tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881686004802786592024-03-14T00:18:00.149-07:00The Galeana OutfitThe Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-80648336233882625362011-05-25T07:46:00.001-07:002011-05-25T07:57:14.580-07:00Return to PaintingIt's been a really long time since I've updated this blog, and I think that it's about time for something fresh. I'm still making jewelry. I will post some photos of some recent work soon. Lately, however, I've been spending more time developing my painting skills. In particular, I have returned to the classic still life genre. While I love my previous works, I wanted to add a fresh new style to revamp my paintings. I've made four small 8x10 still-lifes, and although two of them, quite frankly, are duds, I really like the other two. This style of painting forces you to get better at looking very closely at your subject matter. I seem to be less skillful with that, so I'm very excited to be giving myself this challenge. I will post pictures of these soon. <br /><br />My intentions are to take these processes and apply them to my larger works on canvas. It seems to be the next logical step in the progression.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Q5eJ1hSO90/Td0YB1KijtI/AAAAAAAAAOg/C9t5Hqjz6Fg/s1600/image%2B12.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 318px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Q5eJ1hSO90/Td0YB1KijtI/AAAAAAAAAOg/C9t5Hqjz6Fg/s320/image%2B12.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610667130503728850" /></a><br /><br />This is an example of an older work of mine. It is watercolor, ink and gouache on paper. It's roughly 24" x 24". I think some fully rendered objects would give more substance to this style. For now, I think I'm going to concentrate on the smaller studies and see where that leads.The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-65243104518115766562009-05-14T12:29:00.000-07:002009-05-14T12:37:29.269-07:00See My Work in PersonI've just recently started selling my work through a fantastic venue in New Orleans called Magazine Metals, located on Magazine Street, just a few doors away from Juan's Flying Burrito. I'm very excited about being there among a very fine selection of local metal artists. In fact, I had been thinking about making copper cuffs for quite awhile now, and the many variations of metals that are exhibited at the boutique inspired me to create a few. The price range for them varies, but they mostly cost between $50-$75. They are an inch wide and are very sturdy. I will make more of them in different styles within the next week or so and I will probably be offering them for sale in my etsy shop and also at smashing darling.<div><br /></div><div>Here are some photos:</div><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SgxymwfhgaI/AAAAAAAAAK8/2jCcmlHggUg/s320/55.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335765668704911778" /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SgxynRZlJCI/AAAAAAAAALc/1YxIbHZuH20/s320/53.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335765677538354210" /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SgxynAfzAcI/AAAAAAAAALU/UTptPBanPww/s320/54.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335765673001025986" /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SgxynEMRXeI/AAAAAAAAALM/r38-DXfatzg/s320/52.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335765673992871394" /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SgxynB92nmI/AAAAAAAAALE/3chmoqGU_u8/s320/51.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335765673395527266" /></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-55553535131489493752009-04-12T17:41:00.000-07:002009-04-12T17:51:49.760-07:00Spring/Summer 2009<div style="text-align: justify;">Very slowly, but surely have I been working on creating a new Spring/Summer Collection. I don't expect it to be absolutely completed for quite awhile, but I'm definitely trying to have at least a few pieces to contribute to the overall feel of my perspective on these fashion seasons. Floral motifs and pastel colors have always been integral parts of many Spring collections, but I definitely believe that there is so much more to be gleaned. In addition to the simple floral shape, I've added a few pieces that focus on leaves. After all, they are usually the first indicators of the change from the winter cold to warmer temperatures. I expect to be using varying cabochons from different shell varieties such as mother of pearl, abalone and paua. They are bright, bold and certainly very warm. <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Here is a small sample of what I've come up with so far:</div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SeKMZOVYDuI/AAAAAAAAAK0/3LjzsOEpK-Y/s320/31.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323972074477719266" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SeKMZG6iAHI/AAAAAAAAAKs/lsd2pEtWY38/s320/34.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323972072486076530" /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SeKMY3-7YHI/AAAAAAAAAKk/H5kzVp8gYTo/s320/32.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5323972068477984882" /></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-6040051772590235042009-04-06T11:04:00.000-07:002009-04-06T11:08:58.641-07:00The Outfit Has Relocated!I'm very excited to announce that I have a brand new workspace. It is within walking distance to my house and it is completely secured. Here are some photos:<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SdpFEYSXL3I/AAAAAAAAAKc/5iR9g0hji4o/s320/smpainting+view.