Polymer Clay Category / Grand Prize Winner

Untitled (Three Tiger Lilies)

Artist: Lynne Ann Schwarzenberg (Ansonia, CT)
Grand Prize / First Place, Polymer Clay

“I'm a polymer clay artist who works with millefiori canes and I mainly create flat tile designs. I am also a proud mom of an 11-year-old girl who is fascinated with flowers, fairies and jewelry. My daughter often remarks that my work is always flat, and that I need to make something dimensional ... Working flat has always come naturally to me; each tile is like a mini painting and I enjoy creating the illusion of depth in 2D. But when I saw this contest opportunity, I thought I would challenge myself, take my daughter's advice and make some "shaped stuff." The first idea I had was to make the pods that cover the ends of the nylon necklace cord. I have purchased many of these cords from R&T and I always like to make something wonderful from clay to cover the cord ends. The pods looked something like tiger lily buds, and so the necklace began to take shape in my head.

“Three gorgeous lilies surrounded by flowing leaves and those little pods to complete it. It was a design fit for a fairy queen ... The leaves and petals are all made from canes. ... This piece was designed to look like a wreath of flowers that a fairy would wear out in the forest.

“The design took me approximately 40 hours to complete from concept to final baking. The obstacles were too numerous to count, but a bit of magic saved me every time I had a problem! The processes used were millefiori caning, antiquing, carving, back filling, sanding, highlight painting, armaturing for strength, sculpting, wire working, etc. The entire piece – exclusive of wires in the stamens, necklace cord and armatures in the leaves (sized card stock) – is polymer clay. It's an amazing medium with endless possibilities.” – Lynne Ann Schwarzenberg

View more 2008 First Place winners. Or, check for details about our most recent contest!

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