Kathleen Visits the Studio of Anne Cunningham

During a recent visit to the home studio of Wilmington artist, Anne Cunningham, Kathleen Gray had the opportunity to speak with the artist and see a wonderful selection of Anne's work in process as well as the newest completed creations. Here are her impressions:

"A blended tapestry of multiple mediums is the way I would describe the work of Anne Cunningham. Metalwork that has elements of painting, sculpture, weaving and patchwork. During my visit to her studio I had a chance to see the evolution of her work from painting to metal sculpture. She has been working with metal for almost 20 years and has an impressive list of corporate collectors including Rex Health, Duke and PPD. Anne's love of nature, color and movement combined with her playful spirit are obvious characteristics of her work. Inspiration comes from a limitless palette of size, shape and color that she continues to experiment with. " Kathleen Gray

This Friday will be a treat you won't want to miss. Anne is one of our Featured Artists at our

Spectrum Art & Jewelry
July Open House & Wine Tasting,
Friday, July 9th
6-8pm.

Also featured are Rick & Valerie Beck, glass artists from Spruce Pine, NC
Here is an example of their whimsical glass art.

There will be live music that night
Lisa & Galen, a local jazz duo, will be performing.

I look forward to seeing you there.
For more details feel free to call 910-256-2323.

Patricia Daunis Jewelry ~ The Port City Connection

During a recent jewelry show at the gallery I had the opportunity to speak with visiting designer, Patricia Daunis. Our conversation brought back many wonderful memories of another port city that I used to call home: Portland, Maine. In fact, it was the similarities between Wilmington and Portland that captured my heart and led me to move here.

The two cities, both major ports on the East coast, are rich in history and exquisitely beautiful. The Maine Coast, differs from ours in that it abounds with rocks, moss and evergreens coming right down to the shore line.


What struck me most about Patricia's jewelry designs was the way she captures the same essence that exists between my two favorite parts of the country. The warmth of the golden sand, the play of waves, the history, tradition and creativity of the people and the stones that can be added to all of her pieces.





Patty has named many of her designs after favorites places in Maine. These names evoke beloved memories for myself and I expect, many of Patricia's collectors. Memories of Camden, Bar Harbor, Sebago Birch Island, Friendship and many more. The movement of the waves and the play of light on the water are easily imagined in each earring, ring and pendant. In some creations she even incorporates natural beach rocks, set with gems and gold to turn them into one of a kind works of art.





Come by the gallery and see if you don't agree with me. You won't find any lobster here but I'm sure you will enjoy this "taste of Maine".

Kathleen Gray

Jewelry Show and Restyle Event

Join us for a fabulous designer jewelry show and restyle event with Maine jewelry designer, Patricia Daunis. See an extensive selection of SS, 14k and 18k jewelry or consider having Patricia custom design something special just for you. All of her designs can be modified with her gemstones or your own. Perfect for family jewelry or a great way to set the diamonds you inherited. Either way it will be fun and fabulous.

New Visual Artist at Spectrum Art and Jewelry

Introducing Jaquelin Perry to Spectrum Art and Jewelry! Jaquelin's work is influenced by her proximity to the Outer Banks. Sparkling water and amazing skies dominate her lovely coastal pieces. Although Jaquelin has an affinity for seascape, she is extremely versatile in subject matter, as shown in "Sunflowers and Zinias." Come visit the gallery to see this fresh new work by our newest addition to the Spectrum Art and Jewelry family.

10 Gift Ideas for Less Than $250

Our holiday gift list continues with a great selection of items available for less than $250. These items are only available in the gallery. However, if you don't live in town, I can email you photos or work out a convenient way to get you something special.

I also added many new gorgeous fine jewelry items to our 40% off sale display, like these 14k gold sand dollar earrings with blue topaz by Catherine Weitzman. They are now only $195.
Next, for those who seek the perfect color accent for their rooms, consider these Medalion Vases by Rosetree Art Glass. Their unique shallow profile allows them to fit on a shallow mantle piece or shelf. We have several colors available. $210.

We recently added work by Santa Fe jewelry designer, Tana Acton. She creates these unique hand woven cuff bracelets. The one shown features faceted lemon quartz beads. We have them with smokey quartz, amethyst, chalcedony, and pearl, just to name a few. You'd be amazed at how comfortable they are. We also have rings. This lemon quartz and sterling silver cuff is only $138.

Guys are always attracted to dichroic glass. That's what makes the deep metallic colors in this wonderful glass fish sculpture by Rollin Karg. We have a variety of his glass creations. This one sells for $248.

These fluted bowls by Vitrix make a fabulous wedding present, a house-warming gift, or a really special hostess gift. Available in several exciting colors, they sell for only $100. So much impact for so little cash!

Gallery artist, Kristin Gibson, recently brought in a great selection of small paintings featuring vegetable and flowers. This one with the artichoke measures 8" x 8" and sells for $125. There are also wonderful images starting at only $100. All original and perfect for a grouping. This is the second list of mine that Kristin has made, because she creates such wonderful things at incredibly reasonable prices.