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321641851232923506" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SdpE1QrIjXI/AAAAAAAAAKU/KLBiftUPc7M/s320/smleft+view.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321641591491300722" /></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-78663362525866799472009-03-23T12:06:00.000-07:002009-03-23T12:14:04.877-07:00New Website and Other ThingsI've decided to create a new website that is all mine. It should be up within the next week or so. The new title will be kgaleana.com, when it is completed. I'm very excited about the site and the direction I see my work going. I recently participated in the Thibodaux Art Walk in Thibodaux, Louisiana. It went very well, and I'm looking forward to participating in Houma's Art After Dark during the first week of April. Here is a photo of the display in Thibodaux:<br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/ScffB2A8QbI/AAAAAAAAAKM/_jWOMRTjBCE/s320/100_2913.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316463107906486706" /><div>Also, I created a look book that should be here by the beginning of next week. It will be an excellent companion to have with me at Art After Dark. I'm very excited about all of these things and I will be posting some photos of my latest work soon. </div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-61841343495818075672009-02-20T16:14:00.000-08:002009-02-20T16:18:36.750-08:00New Photos<div>I'm thinking about adding all of these pieces to my Etsy shop, but I haven't yet decided. I love them, and I think that the look will be a blast of freshness to my older collection. Either I will add these photos or I will create a new shop. Anyway, here they are:</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_t0DwtI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/SEtNZ6WZkMU/s1600-h/18trunkt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_t0DwtI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/SEtNZ6WZkMU/s320/18trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305038046021010130" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_ZgMo_I/AAAAAAAAAJs/LlZWYdS3Xhg/s1600-h/17trunkt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_ZgMo_I/AAAAAAAAAJs/LlZWYdS3Xhg/s320/17trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305038040568996850" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_SyTlVI/AAAAAAAAAJk/zqsMPjlxboI/s1600-h/16trunkt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_SyTlVI/AAAAAAAAAJk/zqsMPjlxboI/s320/16trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305038038765901138" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_dNxeYI/AAAAAAAAAJc/YrqCoJR4X1A/s1600-h/15trunkt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_dNxeYI/AAAAAAAAAJc/YrqCoJR4X1A/s320/15trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305038041565460866" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_VoyKBI/AAAAAAAAAJU/KKzhHoBiq5Q/s1600-h/14trunkt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZ9H_VoyKBI/AAAAAAAAAJU/KKzhHoBiq5Q/s320/14trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305038039531268114" /></a><br /><div><br /></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-69638907927772862442009-02-12T06:07:00.000-08:002009-02-12T06:15:12.320-08:00NEW COLLECTION!<div>I have recently been working very diligently on creating a brand new collection inspired by shadow and light. It's called the De La Sombra Collection, which means "of the shadow." I'm very proud of what I've come up with so far and I've even managed to get some pretty sharp professional pictures of them. Some of them are currently on display at the Houma Waterlife Museum.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDv4gGLI/AAAAAAAAAJM/CG1g0Pb41Ic/s1600-h/5trunkt.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="text-decoration: underline;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 311px; " src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDv4gGLI/AAAAAAAAAJM/CG1g0Pb41Ic/s320/5trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301913303249852594" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDT9SPhI/AAAAAAAAAJE/uPYSjqHfE84/s1600-h/4trunkt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDT9SPhI/AAAAAAAAAJE/uPYSjqHfE84/s320/4trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301913295753723410" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDSBjwoI/AAAAAAAAAI8/DqNYSIoHhPA/s1600-h/3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDSBjwoI/AAAAAAAAAI8/DqNYSIoHhPA/s320/3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301913295234777730" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDMU4N4I/AAAAAAAAAI0/rtc-4SSHqO0/s1600-h/2trunkt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDMU4N4I/AAAAAAAAAI0/rtc-4SSHqO0/s320/2trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301913293705197442" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDONRUsI/AAAAAAAAAIs/nk8JB4_XYh0/s1600-h/1trunkt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 311px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SZQuDONRUsI/AAAAAAAAAIs/nk8JB4_XYh0/s320/1trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301913294210159298" /></a>They are all made from sterling silver, semi precious gemstones, freshwater pearls, and 14 karat gold. I will continue to post more photos as I finish more pieces. Cheers!