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Description: |
In the late 19th and early 20th century, Paris became the
birthplace of modern art. This era was called La Belle
Époque (the beautiful era) and the city was full of artists
trying to make their way. Many masterpieces of literature,
music, theater and visual arts gained recognition. Can you
imagine the likes of Renoir, Picasso and Matisse (to name a
few) hanging out and discussing art at a local café?
In the second half of the 19th century, Paris began to host
Universal Exhibitions (five in all), which attracted
millions of visitors. The expositions celebrated technology
and industry. I would have loved to have been a visitor! Can
you imagine visiting the booths of Alexander Graham Bell
displaying his telephone, or Thomas Edison presenting his
new phonograph? What about seeing the head of the Statue of
Liberty before she was shipped to America?
The impressive Eiffel Tower is in easy view as you
experience the first escalator and the world's largest
Ferris wheel. The exhibitions also introduced talking films
and art nouveau to the world. René Lalique exhibited his
work at the Universal Exhibition in 1900 and was an
immediate sensation. He offered jewelry, objects d'art made
of bronze, ivory and glass. His success is legendary!
Three Nights in Paris is inspired by the all of the imagery
I viewed while I was researching information about early
Paris. As I was designing, I kept thinking about how amazing
it would have been to visit Paris during the exhibitions and
the wonders that I would have seen. As an artist, I am sure
I would have been humbled (and inspired) by the skills of
the artisans exhibiting. Wonders of the world!
This design evokes the blend of the Renaissance period, with
the new and exciting, Art Nouveau style. A unique way of
bezeling a pear CZ, offers a smooth shape and is much easier
than the traditional way. Swarovski pearl cabs, with
herringbone shaped embellishing, have an art nouveau feel.
Flat peyote stitched necklace straps, interspersed with tiny
bezeled 6mm CZ's, add just the right touch to this delicate
necklace. Vive la France! |
