Minnesota Mosaic Guild

February Meeting Minutes (continued)

2012-02-25T07:08:00.002-08:00

See spring and summer Guild show details in previous (February 24) posting.

Meeting updates:
The June 13 meeting will be at the Edina Arts Center from 6:30 to 9:00; note shorter hours due to center's 9:00 closing time.
Address and directions will be posted beforehand.
Topic- Inspiration from other media and other artworks. Bring books and artwork to show sources of inspiration.

September 12 Guild meeting will be at Janine Irisari's home in Plymouth.
Topic pending (paper cutting?)

November 14 Guild meeting location pending. Several people (including me) are exploring locations.
Let me know if something develops at (651)582-8359.

December 12 annual pot luck and tesserae exchange at Susan Mathis' home in Woodbury.

Agenda topics discussed:
Venues for 2013 and 2014 shows are being explored by various members. Hopkins and Bloomington Art Centers are pending.
Danette Polglase is collecting digital images for submission with applications. Please send one or two jpeg images (1megabyte, 300 dpi resolution) to Danette.Polglase@Perficient.com, giving titles and sizes of work.

A previous discussion was revived about creating photo catalogs of our shows, but consensus was that the cost would be prohibitive. Perhaps we could post pics from each show on this blog.

Other topics:
The annual Minnesota Tile Festival will again be held at the American Swedish Institute Saturday, September 15
The Guild will participate for a fee and needs volunteers to staff the booth.
Judy Sell will coordinate - please contact her at (651)430-2593 to volunteer.
In the past we have shown our 8x8's but they will be in our summer Guild show in Stillwater - I'll work something out.

Installation of the Haiti mural project is still on hold. You may recall that the "No Time for Poverty" executive board had reservations about the piece possibly offending some people who would use the pediatric clinic. Lori Greene continues to explore sites in Haiti. There was also some discussion about future community projects of a similar vein.

Lori Greene is exploring the development of a mosaic oriented non-profit organization. Guild members discussed various means of raising funds to support that effort.

Suzanne Demeules discussed her experience with the invitation to submit proposals for mosaics at the International Airport. It was noticed that one of her pieces was featured in the proposal without permission, compensation or credit to her. Through her research, she found that, once images (like hers) are posted in cyberspace, it's hard to control their use. After contacting the person coordinating the project, credit was given to Suzanne. EmptyEasel.com was mentioned as a website that provides information on how to protect your images.

Other cyberspace sites such as "Contemporary Mosaic Artists" and Pinterest for general mosaic interest were also noted. Susan Mathis also brought up the thought of "MoBombing" in the tradition of "KnitBombing" where artists create public works in unsuspecting places. Sounds like we have a movement going. Google knitbombing for inspiration.

While the meeting was rather long due to much Guild business, several members showed and discussed 8x8 samples of their work.

February 9 Meeting Minutes and Updates

2012-02-24T09:04:00.003-08:00

Treasurer's Report: Account Balance at approximately $1200.

Memberships are due for 2012, $25 to Minnesota Mosaic Guild; mail to Danette Polglase at 22289 Olind Trail, Scandia 55073. The membership list was also circulated for individual update.

April 11 Guild Meeting:
Mosaic-on-a-Stick
595 North Snelling, St. Paul
651-645-6600
Bring work for our spring show at MOS - this year's theme, "Reflections".
Members will vote for Member's Choice Award - a $75 gift certificate for MOS
Also bring your new 8x8 work for the show.
Those who aren't able to attend the April 11 meeting, bring their work by April 20th
Reception Date:
Saturday, April 28, 7-9:00 PM
$150 has been allocated for food and drink, Lori will make arrangements
Show dates:
Saturday, April 21 through Saturday May 19
Gallery hours - Tues. 10-7, Wed. 10-4, Th. 10-9, Fri. 10-4, Sat. 10-6
There will also be a $75 People's Choice gift certificate that will be voted on throughout the show.
Judy Sell will be developing a postcard for this show and our summer show.
You may pick up your work the last day of the show and thereafter.

June 13 Guild Meeting:
Tentatively at the Edina Arts Center, Barb Steen is exploring that venue.
Topic - Inspiration from other media/artwork; bring samples

Annual Guild Member's Summer Show:
Gallery 310
310 South Main Street, Stillwater 55082
651-439-6246
Drop-off dates, July 14, 15 and 16. We will use the 3rd floor gallery; no elevator, so consider the weight of your pieces when delivering. The gallery takes 50% commission, consider that when pricing your work. Typical paperwork will be on hand.
Reception Dates:
Friday, July 20 and Saturday, July 21, 6:30-9:30 PM
Wine provided by the gallery; the Guild has budgeted some for snacks.
Show dates:
July 20 through September 15
Gallery hours - Mon.-Sat., 10-6, Sunday 10-5:00
Closing 2 days of show coincide with quarterly Art on Main Event that draws around 10,000 people. The Gallery and Art on Main folks will do some local promotion. The Guild is also developing postcards. The Guild my also develop a sandwich board, provided that it is OK with the city.
Pick up after September 15.

Additional minutes will be posted at a later date.

February Guild Meeting

2012-01-10T12:15:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, February 8, 2012, 6:30 PM
Barb Steen's home
4013 Basswood Rd.
St. Louis Park 55416-3844
612-618-5603

Directions to Barb Steen's home -
From I-394:
Take the Penn Ave. Exit going South
Going straight, head West on South Wayzata Blvd. (along the South side of I-394)
Take the Theodore Wirth Pkwy. ramp going South (left) on Cedar Lake Parkway
First right at Cedar Lake Road
Cedar Lake Road becomes Ewing Ave. South
Ewing becomes France Avenue South
Turn right on Basswood Rd.
4013 Basswood is on the left

From Minnetonka Blvd. going East, or West on Lake St. out of Mpls.:
Turn North on France Ave. South
After about a mile, turn left (West) on Basswood Rd.
4013 Basswood is on the left

Main topic:
Let's each bring an 8x8 inch sample of our style of work.
Many of us have done them, but a new batch would be fun.
We can discuss our inspirations and the evolution of our styles.
Let's have a fresh new batch for our Stillwater show (we'll still show the old ones)
Judy Sell is the keeper of the current batch. We can add to the bunch.

Agenda items:
Membership Dues
Updating member list
April Show at Mosaic-on-a-Stick
Pick a theme
Summer show in Stillwater
Shows for 2013 - Barb and Janine
Collection, purpose and distribution of digital images
June, September and November meeting topics; and November location
Status of Haitian Project
September Tile Festival at American Swedish Institute
Community projects
Field trips

A more detailed agenda will be circulated at the February Meeting.

Holiday Pot Luck & Tessarae Exchange

2011-11-29T07:57:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, December 14th Holiday Pot Luck
Our annual holiday pot luck is fast approaching. Trudy Vrchota will be hosting the party this year. Hope to see everyone there.

Trudy's address and directions to her home:
6943 Sand Ridge Road, Eden Prairie, MN
Telephone - 612-865-6323
Directions:
Traveling West on Hwy. 62 (Crosstown), just West of Interstate 494
Turn South (left) on Baker Road (County Rd. 60)
Turn left again at Sand Ridge Road, about 1 1/2 mile

Trudy is planning to serve sliced ham for sandwiches. Please bring a dish, a beverage, or something scrumptious to share.

Also bring a small bag of tessarae for our exchange.

This will also be a good time for collecting 2012 dues.

November Meeting Minutes

2011-11-10T07:23:00.001-08:00

Our November meeting was held at Jo Shaddy's home on November 9, Thanks for the hospitality, Jo.

We had a good exchange of ideas about plans for 2012 along with some action items as summarized below.
1. Gil Gragert was re-elected President for 2012.-- MANY CONGRATULATIONS, GIL!

2. The 2011 Holiday Party will be held at Trudy Vrchota's home on December 14 at 6:30. This will be a potluck celebration so please bring something tasty to eat or drink. We will also have our annual tesserae exchange so please bring a small bag of tesserae to exchange at the party. More details about the party/meeting will be posted well before December 14.

3. 2012 meetings have hosts for the following months. If anyone would like to host the November meeting, please raise your hand!
--February: Barb Steen
--April: Susan will ask Lori Greene if she would like to host this meeting and if we can change the show date to April (rather than September). We had a discussion that we are likely to have better participation in the Mosaic on a Stick Show in April rather than September.
--June: Barb Napawocki
--September: Janine Irrrisarri
--November: OPEN
--December Holiday Party: Susan Mathis

4. Our 2012 Summer Show will be in Stillwater and our opening reception is scheduled for the same evening as the Stillwater Main Street Art Crawl kicks off. The show will be June/July. -- Gil will be providing more details.

5. September Tile Festival: Guild members would like to participate in this in September 2012. We will show and sell a variety of 8 X 8's at the Tile Festival at the newly-renovated Swedish Institute. This is the CALL FOR 8 X 8'S FOR THE FESTIVAL. We'll call our pieces a "Style Sampler" which will showcase the diverse styles of our talented members. Please bring your 8 X 8 to the February 2012 meeting (well in advance of the Tile Festival). -- We would also like to display and sell our 8 x 8's at the Stillwater Show. Judy Sell is the keeper of the existing 8 X 8's so she can bring them to the two shows as well.

6, We need to make arrangements for our 2013 Summer Show NOW! -- If we do not get space reserved now, it will be impossible to get a venue. Action Item: Sandy Bartel will contact Hopkins Art Center as well as others (Bloomington, Minnetonka) and she will report her findings at the at our Holiday Party.

7. Mosaic on a Stick is celebrating it's 7th birthday this month. Happy Birthday, dear "Stick"! Several of you want to be on the email list to receive Mosaic on a Stick's newsletters which broadcast information on special sales, upcoming classes, new products, community projects, etc. Please contact the store at 651-645-6600 to get your name and email address on the list for newsletters. Also, please remember that Guild members ALWAYS receive a 10% discount on purchases at the store. Just remind them that you're a member when you check out.

8. Guild members will continue to receive 10% discounts on glass and beads at J. Ring. However, due to low profit margins on larger items like grinders, we will not receive the discount on those types of items.

9. Community Projects: There was an exciting exchange of ideas about potential community projects for 2012. Some of the ideas were: aligning with a local nature center and making a piece for them; aligning with a local women's shelter and make an upbeat piece for them; have an electronic auction on "Bidding for Good" to benefit the charity of our choice; partenring with "Free Arts Minnesota" to teach children the art of mosaics. We'll revisit all community art project ideas at our February meeting and make a decision on what to do. Bring your ideas, please.

10. Haiti Project: The children's hospital in Haiti is ready for installation of our quilt, having painted the lobby walls to complement the colors in the quilt. Unfortunately, one board member was concerned that Catholic people who bring their children to the clinic will not like the Vodou theme of the quilt. (96% of the population is Vodou and 4% of the population is Catholic). All were shocked by the decision - especially Michele Boston who heads up No Time for Poverty. Michele is looking for an alternative location of the quilt in Haiti. If that doesn't work out, we'll look for a home for it in the Twin Cities such as International Market Square would be one possibilty. We're all disappointed but we will find a place for it.

11. 2012 Field Trip Idea: Suzanne Demueles is interensted in leading a field trip to a church in St. Michael, MN, where there a lot of mosaics in a church there. Suzanne will keep us advised.

12. We want to have all dues from existing members collected no later than February 1. Those who attend the December Holiday Party may their dues at that time. After that, there will be an aggressive email campaign to collect all dues from existing members by February 1. New members may join at any time during the year.

13. Contact Information: We all agreed that it would be helpful to have an up-to-date contact list of Guild members. When members pay their dues, they will be asked to provide their email address and phone numbers. A member needs to take responsiblity to keep the contact list up-to-date.

Barbara Benson Keith

2011-10-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

Check out the fabulous video of Barb on you tube. It was on t.v. on Sunday. She is an inspiration!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgU0CBMfhAc

November 9th Guild Meeting

2011-10-25T10:22:00.000-07:00

November 9 Guild Meeting - See meetings tab for agenda

Guild meeting will be held at Jo Shaddy's house.

Meeting time 6:30-9:00 PM.

From highway 62 heading west from Minneapolis
exit Shady Oak Road (this is the exit just past the 169 exit)
turn left onto Shady Oak Road and go about 1 mile
turn right into Rowland Road (toward Bryant Park) go about 1/2 mile then
turn right into Fallbrook Road then an immediate
turn right onto Dunhill Road (my house is the corner, brick house on the left side on Dunhill) 11896
Agenda: Next Year Planning

September Meeting/Minutes

2011-09-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

September 14, 2011

Fall Member's Show -
Mosaic-on-a-Stick
595 North Snelling
Opening Tuesday, Sept. 20
Reception Saturday, Sept. 24, 7-9 PM
Closing Friday, October 14
Pick up work beginning October 15
Note: MOS is closed Sundays and Mondays

During the meeting, members presented their work around the "Animals and Nature" theme, discussing inspiration and techniques.
Members voted on their choice of the work - Janine Irisari won the $50 gift certificate for Mosaic-on-a-Stick

November meeting will be at Jo Shaddy's home, Eden Prairie:
Address will be posted well before that date
Annual planning meeting - come with your hot ideas for 2012

December Holiday Party at Trudy Vrchota's home, Eden Prairie:
Pot Luck
Tessarae exchange

Haiti update:
The clinic is near completion
The location of the mural within the clinic is being decided upon
Lori Greene, Susan Mathis and Connie Cohen

Miscellaneous:
The annual Minnesota Tile Festival will be held at the Midtown Market (rather than the usual Swedish Institute location) on Friday and Saturday (September 16 and 17).
The July Mosaic Garden visit was well attended generating interest in Riana's classes which are fun and physically demanding.
Four openings for Laurel True's October class at Mosaic-on-a-Stick - the class focuses on creating community mosaic projects, etc. - Check w/Lori at MOS
Next year's SAMA conference (February, 2012)is in Lexington, KY

Fall Members Show

2011-09-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

Our annual Fall Members Show is fast approaching.