Another new jewelry collection we have added this year is these fabulous Sterling Silver museum coin replicas. They make gorgeous and elegant pendants. The one featured here has a bumble bee on the front and a graceful stag on the reverse. The simple pendants run $126, not including a chain. We also have finished necklaces with impressive heavy silver chains with 18k gold accents.

This is also our first year working with Alaskan jewelry designer, Sue Savage, but it won't be the last. We love her colorful, retro jewelry designs. She handcrafts vivid palettes of polimer clay and then handbuilds sterling silver settings for them. We have necklaces and earrings. The set shown below is $80 for the earrings and $62 for the necklace.

A perenial gallery favorite for all occasions is the classic silver jewelry designs created by Cargo Hold. Their Southern Gates collection pleases ladies of all ages. Earrings range from $38 - 76. This large pear-shaped pendant is $89 (not including a chain). Shop early for the best selection, we've got a lot to choose from right now!

Nina Nguyen, pronounced like "nu-win", designs delightful jewelry that she has hand crafted by women's cooperatives she has established in rural Vietnam. As you know, we represent very little imported jewelry, but this is an exception. The quality is great and the fashion sense is off the charts on these dramatic statement pieces. This ring is vermeil (gold plated over sterling silver) and is set with garnet, peridot, amethyst and smokey quartz. The price is $170. The collection ranges from $112 - $138. These can not be sized so stop by the find the perfect one for you!

I h0pe this gives you some inspiration. Give creatively this year and be remembered forever. Please stop by soon and we'll show you some of our other favorites.

Star

12 Gift Ideas Under $50!

Well, the holidays have arrived and here at Spectrum Art & Jewelry we are ready! The gallery is displayed beautifully and decorated with a festive flair. I look around and see the widest variety of items, colors, styles, prices and artists that we have ever had.

So, as you start your holiday shopping, think of us. To spark your imagination here are a dozen gift ideas for under $50!

1. Hand made cork screw/wine pull by Daily Woodworking. These hand turned, precision tools come in maple burl or jewel-like acrylic. Only $41

2. Cards of Heart - These unique playing cards feature 54 original artworks by Cape Fear artists. This is a fund-raiser for First in Families. So great gift as well as a great cause. $25.

3. Ornaments - We have a great selection of very unusual ornaments and sun catchers. Hand made in glass, wood and metal, there is something for everyone. Starting at only $15.
4. Shea Butter Lotion Bars - Artisan made, these luscious shea butter lotion bars make a fabulous hostess or girlfriend gift. The small shell compact is great for travel. Perfect stocking stuffers. $6 - $12

5. Laserglass Shells - A perenial favorite, these gorgeous shell paperweights are cast in lead crystal and coated with special metal oxides on the bottom to make them glow with color. Starting at only $35.
6. Handmade Candles by Becky Hemby - A perfect coastal gift, embellished with sea shells and beach glass. The candles are re-fillable, which the artist will do for free! She also makes candle lights that use a 4watt night light bulb, a safe alternative to an open flame. Starting at $25.

7. Hand painted silk scarves by local painter, Kristin Gibson. Every one is a unique work of art. Two sizes. $45 - $60

8. Starsong Earrings and Bracelets -hand made right here in the gallery by Nancy Noel May in Sterling Silver or Gold Fill with various gemstone accents. Starting at only $20 a pair in Silver.

9. Hand made copper earring stands. Also made right here in the gallery. Keep your earrings in front of you so you remember to wear all your favorites. Whimsical and warm in rosy copper they accomodate 18 - 36 pair. Small $39 Large $69

10. Dichroic Glass Barrettes by A Touch of Glass - Luminous and vibrant colors make these barrettes a jewel-like adornment for those with long hair. Only $28.

11. Art Glass Pen Holders - Shaped like a large Hershey's kiss, these pen holders add color and style to anyone's desk. Only $19.

12. Art Glass Key Chains - Kiln formed colorful dichroic glass makes these key chains unforgettable. Be creative and attach a message: "the key to your dreams", "the key to my heart", etc. $15

Last, but not least, we are re-introducing our "Free Gift with Purchase" promotion. Spend $100 or more and receive a free pair of real pearl earrings, a value of $20. Keep them for yourself or consider them a bonus gift for someone you love.

Next post - 12 Gift Ideas for $100 - $250! Stay tuned, or just drop by and we will show you in person.

Jewelry Show ~ Michael Sugarman !

Santa Fe jewelry artist,
Michael Sugarman will be visiting

Spectrum Art & Jewelry for an exclusive two day event on

Friday and Saturday

November 20th & 21st

From 10am - 6pm.

Creator of the "Connect the dots" collection, Michael is an old-school metalsmith, hand sculpting each form. His architectural forms speak of his former life as a musician. He views his designs as musical notes, highlighting the wearer's beauty with point and counterpoint.

Join us to meet this intriguing artist and view his most recent jewelry creations.

Working in 18k gold and exotic gems, he highlights his peices with

lavish splashes of diamonds or colored sapphires. Many designs feature

exotic gemstones, sculpted by renowned gemcutters.

During this exclusive jewelry show,

Spectrum Art & Jewelry

will be offering a special gift with purchase.

Each Sugarman Design jewelry creation purchased during the event

will be accompanied by a $50 Spectrum gift certificate

to use for a future purchase or to give as a gift.