Secret Garden

Secret Garden, 2014

Marjorie Renno

Fine silver pendant with almandine garnets & glass on a sterling silver chain

This piece was created for the upcoming "Inspired Objects"show at the Windsor Historical Society opening June 13th.  My work has always drawn inspiration from my local environment, so it seems fitting I was drawn to the silver flask embossed with flowers (see below) for this exhibition.  I am intrigued by the intricate textures of organic forms and look to capture the essence of the places they come from.  For me the flask, an object often hidden, was especially interesting because of its detailed floral design – something that might only have been seen by the owner. 

The pendant takes its horse-shoe like shape from the floral arc that curves along the bottom half of the flask.  Many of my walks, along my own hidden paths, are not necessarily lined with flowers but growth such as mushrooms and ferns.  The pendant was created using a metal clay pasting technique over an actual mushroom and leaves to achieve the deep grooved texture (see below).  Green glass beads made in the kiln and red garnets are pressure set across the surface.  Three leaves poke out from the edges to mimic the leaves jutting out from the flask design.  The piece was finished with a surface green tinted patina and set on a sterling silver figure-8 chain with a toggle clasp.

“Inspired Objects: Metalworking through the Ages”

Windsor Historical Society

Opening Reception and Sale

June 13, 2014       7PM to 9PM

Day of Demos and Sale

June 14, 2014       11AM to 4PM

Come view and purchase the work of members of the Metal Clay Artisan Guild in Connecticut who have created new works specifically in response to objects in the Windsor Historical Society's collection.  Learn about metalworking through the ages, meet the artisans, and enjoy light refreshments. The Metal Clay Artisan Guild in Connecticut is an association of metal clay artists who are pushing the boundaries of metal clay artistry through work that is varied and unique. The exhibit will remain on view until August 8^th. Cost: FREE. For more information, contact the Society at 860-688-3813 or online at www.metalclayguildct.org.