PieceMaker Mosaic Artists

Opening Night for Joanne Paquin

2012-02-11T14:23:00.006-05:00

Last night was a big night for PieceMaker Joanne Paquin! Artworks Gallery, in New Bedford Massachusetts, held a big opening night reception for their gallery members, Joanne being one of them. Her work looked amazing, and the event had a huge turnout. Congratulations Joanne on a successful gallery opening night, and having your work displayed in such a beautiful space. It's a very well deserved honor!

Joanne, with one of her beautiful pieces.

Joanne's stunning mosaic instrument on the right.

To purchase Joanne's work, you can visit her Etsy shop here, or head over to Artworks Gallery in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Artworks has a great website, full of information as well... you can click here to see it & find info about visiting the gallery.

Interview with PieceMaker, Kelly, from Seaside Glass Works

2012-01-18T07:31:00.011-05:00

I'm so excited to introduce you to Kelly, from Seaside Glass Works! Kelly is so talented, and always working on custom mosaic orders. You can see LOTS more of her work, or email her any questions about custom orders, through her etsy shop.

What's your real name? How did you come up with your shop name?

My real name is Kelly Harris. I'd been trying to figure out a shop name for a while - and it came to me pretty easily once we moved to the beach! I wish I had a more clever story for the way it came about!

How long have you been creating mosaics? What was your first piece?

I've been creating mosaics for about 10 years now. My first piece was a mirror that I did in a stained glass class I took in college. It was a bunch of ladybugs, flowers & vines with the words "love", "joy" & "happiness" mixed in. I still have it, though it's currently sitting in the garage waiting for me to find the perfect place to hang it! I first started perfecting the candle holders & vases that I currently sell in my shop once I moved to California and didn't have money to buy birthday gifts for my friends - I realized I could just make them something cool instead! When I see my first pieces nowadays I cringe a little bit - too much grout, not clean enough, etc. - but I'm glad to see that my friends still cherish them and like the fact that they're my "early works". :)

What other art do you do, if any?

I'm really good at lettering (I was a sign-maker at Trader Joe's for three years), so I do a lot of odd jobs at work when they need a sign or nice lettering for one thing or another. I also scrapbook (when I have time) and knit baby blankets for my friends when they have kids. :) Some folks would only count that stuff as "crafts", but I certainly consider it art!!

Have you participated in any shows, gotten cool recognition for your work, or any other personal achievement you want to share with us?

I haven't really been a part of any shows or won any prizes for my work, but I have been featured on the front page of a website for interior design called DesignStyleGuide.net and have been commissioned to make multiple mosaic candle holders for weddings and such. I've also been featured in a few random blogs here and there!

What would be your dream to mosaic? ... a building? .... a town mural? ...etc.

I've never actually thought about what a dream to mosaic would be - but I think it would be crazy fun to do a bench in my town or make a bunch of fun cafe table tops for one of the cute cafes nearby. Since it's so hard for me to find a bunch of space to do anything crazy big, currently I don't have dreams of large scale things - but one day maybe it'll happen!!

Is being an artist your full-time job?

I WISH being an artist was my full-time job! I currently work about 60 hours a week in television (which is awesome, don't get me wrong) and it's hard to find as much time to play with artsy things as I'd like.

Tell us about your family or your daily life or about the area where you live.

I live right off the shore of the Pacific Ocean in a little town called Redondo Beach, California with my boyfriend Charlie. We have a cute little one-bedroom apartment which is a 30-second walk to the beach and a 5-minute walk to grocery stores, restaurants, our favorite bars, shops, etc. We have two adorable little hamsters and love to spend the weekends with friends, either BBQ-ing or just hanging out while the guys play music. I love to ride my bike to the nearby pier and one of my favorite sounds in the world is listening to the ocean while I fall asleep!

What are some of your favorite things about being part of the PieceMaker group?

What I love about the PieceMaker group is that everyone is so friendly and just accepts you right away. I found an instant support group of women - even though (in my case) I haven't ever met any of them! It's so nice to form friendships with people who have the same passions you do - who can give you positive feedback and inspire you to go bigger and better with each project!

