When I first learned to make glass beads Heather Trimlett was one of my bead idols. Her beads are fun and just read as happy beads. Bright and colorful with stripes and dots and bumps and so cute. Fast forward about 18 years and I had the pleasure of hosting a class she taught at my store. To watch the master work. Still very inspiring and educational. This evening I found myself wandering through her Facebook page after seeing some great pictures she had posted and I came across something very interesting. It’s the 40 bead challenge. Go check it out at her site. Repetition is the best way to get good at what you do. In fact, one of my favorite things to tell a student that wants two beads that match…make 10, two if them will probably match. Keep making and you’ll get better. Let’s see what you can do. I think I’ll take the challenge too.
Have you read?
Steven Rodrig: Breathing New Life into E-Waste
Steven Rodrig is a Cuban-born, New Jersey-based artist known for transforming discarded electronic components into stunning sculptures. His work, often inspired by nature, showcases the potential of upcycled materials in art.
From Structural Mechanics to Artistic Expression
Born in Havana in 1963 and immigrating to the U.S. in 1966, Rodrig’s background is rooted in structural mechanics rather than formal art training. His exposure to printed circuit boards (PCBs) in his professional life sparked a fascination with their intricate designs, leading him to repurpose them into artistic creations.
Rodrig’s sculptures often depict organic forms—sea turtles, dragonflies, hummingbirds—crafted meticulously from PCBs and other electronic waste. He begins with detailed sketches, then sources specific components, sometimes waiting weeks to find the right pieces. His work explores the intersection of technology and nature, prompting reflections on the rapid evolution of electronics and its environmental impact.
One of Rodrig’s standout pieces is “Sea Turtle Searching for Deep Data,” a sculpture that exemplifies his ability to merge technological materials with natural forms. Another intriguing work, “Attempt At Transferring Data Into The Organic World V.9,” involves embedding PCBs into egg contents, symbolizing the blend of organic and manmade data.
Rodrig’s art has been featured in various exhibitions and publications, highlighting his innovative approach to sustainability and design. His sculptures serve as a commentary on consumerism and the lifecycle of technology, encouraging viewers to reconsider the value of discarded materials.
Through his unique fusion of art and environmental consciousness, Steven Rodrig invites us to see the beauty in the overlooked and to reflect on our relationship with technology and waste.