It seems that we've become a society of people who shy away from joining groups. Why do you think that is? Is it because we're really so terribly busy? Or is it because the internet offers us the illusion of the group without having to venture out into the cold? I'm not sure what the exact answer is...I'm just asking what you think.
I have several groups of friends that I get together with from time to time, my gym buds, two book groups, and a cadre of artists. I wish I had a local foodie group too! I'm not much for formal organization, but I do love my groups. I'm wondering if I should add a more focused jewelry-making or beading group to my life. Sara Hardin helpfully posted a list of many bead societies that would be a good place for you to start it you think you might want to get together with other fans of small shiny things :-)
So, do you or don't you? Do you think you should?
Technorati Tags:handmade beaded jewelry,wearable art,beads,jewelry,necklace,mixed media,beading
Comments
But *sigh* I do dream about being in a bead society someday when I have more time.
The Bead Journal Project was the first project-oriented online group I belonged to, and it was a great experience. Now I'm doing the Sketchbook Challenge as well as the Weekly Zentangle Challenge. They're wonderful because they force me outside of my comfort zone. I'm also in several Flickr pools.
I belong to the Portland (OR) Bead Society. We are a very large, very active group, with nationally known members and very inspiring meetings. It is wonderful to find such support for your art, no matter if you are a stringer, a wire worker, an off-loom weaver or a bead embroiderer. It is a very inclusive group and I look forward to the meetings each month.
If interested, please email me at aarankin@cox.net
I found a listing for this jewelry artisan group:
http://bnb.jewelrymakingmagazines.com/groups.aspx?page=info&groupid=170
Unfortunately, it's an old listing, but perhaps the contact person could point you in a helpful direction. We've got a few groups down here in MA, but that's quite a distance for you.