Please head over to Seaside Glass Works and check out Kelly's other 45 beautiful mosaics that she has for sale! - and come back to the PieceMaker blog to meet another PieceMaker next week!

Interview with Fischer Fine Arts!

2012-01-18T07:30:00.005-05:00

Meet PieceMaker artist, Melissa Fischer, of Fischer Fine Arts. Mel is a wonderful member of our talented team, and it's an honor to get a glimpse into her creative world. To see more of her work, you can head over to Mel's Etsy page here.

What's your real name? How did you come up with your shop name?

My real name is Melissa Fischer. My close friends call me Mel, so I chose to go by Mel as an artist, as it is indeed a personal thing to people. Fischer Fine Arts was borne upon the idea that not only do I love doing mosaics, but all sorts of fine arts, and my daughters, Charlee Fischer, age 26, and even Aimée, who is now soon to be 14 years old. Since this is indeed a family business, and that we will eventually incorporate different forms of art, it made sense to name the business as Fischer Fine Arts.

How long have you been creating mosaics? What was your first piece?

My first piece was a small votive candle holder. I made many mistakes from it, but learned a lot. I keep that piece as a reminder to myself of the growth it takes. I've been doing arts for my entire life, but mosaics for the past 10 years.

What other art do you do, if any?

A lot...many may not know that I have a background in theater as well as fashion design, jewelry making, drawing, music and water color painting. I love experimenting with combining different elements of these into certain pieces I do. Each of these draws from the other for inspiration and composition. At one point, I applied t go back to school for a degree, but was turned down on the basis that I should actually TEACH the course and that I was overqualified. It was a frustration point for me, as I feel that there is always something to be learned.

What kind of shows have you been a part of? Have you won any prizes or gotten some kind of cool recognition for any work?

Well, earlier, when I worked in retail as well, I won several awards for having the best window displays. I've done a number of trade shows before, both to public and to wholesale venues in different forms of my art. It's a huge amount of work to do these shows with an expense that is enormous. Some of the ones I've done ran into the thousands for expenses...not fond of having to do that again! I haven't really entered any competitions or juried awards for artwork since then...just never felt the need to. I just plug away, doing what I do. The best reward to me is when someone purchases a piece, saying it speaks to them in some way, and I love hearing their story. That makes me feel that what I do is then worthwhile and meaningful...best compliment ever!

What would be your dream to mosaic?

This one is difficult to talk about in some ways, as I've kept it secret for many years. I have met families who were affected by the Holocaust and WWII in various ways. For years, I have this piece I really, really want to do that has been stuck in my mind. It's not the sort of piece one would want to hang in their living room. Yes, it depicts horror, yes, it depicts a gruesome side of humanity, but I feel compelled to do it as those that have lived through it are now getting on in years and many have already passed. I feel it is our duty to share this with the world, lest they ever forget. This is the piece I want to create, so generations for many times over, understand that this can never be allowed to happen in our world again.

Is being an artist your full-time job? What other jobs or hobbies consume your time?

I am a full time artist, but a single mother. Yes, it's often hard to make ends meet, and we have to be careful in choosing what we spend our money on wisely. I've been offered higher paying jobs before, that would have taken me away from my older daughter and would not have provided the pure happiness I feel from doing what I do. It's a tough choice, but if things get really rough, then there is a fast food place of some sort down the street I could probably flip burgers in.

For hobbies, I have to admit I absolutely love gardening. Pretty much anything with nature, but it's nice to raise some of our own veggies, reap the rewards and cook them. I'm a very avid cook, gourmet has always been a fascination to me, too, and I'm pretty good at it. For the most part, any extra time I have is spent with my daughters.

Tell us ,briefly, about your family or your daily life or about the area where you live.

I now live in a rural town in Ohio. My daily life consists of having our cat keep poking my face until I get up, usually around 5 am. I make coffee, and yes, I'm a total bear without my coffee! Then the cat gets fed, I check emails and start planning my day. Then I make sure Aimée gets off to school. From there, it's pretty much work of some sort that I have to do until she returns home again. We touch bases on her day, and while she practices her flute and works on homework, I try and finish up any work that is yet to be done. We try to set aside nights where we actually watch her favorite tv shows together and/or just talk and hang out. It doesn't always work out that way, but most of the time it does. It's sometimes hard to walk away from work, but she needs her time, too.

