The project includes eight unique handmade, flameworked glass bead necklaces which were offered on loan to the public for events of their choice. The necklaces were placed on view during lending receptions held at specific locations, to be tried on and checked out for loan periods of several weeks. Visitors were encouraged to try on necklaces, have their pictures taken wearing them and those who borrowed the necklaces returned with wonderful stories and pictures of their experiences.
    The project lending receptions occurred in Corning, New York between November, 2008 and February, 2009. During this time the necklaces were seen on a variety of necks at gala events in and around Corning, but some necklaces travelled as far as Canada, Florida, Virginia, and Paris, France!
    The first stage of the project involved design and production of the eight necklaces. The second stage was all about outreach, publicity and  documenting the loan periods. Now that the lending portion of the project has come to an end, the final stage is the necklace auction. The eight necklaces with retail values of $300.00 - $500.00 each will be offered at auction on Ebay during November, 2009. Proceeds will be shared between the public library and the artist.
    To join in the bidding please go to Ebay and search for cbhyde under lampwork or follow the direct link from my website. This project has been an exciting and eye opening experience for me as an artist and for many members of the community who participated. Join in the fun and support our local library at the same time by bidding on these wonderful, wearable works of glass art.