“I am on a journey of evolution, finding my voice and then losing it again, only to rediscover it in new and unexpected ways.”
“I celebrate the enduring human spirit, as I continue to evolve and envision a brighter future.”
Shag Carpeting
I grew up with green shag carpeting, a maroon velvet sofa, and my grandfather's art as the backdrop of my childhood. As a child, I spent most of my time drawing endlessly and always knew that I was meant to be an artist. I spent several years at the local college, learning the fundamentals of art in an unusually challenging program for the time—one that emphasized first learning the visual language from life, then encouraged self-expression.
The Portfolio Review
"He said that the program is rigorous and not for a woman with a young family. Then he dismissed me and moved on."
Anticipation
After several years of honing my skills, and with encouragement from peers and instructors, I decided to make the 40-minute drive to Pasadena for a portfolio review with my young family.
Excitement
In my portfolio, I had a graphite drawing of an old woman, weathered by time. Beyond technical ability, I felt I had captured emotion, and was sure that my potential as an artist would be clear.
Dissmissal
Standing before a man behind a folding table, as he acknowledged my artistic ability and quickly changed his opinion once I introduced my husband and one-year-old daughter.
Riverside, Tucson, Albuquerque, Colorado Springs
This experience altered the trajectory of my life. That was the day that I decided that I needed to pursue a different path. So I embarked on a successful career as a real estate agent, even earning recognition in the local news.
Yet, the success that followed felt hollow, for it wasn't my authentic self. Ultimately, the real estate crash and subsequent recession altered my life path for me.
Envisioning a Brighter Future
I hope my art fills and lifts the human spirit. I paint vibrant forms that flow, merge, and layer with spontaneity. Diverse and sometimes contradictory parts come together, striving for harmony, unity, and a sense of belonging.
The Abstract Collections
Celebrate Life with Vibrant Art
shirley bales
FINE ART JEWELRY
Art, is a form of transcendence. With vibrant colors, and nods to my roots, I celebrate the expression of life and passion.
shirley bales
FINE ART JEWELRY
Art, is a form of transcendence. With vibrant colors, and nods to my roots, I celebrate the expression of life and passion.
The Art of Jewelry
Vibrant, One of a Kind Jewelry, created from original art by Shirley Bales
One of a Kind
Handcrafted in my Colorado studio, this unique jewelry is created with an innovative process that transfers Shirley Bales's original artwork by hand to each piece.
Eco Varnish
This bio-polymer clay contains a proprietary eco varnish that includes organic, biodegradable materials and is eco-friendly. This varnish provides the tactile sensation of raw stone or polished glass, promoting longevity through craftsmanship and thoughtful design.
Elevate your Everyday
Vibrant, modern statement earrings with sophisticated and elegant wirework. This jewelry is ultra-lightweight, hypoallergenic, and carries the unique charm of a handmade piece.
The Jewelry Collection
Beauty, translated to shape and form, to be part of another's expression.
Sustainable Studio
"Each piece is one of a kind, created in my small Colorado studio that prioritizes ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility, resource efficiency, biodegradable packaging, and craftsmanship through thoughtful design.
Give the Gift of Art
Celebrate Life with a Unique Gift
Testimonials
What my collectors are saying
Quality was lovely, colors are vivid and the frame is very nice quality. Looking forward to buying more from this shop and artist!
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This is one of my favorites! Great addition of color to our entryway!
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Absolutely beautiful prints! Packaged beautifully and would make an amazing gift. Excellent quality and value! Can't wait to hang these in our airbnb!
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Absolutely INCREDIBLE artist! Shirley is talented beyond belief and will do anything to provide the best customer service possible. This is my second time using her for a commissioned piece and I will use her for any projects in the future!
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Quality was lovely, colors are vivid and the frame is very nice quality. Looking forward to buying more from this shop and artist!
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happy to buy from a local great artwork from someone who cares will buy again thank you Al
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I have 5 other pieces by Shirley ad I will continue to add to my collection.
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"This is the most STUNNING piece of artwork I've ever seen and I still can't believe it's mine! What an extraordinary, artistic gift Shirley has. ❤️"
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"Packaged neatly and securely. High quality beautiful art!! Thank you!"
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My Process
Embracing the Creative Journey
Thoughts on Beauty
Punic Wax
Artist Statement
The Quiet Process of Creation
It’s a journey of constant evolution, of finding my voice, losing it again, only to rediscover it in new and unexpected ways.
All artwork and intellectual property is the sole property of Shirley Bales and is held under copyright, even after purchase. The images, artwork, and contents of this website may not be copied, collected, or used for personal or professional gain without the written permission for Shirley Bales. All images of artwork, sold or otherwise, are retained by Shirley Bales. All rights reserved.