What are some of your favorite things about being part of the PieceMaker group?

I wouldn't know where to start as far as what my favorite thing is about the PieceMaker group. I am a rather shy person by nature, but networking with these people comes so naturally! I know I am not alone in what I do, have people who get it and understand it, understand that the lifestyle as an artist itself is very difficult. The camaraderie here is amazing and supportive and inspiring! And last but by far from least, when you are so alone, it is so important to find the means to laugh, and these people provide that, too! To me, they are now my extended family, that's how much I love these people and what they do! These people are honest and open about successes, failures, learning, etc and it takes guts to say all that. I have such a huge regard for people who are wiling to share that much so we can all learn and support one another.

Please check out Fischer Fine Arts on Etsy, and feel free to write to Mel there about an custom work you might like done!

CHRISTMAS SALE! Wow!!!

2011-12-12T06:32:00.026-05:00

PieceMakers are getting into the Christmas Spirit, and are offering some GREAT deals to their shoppers!!! Check out these coupon codes & take advantage of the sales while they last!!!

Blue Wave Glass is offering 15% off your purchase in her Etsy Shop!! Sale ends December 20th. Enter coupon code: SAVE15 at checkout.

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25% OFF everything in Amanda Edwards' Etsy Shop! THIS WEEK ONLY!
Use Coupon Code: hohoho2011
This could translate into an $800 savings on some pieces!!!!

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Seaside Glassworks is offering FREE SHIPPING up until Christmas! Enter coupon code: holidays11 at checkout! (note: custom work will not be completed until after Christmas)

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At Tina's Mosaics you can get 15% off your order total using Coupon Code 15OFF at checkout!

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Greene Girls Studio is offering 10% off when you enter the coupon code JINGLES at checkout!

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Get 15% off at Fischer Fine Arts when you use coupon code FFAPIECES!

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Get 10% off, until December 23rd, in Flowering Moon 's Shop, by entering coupon code 104HOLIDAY at checkout!

Happy Holidays, from the PieceMakers!

Black & White Challenge Winner!

2011-12-08T06:11:00.006-05:00

The results are in... and I must say that it was SUCH a close race right from the start! We got in 186 votes... so thank you to EVERYONE (the participants & all the voters) for making this such a successful challenge! After a week of voting, the over-all favorite piece is Gentle Soul, by Mycentir Mosaics!

"Gentle Soul"

Congratulations Mycentir Mosaics! It's a beautiful piece. Everyone should know that this, and many of the other challenge pieces, are FOR SALE! To read more about this piece, click here. To see more about any of the other challenge pieces, or to contact the artists, just click the artist's name under the piece.

Second Place Over-all Favorite piece was Pal's Creations' amazing vase!

Third Place Over-all Favorite piece was the beautiful "Night Vigil" by Renegade Rose!

A BIG Thank You to Tiny Tiles Mosaics, who is donating a gift certificate to the winner of this challenge! If you've never used Tiny Tiles before, please head over and check out their website... they produce the smallest ceramic tiles in the world! There is a VERY cool gallery to look through, which includes work by our very own Betsy Greene (of Greene Girls Studio)!

Again, thank you to everyone who made this, and all of our other challenges, a success! Every participant should be VERY proud of their pieces... they're all beautiful & inspirational.

We'll see you at the next challenge voting, the beginning of February 2012!

Black & White Challenge!

2011-11-27T07:17:00.029-05:00

Welcome to the Piece Maker Black and White Challenge! There are a whole lot of entries, so make sure you scroll down slowly. :) You can click on the artist's name (or shop name) under each entry to see more of the artist's work, or to contact them for more information about their entry. After taking a look at all the entries, please don't forget to vote for your favorite one! Voting will end one week from today. The artist with the over-all favorite piece will receive a gift certificate from Tiny Tiles Mosaics.

Have fun looking, and congrats to all the artists!! The entries are all amazing!!

Entry 1.

Vase
Pal's Creations

Entry 2.

"Gentle Soul"
Mycentir Mosaics

Entry 3.