<br /><div><br /></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-69373059643447088292008-08-27T12:42:00.000-07:002008-08-27T12:50:40.474-07:00Special BulletinThe past month or so has been quite hectic for The Galeana Outfit! Within that time frame I have sold and nearly completed two wholesale orders. My very first! I've been working like crazy to complete orders, create new pieces, stock two consignment shops and prepare for a really big art festival in my hometown. Needless to say, I'm quite excited. <div><br /></div><div>I'm currently working on some new earring designs. I feel like I haven't given much attention to ear adornment since I opened my shop. Perhaps it's because I haven't gotten any request or interest in that arena thus far. Nevertheless, when my first earring designs are completed, I'll post them and discuss their concept and design strategy.</div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-72169560583956995502008-07-22T12:05:00.000-07:002008-12-10T23:23:15.311-08:00Hat Rings Galore<div>I have been exceedingly busy and very blessed with a good bit of new business and new inspiration. I have started a new collection of rings, called Hat Rings, so dubbed because of the shape that the ring makes when in profile.</div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div>Usually, I like to make one of a series and offer different styles through custom request, but in this case however, I thought it more prudent to actually show some of what I have available with the idea that seeing the finished product is better than imagining it. I also just got in a new shipment of gemstones, so I'm able to expand upon my inventory a little more, as well.</div><div>Without further ado, here they are:</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYyDgCSZpI/AAAAAAAAAGg/n1NSWVC4HHM/s320/etsyleft+front.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225919453330564754" /><br /><div><div style="text-align: center;">Whisky Hat Ring</div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw2-xA6WI/AAAAAAAAAF4/6VPB0nbctdE/s1600-h/etsyleft+side+front.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw2-xA6WI/AAAAAAAAAF4/6VPB0nbctdE/s320/etsyleft+side+front.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225918138729687394" /><br /></a><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; ">Andalusite Hat Ring</span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw2zHdagI/AAAAAAAAAGA/UX32MOYB8dA/s1600-h/etsyleft+front.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw2zHdagI/AAAAAAAAAGA/UX32MOYB8dA/s320/etsyleft+front.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225918135602604546" /><br /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; ">Fire Citrine Hat Ring</span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw3Pkz0_I/AAAAAAAAAGI/wNiw-KvSHp8/s1600-h/etsyfront.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw3Pkz0_I/AAAAAAAAAGI/wNiw-KvSHp8/s320/etsyfront.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225918143241901042" /><br /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; ">Garnet Hat Ring</span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw3ORv3iI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/m3cEim6GwAA/s1600-h/etsyleft+front.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw3ORv3iI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/m3cEim6GwAA/s320/etsyleft+front.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225918142893514274" /><br /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; ">London Blue Hat Ring</span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw3RH3O4I/AAAAAAAAAGY/NzdX6EH41yo/s1600-h/etsy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SIYw3RH3O4I/AAAAAAAAAGY/NzdX6EH41yo/s320/etsy.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225918143657360258" /><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">Peridot Hat Ring</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-42544388129371104402008-06-22T09:38:00.001-07:002008-12-10T23:23:15.497-08:00Fill in the Blank Bangle<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SF6AVI06kJI/AAAAAAAAAFw/WF4dpscBj5o/s1600-h/blog.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SF6AVI06kJI/AAAAAAAAAFw/WF4dpscBj5o/s400/blog.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214746519176646802" /><br /></a><div><div style="text-align: left;">This is my latest piece, which I made yesterday. I had been thinking quite a lot about comic books and other elements of pop culture, particularly pertaining to the 80s and of course to pop art. I titled this work <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Fill in the Blank Bangle</span> because I wasn't necessarily interested in including my own catch phrase. The use of a blank line with a garnet "period" at the end, really seemed to capture the graphic element of the speech bubble that I was after. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've been trying to incorporate more and more pop objects into my designs, but that hasn't exactly been easy. Although I can think of a million different ideas, none of them seem to fall within the scope of my work. Perhaps gradual fluctuations will be a better solution. For now though, I think that this is an excellent start. </div></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-56414014456387294402008-06-17T10:16:00.000-07:002008-12-10T23:23:15.750-08:00Pink Lemonade Bangle<div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SFfxo7wHbwI/AAAAAAAAAFg/i11ci6k8RwY/s1600-h/smashingfront.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SFfxo7wHbwI/AAAAAAAAAFg/i11ci6k8RwY/s400/smashingfront.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212900779241205506" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>This is my latest creation that I dubbed the Pink Lemonade Bangle. It features a 15mm x 10mm lemon quartz and a 6mm antique cushion cut blush topaz. To be totally honest, it was a long time in the making. