I am a self-representing beadwork and jewelry artist living in Dubuque, Iowa. My specialty is combining bead embroidery and weaving techniques to create unique works of art. My award-winning beadwork has been featured in gallery shows across the U.S. and has appeared in major craft and beadwork magazines.

Having no formal training in art or in beadwork, I approach my work in a very organic manner. I am greatly inspired by nature. Living near the Mississippi River in Eastern Iowa, I have some of the most beautiful landscape right outside my door. Anyone who thinks Iowa is flat should visit us here in Dubuque and see for themselves the gently rolling hills, limestone bluffs and sweeping river vistas we enjoy and how the light changes with the passing seasons. I also find inspiration in the forms of Egyptian jewelry, the colors of the Southwest and the beadwork of Native Americans. Mesmerized by the colors and the feel of beads, I never cease to be amazed at how such small and simple objects can be combined in ways which can only be described as wonderous.

Every piece of jewelry or beadwork I make has recycled parts and components included in the design. I love to take a vintage earring or brooch and give it new life as the focal point of my next project. Any broken necklace is a treasure because the beads, the clasp or even bits of chain can always be used again. I have just started to explore the world of "steampunk" and you can see some of my upcycled, steampunk jewelry pieces in my shop on Etsy.com

I hope you will find some inspiration of your own while visiting my website. I welcome questions or comments - please email me at cindycarawaybeadwork@yahoo.com and visit my blog, Artful Living on the Bluff find out more about my life and my art.

Peace,
Cindy Caraway