"Life"
ZZ Bob's

Entry 4.

Beaded Glass

Entry 5.

"Joint Account"

Waschbear Designs

Entry 6.

Rayna Clark Mosaics

Entry 7.

Glass Art Studio

Entry 8.

"Calm"

Ocean Kisses

Entry 9.

Tribou Mosaics

Entry 10.

"Night Vigil"

Renegade Rose Creations

The name of the surfboard is....

2011-11-13T15:23:00.002-05:00

...Surfing the Deep!

Thanks to all who voted!!!! :)

PieceMaker Surfboard Bench, ready to Donate!

2011-11-11T08:33:00.009-05:00

The board is DONE! This is the finished PieceMaker Surfboard collaboration Mosaic, to be turned into a bench & auctioned off to local business' in Portsmouth NH. Money raised will be donated, and help to keep New Hampshire Beaches clean! It was so much fun to organize the collaboration, see all the cool creatures appearing in my mailbox, and getting to create the background! Here is a list of all the PieceMakers who donated their work to this awesome piece!

Organizer, Designer, and background mosaic: Amanda Edwards
Turtle: Betsy Greene
Yellow fish, and Aqua Fish: Pal's Creations
Mermaid: Waschbear Designs
Dolphin & Clam: Renegade Rose
Orange & Yellow Seahorse: Twin Brooks Mosaics
Brown Fish & seaweed plant: Callas Mosaics
Octopus: Flowering Moon Mosaics
Orange Seahorse cruising around the rocks: Flying Kumquat Studio
Hermit Crabs: Beaded Glass Mosaics
Jellyfish: Tribou Mosaics
Clown Fish: Lotus Mosaics
Yellow & Purple Fish, and assorted wonderful sea-life "filler" critters: Tina's Mosaics

Now, for some fun! NAME THE BOARD! The vote will only be up for the next 24 hours, so choose your favorite name today! ... and tell all your friends! :)

Surf Board Project... ready for grout!

2011-11-06T07:11:00.005-05:00

The PieceMaker Surfboard Bench is ready to be grouted! I was going to grout it this past week, but there was only so much that I could get done in a day, so it had to be postponed.

I'm eager to grout it now though... can't wait to see it all come together!

There will only be 3 grout colors on this piece: black for the water, gray for the rocks, and I'm still totally undecided about what color to grout the creatures.

I will touch base with the PieceMakers this morning, and see what they think.

To read more about the surfboard project, click here.

Christmas Gifts Under $50!

2011-10-24T09:11:00.015-04:00

Yes... you heard me right! You can buy amazing, cool, one of kind art work for less than $50! Art makes WONDERFUL holiday gifts... so get some coffee, pull up a chair, and do some early Christmas Shopping! Just click on the artist's name to see more photos of the piece you're interested in.

Mosaic Pendant, $30
Flowering Moon

Sailboat Jewelry Chest, $18
Tribou Mosaics

Red Drop Earrings, $26
Amanda Edwards

Fly Away Birdie, $38
Flowering Moon

Tree of Life Jewelry Box, $28
Tribou Mosaics

Fly Me to the Moon Mosaic Heart Wall Hanging, $45
Amanda Edwards

Wall Vase, $45
Flowering Moon

Silver Mosaic Frame, $30
Tribou Mosaics

Rainbow Pendant Necklace, $35
Amanda Edwards

Mosaic Stone, $20
Flowing Moon

Sunset Sailing Jewelry Box, $28
Tribou Mosaics

Abstract Buoy Musical Jewelry Box, $22
Tribou Mosaics

Personalized Art Gifts for the Holidays!!!!

2011-10-18T07:07:00.010-04:00

Yes... it's getting to be that time of year again! Time to gear up for the holidays! Quite a few of the PieceMaker artists accept commissions & create wonderful custom pieces for clients. There's something wonderful about giving a custom, one of a kind gift... and you can do this AND support independent artists at the same time! What a win-win! :) Here are some of the wonderful artists creating custom work this holiday season. Order soon, and you'll be guaranteed delivery by Christmas!

Flowering Moon makes these beautiful mirrors, and will customize colors & wording for you. Click here to see her etsy shop, and to send her any questions regarding orders.

