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26 September 2009

One can but imagine the fascination of the first person who discovered how to produce little glass bobbles that must have looked like treasure to him or her. Since man had previously learned to make holes in bead-like objects such as seeds and shells, one can easily also imagine the desire of this early bobble-discoverer, to make holes in these new translucent gems so as to wear them as special adornments. And how much frustration that would have caused, trying to pierce such fragile trinkets.

Now, aided by technology in our modern world, almost anything is possible. And consequently we are swamped with beads in glass, stone and all sorts of other materials that understandably provide much inspiration for eagre crafters around the world.

Naomi Jane Smart is just such an enthusiastic crafter who revels in the multiplicity and diversity of these pierced baubles. On 26 September, at the first Country Craft Market of the new season, she will be demonstrating her apparent desire to convert all the beads she can find into adornments that beautify everyone from dedicated followers of fashion, to conservative office-workers.

The popularity of beading has led to a flood of beadwork at craft markets but the ability to develop unique styles and approaches sets some ahead of the rest. Naomi has developed a style she can call her own.

Twenty three year old Naomi is a relative newcomer to South Africa, having arrived here from England in 2008.
"I was born in Colchester, the UK's oldest recorded town," she says with some pride, "and grew up and worked there until I moved to Somerset West".

Naomi is self-taught and perhaps because of this, has an interesting approach to her design. She works in an interactive way, starting with an idea in her mind, which she will allow to evolve as the design emerges. Colours, textures and forms intermingle in an almost organic way as she uses the beads as her brush strokes, to capture the image that pleases her.

This approach allows her to do "Commissions on the spot" as she says.
"I always bring a large number and big variety of beads to the market," she explains, "This way, if someone sees beads they like or has a particular idea in mind, I am always able to design something for them, there and then, on the day."

In all her work, Naomi enjoys the support of her mother and fellow crafter Janice.
"I believe my passion for all things crafty was born into me from my mother", she tells. "She originally worked with intricate cross stitch and was and still is an inspiration to me".
As Naomi works, opinions and ideas are discussed and valuable advice and critique from her mother are always available and appreciated.

On 26 September, Naomi will be demonstrating the techniques she uses to produce her intriguing designs. She will have on display, many of her beaded items, each a unique piece that captures her sense of craft, elegance, form and beauty. Visitors to the Country Craft Market should be sure to stop at her stall and see her at work - as she always seems to be.

Last Updated 23 December 2011 01:06