Marcia Zalbowitz Bead Art



Marcia Zalbowitz Bead Art

About The Artist

Marcia Zalbowitz • Niskayuna, NY
Mixed Media • CUSTOM COMMISSIONS

About 25 years ago, I began to learn beading techniques while living in New Mexico. I found the regional environment and the culture to be inspirational. I started with jewelry -- making necklaces and bracelets. One of my teachers encouraged me to experiment with unstructured, freeform beading techniques -- creating as I went along. Over the years, I transitioned to small, one-of-a-kind, three-dimensional framed "sculptures" using 24K gold and palladium or platinum plated beads and semi precious stones. The result is a multi-dimensional quality of texture and color.



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Q&A with the Artist

Tell us how your work is made.

I use 24k gold, platinum, and palladium plated seed beads and semi-precious stones. I might begin by choosing a color palette or a possible shape – but the size and juxtaposition of bead against bead is what determines the three-dimensional quality of the final work. Pieces vary in size, but are usually no larger than 5” x 8”. They are framed and hung. I strive to use best quality beads with natural colors. Framing is with acid free materials.


What makes you passionate about the medium you work with?

I am continually surprised and challenged as each piece develops. While I might have an initial expectation of how the final work might appear, I follow the pattern that develops as the beads are placed next to each other. It is an evolving process that I rarely control. I so enjoy how the beads form the design from my ideas.

What is something unique about you or your practice?

For me, there is a visual complexity that is unusual and can engage the eye to see new shapes and textures by utilizing beads to create small, three-dimensional wall sculptures.