My name is Anastasia Kulakova, I live in Novosibirsk, Russia. Last summer I sincerely believed that the beads were created for teenager's bracelets and to embroider wedding dresses and costumes for dancing. But when in the fall I saw in social networks photos of stunning beaded necklaces, I was literally shocked - I couldn't really believe that it was possible to make such beauties from beads. And I madly wanted to try to create something like that! I began learning techniques and reading tutorials, visiting beadworkers' forums and ordered materials in online stores.
Since my childhood I like doing different kinds of crafts. I sewed and embroidered, I have been creating floral compositions for several years. I was fascinated, but the finished works and materials took up much space, and my desire and inspiration gradually disappeared...
When I became better acquainted with beads it immediately attracted me with its almost limitless possibilities in creativity. Making beaded accessories and jewelry is my hobby, I do not do anything for sale, I think it is too early for me, I did not reach the desired level of proficiency.
When I learned that competitions for bead artists are held, first I was very surprised and then took part in a pair of small "events." Despite the modest results, I liked the competitive fever. Contests, their themes and some restrictions give a powerful impetus to the development of fantasy and excitement and nervous trembling spice up a steady flow of life.
However, having read the conditions of Fashion Colorworks Beading Contest, I decided that participation in the competition of this level for me is premature. How can I compete with experienced craftsmen if I have just took beads in hands? But after having been thinking for about three months, I solved. Why not to be the contest "background"? I will take part in this festival and get new experience! The format of the competition and honest reviews about fair judgment added determination.
At one time, when I made couple of necklaces, I realized it was not mine. I don't know how to wear them, and in general I like big beadwork, so I created just a few beaded items. Therefore the choice of a category in which I was going to design my contest entry the work, didn't stand in front of me - only the third one, beaded accessories and objects. Picking up beads of proper colors according the contest triads by a photo was difficult in online shops, but there was no way, especially since our city stores have pretty poor choice of Czech and Japanese beads.
I bought materials for two color combinations, but could finish only one beadwork. Working on the set "Yellow Submarine" fascinated me so much that I decided that it would be better to submit one entry created with the soul and to realize my plans in full, and to make all of the elements. Prior to the contest, I did not like yellow and initially wanted to use it to a minimum, but my fantasy brought this color to the main.
To create the volume of the underwater world, I had to learn the basics of beadweaving. I wouldn't say that I greatly enjoyed it, bead embroidery is closer to me. Metal findings by Anna Chernykh and manmade agate cabochons used for submarine portholes were perfectly fine with my purse.
Seeing my "Submarine" among the finalists, I was very surprised because the level of beadworks in my category was very high, judging from the shown photo fragments, and to be in the top ten was a great happiness. I don't say that winning one of the prizes was the greatest achievement for me. Nevertheless, it happened, and I'm happy! Thanks for a wonderful contest, I'd be happy to participate in next year!
My gallery on MyLovelyBeads.com
About author:
| Anastasia Kulakova, Novosibirsk, Russia | |
| Email: | mitsoukobead@mail.ru |
| Facebook: | facebook.com/anastasiya.bormp/photos |