Title:
Animals and Nature Mosaics

Location:
Mosaic-on-a-Stick
595 North Snelling Ave.
St. Paul, MN
651-645-6600

Dates:
Opening - Tuesday, September 20
Closing - Friday, October 14

Reception:
Saturday, September 24, 7-9:00 PM
Refreshments and light food provided

The stick is open:
Tuesday, 10-9:00
Wednesday, 10-4:00
Thursday, 10-9:00
Friday, 10-6:00
Saturday, 10-6:00
Closed Sunday and Monday

September Guild Meeting

2011-09-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

September Meeting:
Wednesday, September 14, 6:30-9:30 PM
Mosaic-on-a-Stick
595 North Snelling, St. Paul
651-645-6600
Agenda:
6:30 - Social time
7:00 - Business topics -
September Members Show
November Guild Meeting - Planning for 2012
December Holiday Party
7:45 - Members' presentation of work
9:00 - Balloting for Members' Choice Award
Presentation of $50 gift certificate to winner

September Meeting and Fall Show

2011-08-25T11:34:00.000-07:00

Our September 14 Guild Meeting and Fall Members Show is fast approaching and hopefully everyone has had a chance to at least start on their work for the show. The theme this year is Animals and Nature - one that everyone should easily indulge in.

Bring as many pieces as you desire to the September 14 meeting; whatever can be accomodated will be hung in the show (with at least one piece from each member). Remember too that you may enter one piece in the "Members' Choice" selection of that evening. The winner of the "Members' Choice" award will receive a $50 gift certificate for Mosaic-on-a-Stick. You must be present to win.

Wednesday, September 14 Guild Meeting, 6:30-9:30:
Mosaic-on-a-Stick
595 North Snelling, St. Paul
There will be the usual social time followed by a short business meeting;
Followed by each member presenting their work;
Followed by the balloting for the "Members' Choice Award"

Fall Member's Show at:
Mosaic-on-a-Stick
595 North Snelling, St. Paul
Show dates : Tuesday, September 20 - October 14, 2011
Reception: Saturday, September 24, 7-9:00 PM
Following the show, members should pick up their work October 15 or soon thereafter.

I will post a meeting agenda shortly before the date. Anyone wishing to offer a topic should respond to this posting.

Community Butterfly Project

2011-07-26T15:21:00.000-07:00

Eve Lynch has a great community project underway with a theme of Butterflies. If you want to participate, e-mail Eve (due in 2 weeks but they are small) or just follow the progress here: http://butterfly-project.blogspot.com/

Barb Steen Invitation - Edina Art Center

2011-07-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

Please join me: Barbara Steen
EdinaArtCenter.com

Refreshments Provided
Please rsvp to: barbarasteen@hotmail.com

Thursday, July 28, 2011 4:00 - 7:00 pm

Minnesota Mosaic Guild Annual Members' Show
See the exciting variety of mosaic styles.

Location: Edina Art Center
4701 West 64th Street
Edina, MN 55435
952/903-5780

Our Delightful Visit to the Mosaic Garden

2011-07-24T20:08:00.000-07:00

Oh my! We had a delightful visit to the Mosaic Garden. Maybe the Vodou deity in charge of weather was happy with us as we had cool and breezy weather. If was very nice. There was so much to see. I could just stand in one place and do a 360 and see wonderful things everywhere! There were statues and mosaics and flowers and more mosaics and more statues and more flowers. There was the coolest studio I've ever seen, a well-appointed outhouse, nice dogs who were afraid of Claire (Micah's little dog), a beautiful home with a porch to die for. There were even chickens from France! And then there was Wouterina (Riana).
She is a wonderful lady. Now I have to go back and take a class.

I'm posting a few of my favorite photos. There must have been at least a thousand photos taken amongst us so I'd love to see some of you post your favorites.

September 14 Guild Meeting

2011-07-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

The September 14, 2011 Guild meeting will be held at Mosaic-on-a-Stick, 595 North Snelling, St. Paul (651)645-6600). Meeting time 6:30-9:30 PM.
This meeting will be our kick-off for our annual Fall Members Show that will be exhibited at Mosaic-on-a-Stick. Setting up the show may begin that evening, but full setup will take place later with an announcement of show and reception dates.
This will be a casual social meeting (just a little business to begin with), giving each member a chance to talk about their work and present it in the competition.
The theme for this year's show is Animals and Nature, and there will be a $50 gift certificate prize (to Mosaic-on-a-Stick) for the members choice award. Members may bring more than one art work for the show, but you must designate which work is in the competition. Members must be present to be eligible to win.
Hope to see everyone there.

June Meeting Summary

2011-06-24T06:33:00.000-07:00

June 22, 2011 Meeting
Hosted by Susan Mathis, Woodbury
Susan, Gil, Julie and Nancy shared photos from various travels.
Food, drink and company was pleasant. Walter the friendly feline, as well as Micah's little dog were also good company.
Status of Haiti Project -
All 24 squares are in and ready to hang temporarily at the Edina Art Center Show.
If not done already, in the event that tiles may loosen and be lost in transit to Haiti, please provide extra tessarae in a labeled bag (name and specific square) to Mosaic-on-a-Stick.
The pediatric clinic is expected to be done this fall, ready for the mosaic quilt installation next winter. Susan and Lori (and perhaps Connie Cohen) will install. Others welcome to make the trip.
The clinic project sponsor, "No Time for Poverty", is hosting a thankyou party for volunteers this Saturday. Hope you RSVP'd to go.
Edina Arts Center Show -
Your contract with the Edina Arts Center was due on June 6 for entry in the show.
Drop off artwork Tuesday, June 28, 11AM-7PM, unwrapped and ready to hang, with name, title and price on back.
Guild volunteers have been recruited to check in (Tuesday) and hang work (Wednesday).
Because of the strong response to this show, There may not be room to show all work, but every Guild member will be represented.
Reception Thursday, June 30, 5-8:00 PM. Guild volunteers are bringing some food and resfreshments. No alcohol allowed as it is a public building.
Edina Magazine staff are expected to be on hand for pictures, etc.
Susan Mathis will also take photos.
Art pickup August 4, 9AM-7PM
Garden Tour -
The tour to Riana's Garden is on for July 23rd. 20 people are signed up to date. Plans are to meet at the park-and-ride just off I-94 and Hwy. 95. Directions - Take the Stillwater exit off I-94 and head toward Stillwater. The park-and-ride is on the right just after you go under the I-94 bridge.
Susan will post details again before the event.
Still time for others to sign up; the more, the merrier.
September Meeting at Mosaic-on-a-Stick -
September 14 meeting tentatively includes hanging the fall members show. Bring your work that night following this year's theme, "Animals and Nature". There will be a "Members Choice" award of a $50 gift certificate for Mosaic-on-a-Stick.
This meeting is designed as primarily a social event, but if someone has a topic, please offer to present.
Pot luck that night. Alcohol acceptable/welcome.
A public reception will be planned later in the fall.
Tile Festival this fall -
We have paid to participate this year.
Location changed for this year to the Global Market - the old Sears building on East Lake Street and 10th Avenue South, Mpls.
Danette Polglase will be posting details (dates and times) and recruiting volunteers.
Public Mosaic of Minnesota site -
Julie Reeve suggested that it would be nice to somehow catalog locations of public mosaic art in Minnesota. Julie and other MMG members will continue to explore.
November 9th Meeting -
This is our annual planning meeting for 2012.
Location, Jo Shaddy's home, Eden Prairie
More details as we approach the date.
December 14 Holiday Party -
Being hosted by Trudy Vrchota in Eden Prairie
More details as we approach the date.
2012 Annual Members show, summer-
We have a commitment from the 3Ten Gallery in Stillwater (on Main St.) for a member's show next June/July. Reception date will coincide with a quarterly art crawl in Stillwater.
Always more to come.

Postcards for Edina Show

2011-06-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

Evidently, we are running out of postcard for the Edina Arts Center Show. Please bring any excess cards to the June 22 meeting at Susan Mathis' house for redistribution.

Also utilize the electronic card as much as possible when sending out notices.

Thank you.

June Guild Meeting

2011-06-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

June 22, 6:00-9:30
Susan Mathis' home
3670 Village Court
Woodbury, MN
651-207-5872
Directions: East on I-94 out of St. Paul; South (right) on Co. Rd. 19 for 3 miles; West (right) on Lake Road less than 1/2 mile; Left at Wedgewood Drive less than 1/2 mile; Left at Village Court. Susan's home is on the right.
6:00 Social Time - Note early start to more completely enjoy Susan's Garden
Appetizers, drinks and misc refreshments (may want to skip dinner)
7:00 Agenda
Haiti Project - Party on June 25
Mosaic Garden tour - Riana's Garden - Beldenville, Wisconsin
Edina Art Center Show - update, reminders
September Meeting on the 14th, Mosaic-on-a-Stick - Bring you work for our annual Fall Members Show.
7:15-9:30 Travel Night Program - Mosaic photos from our travels. Everyone welcome to bring photos in any form. Susan has a multimedia projector to handle flash drives and hooking up laptops. I'm bringing old-fashined prints from a Spain trip.

Mosaic Garden Tour

2011-05-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

At our last meeting, we determined that there is strong interest in a Guild tour of Wouterina De Raad's Mosaic Garden in Beldenville, Wisconsin. I've spoken with Wouterina and she's very excited about the prospect of our visit. She agreed that July is the best month to come. We've tentatively scheduled the tour for July 23 at 10:00 AM. Wouterina wants us to come at this time, as the light gets too flat later in the day.

The garden is located in Beldenville, WI, which is 45 minutes from downtown St. Paul. As we get closer to the event, we can start communicating about some potential car pooling. At this time, I need to get an estimated count of how many would participate in the tour. Wouterina requires ten people minimum. The cost is $5 per person. At this time, please let me know if you think you can attend by clicking on the "comment" button below. I'm also posting a few photos of the garden to give you an idea of what to expect.

June Meeting Date Has Been Changed to June 22

2011-05-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

I live in a homeowner's association. All of our driveways and sidewalks are going to be replaced in early June. There are 44 homes here, so things are going to be a bit chaotic. During this time, I will have to park my own car one block away at the golf club. Parking will be challenging and then there will be the problem of getting to my front door as the sidewalk will also be under construction.

Due to all of this, I've gotten approval from Gil to change the date of the June meeting to June 22. I would like to host the June meeting as some of you have expressed interest in seeing my flower gardens.

The program and agenda remain unchanged: Travel Night and, of course, final discussions about the Edina Art Center Show. I hope the date change doesn't cause any problems for any of you. I'm really sorry to do this, but there will just be too many obstacles on June 8.

June 22

Social: 6:30 PM

Meeting: 7:00

3670 Village Court

Woodbury, MN. 55125

Postcards for the Edina Art Center Show

2011-05-08T17:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Judy Sell, the postcards for our show at EAC are now printed. The cards are beautiful! The mosaic piece on the front of the postcard is by Julie Reeve. .

Starting this coming Thursday, May 12, the cards will be available for pickup at Mosaic on a Stick. You may use the postcards for invitations.

I've emailed a digital copy of the postcard to members if you would like to send out electronic invitations.

Good News From Haiti!

2011-04-28T18:35:00.000-07:00

Lori Greene has been communicating with her contacts in Haiti. Lori has sent them pictures of the veves that you have all made. THEY LOVE IT! Lori said one person was brought to tears when she saw what we are doing for them. I don't know about you, but this makes me feel really, really good.

I haven't been to Mosaic on a Stick in a couple of weeks, but I know that several of you have been taking your squares in. I have three here at home - my own, Janine's, and Julie Reeve's second one. Remember that May 3 is the deadline. Judy Sell and Gil Gragert have agreed to do two squares so they have special dispensation to turn them in late (but in time for the Edina Art Center Show). When it's all done, we'll have 24 square feet to install (plus the border). It's definitely going to make a statement!

The hospital is moving along faster now, so we may be able to install it within the next 6-8 months - or maybe even sooner. I can't wait!

2011-04-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

Regarding the Haiti Project: Members who complete squares for the project should provide extra pieces of tile (especially edge pieces) in the event that tile gets dislodged and lost in transit to Haiti. Bring your extra tile in a baggie with your name on it to Mosaic-on-a-Stick.

Remember to prepare for the June 8 Guild Meeting - Travel Night at Susan Mathis'home. Everyone is invited to bring photos of mosaic work they've come across in their travels. Bring ol-fashioned photos or photos in electronic form, ready to show.

April Meeting Minutes

2011-04-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

We met at Judy Sell's house on April 13. - Thanks, Judy.

Sculpture Demo
Judy gave us a demonstration of how to sculpture a bench (or whatever) using the method that Wooterina De Raad teaches. This entails wrapping the object in wire mesh and then covering it with mortar prior to applying the tesserae.

Haiti Project
Susan updated everyone on th project. Many projects are done and turned in. Judy and Gil both agreed to do two squares. - This brings the project to 24 squares - 24 square feet. - Phenomenal. - We would like to install the quilt in Haiti in the first quarter of 2012, but it depends on whether the new children's hospital is far enough along in construction by that time. We'll keep you posted.

Edina Art Center Show
Susan handed out a "poop sheet" for the show which lists the dates to remember as well as facts you need to know about the show. This sheet will be emailed to all members at a later time. There's no way to attach it to this blog. Judy Sell will be designing the postcards. Julie Reeve may provide some signage for the Haiti Project once we know what we need.

