Spikes: Dangerous Beauty

Last week I spent a few days in Arizona. So different than the green richness of the Pacific Northwest, Tucson has an undeniable rugged beauty As the kids and I took a lovely long hike in the rocky hills, I was taken by how alluring the spines of the cactus were. While a mass of them clearly says “stay away”, individually each one is a stunning, minimalistic work of art.

Spikes: Dangerous Beauty

Clearly, Sharp Objects Photography understands. This Saguaro cactus is a favorite of hers due to its “silent, patient watchfulness”. Look at the curves of the spines and the shadows they cast in the sun.

Casted brass pieces have been plated in oxidized silver and set on sterling posts to create these organic spike earrings. If you prefer, Mikinora also offers them in gunmetal or with an antique gold plating.

Colorful paper cardstock and recycled plywood becomes an unexpected 3D wall sculpture in the capable hands of Fuerte Art. The artist, Jack Toon, is happy to custom make these in your choice of size and colors.

Timo Handmade has a wonderful selection of handmade dolls all created with an eye towards detail and a mix of new and vintage fabrics. Love the softly rendered spikes and the cheery colors of this funky gal.

At the other end of the spectrum, Mind The Pins creates art dolls that use voodoo as a metaphor for how hard people can be on themselves and one another. This one embodies defensiveness in an intriguing way.

There’s a fetching balance of hard and soft in this necklace by Frilled and Feathered. The copper spikes have been curved into half-cones and the teal and purple patina creates a gentle ombre effect.

Finally, Ian Henderson Art’s biomorphic designs are inspired by growth patterns of plants and animals. His Single Spike Plume Ring, made of repurposed aluminum and rubber, is breathtaking in its stark composition.