THE GIFT BOX

June 2008

Artist of the Month

LORI SALA

Who is Lori Sala?

I am always looking to create things. I fabricate sterling silver jewelry and love making quilts. My husband and I rescue English Springer Spaniels and I am always busy doing something. I'm a long time member and past President of the Modesto Camera Club and I love to travel.

What motivates Lori?

I feel like I have to leave something behind that is part of me.

What is Lori's favorite tool that she uses for everything?

My favorite tool is my torch, but I depend on my optivisors to help me see everything clearly.

If Lori had to have only three colors in the box of crayons, which three would they be?

My crayons would be Turquoise - for the ocean and its a cool pleasing color. Purple - just because I like the way it looks in gemstones. Fiery red/orange - because it represents the spicy things in life.

What piece of art was the most difficult to produce? How did she overcome the obstacles?

One of the most fun things a do is organic casting. I have to be very creative, as each piece is unique in shape and size. But it creates its own problems. It never turns out the same twice and you have to come up with ways to get a good polish on it because of all the nooks and crannies. I end up using several polishing devices and good old household string to get a final polish.

What super power would Lori like to have that would enhance your art?

Xray vision would be nice. I would be able to see exactly when the silver was the right temperature and when cutting and polishing stones, I would be able to see all internal flaws before I started.

Why be a Gift Box artist?

Being a Gift Box Artist allows me to show off my work to a larger audience and it gives me the opportunity to work with the people at the gallery. I enjoy coming in to be a docent and seeing the beautiful art that is on display.

Lori Sala

Dichoic Glass Sterling Byzantine

Byzantine Bracelet

Mahongany Obsidian Pendant

White Necklace

Horny Toad Cuff Jasper Cuff A Ring Lapis Ocean Jasper Pendant

Copper Silver Sets