Elaine’s Philly

Today’s post marks an official shift…or better said, a long overdue expansion in my world.

 

Even though VeruDesigns was born as an art-jewelry business, it’s become clear over time that art itself (beyond jewelry), is really where my creativity is wanting to grow. This doesn’t mean that jewelry ceases to be, but it will share the spotlight with art. My website has gone through a few changes over the last few weeks to reflect this expansion as well. Have a look! (www.VeruDesigns.com).

 

What kind of art pieces?

Well! Time will answer that. But I’m starting with what I’m calling 3D depiction “clay-scapes” (as in landscapes made of clay!).

 

It all started last year when I created my very first Philadelphia-inspired clayscape. That piece got quite a bit of attention, and after it was sold, I began receiving several similar commissions.

I’ve felt conflicted ever since because in my mind I make jewelry. This was supposed to be a “one-and-done” thing.  But now art has officially entered my life, and it feels good. Our custom art shop is open (yay!!) and ready to create the most wonderful, unique 3D clayscapes of your own life wherever you live in the world. Like what?! (you may ask)…. Today’s piece is a great example!

 

Today’s “ELAINE’S PHILLY” is a 3D depiction/celebration of the city of Philadelphia, but from Elaine’s life perspective.

Who is Elaine? Well, she is the beautiful owner of this custom art piece that was made specifically for her.

 

If you are familiar with the city of Philadelphia, you will immediately recognize its well known skyline of buildings in the back. But the front, is a somewhat “made-up” composition of Elaine’s real home, as well as some of her favorite parts on her real-life street (including her favorite restaurant, building, etc).

 

This is a “custom” as it can be! And you’ve no idea how FUN it was to make.

 

Alright. Let’s get started with the reveal!

This custom “clayscape” is only 7 inches wide, by 5 inches high and 1.75 inches deep. Everything you’ll see below is 100% handmade with PVC clay and an invisible steal wire frame. Every tiny detail was hand shaped using only a razor blade and my fingers.

The final piece is mounted (via 4-screws) on a custom hard-canvas that is 16′ by 12′.

The Skyline.

The project started with having to choose a “perspective” on how to depict the Philly skyline, in a way that is of course visible (and recognizable), but without taking center stage.

While traveling several weeks ago, I came across this large mural at the Philadelphia international airport, which served as the main inspiration for the skyline. (If by any chance you know who the photographer is, please let me know to credit him/her!).

Elaine’s Street.

Philly happens to be only a few hours away from my studio, so in Elaine’s case I was able to visit her street in person, to “see” all the elements that she cares about in as much detail as I wanted.

 

The Design.

Then it was time to put these images into paper and decide how I was going to create “harmony” with all these elements. (In real life, none of these buildings are actually right next to each other!)

And voila! This is how it turned out!

 

Let’s have a little tour of what you’re seeing and why!

 

FIRST: ELAINE’S HOME.

 

The uneven entry step: The main entrance door is incredibly tiny (only 3/8 of an inch in the artpiece!). Notice the “uneven” entry step in the “real” door being carefully replicated in our tiny door step as well. This is of special significance to Elaine, as it’s one of the few signs left showing the age of this historic townhouse.

 

The steps and front yard: The lovely steps and the front of the home were replicated as closely to reality as possible (giving the tiny scale!)

The Planters: The entrance planters are happy to be part of the composition as well.

 

Street sign: The street sign (which one can only appreciate in person), is extremely small!. The fire hydrant completes the picture.

 

SECOND: THE HOUSE RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET

This is Elaine’s favorite architectural building on her street.

 

 

 

THIRD: VARGA BAR.

Her favorite corner restaurant!

 

 

 

FOURTH: THE SMALL TOWNHOUSES ON HUTCHINSON STREET

 

FIFTH: DETAILS ON THE SKYLINE!

Elaine happens to live in one of Philadelphia’s most beautiful historical neighborhoods, right in center city. It’s very common to hear and see the airplanes coming into and out of the airport every day. Her home is also only a few blocks away from one of Philly’s most beloved landmarks, City Hall!, which in the early 20th century was designed to be the tallest building in the world!

 

This is amazing! Your artistry is beyond compare, Veruschka! There are no words. More than what I could’ve ever imagined. I love it so much!

Elaine

So, what do you think?! I’d LOVE to read your thoughts/comments/questions in the section below.

Stay well, stay happy and stay healthy. See you in a few weeks !!