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>You see, I bought that lovely lemon quartz nearly four months ago, but I couldn't compose a setting for it that I was pleased with. I have several pages in my sketchbook devoted to trying to work out that problem. Even though holding the stone was rather simple enough, the shape of the custom cut design makes it rather difficult to set it in a flattering manner. Finally, after tinkering around with it all afternoon yesterday, I finally cracked something I was pleased with. <br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>It's just a traditional prong setting, but one that was actually slightly smaller than the size of the stone so that the pointed edges would fit more comfortably. I also modified it a bit so that the lemon quartz could be held with minimum intrusion by the prongs. I ended up adding a pink topaz to the design because I've always enjoyed the color combination of bright yellow and hot pink. Once I finished the overall bracelet design, I realized that the entire piece reminded me of pink lemonade, hence the name. <br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Overall, I'm very proud of it, and I think that sometimes it's better to wait to use a stunning stone than to rush into composing before all of the possibilities have been considered. <br /></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-76624910898306895712008-06-13T17:14:00.000-07:002008-06-13T17:26:46.003-07:00The Origin of the OutfitI've procrastinated for quite awhile about relating the story of how my studio got its name. Basically I am a huge Sherlock Holmes fan. Sometime after I had set up my workspace, I read <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The Adventure of the Three Garridebs</span>. The story describes the plot of a recently paroled American counterfeiter who goes to London in search of his old forgery equipment. The statement that struck me was, "It was a glad day at the Yard when the Prescott outfit was discovered, for, though they knew it existed, they had never been able ... to find out where it was."<div><br /></div><div>Now let me first say that I am in no way, shape, or form counterfeiting! I just really liked how the word "outfit" was tagged onto a metal working operation. My small work space is quite able to handle a variety of metal maneuvers and I think that "The Galeana Outfit" has such a nice ring to it. It's just a small bit of wording that immediately stands out. </div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-13452966092260122112008-06-13T14:20:00.000-07:002008-12-10T23:23:16.053-08:00Busy BeeAlmost as soon as I woke up this morning, I set myself out to make a new line of stackable rings. I had a set already made, but I felt like I wanted to take a traditional concept and change it slightly. In this version there are only two rings that can comfortably be combined. I did this because I wanted to emphasize the strength of the simple. Here is an example:<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SFLmor2Nh8I/AAAAAAAAAFY/HWVfK6AtV0g/s320/blog.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211481305460344770" /><div> </div><div> </div><div>Together, these two colors make a dramatic and bold statement despite the simplicity of the design. They fit so nicely and the bands are free to swivel without the stones running into one another. A very nice and comfortable combination, indeed.</div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-28203317171044581172008-06-12T09:21:00.000-07:002008-06-12T09:32:51.680-07:00New HorizonsI've spent a whole lot of time recently overhauling my photos, my jewelry and my marketing strategy. Basically, I am attempting to upgrade not only the quality of my work, but the quality of its presentation as well. I created a new banner and made a light box to take my photographs in so that I can regulate all of the settings and environments much more easily.<div><br /></div><div>It all started when I peeked in my etsy shop one morning and I noticed that the listings I had all looked like they could have been made by various jewelers rather than just one. To say it another way, it looked like a search page and not a cohesive shop. It dawned on me that my work didn't look unified because it was not presented in a similar fashion. After that realization I invested a whole lot of time into reshooting a good bit of my work. After I was done with that, I saw that my banner and avatar were sorely lacking as well. I thought a logo with similar colors and trimmed down graphic elements might tie everything together, so I created one. </div><div><br /></div><div>I also took my work to other outlets as well. I applied for trunkt (for the second time), after I had a few really striking photos and I was accepted. Also, I started shopping my work around to local boutiques. Hopefully all goes well in that arena as well. </div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, I am pleased with my results but I feel like I definitely need to thicken up the inventory. Slowly but surely, everything is starting to build up.</div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-91442454205405724222008-06-12T09:04:00.000-07:002008-12-10T23:23:16.351-08:00It's Been Awhile...