Dreams Reflected

Nature is unrivaled among muses. From Bierstadt’s misty visions to the grandeur of Hopkins’ verse, from Monet’s mottled ponds and lilies to the gorgeous, almost lyrical elucidations of Cormac McCarthy’s southwest, creative minds of every kind and in every age have gone to the “source” when inspiration was demanded, and rarely has nature ever failed to inspire. Helene of Helene’s Dreams, as far as her themes are concerned, is a kind of modern-day incarnation of these naturalists, with one notable difference: where most artists interpret the world in verse or color, Helene gathers the view outside her window and molds it into handcrafted jewelry. Some of her earring sets, such as Golden Light or One, would best be described as lovely and enigmatically simple. Others, the likes of Oregon Rustic Berry Bouquet and Silver Ice Bells jingle with a bit more festive flair while still keeping a safe distance from gaudy.

The ornate pastels that color Picasso’s Friend, and the elegance of the hanging-lantern Queen Olivia set, embody the more distinctive elements of Helene’s designs, but really, even at her most daring Helene finds a way to keep in place the all-important quality of wearability, and knowing that a portion of each sale is donated to charity lends just that much more peace of mind to the purchase. It would be a dream, of course, to live amid the pine-dressed splendor of western Oregon, as Helene does, but for those of us who don’t, we can enjoy the dream’s reflections in the smiles this jewelry brings. And to further illustrate the fine character of the artisan, Helene will be sending a beautiful pair of crystal Oregon Sunset Earrings, champagne-hued and shimmering like a mountain stream, to the winner of today’s giveaway. To qualify, visit Helene's Dreams, then come back here to tell us about your favorite product. Tell us in a second post if you happen to subscribe to Wishing Willow, since our subscribers receive an extra entry in the contest. To post without a Google account, just click “anonymous.” Be sure to also leave your email address. The winner will be chosen randomly. Contest ends 11/12/08.

**We have a winner! micaela6955 who said, "I love blue so the Oregon Rain Drops are such a beautiful shade of blue, and they are my favorite!"