She really can be anything...

In the last few days, the remainder of my illustration books have arrived from The Book Depository (hooray!). Since my taste in illustration/art leans towards the lowbrow/neo-pop/graffiti street-styles, it isn't surprising that some of this art can be quite macabre and a bit creepy: I did just share with you Juxtapoz Dark Arts!

All this journey into the illustration fantasy land reminded me of Margaux Lange, an artist/jewellery designer I came across a few years ago. Her work aims at transforming a mass produced product into unique handmade jewellery, using...

Barbie! Her Artist Statement explains more clearly and succintly than I could hope to, why she is so fascinated and inspired by Barbie, and what she aims for in the creation of her wearable art.

For me, her jewellery brings up a whole host of emotions and feelings: nostalgia for my childhood- I had at least 20 Barbies/friends/younger sister Kellys; amusement at the statement Margaux is making, and the way that she has very carefully chosen which body parts to use in which piece of jewellery- when you look at all her pieces, many of them are quite ironic, like these earrings made of ears:

and desire for her jewellery- it's just so bold and out there, definitely my style! Some of it is a little bit creepy:

(who doesn't want a whole army of...arms...around their neck?), but some is actually quite sweet:

but most of it is just kitsch and fun:

Who knew that Barbie would still be so fun and desirable when we're adults?

All these lovely photos were taken from Margaux's Portfolio pages on her personal site. I definitely recommend that you check out all her other work- particularly the one off pieces, as they're all very unique. I love them all, and you can buy some of her jewellery on her site... just saying!