Beaded Glass makes these cool, colorful mosaiced name or address sign / plaques. They can adorn your house, hang from a post in your yard or at the end of your driveway. Click here to find out about pricing & to ask her any questions you might have!

PieceMaker artist, Amanda Edwards, creates custom large stained glass mosaic windows out of antique Maine farmhouse windows. Visit her website to contact her regarding these cool custom pieces.

Autumn Art!!

2011-10-10T07:06:00.014-04:00

What a beautiful time of year it is... the trees are changing color, leaves are starting to fall & crunch under foot when you take a walk, Halloween decorations are appearing, recipe books are coming down off the shelf as people start preparing their Thanksgiving menus, and children are all abuzz with plans for trick-or-treating. Artists everywhere are inspired by these things, and PieceMakers are no exception! Here is just some of the wonderful Autumn-inspired artwork (some for sale!) by PieceMaker members. Just click on the artist's name to find out more about the piece or the artist.

Leaf Table, by Flowering Moon

Autumn Tree, by Amanda Edwards

Autumn Light Switch Cover, by Amanda Edwards

Autumn Leaves Welcome Sign, by Flying Kumquat Studios

Leaf, by Renegade Rose

...and the Winner is....

2011-10-08T07:51:00.006-04:00

Butterfly Birdbath
by Pal's Creations

It's such a wonderful piece. The irridecent glass shimmers & glows, the design is wonderful, and will bring so much joy to the outdoor space that it finds it's home in. Congratulations!!! Pal's Creations will be receiving a gift certificate from Tiny Tiles Mosaics.

Everyone who entered this challenge should know that throughout the week, the votes were all VERY close! At times, there were only a couple of votes separating every entry! Every piece entered was just wonderful... so every member deserves a congratulations on creating marvelous entries!

Second Place
Fin, by ZZBob

Third Place
Gezabelle by Beaded Glass

Our next challenge theme has been announced, and is "Black & White". Quite a few PieceMakers are already busy creating a piece to be entered, so come back on December 1st to vote on your favorite!

Outdoor Mosaic Challenge. VOTING TIME!

2011-10-01T04:11:00.003-04:00

What a great time of year it was to be working on an outdoor mosaic! This challenge was a lot of fun, and everyone's pieces show that. :)

Voting will be open for one week. The winners will be announced here next Sunday.

Thank you to Tiny Tile Mosaics, who will be giving the winner a gift certificate to their wonderful shop!

If you would like to contact any of these artists, or see more of their work, just click on their name, and you'll be taken right over to their etsy shop.

Outdoor Mosaic Challenge Entries

Flower Bird Bath
by Tina's Mosaics

2.
Polly
Lotus Mosaics

3.
Fin

by ZzBob

Gezabelle

by Beaded Glass

Gus, the Garden Guardian - Who says this is a TOAD stool?
by Lori Frank

House Number Sign

by Amanda Edwards

7.
Butterfly Birdbath
by Pal's Creations

If you are a mosaic supply shop, and would like to sponsor one of our challenges by donating a gift certificate to the winner, please contact me at aledwards@gmail.com.

Now for the hard part- VOTING!

Surfboard Update!

2011-09-29T20:55:00.002-04:00

The final addition to the PieceMaker Surfboard Project came last week, and I can't believe I'm just now posting it! It's a BEAUTIFUL turtle from Betsy Greene!

The board is coming along. It had to be put on the sidelines for a week or so, but today more of the background appeared. Over the next couple of weeks, a photographer from the Portsmouth Seacoast Project will be coming up to my studio to photograph the board in it's "work in progress" state. Photo's will appear on their blog. When it's up, I'll be sure to post a link!

The addition of a PieceMaker tile (purchased from Mosaic Monkey) also happened today! - and yes... it's right in the middle of the board. - and I think it looks pretty awesome there.

Come back to the blog in a couple of days to vote in the PieceMakers most current mosaic challenge, "Outdoor Mosaics". Voting starts here on October 1st!

Meet PieceMaker Member Mycentir Mosaics

2011-09-28T11:43:00.007-04:00

Meet new PieceMaker member, Melissa, owner of Mycentir Mosaics on Etsy!

