Renee Baker

These Genuine 3mm Round Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Beads are available for purchase in my new Etsy Store at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/rollingwave

Artworks and Analysis

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 07:40:00 +0000

The Dance of Life is the title of the painting by Edvard Munch. The painting was

created during the early modern era in 1899, and the medium is oil on canvas. The size

of the work is 125.5 centimeters in height and 190.5 centimeters in width.

The subject of the painting is couples dance, and the primary focus is on a couple

that can be seen dancing in the center of the painting. A man in the center is wearing

a dark suit and woman is wearing a long red dress: this wardrobe indicates passion,

and the burning fire of youth. Her dress is wrapped around the base of the male

companion’s legs. There are hints of this red present on the man’s suit jacket and pants,

indicating that they are melting into each other, and that the passion is mutual.

The figure to the left seems to be very loosely painted, with palms open, indicating the

flexibility and openness of youth. The assorted brushstrokes around the figure also

seem to create an aura or glow around the young woman. The white color scheme also

indicates the innocence of youth, especially noted by the faint flower pattern on the figure’s white dress. In addition, the character’s outstretched hand is pointing to a growing flower, indicating that the figure is not concerned with the potential death and peril around her.

The figure on the right side of the painting, on the other hand, signifies the extreme opposites. This figure is lonely, rigid, hopeless and confined. The black dress indicates the understanding of an unavoidable death in the future, near or otherwise. The figure’s meek hands clasped closely against her body indicate that she will not leave easily. The outline of the figure’s body is done in smooth, precise brushstrokes indicating that this figure is set on one belief, rather than being adaptable, as with the figure on the left.

The moonlight in the background exemplifies a phallic figure. Taking in account the moon itself, this can also be interpreted as a “Christ-like” figure,

with arms outstretched.

In the background of the composition, between the focus and the right hand side, is another dancing couple. The male of this couple appears far less suave and passionate than the couple in the center of the painting. His posture is not concerned with his dancing partner, and his focus seems to be elsewhere. His large gazing eyes and bloody red lips could be indicating a sense of madness, which in his case could be onset by his aging. The man seems to be gazing at the lady in black, indicating not only an understanding of death, but also a desire for it.

In the background, there exist another two couples, whose actions and expressions are difficult to examine. There is; however, another fair-haired woman in a patterned dress, similar to the young lady on the front left side of the painting. This lady seems to be gazing at the dancing couple in focus, almost if in a hopeful, excited way.

Overall, there seems to be a very important relationship between all of the parties in the painting. First, it appears that there is a circle of gazes being exchanged. Similarly, with the people in the background, although they are distant and difficult to examine, they still play a crucial role in the flow of the painting. Their positioning and fluidity causes the eyes to gradually move throughout the work: from figure to figure. This is why the primary symbolism is a cycle of life and death, accompanied by the rollercoaster of emotions present throughout that period of time.

Each figure in this painting represents part of a timeline in a story, and concurrently, happen to be the same people at different stages of life. The young, excited girl on the left shows interest in the apparent beauty of life and really doesn’t demand much from life. From this point, we can move towards the background to the other girl in the patterned dress. There is not much difference in physical appearance between the two; however, they seem to have a different line of focus. The girl in front seems to be gazing at the growing flower, whereas, the one in back is gazing at the couple dancing in the center. Whether this girl in the back is gazing out of mere desire, interest or even jealousy cannot be known. Regardless of her intentions at the time, we can assume logically that the next stage is the dance itself. We come to the couple in the center that are clearly in love,

or at least appear to be.

The whole story is an eternal revolving door that causes the eyes

to move from the center of focus, to the next likely subject. The distance of the young lady relative to the older lady signifies our perception of the length of life. When we’re young we believe that we have an entire lifetime ahead of us,

and as we grow older we realize how short life truly is.

Regardless, love and companionship

are what really motivates us to move from one point to another in life.

References:

Google Art Project. (n.d.). Collection: The Dance of Life, Edvard Munch, The Munch Museum. Retrieved April 7, 2012 from

http://www.googleartproject.com/collection/the-munch-museum-oslo/artwork/the-dance-of-life-edvard-munch/537110/

Semiprecious Gemstones

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 06:21:00 +0000

Black Onyx Faceted Briolette Beads

A pair of polished, perfectly cut, top-drilled Black Onyx Faceted Briolette Beads of a superior quality.

Length: 16mm

Width: 10mm

Thickness: 6mm

Composition: Natural

Clarity-Luster: Opaque-Shiny

Place of Origin: Brazil

Black Onyx Beads are available for purchase in my new Etsy Store at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/rollingwave

Vintage Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 19:49:00 +0000

Vintage 1932 Coin Necklace with Genuine Blue Sapphire

-- September Birthstone Necklace --

This handcrafted necklace features a single 1932 George V British Three Pence Coin in excellent vintage condition and one genuine Blue Sapphire Faceted Rondelle bead: a symbol of truth, sincerity and faithfulness.