2012 Show
Susan will help Gil find a venue for our 2012 show.

Concrete Mosaic Sculpture Garden Tour
Members who were present were polled to find out if there's interest in having a special event this summer. The event would be a garden tour of Wouterina De Raad's Concrete Mosaic Garden. Everyone present was very interested in doing this. The garden is located in Beldenville, WI which is a 45 minute drive from downtown St. Paul. Susan will contact the garden to see if we can reserve the date of July 16 for our tour. We must have a minimum of 10 participants for the garden to open for us.

Please Read Before This Week's Meeting

2011-04-11T19:41:00.000-07:00

First - can all of you save a few pieces of your tesserae - especially the ones on the edges - put them in a Zip-Lock bag, write your name on the bag and provide it to us to keep with your squares. The reason for this is that some pieces will most likely fall out when we transport the squares to Haiti. We'll need the pieces to cut out repair pieces. Cheryl Anderson has already thought to do that and we all need to do it. If you're coming to this week's meeting, you can bring your bag of stuff to the meeting and give it to me.-Thanks!

ALSO, AT THE MEETING, WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE WHAT EVERYONE IS DOING WITH THEIR VEVES. PLEASE BRING THEM TO MEETING - FINISHED OR UNFINISHED.

Those who attended the "quilting bee" on Saturday had a lot of fun AND we got to see several veve squares that have been dropped off at Mosaic on a Stick. - See below! Yippee!

Below is Cheryl Anderson's colorful Veve for Kafou. Kafou is the malevolent trickster who diverts humans from their true paths. It's beautiful.

Here is Connie Cohen's Djab. Djabs are personal spirits who belong to a specific person via a magical contract. They perform services such as warding off enemies, increasing one's wealth, etc. Djab is one of my personal favorites. Connie - is the key in the lower right an offering?

This is Beth Karjala's Damballah. He is the great serpent and the symbol of fertility. He is fond of eggs which is why Beth included an egg in the Veve. Beth used broken china to make Damballah and it looks great!

Here is Gil's Damballah and Aida Ouedo. Damballah's wife is the beautiful spirit Aido Ouedo - she is the rainbow!

Here is Trudy Vrchota's Gran Bwa, ruler of the forest and master of herbal remedies. Trudy included some flowers and foliage as and offering to Gran Bwa.

Here is Gil - looking Presidential, while Julie and Micah create!

Haiti Project Announcements

2011-04-06T18:29:00.000-07:00

There are two announcements today.

The Haiti Project Quilting Bee is on as scheduled. Several of you have indicated that you want to come. The quilting bee will be on Saturday, April 9, at Mosaic on a Stick. We'll go from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Interest has been expressed in a pot luck lunch. I'll bring enough stuff to make 8 (the number who have signed up) turkey and/or cheese sandwiches. If any of you would like to bring anything that would compliment our sandwiches, that would be great. Suggestions are chips, beverages, fruit, cookies, etc.

Submitting your veve. Someone asked today where they can take their square as they need to turn it in early. Remember that May 3 is the deadline, but you can bring it in any time before that. There are already some completed squares at Mosaic on a Stick. If you prefer, you may bring your piece to next week's meeting to show off (completed or not completed). You can give it to me to take to Mosaic on a Stick or you may take it yourself anytime between now and May 3. Remember that The Stick is not open on Mondays.

April Guild Meeting

2011-04-04T07:19:00.000-07:00

Location: Judy Sell's home 1104 South 4th Street, Stillwater, MN Telephone 651-430-2593 Directions from Hwy. 36 heading East Turn left (North) at Osgood Avenue, the last stoplight on Hwy. 36 before you go down into the valley In a few blocks, Osgood turns into South 4th St. Watch for Judy's house on the left. Agenda: Haiti Project update, Susan Mathis Edina Art Center Show, Susan Mathis June Guild Meeting, Susan Mathis' home, Mosaic pictures from travels - everyone bring pics Future show possibilities - Mosaic-on-a-Stick; Phipps Center for the Arts (Hudson, Wisc.); ArtReach St. Croix (Stillwater) Riana's Garden field trip - July?

Rachel Arntson's Agwe and a Question

2011-03-31T20:27:00.000-07:00

Here is Rachel Arntson's Agwe! Agwe is lord of the sea. He's responsible for successful voyages and safe return to port. Ships and fish are his special symbols. Offerings to Agwe are taken out to sea and placed in the water so they can sink down to the submerged palace where he resides with his consort, Lasiren. I like the red sail and the tiny fish in the water. Thanks, Rachel!

Here's my question. Please let me know if you are still interested in having the quilting bee. When we set up the Haiti Project, we decided to get together a few weeks after the project started to work on our pieces and see what everyone is working on. The quilting bee is scheduled for next Saturday, April 9, 10:00 to 1:00 at Mosaic on a Stick. Please let me know if you still want to do this. Cast your vote by clicking on the comment below and sharing your thoughts. Thanks.

Our First Completed Square!

2011-03-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

Rumor has it that some of you have your veve squares near completion. Julie Reeve has completed her first one and she is now working on a second one! Below is the Ezili Freda flag that Julie has done. Ezili Freda is the goddess of love. Note the use of primary colors! Also, in order to make some of her shiny stuff even shinier, Julie used Weld-Bond to stick glitter to some gems. She let that dry and then she bonded the glittered gem to the mesh.

As you complete your squares, please email a digital photo of it to me at mathissl@comcast.net. I'd like to start posting them on the blog.

Thanks for sending yours, Julie.

Update on Haiti Project and More on Offerings

2011-03-14T19:25:00.000-07:00

Great news about our first (I think) community project -- to date, 21 guild members are participating in the Haiti Project! It's great to see so much interest in and commitment to this project. We're now making designs available to those of you who want to do two squares. Julie Reeve is already working on two designs - thanks, Julie! -- Right now there are three designs at Mosaic on a Stick. If there is a need for more, I'll make more.

Now, more on offerings. I think some of you are having fun with your offerings. Last week, I blogged about the offerings for La Siren. This week, I'll show you examples of offerings to the Gran Bwa and Bawon Samdi.

The Gran Bwa is ruler of the forest and the master of herbal remedies. He likes offerings that reflect the verdant colors of the forest he inhabits. Offerings include flowers and leaves. You can see this in the photo of the an actual Gran Bwa veve below.

The next photo is a veve for Bawon Samdi, guardian of the cemetary and the paramount spirit of the dead. One of his favorite offerings is rum laced with pepper. You can see that he's holding a bottle of rum.

Introduction to Offerings

2011-03-06T06:24:00.000-08:00

Haitian Vodou Lwa (Loa) are given offerings to please them and to gain their favor. Each Lwa likes specific types of offerings. In Vodou flags, the offerings are typically integrated into the background of the flag, but sometimes the Lwas are seen holding the offering in their hands.

I'll be sending out a series of blogs on offerings. Integrating offerings into your specific flag is optional. Just be prepared to suffer the consequences that the Lwa may wreak on you if you don't provide an offering. (Some Vodou flags are very busy and there's really no room for offerings. In that case, the Lwa gives you special dispensation if you don't give an offering.)

In this blog, I'm focusing on Lasiren, queen of the ocean and patroness of music. She surfaces from the depths of the sea to bestow favors on her subjects. Offerings to Lasiren include combs, perfumes, seashells, mirrors, and doves.

Here are a couple images of Lasiren. I'll be sending out additional blogs of Lwa and their offerings. Check back often!

Edina Art Center Show Update

2011-03-01T15:42:00.000-08:00

I checked with the Edina Art Center today to see if our members may hang glass on glass mosaics in the large window that they have in their gallery. They said "yes" and that "it would be very impressive" if we did that.

I hope some of you can take some glass on glass pieces to the show! We'll have a considerable amount of room for hanging pieces, for 3-D pieces, and for hanging glass on glass!

The contract that we have with Edina Art Center stipulates the following:

All pieces must be for sale.
Each participant will pay EAC $5 for participating
If you sell your piece(s), Edina Art Center will receive a 35% commission.

Please figure in the above when you establish your pricing.

The only thing that will not be for sale is the Haiti Project. Edina Art Center has invited us to display it in it's semi-finished state. They know that it's going to Haiti.

Beads, colors, lines, and a touch of gold!

2011-02-27T10:08:00.000-08:00

I'll be blogging often during the first couple of weeks of our project so please check the blog often. There were lots of good questions yesterday as members picked up their designs. I want to pass along those questions and answers to everyone as they might be helpful to you. If you have a question, please post it in the comment box of the blog and I'll answer.

First, BEADS!

Beads are used a lot in Vodou flags. I've suggested that you use some beads in your pieces. Cheryl Anderson commented yesterday that small beads often don't stick well to mesh. I'm going to try some large beads in my piece and see how they do. Another material that you can use is GEMS. Gems fit into the category of "shiny stuff". Also, as you know, they may be cut in half and set on the cut side in the piece which gives an interesting effect. Cheryl - thanks for this tidbit!

Now, COLORS!

I've suggested that you emphasize the primary colors in your pieces -- RED, BLUE, AND YELLOW. Note that the word I used was "emphasize" NOT "use only primary colors". You may definitely use other colors. I've seen Vodou flags with black, white, purple, and green in them. You have the freedom to use any color, just emphasize primary colors. Take look at the Ezili Freda flag below. There's lots of black, but also lots of red.

Next, LINES.
Some of you have selected flags with narrow lines in them, such as the narrow swirly lines in the flag above.The narrow lines in the cartoons of your flags are lines for you to follow. There's no need for you to try to make them as narrow as they are in the actual flag. Just follow the lines as you lay your tesserae.

Finally, INTEGRATING A TOUCH OF GOLD INTO YOUR PIECE.
Because we'll be using gold mirror glass for the border at the time of installation, we need you to use a touch of gold mirror glass in your piece. This will help tie the whole piece together. If you don't have any gold mirror glass at home, Mosaic on a Stick sells small strips of it so you can purchase a small strip when you pick up your pieces. Take a look at the Guede Mazaca flag below. There's only a small amount of gold.--That works!

That's it for today. I'll soon be blogging about integrating offerings into your pieces. This is optional, but you often see it in actual Vodou flags. Check back soon!

Haiti Project Kick Off

2011-02-24T08:45:00.000-08:00

The Haiti Project is about to begin-yeah! Your packets will be available for pick up starting this Saturday, February 26 at 1:00 PM. Packets may be picked up at Mosaic-on-a-Stick. (Remember that The Stick is not open on Mondays.)

Each packet will contain the following:

Voudou (also spelled Voodoo) Flag design.
Mesh
Instructions
Voudou Flag Primer
Voudou Flag Glossary
Information about the specific Voudou Flag that you've chosen.
Minnesota Mosaic Guild Dates to Remember.

I'll also be sending this information out to guild members via email.

Check the blog on an ongoing basis for updates. I'll also periodically be posting images of actual Voudou Flags on the blog for inspiration. -- Have fun!

February Guild Meeting - Wednesday, February 9th

2011-02-02T07:15:00.000-08:00

UPDATE - LOCATION CHANGE - Stacia can't host meeting tomorrow
Janine Irisarri has offered to host the meeting. Thank you Janine!!!

Directions to Janine’s House:
18075 2nd Ave N
Plymouth, MN 55447
Phone: 763-476-0341

Directions:
Take 394 West to Wayzata/Central Ave N exit
Turn right at top of exit. Go to 3rd Ave North, Turn left.( some landmarks....right before 3rd Ave is an electrical sub station and across the street Gleason Lake Elementary school)

Continue on 3rd Avenue North until road forks bear to the left onto Queensland Lane North.

Take the first left, that's my street....2nd Ave N. My house is the first house on the left on the corner, 18075...however since my mailbox has almost disappeared, the house number is covered!

Wednesday, February 9th
6:30-7:00 Social Time
7:00-7:30 Meeting
7:30-9:30 Sharing our Wee Projects

Meeting Agenda:
Haiti Project

Edina Arts Center Show, June 30-August 3

Coordinated by Susan Mathis - Details by/at April MMG meeting

SAMA (Society of American Mosaic Artists)

NEMAA (Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association) ad for Art-a-Whirl in May
MMG logo use
Martin Cheek Class at Mosaic-on-a-Stick, Friday-Sunday, March 11-13
Informal presence at MOS March 9 & 10

Future Meetings:
April - Stillwater, outdoor sculpture
June - Travel night at Susan Mathis' home, Woodbury
September - Fall members show, Mosaic-on-a-Stick
November - No topic yet
December - Holiday Party, no venue yet

Laurel True's Haiti Project

2011-01-30T17:42:00.000-08:00

Some of you are aware that Laurel True, mosaic artist, has been doing some work in Haiti in the aftermath of the earthquake. To read up on her project and how rewarding it's been, click on http://mosaicsandceramics.ning.com/. This is the CMA (Contemporary Mosaic Artists) website.

I've been completing the design and we'll be kicking off our own Haiti Project in March! Participating artists will have two months to complete our respective "mosaic quilt squares". Edina Art Center has invited us to display our Haiti Project squares as a work in progress at our summer show along with an explanation of what it's all about.

I can't wait!

Edina Magazine Article

2011-01-30T17:22:00.000-08:00

Edina Magazine will be publishing an article about MMG and our upcoming show at Edina Art Center! The magazine has been provided with information on the history and mission of MMG as well as a selection of photos of artists and your work. The magazine has also been provided with a few quotes from some of you about your love of mosaics. SO - if you haven't started creating your show pieces, get to it! This is going to be a great show with some good PR in advance.

February 9 Guild Meeting

2011-01-03T11:59:00.000-08:00

The February 9, 2011 meeting topic will be "Working Wee".

