About O.B.A.

I began working with metals in 2014 and love the endless possibilities of learning with this medium.  The pieces that I sold, and the custom orders that I have made, have all been so much fun to create.  I have honestly learned something new with each piece.  What I love about creating a new piece is that each one has pushed me to create a new form, design or shape, or to study a new way of making something.  For me the process of fabricating a new piece definitely requires patience, but for me that is like trying to figure out how to solve a fun puzzle.

 

What I enjoy the most about my art is hearing about the emotions, memories and joy that each piece evokes.  One customer commissioned a silver filigree chickadee necklace in celebration of her wedding anniversary.  She recalled throughout the ceremony there were chickadees flying about, and she wanted to capture that memory.  Making something for her to capture a moment as special as her wedding day just makes me smile.

 

How did I come up with the name Orange Bead Art (O.B.A.)

Years ago, I made a bead embroidery piece looking out towards the water from East Sound on Orcas Island, Washington.  As I was making the piece, I wanted to include a couple of orange beads in the water to represent my husbands orange kayak.  Ever since, I have included an orange bead in every piece of art that I can, representing to me the love, support and encouragement that I receive everyday from my husband Andrew.

I hope that you will to continue to follow me through my journey of learning and growing as a metalsmith and artist, and love the pieces I make as much as I loved making them.

Thank you everyone for your continued support, it is greatly appreciated.

Karen Reule

 

 

Current Memberships

American Craft Council

Ridgefield Art Association