Lots of times when I create, I try to weave an idea and concept into a finished clay shape. The assignment for another recent totem project was filled with symbolic imagery to convey a sense of whimsical welcome at the owner’s front door. Each piece of the stack represents a visual message of warmth and hospitality to visitors of this residence. Once I have an idea of what I'd like to make, I often research a variety of imagery to spark my creative juices.
Here’s the breakdown of how this totem came to be:
The base of this totem is a pineapple which has long been a symbol of welcome. The texture was created with the plastic webbing you often find securing fruits and vegetables in the produce department at the grocery store. I have a large 'cache' of texture-making materials around the studio just waiting for the right project! The butterfly resting atop an ocean-blue flower is representative of the Monarch Butterfly often seen throughout this southern isle. I use colorful wire and glass beads to complete this shape.
Hearts are the universal emblem of love. This stack of three hearts spells out what these homeowners cherish -- Family, Friends and Home.
The yellow bead-embellished flower embodies the South Carolina state flower, Yellow Jessamine. I've made other generic flower shapes in the past; this time I tried to mimic the shape of this particular blossom. I knew I wanted to use the Palmetto Tree and Crescent Moon symbol of the South Carolina State Flag to adorn the top of the totem. Figuring out how to turn this idea into reality took some planning and experimentation. A visit to the hardware store produced just the right type of wire to suspend the moon over the tree.
So there you have it. Another totem project is complete and in place! Do you have an idea for a personalized totem for your yard or indoor space? Send me a message and let's start the conversation! I'd love to create one just for you! Take a look at other totems I have created here.