Members and guests are invited to complete and bring projects of a small scale. The challenge is to work within 3 inch dimensions, either two or three-dimensional. We'll each talk about how we came up with our project ideas; materials used; the challenges and pleasures that surface working that small; some of the tools and techniques we used; and how the challenge has effected our mosaic experience.

The meeting will be held at Stacia Goodman's home, 2724 Chowen Ave. South, Mpls. at the usual 7:00 time, beginning with a 6:30 social time.

Minutes from December Meeting/Holiday Party

2010-12-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

Guild members enjoyed good company, good food, and a tessarae exchange the evening of December 8 at the home of Susan Mathis. Those in attendance were Gil Gragert, Judy Sell, Carolyn Clark-Hyland, Danette Poglase, Janeen Irissari, Barbara Steen, Cheryl Anderson,Janet Houck, Susan Mathis, and Walter Mathis.

Several of our 2011 meetings and events were discussed and scheduled:

February Meeting - Program and place to be announced
April Meeting - "Outdoor Cement Sculptures" program to be held in Stillwater at either Gil's house or Judy's house.
June Meeting - "Travel Night" featuring a slide show on the mosaics Susan saw on her trip to England. Others will be invited to bring photos/slides from their travels to share as well. Place: Home of Susan Mathis in Woodbury.
September Meeting - No agenda yet. Please submit your ideas.
November Meeting - No agenda yet. Please submit your ideas.
December Holiday Party - Who would like to host the 2011 Holiday Party?

2011 Summer Show
Our 2011 Summer Show will be held at Edina Art Center. The basics are the following (watch for more details as we get closer to show time:

June 29: Set-up
June 30: Artists Reception
June 30-August 3: Exhibit
August 4: Pick-up
All mosaic pieces must be for sale. Pieces to hang as well as 3-D pieces are welcome. We may submit as many pieces as can be displayed. EAC has a good-sized space so we think there's lots of room for many pieces.

2012 Show
We're already thinking about our 2012 Show. Gil and Danette are working on the venue.

Haiti Project
Susan provided an update on the Haiti Project as follows:

Kick-off will be in February WATCH THE BLOG FOR KICK-OFF DETAILS--SOON!
The design is well underway and everyone is excited about participating in the project.
Installation date will be determined at a later time. Due to the current outbreak in violence in Haiti, the installation team will schedule their trip to Haiti when the State Department issues an "all clear" travel rating for Haiti. Those in attendance are excited & want to proceed with the project with the awareness that the installation date is unclear and may not happen in 2011.

December 8 Meeting

2010-12-06T11:38:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't hurt to post the date and times of the December meeting, would it?

December MMG Meeting:
December 8, 2010
6:30 - 9:30

See details in previous posting

Mostly a social time, but we'll fit in some planning for next year too.

December 2010 Meeting

2010-12-06T11:12:00.000-08:00

Location:
Susan Mathis' house
3670 Village Court, Woodbury MN
651-207-5872
Susan suggests using mapquest for directions
Consuting the map, here's what I found - Interstate 94 East; Woodbury Drive/County 19
South; Lake Road West; Left on Wedgewood Drive; Left on Village Court
Look for large Christmas wreath with multicolored lights over the garage door
Pot Luck - Susan's providing a casserole
Bring food and drink to share
Bring a bag of tassarae for holiday exchange

Topics:
Haiti Project
Planning for 2011
Membership
Board member/Guild responsibilities
Spring/Summer Show Edina Arts Center

Space available in mosaic class - in Jamaica!!

2010-11-22T10:12:00.000-08:00

MOSAIC PARADISE IN NEGRIL, JAMAICA!

Register for classes with Lisa Arnold, professional mosaic artist from Minneapolis, MN - www.flickr.com/photos/xolaarts/
Jan. 1-8, 2011 at Negril Treehouse in Negril, Jamaica:

www.negril-treehouse.com/welcome.html

Stay right in the heart of seven-mile beach at the Treehouse Resort in beautiful, unforgettable Negril, Jamaica while learning how to make stained glass, tile and picassiette mosaics. All materials and tools included!

Classes will be held January 3-6, 9am-12pm. Afternoons can be spent sunning, swimming, snorkeling, sleeping, eating, drinking, reading, kayaking, parasailing, waterskiing, scuba diving, walking on the soft white sand beach, watching the sun set into the ocean, getting a massage or doing anything else you like!

This $850 introductory offer (based on double occupancy) includes a six-night stay at Treehouse Resort in Negril, six big breakfasts, four days of mosaic instruction, materials and tools. All ages and experience levels welcome! (Deadline to sign up: December 10, 2010).

Lisa Arnold is a professional mosaicist with 20 years experience teaching art. She is on the Minnesota and North Dakota State Arts Boards’ Rosters of Artists in Education, is a member of the Minnesota Mosaic Guild and the Society of American Mosaic Artists.

Please contact Lisa at xolaarts@gmail.com to register or receive more information.

November meeting minutes

2010-11-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

Sheryl Tuorila showed us her work and provided an enriching opportunity for Guild members to experience a “Taste of Tile”.

Wearing our “Persona Aprons” provided by Sheryl, we slabbed clay and used various tools and treatments.

Sheryl will glaze the tile and get back to us when the tile is ready for pick-up

THANKS AGAIN SHERYL

December’s meeting will be held at Susan Mathis’ house

3670 Village Court, Woodbury

Phone 651-207-5872

She suggests that we use Mapquest for directions

There will be a large Christmas wreath with multi-colored lights over her garage door

Susan will provide a casserole – this is potluck, so bring food and beverages to share

Also bring a bag of goodies for tessarae exchange

December meeting topics:

The Haiti project – Susan Mathis and Lori Greene Coordinating

Planning for 2011 – meetings, projects/initiatives

Board positions and roles to fill

2011 Spring/Summer members show – Edina Arts Center

Edina Art Center MMG Members Show

Being coordinated by Susan Mathis

Delivery date, June 28

Set-up, June 29

Reception, June 30

Exhibit, June 30- August 3

Art pick-up August 4th

Remember, they only want us to bring items we wish to sell

Danette is our November Featured Artist on the Blog – Check it out

Many positive comments on her work and thoughtful narrative

November 20^th reception for Carolyn Clark at Mosaic-on-a-Stick, 7 – 9 PM

You’ll remember her wonderful blue people pieces from the Karen Gallery Show

Martin Cheek class at Mosaic-on-a-Stick, March 11, 12 and 13

Many workshop spots still available

Call Lori at 651-645-6600

A final note – we all wish Barb Steen well on her recovery. We miss her.

Danette Polglase - Featured Artist of the Month

2010-11-09T14:44:00.000-08:00

Name: Danette Polglase

Website: http://www.flickr.com/photos/danettep

Email: polglase.danette@gmail.com

What kind of mosaics do you make? I keep experimenting with different methods and materials and create mosaics to try out different approaches to this ancient art form. Most of my mosaic pieces lean towards a fascination with vibrant color and combinations of different materials.

When did you start making mosaics? I was in a little coffee shop in Wyoming, Minnesota sipping a delicious latte, when I noticed a small little table in the corner made from tile with a simple but lovely pattern clearly made by hand and not machine. After learning from the owner that he indeed made the table himself in a class with our friend and mosaicist extraordinaire, Sheryl Tuorila. So I took her class in 2007 and have been experimenting ever since (albeit a little slowly at times). I constantly have to calm some of the critical messages I give myself and seek to return to the enthusiasm and joy of that first mosaic class but with greater skill and deliberateness!

What do you love about mosaics and why do you like working in this art form? There is so much to love about this wonderful art form and no two artists produce the same work. We mosaicists take a cold, impenetrable material like glass and with hundreds, thousands, or sometimes tens of thousands of pieces create art that has depth, softness and beauty. We can create a piece that is jaw-droppingly beautiful or a piece that is whimsical and makes us laugh. That intrigues me and keeps me at it.

What inspires you? Inspiration can color my world invading my every waking moment and the lack of it can leave me cold and unable to move forward. I have pages and pages of ideas and the difficult part for me is to move forward with one idea, execute it, and bring it into the world. Inspiration may come from nature, a single object, or an emotion or physical response to a situation or event. I’d love to capture, in my mosaics, how I perceive and view the world. I think when you can tap into that inner voice your mosaics are more meaningful to you and possibly others.

I constantly battle that voice within which tells me I should just quit the piece I’m currently working on! From the beginning, I issued a challenge to myself that I would finish every mosaic I started since I’m sometimes more in love with the idea and gathering than the execution and completion. I’m like the crow in the Disney movie who sees the sparkling object below and swoops down to investigate and marvel at its beauty. I love to stimulate my senses with objects that are new and exciting but sometimes this leaves me unable to move forward on my own ideas.

How did you develop your style? My style is very much in its infancy and I think it would be more accurate to say that “I’m without a style.”

How did you learn to make mosaics? I read books, have taken a few classes, and keep experimenting.

How do you work best? I need either a deadline or a goal either real or imagined.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish? This is a problem since I do want to exhibit my work from time to time. I exhibited in a small art space in Osceola which has since closed. I’d love to find a few galleries where I could exhibit new work and maybe sell a piece now and again.

Where do you work? I’ve moved from chipping tiny little pieces in my living room to an existing out building on our property that is well on its way to being a true art studio. It has many possibilities and I hope to create a sanctuary for my creative world. It holds the key to a more focused, deliberate effort.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics? I love the gathering of the materials since it holds so much possibility. The birth of an idea made real by the concrete nature of the material which I can hold and touch.

Next meeting

2010-11-03T08:30:00.001-07:00

The next meeting is coming up on November 10 and it sounds like fun! Please check the "Meetings" page for more info.

Brenda Hansen - Featured Artist of the Month

2010-10-02T05:41:00.000-07:00

Name: Brenda Hansen

Email: bjhanscat@yahoo.com

What kind of mosaics do you make? stained glass, glass on glass, polymer clay, ceramics

When did you start making mosaics? 4 years ago, I took a class with Sharra Frank at Clay Squared to Infinity. The last 2 years, I have seriously worked in mosaics.

How did you get into mosaics? My whole life, I have been making pieces fit together. Artistically, I have worked in miniatures, ceramics, polymer clay, fabric art and wood working. I am naturally attracted to making sense out of parts and making something complete.

What inspires you? I see an object or a tile and see a bigger picture. I then create the bigger picture.

How did you develop your style? I create with my heart. People have commented on a sense of calm or peace in my work.

How did you learn to make mosaics? Dove in. Got books from the library.

How do you approach a mosaic? I ask the mosaic what it wants to be.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish? I have been entering shows with my finished work.

What have you learned? I want to work towards a freer style since ceramics, tiles and stained glass can be seemingly rigid.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life? Creating is essential to being me. I schedule time every week for some creative time.

Where do you work? I work in my lower level studio. I have lots of different materials around to play with and create.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics? I never know what the finished mosaic will look like until after I grout it. I love the unexpected. I find a sense of completion and wholeness when I set the last piece in place.

Stacia's "Green Spirals" is installed!

2010-09-26T06:11:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Stacia Goodman for her piece, "Green Spirals", which is now up at the St. Louis Park Rec Center. Here's what happened yesterday:

"Mosaic Mural Unveiling, Discussion and Demonstration

Come and meet the mosaic! Community members are invited to attend the grand unveiling of “Found Spirals,” a large, new colorful mosaic mural designed for The St. Louis Park Rec Center’s entrance atrium. Stacia Goodman, a local mosaic artist and recipient of a St. Louis Park 2010 Arts & Culture Grant, created the piece, which is nearly 9 feet by 5 feet in size. Unique to the mural is its “green” nature. The artist combined reclaimed trash items found or contributed by St. Louis Park residents and businesses with traditional mosaic materials such as tile, glass and grout. Stacia will discuss the mural’s meaning and its creation, answer questions, and give a mosaic demonstration after the unveiling.

Time: 2 - p.m., Saturday, September 25

Location: St. Louis Park Rec Center, Main Entrance

3700 Monterey Drive, St. Louis Park (just a block or so from Target and Byerly's)"

"Taste of Tile"

2010-09-24T08:30:00.000-07:00

Sheryl Tuorila is hosting a "Taste of Tile" mini-workshop for the next MMG meeting. MMG members who have signed up for the workshop are:
Cheryl Anderson
Susan Mathis
Trudy Vrchota
Danette Polglase
Julie Reeve
Rachel Arntson
Liz Taras
Patty Wiltgen
Margie Rotondo
Gil Gragert
Janine Irisari
Barbara Steen
Stacia Goodman
Anyone unable to attend should contact me at 651-439-0566.

Sheryl's class is now full!

2010-09-16T12:15:00.001-07:00

The class the Sheryl Tuorila is offering to MMG members for Nov. 10 is now full! Thanks for all of your interest!

Laurel Skye

2010-09-14T16:22:00.000-07:00

Nice video about Laurel Skye and her studio and classes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=av2IqoXrYMQ

MMG Meeting Minutes - September 8, 2010

2010-09-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Lori Greene for hosting us at her store.

We welcomed six potential new members (WOW!) - Liz, Rachel, Deb, Trudy, Katie, and Patty. (My feeble mind doesn't remember their last names.) We hope they join The Guild.

November MMG Meeting
Cheryl Tuorila will be hosting the November 10 meeting in her studio in the Northrup King Building. Her studio number is 403. At the meeting, Cheryl will be offering her "Taste of Tile" class at no charge, except for a small charge for firing the tiles. Several people have signed up for the class. We are encouraged to bring cookie cutters, etc to make tiles. However, Cheryl will have lots of cookie cutters and other tools on hand at the studio.

