Today I'm inspired by photos on the Earrings Everyday blog that Erin Prais-Hintz presented for the We're All Ears post. She showcased arabesque art from the mosques of Iran as an inspiration for our earrings. These stunningly beautiful sights are a wonder to behold. Here is one photo she used, but be sure to take a look on the We're All Ears post for more amazing structures.
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| Celling of Hazrate-Masomeh’s mosque in Qom, Iran |
As I contemplated these photos, I was struck by the similarities to other intricate, geometric designs. Rose windows came to mind as I am teaching an art lesson on that now. But, it is a very ancient and deeply embedded type of design in the human psyche. Buddhist mandalas, Celtic crosses and Navajo sand paintings all share the same beginning in the circle, which represents the wholeness and unity of the cosmos. For those who want to see how these geometric designs are derived from the circle, see this: The Art of Islamic Pattern.
Now, how would I capture such intricate geometry in an earring? Of course, I can only capture a small bit of it, an impression of it I happened to have a couple of metal filigrees that would make a good start for the a patterned and divided center. I layered on another filigree piece and filled the center with a turquoise rondelle and fluted bead cap. But, it needed more, so I added dots of patina around the large filigree. As is always the case, I debate with myself whether to add more or leave it alone. What do you think?
Here they are:
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| Arabesque Earrings |
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| Arabesque Earrings |
Happy Creating!
Terry
