back to basics

earlier this year there was a Henri Matisse Cut-Outs exhibit at MoMA. i didn't get to see it but read about it and was inspired enough to get my old art books out and revisit Matisse's work. i do love his cut-outs and as i flipped through i was drawn, once again, to his organic leaf/flower shapes. in honor of this exhibit (yes, a little late) and of mattise's amazing cut-outs, i decided i'd recreate these same shapes in metal. i also thought this was a fantastic way to sharpen my sawing skills. i love doing detailed cutouts but knew my technique could use some improvement. after reading various articles on sawing (i know, sounds terribly boring to most) i decided it was time. rather than sawing out puzzle pieces, i thought these matisse leaves would be far more interesting . . . and after a little cleanup, these lovely little leaves will become some fantastic pieces of jewelry!