MMG Annual Fall Members Show at Mosaic-On-A-Stick
The show will take place September 18-October 9, 2010. The closing reception will be October 2, 6-8 PM. Please drop off your pieces for the show by Tuesday, September 14 latest.

Minnesota Tile Festival
The Tile Festival will be held Saturday, September 18, at the Swedish Insitute in Minneapolis. Danette Poglase is coordinating volunteers for the Festival.

Art-A-Whirl
Margie Rotendo offered her garage near the Northup King building as a site for us to use at Art-A-Whirl if we are interested. Thanks, Margie.

Haiti Project
As a follow-up to the April meeting, we discussed the proposed Haiti Project in more detail. The proposal is to design, create, and install a "Mosaic Quilt" in Haiti. The design will be made by Lori Greene and Susan Mathis and will follow the theme of Haitian VooDoo Flags. Elements in VooDoo Flags typically include serpents, hearts, twins, frogs, mermaids, fish and whales. The concept is that participating members will pick up at least one design and mesh at Mosaic-on-a-Stick. Participants can use their own materials. A unifying border will be designed by Lori and Susan. MMG has committed $600 to cover the following costs: Thinset, grout, mesh, and shipping. We've identified the place of installation - the new Children's Hospital in Haiti. Lori, Susan, and Connie Cohen will travel to Haiti at their own expense to install the quilt. MMG members agreed to proceed with the Haiti Project. The timeline is as follows:

Lori Greene and Susan Mathis to develop design - Fall 2010
Lori and Susan submit design to our Haitian contact for approval - Fall 2010
Design submitted to MMG at Holiday Party in December.
Design and mesh picked up at The Stick by participating members - Februray 2011
Quilting Bee at The Stick - February or March 2011
Participating members submit completed pieces to Mosaic-on-a-Stick by April 30, 2011 latest.
Date of installation in Haiti will be dependent the schedule of the Children's Hospital.

Holiday Party
Our annual Holiday Party will be held in December at the home of Susan Mathis in Woodbury. We will have a tesserae exchange. Beth Karjala will give us a profile of her work. Susan will provide a casserole and beverages. Members are encouraged to bring potluck (unless you want to have casserole only). Details will be published at a later time.

Artist Profile
Susan Mathis gave an overview of her work and brought several pieces to show.

New Website
Barb Keith showed us the new MMG website. This is a new format which includes a blog format and a rotating photo gallery. Barb helped us understand how to add blogs and photos to the gallery. Thanks, Barb.

Still Three Spots left for Sheryl's Taste of Tile!

2010-09-08T18:32:00.000-07:00

At the meeting tonight Sheryl Tuorila told us about her class on November 10. It's free to MMG members and sounds like fun! That is our next meeting date. Sheryl is going to teach about how to make clay tiles and you will get to do some of your own. It will be in her studio in the Northrup King building in NE MPLS. If you want to sign up, comment below.

Featured Artist of the Month: Barbara Benson Keith

2010-08-30T07:40:00.001-07:00

Name: Barbara Benson Keith

Website: www.barbarakeithdesigns.com

Blog: barbarakeithdesigns.blogspot.com

Email: bkeithdesigns@yahoo.com

What kind of mosaics do you make? Stained glass mosaics

When did you start making mosaics? 2004

How did you get into mosaics? I took a community education class about stained glass windows. I had a pile of scrap glass, so a few years later, I decided one day to make a mosaic. I didn’t know how, and didn’t even consult a book, I just did what felt right.

What inspires you? Nature, people, animals, the work of other artists

How did you develop your style? I’m self taught, and I resist taking classes so what I do is really mine.

How did you learn to make mosaics? Guessed.

How do you work best? During the day, listening to an audio book.

How do you approach a mosaic? For me the hardest part is deciding what to do. Once I have that figured out, I get to it. I am very focused while I work and I don’t really take breaks or get distracted unless it’s lunch time!

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish? Sell them, hopefully!

What have you learned? I’ve learned things about myself, like I’m a jumper. Even if I don’t know how to do something, I’ll say yes and jump in and figure out how to do it after that.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life? I’ve got a wonderfully supportive hubby! This is my job and I feel very lucky.

Where do you work? I have a studio in the basement with a nice big southern exposure window. In the summer it’s cool down there and in the winter it’s warm.

What is your favorite thing about working as an artist? The freedom! I used to teach elementary school, which was very rewarding but demanding and stressful. I was always sick with colds and strep and had to drive to work in the cold and dark and snow… You know how it is! Now I can sleep in or take a day off. I set my schedule and get the work done when I want to do it. My commute is about 10 seconds. I love that!

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc…? Doing public art is my passion! Over the years, I’ve been doing more and more public art and I love it! I love the challenges, and I love knowing that lots of people will see my work. This year I’ve done a lot of work for clinics and hospitals. Right now I’m also working on a big project up in Bemidji. I’ve designed the 15,000 sf terrazzo floor for a new convention center/hockey arena. It’s almost finished and looking amazing!

Stretching and Falling: Dysfunctional Art - MOS Fall Show

2010-07-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

Karen Gallery - Art work pickup - Changes

2010-07-23T14:57:00.001-07:00

New Pick up Time: Thursday, July 29th 4-8, Thursday
New Pick up Time: Friday, July 30th 4-6

A New Blog for the Minnesota Mosaic Guild!

2010-07-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our new site! Soon we will make the transition from our old website to this new blogsite. On this site, you will be able to find members, get info on meetings and shows, leave comments, and more!

I will be looking to add some of you MMGers as authors for this blog. It's very easy and I'll show you what to do. Let me know if you can help out.

Thanks!

2010-07-04T08:34:00.000-07:00

•April 2010 - Annual Members Show - The MMG member's show will be at Karen Gallery this year!

•April 2010 - Don't forget: MMG shop on CafePress! Now you can get your Minnesota Mosaic Guild apparel, aprons, tote bags and more. Ten percent of every sale goes to the Minnesota Mosaic Guild. Click here to find our shop.

December 2009 - MMG member Connie Glynn Cohen will be teaching a smalti class at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts this winter. The class will be 8 Tuesdays, 9:00 - 12:00 starting January 5. Here's the link if you'd like more information: http://www.minnetonkaarts.org/ classes_glass. html

She'll also be giving a short presentation on the "History of Mosaics" at Minnetonka Center for the Arts. This will be December 8 at noon. Hope you can attend one or both!

•November 2009 - New Survey
Please take a moment to fill in this survey. It's filled with great opportunities to make MMG great in 2010!

Click Here to take survey

•August 2009 - MN State Fair Fine Arts Competition
Congratulations to Janine Irisarri and Barb Keith! Their mosaics (Janine's "Poppies" and Barb's "Harriet") were accepted into the highly competitive fine arts competition! If you go to the fair, please check out their work.
UPDATE: Janine's piece won second place!

•August 2009 - Annual Fall Members Show
Following a great tradition, announcing the 4th Annual Fall Members Show at Mosaic-on-a-Stick!
Mosaic on a Stick, 595 N. Snelling Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104
651-645-6600 www.mosaiconastick.com

Show Dates: Wednesday, September 9, 2009 through Saturday, October 3rd, 2009
Reception: 6:30 to 9:30 PM, September 9
Drop off your work and sign the contract: Tuesday, September 1 through Saturday, September 5
(Remember, the stick closes at 4 PM on Wednesday and Friday)

Your Work: Showcase your style/ your signature/ what best represents your work. Drop off your work ready to be hung.

If you are not currently a member, now is a good time to join!

•May 2009 - Art A Whirl News - Message from Kim (the coordinator)
Hey Everyone! It's crunch time . I went to the meeting last week at the Thorp building . We still have the space and everything is a go. It would help me to know who is coming to the meeting/ set-up May 13 6-9pm? PLEASE shoot me an email or call me.

First: Please pick up postcards at Mosaic on a Stick and do your thing with them, baby!

If you can't volunteer but can donate food, please bring it to the May 13 set up at the Thorp Bldg.

Bring your pieces Wed night or contact me to make other plans. I'll be at the Thorp on Wed 13th at 1pm. If anyone wants to drop pieces off or help set up early, call me at cell phone 651-373-7156. I'll also be there Thurs 9:30am-1:30pm.

Remember to hang pieces on the metal studs on the wall in the big room we will need self-tapping drywall steel stud screws, which we will have. WE cannot put any nails or screws into drywall in big room! In the small room, we can use nails or drywall screws, but we must fill the holes at end of show.

Please label each piece that you wish to show with: your name, title, material, size, price. Tape this label on back and have one for next to your piece when it's hung. Each artist should make an inventory sheet- there is one on the MMG20yahoo group under files if you want to use that one. The inventory sheet should include the artist's name, phone #, email, and title of piece, material, size and price. Give me a copy the night of the meeting. If you're handling your own money, you don't have to do any labeling.

You do not have to be at AAW in person! Everyone is welcome to show or sell their work whether they can volunteer or not. (Of course, if you can volunteer, that's great!) We will have a central checkout and keep track of all sales, using the inventory sheets and labels on your pieces.

All checks & money will go to the MMG account. Within 14 days after AAW. the treasurer will mail you a check. If you want to handle your own money, you must be there the entire time and then give the Guild 10% of your take. No need to bring extra packing material/bags for sale. I will have a packing station set up.

The lease makes our space available Wed May 13th 12 noon to Tues, May 19th 12 noon, but it would be best to get most things out Sunday Eve.

AAW Schedule May 16-17-18
Friday Show 5-10pm
1st shift: 4-7pm: need 2 people
2nd shift: 7-10pm: need 2 people
Saturday Show 12-8pm
1st shift 12-4pm: need 2 people
2nd shift: 4-8pm: need 2 people
Sunday 12-5pm
1st shift: 12pm-3pm: full
2nd shift: 3-6pm: breakdown: need 4-6 people

I can't remember who volunteered to pick up the 8x8's and the banner & anything else from Mosaic on a Stick? Please let me know who before set-up.

Best door for customer entry: loading dock 5,6,7 (it's all one door) off 18th Ave. There's a small parking lot there with additional street parking. A 2nd Choice for door is loading dock 10 in diagonal alley behind building.

I would like to have a demo area. Anyone who's interested in demoing during the show, let me know.
I know this is a lot of info, if I'm missing anything or if you have questions, please contact me. For a quick answer: call me 763-522-5857. ( I like phone calls better than emails(:!)

•April 2009 - Red Wing show a success (and still going on!)
There was a great turnout for the reception of the Red Wing show (scroll down to see the poster with info) on Saturday! I stopped by around lunchtime to see the show because I couldn't attend the reception. The show is beautiful with impressive artwork by our members. Some pieces had even sold already! If you weren't one of the many to attend the reception, please find time to go see the show before it ends on May 11th. Below is a photo from the reception. Gil Gragert, who did so much work on this show along with Deb Wasmund, is at the microphone. Thanks to both of you and all the artists who participated and helped to make it such a wonderful show!

•Mar. 2009 - New Members!!! Please do these things:
1 - Check the member page to make sure your name is listed. If not, contact bkeithdesigns@yahoo.com and send a photo of your work and a link to your site.
2 - Make an 8" x 8" mosaic, ready to hang, for the group shows.
3 - Make a page for our member photo album (8.5" x 11" piece of paper as scrapbook base) for shows.

• Feb. 2009 - Details about the Red Wing Art Show:

Location: Red Wing Arts Association, 418 Levee Street, Red Wing, MN 55066, 651-388-7569
rwaa@redwing. net
Show Dates: April 3 – May 11, 2009
Reception: Saturday, April 18
Contact Person: Dan Guida
Posters and postcard are now available – extras at Mosaic-on-a-Stick

Dates to Deliver Art: Sunday, March 29 12-4 PM
Monday, March 30 8 AM – 4 PM
Tuesday, March 31 8 AM – 4 PM
Other times by appointment – call ahead
Gil will pick up from Mosaic-on-a-Stick on March 27 (Friday) and deliver to Red Wing on March 29 (Sunday). If necessary, Deb Wasmund will pick up at MOS as well.

Commission Rate: The Arts Association takes 35% commission for RWAA members, 40% for non-members

Red Wing Arts Association will do labels with artist’s statements. Send in your consignment form ASAP to Deb Wasmund at mosaicqueen57@yahoo.com, so that labels can be prepared. Consignment form can be downloaded HERE.

Anyone interested in doing a demo should contact Deb Wasmund at mosaicqueen57@yahoo.com

•Mar. 2009 - New Members!!! Please do these things:
1 - Check the member page to make sure your name is listed in the top section. If not, contact bkeithdesigns@yahoo.com and send a photo of your work and a link to your site.
2 - Make an 8"x8" mosaic, ready to hang, for the group shows.
3 - Make a page for our member photo album (8.5" x11" piece of paper as scrabook base) for shows.

•Dec. 2008 - Barbara Steen is participating in a show at the Karen Gallery Located at 927 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55402 on the second floor of Rush's Bridal 612/343-9333 or 612/816-9511. The Grand Opening is Saturday January 10th, 2009, 4:00pm to 9:00pm "Please come and have some wine & art ...and see a few of my mosaics."

•Dec. 2008 - To download survey results for "The Future of MMG" poll (a pdf file), click HERE or HERE(for web version). (I'm not sure why, but both links work in Explorer, but neither work in Firefox...) We will be discussing results at next meeting in January.

•Dec. 2008 - Upcoming Show News: Lots to report...

WARM show - Linda Mix Yates and Connie Cohen are in it.
http://www.thewarm. org/pages/ index.php

Clay Squared Show - Laura Burlis has lovely things here!
http://www.claysqua red.com/gallery. htm

May is Art-A-Whirl and we want to have a presence there. So be ready
to contribute a piece and/or time. May 15-17, 2009.

Red Wing MMG show coming in the spring! It is looking like like we need to create create create!
Red Wing Arts Association and Gallery 418 Levee St.