The coin with Sapphire hangs on an 18 inch sterling silver chain with a sterling silver lobster clasp, which has been oxidized to match the coin. All other components including wire and tiny spacer beads are .925 sterling silver.

Coin Measurement: 16mm (5/8")
Sapphire Size: 3mm x 2.5mm

Perfect Gift for a Virgo or for those Born in September

Available for purchase here: Rolling Wave Store

A Day in LA

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Sun, 26 Aug 2012 22:42:00 +0000

I took this photo while cruising Los Angeles with my sister-in-law and my brother,
one day after the 54th annual Grammy award ceremony.
We were on our way to Sunset Boulevard.

The surrounding area appeared filthy, buildings were vacant
and homeless people were everywhere.
It was one of those moments where we are reminded of where we came from
and how life can change overnight.

During the war in Bosnia, in the early nineties, I never thought I would be here,
half way across the world attending such an extravagant ceremony.

This shows that no matter how bad circumstances may be,
that there is always
HOPE

-- 2/13/2012 © Renee Baker --

Favorite Artists & Their Work

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Sat, 25 Aug 2012 06:23:00 +0000

"From the moment we are born,

the world tends to have a

container already built for us

to fit inside: A social security

number, a gender, a race,

a profession or an I.Q. I ponder

if we are more defined by the

container we are in, rather than

what we are inside. Would we

recognize ourselves if we could

expand beyond our bodies?

Would we still be able to exist

if we were authentically

'un-contained'?"

-- Paige Bradley --

Quote of the Day

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 00:05:00 +0000

Beautiful Sights

"There is nothing that makes its way more directly to the soul than beauty"

-- Joseph Addison --

Vintage Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 23:33:00 +0000

Vintage 1941 British Three Pence Coin Earrings with September Birthstone

A pair of handcrafted earrings with sterling silver ear wires: each earring features a single 1941 British Three Pence coin in excellent vintage condition and one smooth, genuine, untreated 2x3mm Sapphire rondelle symbolizing truth, sincerity and faithfulness.

Sapphire is the modern birthstone for those born in September.

Total length: 1 1/8”

Coin Measurement: 16mm

Available for purchase here: Rolling Wave - my New Etsy Shop.

Quote of the Day

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 19:42:00 +0000

Dancing and Dancers

“Dancing appears glamorous, easy, delightful. But the path to paradise of the achievement is not easier than any other. There is fatigue so great that the body cries, even in its sleep. There are times of complete frustration, there are daily small deaths."

Skydiving Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Renee Baker) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 08:03:00 +0000

Skydiving Closing Pin Necklace - Birthstone Necklace

This handcrafted skydiving closing pin necklace comes with a single stainless steel skydiving pin that is part of skydiving rig and a symbol of Freedom and Security, and one smooth, genuine, untreated Lapis Lazuli bead: a stone of Wisdom, Spiritual Awareness and Truth - also known as “Sky Stone”.

The pin with bead dangle is attached to a 16” long - 1.5mm thick black Greek leather cord with a one-inch extender chain. All other components including wire, tiny spacer beads, heart charm, necklace ends and a lobster clasp are .925 Sterling Silver.

Lapis Lazuli gemstone is the Traditional birthstone for those who were born in the month of December.

-- 2010 - 2012 © Renee Baker. All Rights Reserved. --

Renee Baker

Nature Jewelry

Nature Jewelry

Skydiving Jewelry

This handcrafted necklace comes with a single stainless steel skydiving closing pin that is part of skydiving rig and a symbol of Freedom and Security, and a total of 4 smooth, untreated Lapis Lazuli gemstones: a stone of Wisdom, Spiritual Awareness and Truth - also known as the "Sky Stone".

The pin is attached to a sterling silver chain that is approximately 19 1/2-inch long and has been oxidized, then polished for a unified look and feel. The chain also features Lapis Lazuli beads on both ends, a secure sterling silver lobster clasp closure and it is .925 hallmarked.

Closing Pin Length: 1 1/2 inches

Lapis Lazuli Size: 5.5mm x 3mm

~ Comes With a Free Gift ~

To purchase or see more items like this Skydiving Pin Necklace, visit my Etsy Store at:

Vintage Jewelry

-- December Birthstone Necklace --

Coin Measurement: 16mm (5/8")

Coin Composition: 92.5% silver - 7.5% copper

Gemstone Size: 2/2.5mm x 1.5mm

A Great Conversation Starter and a Perfect Gift for those Born in December, 1943.

