Artistic Inspiration

Inspiration comes from many places and it varies from artist to artist. I am inspired by textures for my pottery, colors for my paintings, the stones themselves for my jewelry, or even the desires of one of my customers!

I gain inspiration from the different artist groups I belong to, as well. One recent challenge had me creating a Hamsa. Also known as the Hand of Fatima, the Eye of Fatima, or the Hand of Miriam, it is a symbol used to protect against the evil eye. The word itself, in Hebrew and Arabic, literally means "five" - some associate the significance of the five fingers to the five books of the Torah for Jews, the Five Pillars of Islam for Sunnis, or the five People of the Cloak for Shi'ites. In Jewish culture you can find it incorporated in wall plaques, mobiles, keychains and necklaces. Sometimes they are inscribed with Hebrew prayers for the home or travelers.


I decided to take a random idea of wire, pewter charms, and glass beads and make it a reality in a 6 inch wall hanging. This is the first time I have ever created something like this and I had a fabulous time! I am happy to create one just for you - I welcome custom orders! Simply drop me a line at stacirosedesigns@yahoo.com or request a custom order through my etsy shop at http://stacirose.etsy.com!

Festival of Lights

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated for eight days, to commemorate the victory of the Jews over the Hellenist Syrians in 165 BCE.

Following their victory, the Maccabees, sons which led the Jews in their revolt against the Syrian overlords, entered the Holy Temple in Jerusalem defiled by the Syrian invaders, cleansed it and dedicated it anew to the service of God. Then, in memory of their victory, the Maccabees celebrated the first Hanukkah. (Hanukkah is the Hebrew term for dedication).

Judean heroes, led by Judah Maccabee, were making ready to rededicate the Temple and were unable to find enough oil to light the lamps. They finally came upon a small bit of oil which should have lasted only one evening. Miraculously, this small amount of oil kept the Temple lights burning, not for one night, but for all the eight nights until new oil fit for use in the temple could be obtained. This is the miracle commemorated by the kindling of the Hanukkah lights.

Enjoy this wonderful Etsy Treasury happily featuring my new Chanukeah or Hanukah Menorah! Click on the image to view until Saturday, December 1st.


The author of this beautiful treasury is Weiswomen Creations - a crafty mother-daughter duo proud to offer a variety of handmade creations! Weiswomen Creations: Jewelry, Cards, and Accessories: they have been crafting together for a long time and this shop is the culmination of several years of dreaming about starting our own business to sell the things we love to make.