Mosaic on a Stick MMG members show is in September 2009. That goes with our Tile
Festival presence at the same time.

•Nov. 2008 - Could you please fill out a survey if you have ever thought about coming to one of our meetings? Thanks! Here's the link:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=RjDeD4maS1Zb_2fw5uLXT65Q_3d_3d

•Oct./Nov. 2008 - You are invited to a mosaic show at the Hopkins Center for the Arts. Barbara Keith's"Mosaic Zoo: An ABC Book" animal mosaics will be on display. Show runs Oct. 23 - Nov. 30 with a reception on Oct. 23.

•Art-A-Whirl May 2008 - The Guild had a large room and had no trouble filling it up with mosaics for a great show. Some pictures from the show...

Barbara Steen and Janine Irisari

Mike Sweere

Mimi Holmes

Lisa Arnold

•Apr. 2008 Click here if you would like to view our website statistics for the first quarter of 2008.

•SAMA April 2008 - There were three MMGers who had pieces in the juried show in Miami. See pics below. MMG members who attended the conference were Lori Greene, Maria Ricke, Connie Cohen, Linda Mix Yates, Barb Keith, Danette Polglase, and Sharra Frank.

Linda Mix Yates

Connie Cohen

Lori Greene, doing a pretty good impression of her piece

•SHOW: Art-A-Whirl, May 16, 17, 18, @ Thorp Building, 1618 Central Ave. NE, Mpls.

•SHOW: Mosaic on a Stick, Sept. 10 – Oct. 10, @ 595 N. Snelling Ave., St. Paul

•SHOW: A Necessary Ornamentation: Selections from the Minnesota Mosaic Guild Reception on Thursday April 17th 4pm-7pm at Metro State University in St. Paul. The show runs through July 25. Location: 745 East Seventh Street, Third Floor Gallery, St. Paul. We have 20 members participating. We hope you can make it!

•Feb./Mar. 2008 Sheryl Tuorila and others are having a show called "Art in the Home" at the Bloomington Center for the Arts. Reception is on Thursday, Feb. 21, 6-8 pm.
click for more info
click for location

•Feb 2008 The new mosaic magazine "Mosaic Art Now" has just come out. Six jurors picked their favorites from submissions all over the world to feature in the magazine. Congratulations to MMG members Cathy Weeks, Sharra Frank, Mike Sweere, Lisa Arnold, and Barb Keith.

•Jan. 2008 Click here if you would like to view our website statistics for the fourth quarter of 2007.

•Dec. 2007: MMG shop on CafePress! Now you can get your Minnesota Mosaic Guild apparel, aprons, tote bags and more. Ten percent of every sale goes to the Minnesota Mosaic Guild. Click here to find our shop.

•November 16-December 28, 2007 You are invited to the Bloomington Center for the Arts. MMG members Michael Sweere and Barbara Keith have an exhibition entitled "Modern Mosaics". It runs from November 16-December 28 and there is an artist’s reception on Friday, Nov. 16, 6-8 pm.

•Oct. 1, 2007 Our website hosting was recently upgraded. If you are interested in viewing the website stats for the third quarter of 2007 (actually, just from the last couple of weeks), you can download the pdf quarterly report here.

•Sept. 2007 The members of the Minnesota Mosaic Guild are having a show! We hope you can visit Mosaic on a Stick (595 N. Snelling Ave in St. Paul) to see it. The show runs through mid October.

•Saturday, September 15, 2007: We will have a booth at the Handmade Tile (and Mosaic) Show. Come visit us!

•May 2007: We had a booth (and a great time) at Art-a-Whirl!

Kim and Betsy at the booth.

•March 2007: SAMA Conference: We had a fun, inspiring, and informative time in Arizona attending the Society of American Mosaic Artist conference. Here's a picture of the Minnesota contingent...

L to R top row: Barb Keith, Betsy Mowry, Sharra Frank, Maria Ricke, Lori Greene, Hallie Bowman
L to R bottom row: Cheryl Anderson, Sheryl Tourila, Cathy Weeks

•Metro State University Show Gil's application for the MMG was accepted and we will have a Member Show in 2008 running from late April through the end of July at Metro State University. Besides having our work on display, we will host a reception and provide demonstrations on the mosaic process.

•A WINNER!! Best Large Scale Interior: Lori Greene, St. Paul, MN for Divination Systems - FatherSociety of American Mosiac Artists Click here, then on her name, to see her winning mosaic.Congratulations, Lori!

•Grant Winner: Barb Keith was awarded a Forecast grant for emerging artists, funded by the Jerome Foundation, to create three large window mosaics in a St. Paul Library. Also, her nursery rhyme mosaic book is for sale at www.brownianbee.com.

•Members in the news! Look at some recent press that MMG members have received...

Star Tribune Article about Sharra Frank, Sheryl Tourila, and Mercedes Austin
Lisa Arnold's Artist in Residency
Mosaic on a Stick and Barb Keith, St. Paul Illustrated Magazine, April 2007

•Members are invited to send news, written up as you would like it to appear, to bkeithdesigns at yahoo dot com.

Featured Artist of the Month: Robin Mueller

2010-07-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Robin Mueller

Name: Robin Mueller
Website: whimsiesdesign.com
Email: whimsiesdesign@gmail.com

What kind of mosaics do you make? I like to work with stained glass the most, but I have a lot of old plates and tile ready to go when the mood strikes.

When did you start making mosaics? Around 3 years ago. I started with flower pots, picture frames, and table tops, and then branched out into stained glass.

How did you get into mosaics? About 15 years ago, I saw a segment on television about using old plates to decorate table tops. The program gave the process a French name. I tried looking it up at the library, but I had no luck. Then, 3 years ago, my friend, Jeanne found out that I was interested in this, and we did a little more investigation and found that what we wanted to learn about was mosaic.

What inspires you? If you look at my work, you would probably say, “circles”. I don’t know what that says about me, and maybe I don’t really want to know! I love putting colors together. Sometimes, I see a picture of something, and that will get me to thinking, and then a idea will spring from that. I do a lot of, “I wonder what it would look like if I did this?”

How did you develop your style? I can’t really say that I have a style. I do what comes to me.

How did you learn to make mosaics? My friend, Jeanne and I went to Mosaic on a Stick and told the friendly people there that we were interested in learning how to mosaic. We got about a 5 minute lesson on what tools to use and how, and we were on our way.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish? When I first began, I either kept every single thing I made or asked my kids if they would like something. When I was laid off a couple of years ago, I became a mosaic fiend. The more I worked on mosaic, the better I felt. Until, at least, I looked around the room I was using as a work room, and discovered that there was so much ‘stuff’ sitting around me, that if I didn’t find a way to sell my mosaic, I’d have to either stop making mosaic (not an option), start filling a storage unit with them, or find a way to sell it.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics? Besides being a wonderful way to express myself, I love that each thing I do is unique. Change a shape here, a color or two there, and the finished piece can look so different.

(This note is from Barb Keith - Please check out Robin's website. She didn't even mention her sweet little "whimsies" in her interview! See below. They are really cute figures with very long legs, check them out! Her website is listed at the top of the page.)

Featured Artist of the Month: Lisa Arnold

2010-07-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Lisa Arnold

Website: www.flickr.com/photos/xolaarts/ and www.flickr.com/photos/lisaarnoldresidency/
Email: xolaarts@gmail.com

What kind of mosaics do you make?
Mostly stained glass on glass but I like playing with tile too (especially Royal Mosa). I’m also a sucker for colored mirror.

When did you start making mosaics?
2006ish

How did you get into mosaics?

I was trying to avoid writing my dissertation! I was teaching theatre and film at the University of St. Thomas and College of St. Catherine in St. Paul and working on my PhD at the U of M. A friend who made stained glass windows took me to the glass store and I was hooked. I didn’t get my degree.

What inspires you?

Materials, nature, other art forms, light and color.

How did you develop your style?
I think I’m still in the process of doing that but Willie Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, The Wizard of Oz’s Technicolor and Walt Disney’s fantasy lands had big influences on me as a child. Now, as then, I love blasts of color, hidden treasures and sparkling other worlds.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
I bought a book, a friend taught me how to use a glass cutter and I experimented. I’ve since taken a class with Sonia King and Wooterina de Raad.

How do you work best?
With plenty of freedom within limits. I never completely know what I want the final piece to look like. I might have an idea about shape, outline, color, design, etc. but I have to be able to experiment while I’m mosaicing or it just feels like I’m filling in the blanks. I like to surprise myself.

How do you approach a mosaic?
It depends. I like doodling with glass – making a line and responding to it, but I also like working from a cartoon. The thing I love about mosaic making is the variety – in approach, materials, subject... It’s always a new thing.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
Well, I have about 40 of them on display in my house! Otherwise I take photos and put them up on my website. I sell them out of Blue Moon Coffee Shop, Mother Earth Gardens and by word of mouth. … I also work as a teaching artist, doing 8-10 residencies a year, which often involves overseeing community-made mosaic murals. These mosaics are installed in schools and community centers around the state.

What have you learned?
Go with your gut, do what feels natural, learn from others but don’t compare yourself to others (I’m still working on that one).

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
My career mantra is “working vacation” – mosaics are a part of my everyday life. It’s my day job and my hobby. Luckily, I don’t have to fit it in; it’s integrated. Not having children probably makes that easier. I mosaic everyday and if I don’t I start feeling disconnected from myself. Mosaicing = happy Lisa. When I have long teaching stints, I miss doing individual work, but being able to make large pieces is an ok trade-off.

Where do you work?
I have a studio in my basement but I’m also known to do some good work in front a Netflix film. I find that Radiolab and This American Life are often good “places” for my head to be while I’m working. Otherwise you will find me in the classroom. I’m on the Minnesota and North Dakota State Arts’ Boards so I do a lot of residencies around the region. This summer I am hosting a Mosaic Vacation in the Boundary Waters, teaching classes each day in mosaics – pebbles, stained glass, tile, pique assiette, etc.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
The materials make me very happy but seeing the finished product in the light is always the ‘wow’ part for me.

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc…?
I’ve been working as an artist in residence for the last decade so I make a lot of art with children. It’s one of my favorite parts of being a mosaic artist. It’s a treat to work on a grand scale too. When I do community work, the murals tend to be 3 feet x 7 feet and sometimes we do 3 or 4 that size on a project. I’d never be able to make something that large without the help of 100s of hands. I’ve done some larger commissions for public spaces too: Springboard for the Arts, Tofte Lake Center conference wall, a few windows for local businesses. Again, I love all this variety!

Featured Artist of the Month: Lori Greene

2010-07-04T07:53:00.001-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Lori Greene

Website: www.greenemosaic.com
Email: lori@greenemosaic.com

What kind of mosaics do you make?
Mixed media mosaic wall pieces and sculptures

When did you start making mosaics?
When I was a graduate student at Maryland Institute college of Art in 1991

How did you get into mosaics?
I was making beaded (seed beads) mosaic sculptures, very expensive and timing consuming

What inspires you?
Textiles from all over the world, people, emotions, everything...

How did you learn to make mosaics?
I taught myself

How do you approach a mosaic?
I have an idea, then I begin

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
show it, sell it

What have you learned?
Something every day

Where do you work?
Mosaic on a Stick is my studio and my store

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
You can use anything, play with everything! I like mosaics because they are inviting, anyone can particpate, its does not have to be expensive, and you can change your world with them.

Have you ever done public art or worked with the community or children?
My first Public art piece was in 1993 I was commissoned to make a temporary mosaic sculpture for a park in Baltimore Maryland.

My first community art piece was the Resource Center of the Americas in 2001, we had over 200 volunteers, it was an amazing and humbling experience.

I do 2 - 4 residencies in the schools every year I have worked with children as young as 4 and adults as old as 90.

Featured Artist of the Month: Sheryl Tuorila

2010-07-04T07:52:00.002-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Sheryl Tuorila

Website: www.sheryltuorila.com
Email: slt at sheryltuorila dot com

What kind of mosaics do you make?
Well, it's always evolving...presently I'm very focused on my handmade tile mosaics but glass-on-glass is a ton of fun and then I venture into the mixed media mosaics now and then to keep it interesting. I think I'll be messing with some pebble mosaics soon.

When did you start making mosaics?
My mantra is "Making It, Breaking It and Sticking It since 1999".

How did you get into mosaics?
It was always something I wanted to try. In 1999 Clay Squared to Infinity opened three blocks from my house and within that first week they were there I started an apprenticeship learning how to make tile. At the same time a friend and I had a mosaic book, we made garden pots and that's the end of the story. I had always been creating art - fiber, jewelry, etc but mosaics really gave me an endless variety of projects, materials, and styles. Ten years later and I haven't put a dent in the things I want to make.

What inspires you?
Nature - I love the colors, patterns and textures found in nature. The Exotic - I love Indian artwork, tiles, woodcarvings and furniture. Contemporary Art & Furniture- I love the stark, bold, simple, clean lines and color (or lack of it sometimes).

How did you develop your style?
In college I majored in printmaking - I worked with textures, layering them randomly to create my imagery. This carries over into my handmade tile mosaics. I create tons of tiles and then go back to work with them. I call the work "designed" random. I work intuitively with the shapes, colors and textures to create these flowing organic images.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
Self taught. But I have met the right people over the years to get valuable information from - many through my membership in the Handmade Tile Association and Mosaic Guild. I took classes with Riana deRaad and Kim Emerson.

How do you work best?
I like to work in series. I'll have a color combo I'm interested in, I'll make a variety of pieces in those colors in different sizes. It seems I need to make ten to get the one I like.

