Circus Troop- New Work

It is snowy and cold out here....very quiet, but very beautiful. ..It is the kind of day that because of the layers of snow on the ground all sound is muffled out. There are no squirrels, birds or bunnies anywhere in sight. It is peaceful and quiet....It is a perfect day or working in the studio.


I began a circus troop series last spring. In my new work I am developing six figures complete with framed shadow box that utilizes light, shadow and sketches. Each figure poses as a jewelry holder. Their adornment is actually detachable and wearable jewelry for the owner. I have two pieces finished at this time, The Fat Lady or Opera Singer and the Ballerina. They each have about 12 pieces of wearable and detachable jewelry that they each hold. The Fat Lady or Opera Singer is pictured above.

Here is the Fat Lady and her story.....
The idea of a Fat Lady being presented for a circus side show is absolutely politically incorrect these days......but once upon a time when I was very young I attended a circus with all of my sisters. We went from room to room looking at all of the side shows. Some were so fake, like "Tom Thumb" who actually was about 3 1/2 foot tall. That was a disappointment. I really wanted to see a cute little miniature person who would be perfect match for my Barbie. When we walked by the Fat Lady she had her "show face" on and was reciting a disgusting script about a life of debauchery. As innocent sensitive children we were captivated....I think we asked her a question about how she can be up there on stage talking about herself like this. Suddenly, I saw her staunch, jovial facial expression crumble. Before my eyes, she turned into a sensitive and real person. I saw hurt, hopelessness and weariness in her eyes. It was overwhelming for me. This vision has remained with me all of those years. Here is my rendition above in visual form.....