I'm happy to report that my road trip last week to Art Clay World U.S. headquarters in Chicago was a success. The entries in this year's North American Design Competition were stunning. It was difficult for the other two judges (Jill Erikson from ArtJewerly Magazine, and Kristen Holub, a metalsmith from Chicago) and me to pick just one winner.

All the entries were anonymously displayed and arranged  for us to peruse and inspect. We looked, and touched, and marvelled. And then we deliberated, and deliberated, and... well, you get the point.

 Check out the winners




In addition to meeting Kristen (I already knew Jill - she's a few offices down from me.), it was great to get to know Jackie Truty, the president of Art Clay World, USA. She took us on a tour of their facilities, and introduced us to all the folks that work behind the scenes there. She also showed off cases full of Art Clay designs, including more than a few of her own. She's creative, enthusiastic, friendly, and judging from the back of her vehicle, more than a little passionate about her work...