Et Cetera.

Offin River Boutique

15 East Kirby, Ste. 110

inside the Park Shelton Condominiums (@ Woodward)

Detroit, MI

313.870.1630

Hours this Weekend: 11a-6p

Sunday, December 9 — Ansley @ Kuumba Expressions

***** Muirland

(University District)

Detroit, MI

Hours: 12n-6p

Friday, December 14 — DTE Holiday Bazaar

DTE Southfield Center

Hours: 9a-4p

Saturday, December 15 — By Invite

Contact Us for Details. miss_ansley_parker@yahoo.com

Hours: 3p-6p

Sunday, December 23 — Open Studio Woodson:: Reid:: Parker

Join us for this very special Holiday Open Studio Sale! Visit the Studio of Artists, Shirley Woodson and Senghor Reid, introducing Ansley Parker ™.

18019 James Couzens

(btwn Outer Drive and Schaefer)

Detroit, MI

Hours: 12-5p

Is this a Hmm or a Drone??

I’m not really sure. And is there a difference?  Maybe it means I’m restless, ready for the new, prepared to open the hand rather than grasping at the current or the past. Whatever the case, time is either humming along or I’m just another drone, a worker bee with no time to depart from the chosen path. Neither is negative at this point. It’s advancement at all costs, so tread onward.

As soon as I log off, it’s back to the lab. I know I owe you pictures of the rings. Didn’t make it to the jewelry studio yesterday, so finishing still remains. I’ll snap shots of those as well as what I create today. Lots of earrings have been the order of the last few weeks, but there was no time to even capture images of them. I’m reworking a necklace today (maybe) and making more bracelets!!! I need an interesting earring for the weekend, might take some time to do that for myself.

No real Project Runway chat this week. The epi was pretty lackluster. Can I get under the lucky star that must be shining on Ricky??? While it’s great that they are getting creative w/these new challenges (I use the term creative loosely, b/c it’s getting a little too reality tv curve for me), what’s the point of not allowing the designers to show their best?? The winning team of Jillian, Rami & Kevin, did a smashing job, but the rest looked exactly like what the challenge dictated. Moreover, it really didn’t show the designers limitations, but a poor design challenge. But afterall, it is television. My only real complaint the season is the lack of time we get to the see the garments this season! I’m barely paying attention to the workroom dynamics, so waiting for 45 mins to get the designs that they show for 0.0002 seconds is leaving me rather wanting. I’m silently pulling for Elisa, I love the earth girl in her, it speaks to me. I’m hoping she ends up as the Wendy Pepper of this season. Rami/Jillian/Elisa. Loved Donna Karan on the panel this week!!! Where’s the BravoTV poll on that one?! How GREAT was it to see Nick Verreos looking fab in his commercial spot!?!

I did quite enjoy the Top Chef Holiday special. Cooking is my other love in life. Unfortunately my tv favs lost this week, Cliff, and Bianca (ANTM).