In the Studio with Liz Cunningham

This Saturday we introduce you to artist Liz Cunningham!

How did you begin making art?
A colleague at work offered a workshop to a few of us on how to make a beaded necklace of hers. After being bitten by the beading bug I began watching beading videos. Each video taught me a new stitch which became a new necklace. Eventually, I started combining stitches and techniques which led to designing my own pieces.

What need does it satisfy?
I love a good mathematical puzzle and that is exactly how I view the process of designing and bead weaving. It begins with numerous sketches of what I want to achieve. Once I have an acceptable design then comes the puzzle of what stitches and beads to use to get the affect I’m going for.
I’m a retired math instructor and I believe the designing and producing of intricate patterns keeps me thinking systematically and mathematically.

What is your most important artistic tool?
My bead collection is like a painter’s palette. To me, it is my most valuable “tool”. Choosing the correct size, shape and color combination of multiple beads is critical to creating a great piece. I know almost immediately if the beads will work together as soon as I pour them out onto my bead mat. (Of course there’s lots of beading and tearing out until what I get what is in my mind’s eye to become a reality)

Is there something you can’t live without in your studio?
I use a magnifying lamp which I could not do without. I wear what I call my “Mr Magoo” eyeglasses but the magnifier is essential for getting the tiny details right.

Creativity can be imaginative, inventive, and original. Understanding that creating artwork is a very personal choice; what inspires your creativity?
Oh my goodness, besides beading videos and magazines, so many things inspire me. I have a little notebook where I am constantly jotting down ideas.