Art to me is such an inborn process. I wouldn't know what to do with my life if I wasn't making something. I believe this is part of our purpose on earth is to create with our hands. It is very satisfying to see something physical that you have created from almost nothing.

I like forms in nature. I love visiting aquariums and botanical gardens. I love taking photos of what I see. Nature is the perfect example of art. I gather a lot of inspiration from it. But most of all my passion is color. I love color and experimenting with new combinations. That is why my work is always changing. Beads are such a great opportunity to express myself. No two are ever the same. Each bead to me is an individual work of art.

My goal and aspirations as an artist are to provide the public with small pieces of art that anyone can afford. I have always made functional art. I think the best art is art that can be utilized everyday in our lives, whether it is wearing a beaded necklace or drinking from a hand thrown mug. This way a relationship is formed between the user and the artist. I strive to keep my art affordable. By doing this art can touch more lives, educating and interesting more people. The more art lovers we have the more we all benefit.

About the process: I am a control freak and because of that you benefit. I enjoy the entire process too much to let anyone help me. I make every bead myself. I start by hand forming the clay into the shape I want, whether it is a ball, cylinder, or flower. After the beads are slowly dried they are fired in an electric kiln to 2000 degrees. They are individually glazed with tiny brushes. After the underglaze colors are applied then two coats of clear glaze are painted on the bead. They are then placed back in the kiln for a second firing. This time on special bead holders designed by myself. After the second firing, I can hardly wait to open my kiln and see what small treasures I have created.

Please enjoy my beads and jewelry as much as I do making them.

Jennifer Heynen
Jangles