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I have several new things to post about but I will do them sectionally. First off, allow me to touch base on one of my earlier posts: Bracelets. Over the past few weeks I have been very busy creating bracelets and then taking them apart because I was unsatisfied with the results. I now have three particular bangle-style bracelets that I am quite proud of and they exhibit some of the new skills I've recently been acquiring. I will only show two of them. Here is the first one:<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SFFJ5ijvCoI/AAAAAAAAAD4/yDsLjxttRQg/s320/1trunkt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211027496722434690" />This is called the Multiple Stone Bracelet, or The Colorful Bracelet. I haven't quite settled on a name. It took a lot of work to create it, but honestly, it took more time to clean and polish it all up! Hard to reach areas are always a problem.</span><div>Here is the second:</div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/SFFLW3_YT_I/AAAAAAAAAEA/stf5lP4lEOU/s320/1close+up+silver+and+gold+bracelet.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211029100203364338" /><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div style="text-align: left;">I call this one the Sunset Bangle because of the colors that I used for the stones. It is a royal amethyst, and autumn topaz and a hand forged solid 14 karat gold cabochon that represents the sun. It is one of the best pieces that I've created so far. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have a couple of new pieces in the works as well, and a few still just on paper but when they are all done and I am satisfied with the results, I'll make an update. </div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-70131524231317604622008-03-25T12:12:00.000-07:002008-12-10T23:23:16.653-08:00New Commission<div style="text-align: justify;">I have been really busy over the Easter holidays. I had four orders, one of them a commission from a design that I worked on with my lovely customer. I won't lie, this ring was a little difficult to make as the ring shank is rather thick and building the centerpiece for the stone to sit on was kind of like tug of war. However, I'm pretty pleased with the outcome. I've never made a ring that looks like this, and I probably never would have thought to design something like this either. So, without further ado, here is my brand new ring.<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/R-lPa4GPidI/AAAAAAAAADc/46naW0LOXWU/s400/1blue+goldstone4.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5181760169420229074" /><div> </div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-14524305777714119022008-03-18T12:32:00.001-07:002008-12-10T23:23:16.839-08:00Setting some goals<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>For the last couple weeks I had been quite busy with midterms critiques for my MFA, but now that's over, I can come back to concentrating on some new goals. I've been doing quite a lot of research and I've noticed that there seems to be a very big void within my product line and that is bracelets. I haven't made one to sell on my shop yet! That is definitely going to change, as I hope to make at least 8 new bangles before the end of two weeks. I know that is quite a goal to set, but through a whole lot of hard work, I know that it can be done. I actually made one today. I'm actually waiting for an order for silver wire that I placed yesterday, and as soon as it comes in, I'm all set to go. I will be offering onyx, carnelian, lapis lazuli, rose quartz, jade, malachite and amethyst. Here's an example of the first one:</div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/R-AaRenuS3I/AAAAAAAAADU/7d2uZCtGaTs/s400/1amethyst+bangle.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179168459055844210" /><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">This particular bangle has a 10mm royal amethyst, and I think it looks fantastic with a slightly matte finish. Anyhow, I will be updating the new bracelets as they are made. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Cheers!</div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-39401445542046665842008-03-03T20:36:00.000-08:002008-03-03T20:43:42.452-08:00MaintenanceWell it's been a little while since I've gotten the opportunity to post so I wanted to give a heads up on what I've been doing lately. I've been coming up with new designs so that I will have a fully stocked store, and I've been talking to a whole lot of jewelers to get an idea of what kind of experiences they've had while trying to run a business. I must say that the results have been stimulating. In the next couple weeks I'm going to embark on an advertising campaign to increase awareness of my work.<div><br /></div><div>While I was in undergrad, I spent some time as a graphics designer. I intend to call upon those skills to create new business cards, postcards and flyers. Then I'm gonna hit the streets and start posting them up wherever I see a spot open on a bulletin board. I think that the more I put myself out there, the more interest I can generate about what it is I do. I'll definitely keep my progress posted by measuring the amount of emails, views, convos and hearts I receive throughout this campaign.</div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-28215560001760053452008-02-20T16:31:00.000-08:002008-12-10T23:23:17.313-08:00Louisiana Challenge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/R7zKXRxXAMI/AAAAAAAAACw/oje17pdlPKo/s1600-h/1Pearl+Washboard+Pendant.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/R7zKXRxXAMI/AAAAAAAAACw/oje17pdlPKo/s400/1Pearl+Washboard+Pendant.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169228973570719938" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">just completed a challenge that was posted by the Louisiana Street Team. It was to create an item that was inspired by "Jazz." Obviously that is quite a large category, specifically in the Greater New Orleans Area. I'm originally from a bit farther South than the Crescent City, 60 miles further South. The kind of music that was key to my region was Zydeco and Swamp Pop. As soon as I recognized this, I was immediately inspired to create this piece. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div></span></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> It is influenced by the washboard, which is a major instrument in many bands that were from my area. I added a pearl because my town, Houma, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">was the oyster capital of the United States up until about 30 years ago. I'm very proud of this piece because I feel that it reflects a very personal part of my history. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> It's made of sterling silver and has a freshwater pearl. It's quite heavy and slightly longer than a quarter. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> I must say, that this challenge was a lot of fun, and I'm very proud of what was created. As soon as I see some of the other pieces from the challenge, I will post them with a little description.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Cheers!</span></span></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-20348704606106275722008-02-17T12:07:00.001-08:002008-12-10T23:23:17.621-08:00A Tiny Glimpse of the Outfit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/R7iVAxxXAFI/AAAAAAAAAB4/3LMmnzEjgIE/s1600-h/Window.jpg"><img style="text-align: left;float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; " src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/R7iVAxxXAFI/AAAAAAAAAB4/3LMmnzEjgIE/s200/Window.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168044413000548434" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"> I</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"> have to admit that my studio is quite small. But it does have a window, which lets in plenty of natural light. The good thing is that it is outside, so that none of the harmful fumes associated with jewelry penetrates into the house. It also has a very big concrete utility sink for all of my chemical mixing needs. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"> I do believe that one of the most important things for any creative endeavor to thrive, is that there has to be a place that is usually associated with that creative process. Virginia Wolfe's book </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">A Room of One'</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">s Own,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"> describes the necessity of that idea. Essentially, one wants a place that allows a freedom of ideas away from the normal activities of the day. I would be severely set back if I had to get up every five seconds because of outside intrusion. </span></span></span></div><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qw37zJ-CDxI/R7iaoBxXAII/AAAAAAAAACQ/IEU92oDF4Do/s200/1Mr.+torch+and+Mrs.+flex+shaft.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168050584868552834" /><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"> Personally, I wouldn't want to use my torch anywhere near anyone else. Even though it is quite small, that baby gets a little over 5,000 degrees with butane and oxygen. It would be much hotter if I used acetylene, but it isn't necessary. This is my torch and my flex shaft tool getting together. This actually isn't my only torch. I have another, larger, more violent looking torch, but I prefer the lightness and ease of this one. It is definitely far less intimidating! This was actually a hand-me-down flex shaft that I recently acquired. Before that I was actually using a Dremel tool to grind on my pieces. Unfortunately, it couldn't live up to the high demands I had put on it, so it was retired. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"> One of the things that I have found to be key to making successful art is the willingness to try alternative ways to execute techniques that are relatively commonplace. For example, instead of using a lost wax process of casting, why not try different ways of making a mold and pouring metal. Each alternative technique creates a different surface, quality and overall look of one piece. I personally shy away from common metal techniques. On first blush, this may sound silly, but I have come up with many more ideas from trying to bend my mind around trying to recreate the wheel. It also helps if you try this if you are lacking some of the more expensive jewelers tools. After all, "necessity is the mother of all invention."</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-488168600480278659.post-77244703477707719512008-02-17T09:48:00.000-08:002008-02-17T10:11:08.992-08:00First Post (or the post that hurts the most)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Well, this is my very first post so I'd better explain myself. This blog is intended to be a glimpse inside my jewelry studio, which I affectionately call "The Outfit." In the Sherlock Holmes story "The Three Garridebs," Sherlock refers to a "counterfitter's outfit." I liked the word outfit as it refers to metal, so that's what I christened my studio. I am certainly not counterfitting anything, but I do like the way it sounds. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I shall soon post pictures of my humble studio for everyone to see. There's nothing more interesting than learning where someone creates their own precious works of art. </span></div>The Galeana Outfithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03207522711561034815noreply@blogger.com0