To see more items like this Vintage Coin Necklace, visit my Etsy Store at:

Vintage Jewelry

A pair of handcrafted earrings with vintage silver coins, pink sapphire gemstones and a sturdy 19 gauge .925 sterling silver ear wires:

Total Length: slightly less than 1 inch

Coin Measurement: 16mm (5/8")

Coin Composition: 92.5% silver, 7.5% copper

Ear Wires: .925 sterling silver

A great conversation starter and a perfect gift for those Born in September 1943.

These Vintage Coin Earrings are available for purchase in my Etsy Store:

~ The Rolling Wave ~

Music Memorabilia

One pre-owned 1984 Michael Jackson's Glove Rhinestone Pin in excellent condition. The pin is encrusted with 14 bright and sparkly rhinestones and it has a tack pin closure.

Dimensions: approximately 1 1/16" high x 3/4" wide at its widest point (27mm x 17mm)

A great addition to any music collection and a must have for any Jackson fan.

More info about the original glove:

Michael Jackson Glove Pin is available for purchase in my Etsy store at:

Music Themed Jewelry

A pair of handcrafted earrings featuring small teardrop-shaped Clayton Jazz Guitar Picks and a total of six untreated gemstones: 4 x faceted Moonstone rondelles (thought to enhance creativity) and 2 faceted Black Onyx gemstones (associated with strength, stamina and self-control).

Total Length: 2 inches

Width: 3/4" at its widest point

Ear Wires: Solid .925 Sterling Silver

Available for purchase in my Etsy store at:

Vintage Jewelry

Vintage Jewelry

A Splash of Red

A pair of handcrafted earrings featuring a sturdy 19 gauge .925 sterling silver ear wires, sterling silver components, and a total of 6 nice and clean natural red coral beads that will work with anything where you need that splash of red :

Total Length: 1 1/8”

Bead Portion Dimensions: 13.5-14mm Long (about ½” ) x 12.5mm Wide

Coral Color: Lipstick Red to Deep Red

Transparency-Luster: Opaque-Vitreous

Treatment: None

Wire and Tiny Silver Beads Composition: .925 Sterling Silver

Ear Wires: 19 Gauge, .925 Sterling Silver

The layered coral beads rotate slightly - giving the design movement and adding some fun and interest.

Available for purchase in my Etsy Store at:

Skydiving Jewelry

This handcrafted necklace features a single curved stainless steel skydiving closing pin that is part of skydiving rig and a symbol of Freedom and Security, and two faceted, genuine, untreated 3x2mm Blue Zircon Gemstones: a stone of wisdom, truth, success and happiness.

The pin with gemstones hangs on an 18-inch sterling silver chain via soldered ring for extra security. The chain has been oxidized for a more dramatic look and it features a sterling silver lobster clasp closure. Wire and all other metal components on this necklace are .925 sterling silver.

Pin Dimensions: 1 ½” long

Blue Zircon Dimensions: 3mm x 2mm

A great conversation starter and a perfect gift for those born in December.

Gift Box Included.

FREE GIFT:

To find out more about Matthew Shell and Trey Eley please visit the GRAMMY website at:

Skydiving Closing Pin Necklace is available for purchase in my Etsy Store at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/rollingwave

Skydiving Closing Pin Necklace is available for purchase in my Etsy Store at:

Vintage Jewelry

-- Tiny Genuine Blue Zircon Gemstones --

A pair of handcrafted earrings with vintage coins, blue zircon gemstones and sturdy 19 gauge .925 sterling silver ear wires:

Each earring features a single 1937 British Three Pence Coin also known as British Silver Threepence due to its 50% silver composition in excellent vintage condition and one faceted, genuine, untreated 3x2mm Blue Zircon Rondelle: a stone of wisdom, truth, success and happiness.

Total Length: 1 1/8"

Coin Measurement: 16mm (5/8")

Coin Composition: 50% Silver

Ear Wires: .925 Sterling Silver

These Vintage Coin Earrings are available for purchase in my Etsy Store at:

Other Bits and Pieces

Country Church

Reproduction of Walter Foster's work done by me. Year: 1998 Medium: Ink & Pencil.

Vintage Jewelry

Semiprecious Gemstones

Genuine Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Beads

Qty: 1/2 Strand Strand Length: 7 1/2"

Average Bead Size: 3mm

Shape: Round

Skydiving Closing Pin Necklace is available for purchase in my Etsy Store at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/rollingwave

Reproduction of Walter Foster's work done by me.
Year: 1998

Medium: Ink & Pencil.

Qty: 1/2 Strand

Strand Length: 7 1/2"