How do you approach a mosaic?
I'll make a bunch of tiles in a color scheme I'm interested in and go from there. I need to have the materials there to inspire me, commissions are the only situations where a piece is planned out to some extent.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
Hopefully sell them! People ask if it's hard to let go. Nope, I have so many things I want to make I'm already onto the next piece. I moved into a new home last year so I've been busy doing some projects around my own house for a change. When summer comes I've got a million things percolating for outside.

What have you learned?
I don't try to work outside my style anymore. I don't do butterflies, dragonflies, etc. I'm not good at it.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
It's hard now that I have a 16 month old I want to spend all my time with. But I know it's better to get in the studio at least part-time, makes Sheryl a better person. My studio has become my retreat.

Where do you work?
Studio 403 Northrup King Building www.northrupkingbuilding.com

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
The incredible variety - materials, substrates, installations, styles. I love teaching mosaic classes and encouraging people in their interest in mosaics.

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc...?
I created the benches at Ridgedale Library (below), worked on a community art project for St. Paul Public Housing (adults & children), made a carrot for the Eastside Coop, I've been a visiting artist at a couple high schools for the day, and created quite a few pieces for hospitals and corporate offices.

Featured Artist of the Month: Susan Mathis

2010-07-04T07:52:00.001-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Susan Mathis

Email: mathissl at comcast.net

What kind of mosaics do you make?
I experiment with lots of types of mosaics. I use a lot of stained glass, gems, millifiori, ceramics, and found objects. I've made wall hangings, benches, animal art, garden art, and trays.

When did you start making mosaics?
I started making mosaics in 2003.

How did you get into mosaics?
I've always been fascinated by the ancient mosaics in Italy and elsewhere. When I saw a mosaics class offered at the art museum in Austin, Texas, I took the class and I've been hooked ever since.

What inspires you?
I draw my inspiration from lots of sources including nature, art, and things that I see in magazines. I'm also very inspired by my friends' mosaics.

How did you develop your style?
I've developed my style by experimenting.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
I learned to make mosaics by taking one class in Austin, TX. I take a lot of classes from Sharra Frank on an ongoing basis. I've also attended a class on pebble mosaics at the Chicago Mosaic School. In January, I'll be taking a backsplash class from Lori Greene and a carved mosaics class from Sheryl Tuorila. In March, I'll be attending SAMA where I'll take classes from Laurel Skye and Sherry Warner Hunter.

How do you work best?
I work best in my home studio. I have a nice studio with lots of storage space and a sink nearby.

How do you approach a mosaic?
I usually approach a mosaic by drawing out a very basic design. I don't design in everything, but rather let the details develop as I work with the materials.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
I sell my mosaics, give them as gifts, and keep some for myself.

What have you learned?
I've learned that one never stops learning new techniques for mosaics. I learn new things constantly.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
When I start working on a mosaic, pretty much everything else comes to a stop. I'm single and retired so I can do this. When I get on a roll with a mosaic, I don't want to do anything else.

Where do you work?
I work in my home studio.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
I love watching the colors and designs emerge as I work.

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc...?
I've never done public or community art but I would like to do this sometime.

Featured Artist of the Month: Barbara Napiwocki

2010-07-04T07:51:00.002-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Barbara Napiwocki

Email: BNapiwocki at imagineps.com

What kind of mosaics do you make?
Glass on Glass, Sun Catchers as I call them, I love how depending on the light coming through the windows, the piece changes.

When did you start making mosaics?
About a year ago after meeting Sharra Frank at the Minnesota Tile Festival, and taking her one of her classes.

How did you get into mosaics?
My daughter Nicole was leaving for college and was worried about what I was going to do in my free time. She was the one that suggested that I start taking classes and get back into doing my art projects.

What inspires you?
Our families' scuba dives in Cozumel. On one of our first trips I immediately fell in love with the bright colors of the flowers, underwater sea life and with the people. Our whole family is into photography, and has taken some great photos underwater.

How did you develop your style?
I am all freestyle. I will start with a rough idea in my head, start to work on the piece and then before I know it, the piece is leading me down this beautiful path.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
I started about 10 years ago working with ceramic tile and doing outside pottery and flower boxes. But after taking Sharra's class I fell in love with working with glass on glass.

How do you work best?
In my studio, listening to my favorite show Bones. Once I start a project I get so wrapped up in it I forget about everything else. I find it very relaxing and therapeutic.

How do you approach a mosaic?
I will start with a large window and think of it as a blank canvas. Using our photos from Cozumel I will try to capture the scene with the colored glass.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
Most have been given away as I feel I am still learning and see these as my practice pieces. My family is more than happy to oblige me by taking them.

What have you learned?
Patience and how to walk away from the project if I am forcing it.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
This is a part time passion. It is very different from what I do in real life and that is why I love it, working on mosaics allows my creativity to come through. Our family is also very active, Nicole is a sophomore at St. Thomas, and Alex is a junior in High School, need I say any more.

Where do you work?
I finally broke free out of the damp basement, and have a studio in the main part of the house. My husband had built shelves for my glass and an adjustable podium to work on the windows.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
How relaxing it is and how it changes everyday that you work on it.

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc...?
I would like to some day work with young children to inspire them to create. Both of my children are very creative individuals.

Featured Artist of the Month: Stacia Goodman

2010-07-04T07:51:00.001-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Stacia Goodman

Website: www.staciagoodmanmosaics.com

Email: Stacia@staciagoodman.com

What kind of mosaics do you make?
My mosaic work is continually evolving. Currently, I'm focusing on intricate glass mosaic jewelry, tile spiritual altars, and tile and rock wall pieces. I've moving more and more toward what I call a "peaceful" mosaic style.

When did you start making mosaics?
I think it was about eight years ago. I took a beginning mosaics class taught by Sheryl Tuorila at the old Clay Squared to Infinity location. And prior to that, I had taken an assemblage class with the lovely Mimi Holmes.

How did you get into mosaics?
I was famished for a hands-on, non-writing (I'm a freelance copywriter by day) creative outlet and began taking various art classes. As a kid, I had loved making collage art, gathering shiny objects and using tools. As an adult, I had brief affairs with drawing, beading and pottery. Mosaics allowed me to merge it all. It was love at first break!

What inspires you?
Patterns in nature. Architecture. Great writing. Other artist-moms. The seekers.

How did you develop your style?
Hmmmm, I'm still striving for a style. Once I think I'm there, my work morphs and evolves, and I get distracted by another direction I simply MUST explore.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
A few classes and a lot of practice, band-aids and late nights. I'll never stop learning.

How do you work best?
In my home studio, listening to NPR, kids in bed ... and some good chocolate and my dog by my side for company.

How do you approach a mosaic?
As a possibility! I rarely sketch anything first. Instead, I gather my supplies and start piecing the puzzle together, arranging and rearranging, until I'm ready to glue. I have to touch my materials and feel how they'll work together. The design is in my hands not my head.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
I've sold many at various non-juried shows over the years and had commissions. I've had my work in a few local stores, but not currently. I store the rest in my studio, until my next show.

What have you learned?
That getting discouraged gets me nowhere, and that I don't give up easily.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
I have three school-aged kids, and my husband and I are both self-employed; finances are tight. Thus, my professional copywriting work trumps my mosaic time. I mosaic when my writing workload is slow or at night or on the weekends. My husband (who is in the creative field as a graphic designer and professional voice talent) is tremendously supportive, as are my kids (most of the time).

Where do you work?
In my basement studio, which just moved from a former cellar to a larger, open space. Hurray! But I still contend with centipedes and bad lighting. My dream: a studio on top of the garage flooded with natural light.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
1.) The quiet. 2.) Shedding my worries by making lovely objects that other people actual want to own. What a thrill, thrill, thrill!

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc...?
Yes, last spring I completed a two-story interior installation at Kenwood Elementary School in Minneapolis. It's made entirely from tile, school supplies, and hand-made ceramic leaves that the students made. It's super cool, and I still can't believe I pulled it off.

Featured Artist of the Month: Gil Gragert

2010-07-04T07:50:00.002-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Gil Gragert

Email: gil.gragert@state.mn.us

What kind of mosaics do you make?
I work primarily in picassiette (broken pieces art) on three dimensional forms, but I often incorporate stones, glass, beads, ceramic tile and even plastic toys. I like the art of reconstituting objects into other forms.

When did you start making mosaics?
I have been doing various sorts of assemblage for as long as I can remember. During my grade school years I remember coloring pieces of paper, cutting them into pieces and pasting them in my coloring book, likely influenced by the stain glass windows of my Catholic Church upbringing. About six years ago I started doing mosaic in the more traditional sense.

How did you get into mosaics?
Six or seven years ago I happened across "Clay Squared to Infinity", a tile maker's shop in Northeast Minneapolis. It was there that I began looking at materials and seeing the work that was being done. I talked with them about materials, substrates, etc. I also talked with folks at commercial tile stores. I started collecting second hand ceramic objects and experimenting in the media on various surfaces. Once I started, I couldn't really stop.

What inspires you?
By far, how people relate to our world inspires me. I try to understand what they pursue and why; how they impact and designate their places in the world; what their desires, emotions or aspirations may manifest. The forces, elements and colors of nature also inspire me. I more often work in muted, earthy tones rather than bright colors.

How did you develop your style?
It seems that I tend more toward design rather than imagery. I'm not sure that I have a real specific mosaic style; it may be a style that I often use in all media I work in. Because I like flowing lines and muted colors a lot, some of my work has been described as Art Nouveau-ish, but I think it's hard to nail down anyone's style these days as experimentation and approaches change and artists evolve with different influences and media possibilities.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
Although I have consulted some with experienced mosaic artists and tile experts, I am primarily self-taught. I've never taken a mosaic class, but have applied technical knowledge from working with various materials for other purposes. Some things I've learned by trial and error, often a sloppy process, but one can learn a lot by trying different things and observing why they fail or succeed.

How do you work best?
On more complicated projects, I find myself pondering the various structural challenges, and design and color theory for quite awhile before I start. I may or may not draw out my idea before beginning execution. I just like to have ideas running through my head. I most often work with music on in the background. When I work with others, I like to work in very small groups of no more than four or five.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
Much of my work I give to friends and family. I've had a few commissions. I also donate to silent auctions. Most of my latest work has been incorporated into our garden.

What have you learned?
I have learned a lot about the range of qualities and characteristics among materials, adhesives, substrates and grouts that could be used in mosaic. Over time, I've developed a preference for those that will stand up to the elements in Minnesota's climate, as I'm working more on larger pieces for our garden.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
While I work a regular job full time and have the usual family obligations, I try to work daily on mosaic projects. Friends and family enjoy and often praise and encourage my work. I try to influence everyone to pursue art in their own way as I know that experiencing the arts add significantly to our quality of life.

Where do you work?
Spring through fall I use a studio above our garage; during the winter I use my basement studio. For some of the messier processes I try to work outside.

What do you like most about working with mosaics?
Mosaic adds color, design, depth and texture to sometimes drab surfaces. In the last several years, I look at everything differently. I often think about how objects can be transformed by being mosaiced or how they may be reconstituted in parts. My world has been expanded through mosaic.

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc...?
In the process of teaching mosaic to others, I've worked on some group mosaic projects. I've also worked a little with children and disabled adults in various media. Once my time is freed up from a regular job, I hope to work on public art projects and/or volunteer in schools.

Featured Artist of the Month: Judy Sell

2010-07-04T07:50:00.001-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Judy Sell

Websites: www.judysell.com
www.judysellmosaics.blogspot.com

Email: selljudy@yahoo.com

What kind of mosaics do you make?
Sentimental.

When did you start making mosaics?
1991

How did you get into mosaics?
I saw my first piece of Memoryware, which is a form of American folk-art. Jugs, jars, bottles and other vessels were covered in assorted findings such as buttons, shards of old dishes, you know, priceless personal tidbits. LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT.

What inspires you?
Outsider artists and things that have been horded then sorted.

How did you develop your style?
I use mostly found objects and objects chosen by the recipient to be included, that's what really dictates how to proceed.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
Self taught really. Trial and error. First with a glue gun and now with ApoxieSculpt. I have taken classes in the last 4 years to find out some tricks. It gets real old making mistakes. I like having it demonstrated too. All of the info is in books and online but I don't retain much of what I read but I love seeing it happen.

How do you work best?
When I have too much stuff and having really great choices for the projects.

How do you approach a mosaic?
With sheer joy!

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
Remember when you got that great dress for prom and you tried it on every night, before bed, for a month? I go look at it a couple times at night before bed and delight. I do commissions so I have to get my peeks in before they go home.

What have you learned?
People like to save little tidbits.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
I work part-time at Star Tribune so I have Thursdays and Fridays to dedicate to mosaics.

Where do you work?
An 1888 basement. Spooky!

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
Searching for the perfect thing to put in that one spot that will delight.

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc...?
Check the www.judysellmosaics.blogspot.com site, that shows a lot of different community projects.

Featured Artist of the Month: Suzanne Demeules

2010-07-04T07:49:00.001-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Suzanne Demeules

What kind of mosaics do you make?
All different kinds right now. I'd like to experiment with contemporary next.

When did you start making mosaics?
I took a class with Sheryl Tourila about 6 years ago. Did not do anything after that but always wanted to. Since then about a little over a year ago I took Sharra Frank's glass on glass and have been working on mosaics ever since.

How did you get into mosaics?
Years ago I was looking for some kind of artistic outlet and picked up a Martin Cheek mosaic book and loved the colors and textures. I always wanted to do it but did not have the time or space. Now I do! (At least a little more time)

What inspires you?
Colors in nature, contemporary artists, going to museums and taking classes keeps me motivated.

