04 March 2020

Featured Artist: March 2020

This month's Featured Artist highlights Stella Glushko!

Stella is a happy wife, mother, and grandmother who lives in the warm, southern city of Krasnodar, Russiaand enjoys creating with polymer clay!

We wanted to learn more about Stella and here's what she shared with us:

pcPolyzine: How did you get into polymer clay?
Stella: I really like to wear jewelry. But it's not always possible to choose what suits your outfit. So I decided to try to create jewelry myself. I got on the Internet and I came across a master class on creating a pendant using the mokume gane technique. It really interested me and I decided to buy clay and try to create something myself, something that could be worn.

pcPolyzine: How long have you been working with polymer clay?
Stella: It was May 2013. Then, I didn't think the sculpting process would fascinate me so much. And for almost 7 years now, I have been creating jewelry.

pcPolyzine: How do you come up with an idea for a projectdo you plan it or just start working?
Stella: Sometimes an idea is born in my head right away. I try to make a sketch, and only then bring it to life. But it happens differently. I sit down at the table, pull out stones, beads, cords...and begin fantasizing and come up with a pendant, bracelet, or earrings. 

pcPolyzine: What inspires you to create pieces in polymer clay?
Stella: I find inspiration everywherein nature, in architecture, even in the drawings of my grandson. I often go to exhibitions to see other jewelry. This is a strong source of inspiration for me.

pcPolyzine: What's your favorite piece or project you've made in polymer clay?
Stella: In my work, I do not use different, complex techniques. In my works there are no keys, kaleidoscopes, or mokume gane. Everything is extremely simple. My favorite direction in jewelry is imitation of metal. I really like to work with natural stones and crystals. Recently, I feel in love with alcohol ink. Decorating with them turns out bright and original. 

pcPolyzine: What are your favorite (or most important) tools you use when working with clay?
Stella: The most important tools for me to work with are, of course, a pasta machine, cutters, and an extruder. I like to use various stamps. Also I use lace, napkins, and pieces of wallpaper. All can have a beautiful impression on clay.

pcPolyzine: Do you have any advice for new artists to polymer clay?
Stella: My advice to beginners is do not try to buy a lot at once. Almost everything can be replaced with improvised means.

pcPolyzine: Any final thoughts?
Stella: In conclusion, I want to say that I am a happy person. I have a favorite hobby and I have friends and like-minded people. And this is absolutely a magical world and it is a great honor for me to become part of your project!

pcPolyzine: Stella, your jewelry is beautiful and we are excited to have you as part of pcPolyzine. Thank you for taking time to share with us!

To connect with Stella and see more of her work, find her on Facebook and Instagram.

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