Tuesday, April 08, 2008

Urchin Art

Today I donated some of my photography to help a good cause. The Mental Health Association is holding a benefit dinner and silent auction towards the end of this month and out of the blue, I inquired about contributing to it. At the time I had no idea what I was going to do but I'm thrilled with the end result -

Photobucket

This is my Sea Urchin Art that I have developed over the years :o) If you're not familiar with this little creature, they are from the ocean and live in a rounded shell covered in tiny spines. When they die, or have been eaten by birds, the inside of the shell becomes hollow and the spines fall off. The end product, if you're lucky to find one that is still intact, is a beautiful green and white shell with different textures to it. Urchins come in a variety of sizes as well, so they are perfect to be creative with.

It was a bit difficult finding photos that would fit into the 4 x 4 inch openings of the mat. It's so rare to find mats like this though, so I grabbed it when I came across it. I printed the photos in black and white, so along with the black frame and off white mat, I think it gives off a striking look.

I almost feel a sense of pride to see my photography go out into the world. I'm really curious to see how much money it will generate and I hope to be able to find this out after the event :o) I also have an empty feeling. I find it very hard to let go of something that I have created. I think I'm worse than a mother hen who likes all her chicks in a row. LOL! There is also a feeling of satisfaction to finally know a part of me that I never knew before. Now if I could just find the rest of me...

14 comments:

Karen said...

wow Cathey if I saw you photos at a silent auction I would bid in them they are fab, have you thought of making cards to sell? I sell a few local beach shots at a local shop they will never make me rich but its great knowing people choose to buy your photos

Jocelyn said...

It is hard to let go of a creation, but you did it for a great cause! That is a wonderful piece. Congratulations on your talent! It is really lovely!

Velda said...

That is stunning! I have a collection of seashells in my ocean bathroom that I've collected since I was 4 years old, the only thing missing is an urchin! (I have starfish, puffer fish, shells, seahorse etc) GORGEOUS!

Jenn M said...

Your "urchin art" is stunning! Who knew you were cross stitcher extraordinaire AND madame art photographer! I hope it goes for lots and lots of $$$.
Jenn

Karin said...

It's lovely - I hope that you're able to raise some good money with it.

Faith Ann said...

LOVE IT!!!!!!

You must be thrilled with how it came out!

stitcherw said...

It's gorgeous, what a neat concept. You found a great frame and mat to set it off as well. Your Stargazer in your earlier post is looking wonderful as well. Also, congratulations on having the dentist refund the money. That's wonderful that you don't have to pay the whole cost of correcting the messed up first job all on your own.
Sue

Tammy said...

That is gorgeous, hon. What a beautifully generous gift you're offering for a very worthy cause.

Not too long after I discovered your blog, I was perusing a country decorating type magazine and I saw a lamp made from sea urchin. It was the prettiest lamp, and automatically I thought of you.

Lori said...

Great photos.
Let us know how things went.

Rachel S-H said...

That is beautiful!

Stitchabilities said...

Beautiful!!

Irene said...

Looks wonderful !

Marita said...

Beautiful photographs and the frame is really stunning, they work well together.

A great cause to donate to also.

Sharon said...

Beautiful picture, hope it brings in lots of money. Your photography is so lovely.