Just completed, this mesa near Chama, New Mexico is the place my husband proposed marriage. Twenty-seven years later, the place still captivates.

A course with Maestra Vera Belikova has prompted exploration and experimentation with hammer and hardie and the concept of “fuga”. Fuga is the effective use of the negative space: think “calm”, “absence/presence”, “meaningful emptiness”, “courage”, “light and shadow”. I’m loving the dynamic textures and shadows that are possible with these tiny shards of marble.

The abstract floral WIP is inspired by the original painting by Domingo Zapata, later rendered by Koko Mosaico for the 2013 Venice Biennale. I’ve selected a portion of the original to reproduce and revise. I revel in the bold outlines, hints of geometry, and yellow-rose color play. This one was started long ago, and I continue to work to bring it to a successful completion.

The creation of sacred and classical works easily lends itself to meditation and quiet reflection.  Often I listen to music as I work.  During these times I select classical guitar or piano or Gregorian chant.  The simplicity of the music allows me to enter the work in a state of peaceful contemplation.   

Scroll to see more...

The process of creating custom, permanent installations is a thrilling experience!  I enjoy meeting with a new client to hear their vision for the project. Considerations such as color, transparency/opacity of glass or other materials, placement, purpose, lighting conditions, and desired style are all-important topics of discussion. This initial meeting is followed by the creation of preparatory sketches, presentation of materials selections & options, as well as a pricing and timing quote.  Once accepted, a second step includes fabrication of a maquette (a small “mock-up” piece) rendered in the selected materials. The maquette is indispensable as a visual guide to ensure that the client and I are on the same page. Once approved, a flurry of activity follows: the design is re-scaled to full size, materials are procured and prepared, and fabrication begins!

The creation of contemporary mosaic works brings moments of joy, happiness, and fulfillment.  I especially enjoy reproducing the masters: scroll to see re-creations of Albers, Mondrian, Monet and Van Gogh.