Corinne McAuley: Beaded Visions: The Celebration of Beadwork

February 8, 2025 - May 11, 2025

Shook Gallery

Corinne McAuley began working with beads around 2001. Having spent many years in a high-tech industry, she sought a calming creative outlet.

She explored various artistic mediums but struggled to find one that truly resonated with her - until a visit to a bead shop with a friend changed everything.

Driven by a desire to create art that was unique and thought-provoking, Corinne sought inspiration to develop designs that had not been widely explored. When she discovered the rich history of beaded masks, she realized that she could integrate multiple techniques to craft striking, intricate pieces. Starting with a store-bought mask, she spray-paints the base and then begins the creative process. While she often has a general vision in mind, the design evolves as she works on each section, allowing inspiration to guide her.

Much of Corinne’s work is inspired by nature, incorporating elements such as flowers, rain clouds, trees, and abstract forms. These pieces are crafted using a striking technique, with a neutral bead base forming the underlying shape. She primarily works with seed beads to create a delicate fringe effect but occasionally incorporates bugle beads and sequins for added texture and depth.

Her glass-on-glass creations offer her the greatest creative freedom. Working on a flat glass surface allows for more secure placement of materials, which can include ribbons, miniatures, charms, miniature ornaments, and, of course, beads. Once assembled, the pieces are often clear-coated for stability and professionally framed to complete the composition.

Continuously seeking new and innovative ways to express herself through beads, Corinne believes she has only scratched the surface Her work remains evolving exploration of texture, color, and technique, driven by a passion for artistic discovery.