How did you develop your style?
I'm finding I love movement and color so I'm still exploring with that concept.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
It's been developing over time. Years of taking art classes at Minnetonka center for the Arts. Also I dabbled in needlepoint because of the texture and colors, and finally coming to the medium I like the most-mosaics!

How do you work best?
In my studio with no one around and MPR on. It's such a peaceful environment to work in.

How do you approach a mosaic?
I make a sketch then several copies of that sketch. From there I try different colors using colored pencils. I then make it to the size I want by either taking it to a photo shop or using a overhead projector. I then trace it on my substrate and go from there. (I have not made that many but the last few I have used this technique and it's worked well)

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
A few are in my studio some are around our home. (I'm still building up stock of finished pieces)

What have you learned?
I have learned a little more about time management and how important it is to set a routine.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
I'm still struggling with this since I have two teenagers that are busy in all sorts of things that I make it a priority to attend and help with. During the school year I have a routine of working from 10am-2:00pm.

Where do you work?
I have a studio above an unattached garage on our property. We just finished this space last summer.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
The design process. It's funny that when you're in the "mosaic frame of mind" you can get inspired by the oddest things.

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc...?
Not yet but would love to be part of it.

Featured Artist of the Month: Connie Glynn Cohen

2010-07-04T07:48:00.000-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Connie Glynn Cohen

Website: www.spizzimosaics.com

What kind of mosaics do you make?
I work primarily with either Italian or Mexican Smalti, but I'm starting to add stained glass to the mix.

When did you start making mosaics?
I've been making mosaics for about 7 years.

How did you get into mosaics?
It all happened by fluke - a friend of mine saw a "do it yourself" program about cutting plates and tile and said that we should start doing mosaics. We started making our mosaics out of ceramic tile and I was hooked. A couple years later, my mom and I took Lucianna's mosaic course in Ravenna, Italy. That was my introduction to using smalti and I've been head over heels about it since.

What inspires you?
Anything, everything

How did you develop your style?
Do we actually develop a style or is our style just what we do and how we do it? Whether I'm studying someone else's technique or free-forming on my own, I think my hand and personal sensibility comes through without really thinking about it.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
I started just playing and experimenting with materials and tools on my own. I've taken a few classes to learn either some basics and tips or have the experience of learning from a particular mosaic artist.

How do you work best?
Before I start a project, I have to clean and organize my studio and, in a sense, transform my space into a clean slate. Generally, I work alone, especially during the design phase of a project. When I'm in production, I love when other artist friends bring their work over and we create and work on our own projects together. Sometimes I listen to music while I work and many times I just work in the peaceful quietness of nothing.

How do you approach a mosaic?
I write or sketch in a journal almost every day. That's really were all of my projects start.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
I do a happy dance!

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
Mosaics are what I do.

Where do you work?
I have a studio in my house and a studio in the California building in Northeast Minneapolis . I love the flexibility of dancing between the two.

Have you ever done public art, community art, worked with children, etc...?
I've done several projects with children - a couple of Artist in Residency programs at Lake Country School and an Artist in Residency for a local Girl Scout Camp. I love the energy of working with kids and the collaborative outcome. I have also done an Artist in Residency with Kulture Klub Collaborative. KKC is a non-profit that offers art opportunities to homeless youth. The project was a community art "totem" that celebrated the individuality of each person within the context of the community. It was part of the 15 year celebration of KKC and was shown at the SOO-VAC Gallery.

Featured Artist of the Month: Julie Reeve

2010-07-04T07:47:00.002-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Julie Reeve

Name: Julie Reeve

Website: www.mnartists.org/Julie_Reeve

Email: jareeve@isd.net

What kind of mosaics do you make?
I tend to use two materials consistently; stained glass and beads but use other materials as well. I don't have a studio space so that limits the size I'm able to comfortably work on.

How did you get into mosaics?
I took a community Education class taught by Sharra Frank in 2005. We made a small bird bath. It was the first time I had taken a class where all the projects turned out great. I attribute it to Sharra's teaching that everyone's project turned out. So when I saw Sharra teaching a class the next year I took it. I highly recommend Sharra as a teacher. When my Father died it all changed. I went from makings flower pots to making art. My life felt out of control and placing the random bits and pieces into order and creating something beautiful was therapy for me.

What inspires you?
I'm inspired by nature, color, members of the MMG and other artists.

How did you develop your style?
I work at painting in watercolor and that has taught me to edit and has given me more confidence with composition. I also have worked a little with mirrors and etching on the mirror. I like the way mirrors put the viewer into the composition.

How do you work best?
I carry a sketchbook with me just about all the time. I do little sketches of subjects that are interesting to me. I also tape things in it like a scrapbook. I can refer to the book when I need an idea. I had half of my deck enclosed and store material and work there in the summer. It's not a three season porch more like one long season. For the other long season I pretty much work on my lap. I work in the evenings and have a tendency to stay up to late. I do all of my grouting at work.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
Lori Greene and Maria Ricke have been very supportive of my work and have encouraged me to display my mosaics at Mosaic on a Stick. I'm finding it's not enough to have a talent. You also need a talent for using your talent. I try to take advantage of the opportunities that are available through MMG for showing my mosaics.

What have you learned?
• I need to be more organized.
• I would love to have a studio that I could work year round in.
• Keep a sketch book handy.
• Set goals.

Where do you work?
I have a sign business, Main Event Signs with my sister Jeanne Jensen. We have a lot of the same interest but mosaic isn't one of them.

Featured Artist of the Month: Cheryl Anderson

2010-07-04T07:47:00.001-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Cheryl Anderson

Name: Cheryl Anderson

Website: mnartists.org/Cheryl_Anderson

Contact info: cheryland94@comcast.net

How did you get into mosaics?
I have always worked in many art media, and came to mosaic 10 years
ago when I had the good fortune to spend a week with Judy Onofrio at the
Split Rock Arts Program. Her non-traditional approach to mosaic hooked me
from the start. A few years later I participated in the WARM mentor/
protégée program. Working with Mimi Holmes, I focused on sculptural mosaic
with broken auto glass as tesserae, and have continued in that vein since.

What kind of mosaics do you make?
I play with many different materials and styles, but work most
consistently with broken auto glass or tempered glass. The organic, veined
feeling this material imparts is intriguing to me, and new ideas are
constantly surfacing. The technique is one I have explored for several
years on both flat and sculptural forms. It starts with a lightweight
substrate of wediboard or carved foam, covered with thinset or sculptepoxy
and then painted. The pieces of broken glass are then applied with silicon
and the work is grouted. I often use several colors of grout and am
currently experimenting with painting the grout.
Because I like to try new things, I am often making small sample pieces to
see if my latest great idea actually works. Thankfully, I have studio space
in my home that is big enough to allow me to have a couple of projects going
at once, often as trial samples, or as projects in other media.

How do you approach a mosaic?
When I start a new piece, I usually have a vision of what it will
look like, and may even do a rough drawing and brain storming notes. But
working with the materials always transforms the vision into something
different; at least more realistic, and maybe more interesting.

What inspires you?
I am inspired by nature, by other artists and by the materials I
work with.. Currently I am working on a series in several mediums that is
inspired by the Hubble deep space telescope photographs. These images have
been taking my breath away for years and have now taken over my art.
I’m an art crawl junkie, and I love going to studios, gallerys and museums.
Seeing the work of other artists constantly brings little “Eureka” moments
that teach me how to solve a problem, how to handle a medium, how to get it
to express what I want, etc. I always carry an art journal with me to jot
down notes, ideas and inspirations.

Being in the Mosaic Guild is an inspiration as is the Pastel Society and a
monthly art group I’ve been in for 13 years. Our wonderful community of
artists feeds my soul and their generosity in sharing what they know and do
fills me with gratitude.

How do you fit mosaics into your life?
Like most artists, my art had to fit in the cracks between work and
other commitments for much of my life. However, I was able to retire from
my library career in 2005 and am now trying to be a full-time, ‘real’
artist. For me, this means getting up every day and making art, and then
putting it out in the world.

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
Like most artists, I’m in danger of being buried alive by my
collection of art work and supplies. I want to move the work on to other
homes, but am finding that requires as much effort as creating the art does.
I have pieces in several shows every year, and will have my
first one person show this year in my church’s gallery…a small start, with a
forgiving audience. Later this year I will be one of the WARM artists
showing at the MN Women’s Building.

What have I learned about art, mosaics and myself?
- Get started early if there is a deadline because I’m a slow worker.
- When in doubt about a technique, color or material; make a small
sample.
- The hardest part of any project is getting started; so just do it; the
work flows downhill from then on.
- Pay attention to the world around you. It’s endlessly fascinating
and full of ideas for projects.
- When you go for a walk, always wear clothes with pockets…scavaging
is an art activity.
- Art withdrawal makes me cranky and depressed, so find time for art
every day.

Featured Artist of the Month: Janine Irisarri

2010-07-04T07:46:00.001-07:00

Featured Artist of the Month: Janine Irisarri

Name: Janine Irisarri

Contact info: guillermo.irisarri@comcast.net

What kind of mosaics do you make?
I use stained glass.

When did you start making mosaics?
Spring of 2006

How did you get into mosaics?
After I retired from teaching Spanish, one of my goals was to learn how to draw and eventually learn how to paint. I was on that path, taking drawing classes and some painting classes, when a fellow MMG member, Barbara Steen, told me about a mosaic class that was being offered at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts. They needed more people for the class so I decided to take it! Who would have thought that this class would launch me in a new direction, exposing me to a medium I knew nothing about! But here I am 2 years later and totally committed to mosaic art. I love the reflective qualities of the glass, the colors, and the fact that mosaics breathe new life into my drawings. I also find, the challenges that making mosaics present, stimulating..... except for the little cuts and glass slivers that imbed themselves into my fingers! I had no idea that band-aids would be an essential supply along with rubber gloves and grout!

What inspires you?
I find inspiration in the sensual shape of a pear or flower petal as well as in geometric designs. Shape and pattern are the two things that capture my attention. One can find inspiration in everything, it is just a matter of allowing oneself to see.

Gustav Klimt has been an inspiration to many artists and I have seen many of his works redone in mosaic. I love his use of pattern and the detail he incorporates into his work.

I am also inspired by the works of other mosaic artists. I admire the mosaic artist that can render the human face, capture the cast of light on an object or depict the gentle folds in a piece of fabric. That is truly admirable.

How did you develop your style?
I don't think I consciously set out to develop a style. You could say that my style is the result of discovering what best works for me. At this moment, I feel most comfortable working in a more precise style. Attention to detail is a characteristic that seems to repeat itself in my mosaics too.

I believe that my style is "a style in progress". What evolves from more learning, more practicing, and more experimenting will become my style.

How did you learn to make mosaics?
I have taken several classes from Sharra Frank and the one class that started it all at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts from Carrie Dean. Beyond that I have poured through many, many mosaic books reading about how other artists work. My favorite at the moment is Mosaic: Finding Your Own Voice by Brit Hammer-Dijcks.

How do you work best?
SLOWLY! Sounds funny but that's one of the things I appreciate about this medium. With mosaics I feel I have a fair amount of control over the outcome. I can place each piece of glass as carefully or as quickly as I choose. And I can remove a piece of glass if I need to... kind of like erasing a line you don't like in a drawing. I work best if I start out with a fairly well defined plan... even if I end up changing some things in the process. I admire those artists that can work in a more spontaneous manner and that may well come to me as I progress.

How do you approach a mosaic?
Often I will have an idea or an image and it will percolate in my mind for months before I am finally ready to use it. The best way for me to bring the image out is to start with a drawing. In many cases, it begins with several small drawings of the subject. When I was working on my piece, Two Red Pears, I had red pears all over the kitchen that I was using for drawing purposes. My husband received numerous reprimands when he tried to take them for lunch! But he learned.... and the operative question became.... Is this pear edible?!

My mind will spin with questions about how I will render this subject with glass.... what shapes of glass will I use, what colors will work well together and what color grout will I use to unify the piece? After presumably answering all of my questions, they are always subject to revision! All this before one piece of glass is cut.....whew!

What do you do with your mosaics once you finish?
Up until now, I have only exhibited my work in the two shows that MMG had last year plus in the State Fair Creative Activities Building. It is my goal to develop a body of work that I might be able to exhibit someday. I would also like to enter a piece in a juried show. Right now, however, my finished mosaics are resting comfortably on a bed in the spare bedroom!

What have you learned?
The learning curve has been high over the last 2 years... learning about adhesives, cutting glass, design, color, and probably a lot more! Perhaps this is one explanation for working so slowly and carefully.

I have learned that you can't rush the process if you want things to turn out right. Also, if you have a good design to begin with, half of the battle has been won. For me, the work that is done before the first piece of glass is glued down is perhaps the most important

If anything puts fear into my heart, it's the grouting process. I become so attached to the piece before it's grouted that I'm afraid the grout will ruin it. I have resorted to making small samples using different grout colors before I actually grout the final piece. In my most recent piece, Poppies in a Blue Vase, I used three different grouts. This testing process served me well in determining exactly what grouts to use.

How do you fit mosaics into your personal/family life?
Mosaics fit perfectly into my life at this point. A few years ago, while working and raising two children, it might have been more difficult. Now, however, with only a husband (who is still working) and two adorable standard poodles to care for, I can pretty much dedicate as much time as I want to mosaics.

Where do you work?
I have a small space in the basement that I call my studio. It isn't much but it is totally mine and I don't have to worry about flying shards of glass. The only problem is trying to keep it organized because a small space can soon become overrun with clutter.

What is your favorite thing about working with mosaics?
I actually love the whole process....from the initial designing, envisioning the final mosaic, working out the challenges, watching the transformation from one small piece to a whole and finally to seeing the finished product.. There is nothing more satisfying than looking at a piece that you have just grouted and feeling happy with the outcome!