These fans are collaborative pieces made by Sarajane
Helm and Elaine Schaefer.
Both artists share a love of color and texture, as well as an appreciation
of the glint and glow of metallics such as copper, gold and silver along
with a bit of discrete iridescence!
Their work features a wealth of decorative detail, and a rich depth
of color.
Elaine makes the graceful fan shaped bases of these hangings using paper
collage and a special two part poured epoxy resin, which she casts to make
these dramatic pieces.
Sarajane then adorns the fans with added pieces of polymer clay, sometimes
adding elaborate beading and tassels as well.
Each artist adds to the arc and swirl of the designs in
her own way, and together it adds up to a vivid visual impact.
When she is not writing, painting or building rock walls, Elaine turns
her hand to the creation of these lovely fans.
Made from various combinations of metallic leaf, papers, found objects
and materials developed specifically for the fans, they are coated with the
two part epoxy resin to finish them, giving each fan the glassy shine and depth.
Great care is taken to heat the epoxy with a torch or embossing gun after it is
poured to eliminate any bubbling. Bryan Helm uses this kind of epoxy resin to
pour tables and other mosaics as well.
These are one of a kind works, sometimes inspired by events or people
in her life, or any combination of books, food, scents or visual stimulation
that grabs her attention.
When in production mode, a fan can begin with
one idea, and give birth to a series, often with humor and a sense of mischief
involved in the process.
At right is a closeup detail of the fan seen above.
It is
a very special piece that Elaine made just for me to commemorates the life
and death of my friend and mentor Libby Gregory, founder of bead stores
Byzantium and Tradewinds in Columbus Ohio, editor of the Columbus Freepress
and organizer of the Community Festival for many years.
She's the one who taught me how to string a necklace, wrap a crystal,
run a store, and organize community events.
Blessed Be, Libby.
Elaine says:
"Working with other artists can be one of the most rewarding journeys
for the creative mind, and it has been a pleasure to have my pieces incorporated
into the magical works of Sarajane Helm.
Her art is an inspiration to me, and the story telling
elements of each piece she creates is fascinating."
