Laurel Swetnam is an American artist based in Portland, Oregon, who started exploring polymer clay about fifteen years ago. The medium was used during her interventions as a family therapist to make simple games and figures. Gradually, she became intrigued and started noticing the amazing artworks the artists around the world created with this new-to-her medium.
A few years ago, Laurel began working with polymer as an art medium, focusing on one-of-a-kind jewelry and small vessels.
She considers polymer clay as a three-dimensional color. The versatility of this material invites explorations into the symmetry and diversity of natural forms like pods, anemones and flowers. “Millefiori cane work appeals to my love of patterns (textiles, quilts, baroque music) and I find simple, organic designs the most appealing,” the artist states.
Laurel enjoys selling her artwork in galleries and shows and each piece she creates is unique. She begins working on a new design by sketching a few ideas, then creating a palette.
“I prefer to mix all colors from primaries, black and white – it’s elegantly simple and so relaxing,” she says. “Next, I design a few canes using my colors, combining simple designs to craft more complex patterns. I love to make necklaces, with oodles of beads, because they’re comfortable to wear and dramatic. I make several types of “ruffles” – leaves, pods and shells, each with over 100 handmade beads.”
Laurel often works with clay veneers, creating a collage of millefiori patterns with some added textures to create earrings, pendants, bracelets and disk necklaces. To give the final artwork an elegant look and a lovely sparkle, all pieces are carefully sanded and buffed.
Her studio is at home, where she also teaches classes for small, four student groups. She also teaches classes on Zoom and occasionally offers in person classes in Portland, Oregon. Must be a great experience!
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