How did you come up with your Etsy Shop name?

My real name is Melissa K. McIntyre. My shop's name is Mycentir Mosaics and I came up with the idea for the shop name by scrambling the letters of my last name.

How long have you been creating mosaics? .. and what was your first mosaic?

I just started creating mosaics this year. A sunflower garden stone.

What other art do you do, if any?
I paint and draw.

What kind of shows have you been a part of?

I haven't yet but I do hope too be soon.

What would be your dream mosaic project?

My dream mosaic would be too do all of the backsplash in my kitchen a underwater sea mural.

Is being an artist your full time job?

I wish that being a full time artist was my job. That's my dream job. However, currently I am a student, server, and do room service for a hotel.

Tell us about your family!

I come from a large family of seven kids from a small town in Indiana. When I grew up we didn't have a lot of money and we recycled lots of items. That's made a huge impact on my art. As a result I reuse a lot of materials and love to go "junk" treasure hunting.

What are some of your favorite things about being part of the PieceMaker group?

How nice everyone is. Everyone gives advice, and is always laughing and having a good time. You can be having the worst day and these people are so positive and funny that it makes your day. I love the tips that can help you in other projects you do too.

More of Melissa's work can be seen in her etsy shop! Click any of the items below to head over!

Surfboard coming to Life

2011-09-15T18:40:00.004-04:00

Creatures have started to appear on the surfboard now! There are a lot of rocks, seaweed, coral, and water to be put into the background, as well as one more creature that I'm waiting for...but it's all finally coming together! Everyone's donations are incredible, and it's a pleasure to be putting it together. More updates to come! Read below to see how it's all been unfolding, and to see which PieceMakers sent in donations!

Stribou Mosaics Award Winning Piece!

2011-09-15T08:42:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to PieceMaker member Stribou Mosaics for winning the blue ribbon at the Maine Lobster Festival. It's so deserved... LOVE the design & theme of this piece! Such a creative idea!

CONGRATS TO YOU STRIBOU!

To see more of her mosaics, please head over to her Etsy shop here.

Suncatcher Swap!

2011-09-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

The PieceMakers had a suncatcher swap over the summer! Everyone got the name of another member who was participating, and off to work we went! :) Here are the wonderful creations inspired by the swap. Please click on the names of the artists to head over to their etsy shops and see more cool pieces!

Flowering Moon

Callas Mosaics

Ocean Kisses

Beaded Glass

Liz-Anna's Lakeside Studio

Tina's Mosaics

Amanda Edwards

Waschbear Designs

Pal's Creations

Time to Start Putting them on the Board!

2011-09-10T08:11:00.000-04:00

Only waiting for one more creature for the surfboard, so it's time for me to start putting them on the board! These amazing fish came from Pal's Creations just a few days ago. Aren't they cool?!?!?

To read more about the Surfboard Project, go here.

More Surfboard Art has Arrived!

2011-09-09T08:20:00.003-04:00

The last pieces are now due to come in, so the surfboard can almost officially be put together! This week, these wonderful pieces arrived to find a place on the board. :)

by Waschbear Designs

by Renegade Rose

To read more about the Surfboard Project, go here.

... and they keep on coming...

2011-09-03T08:04:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I was greeted by this beautiful seahorse at the post office. He was created by Twin Brooks Mosaics.

Next week, I'll start putting them on the board! From the looks of it, it's going to be quite a magical underwater scene!

Fish Fish Fish!

2011-08-30T07:27:00.004-04:00

Love this amazing addition to the Surfboard Project! The addition of millefiori to the seaweed adds something wonderful. Fish & seaweed created by Callas Mosaics.

Another Awesome Surfboard Creature!

2011-08-29T10:40:00.002-04:00

Got in another wonderful creature for the Surfboard Project!

Isn't he grand?! I just love him.
Created by Flowering Moon Mosaics.

More Surfboard Mosaic Creatures have Arrived!

2011-08-25T15:38:00.003-04:00

Going to the post office has gotten very exciting. More pieces for the Surfboard Mosaic Bench project have come in! Please go here for more information on this very cool collaboration mosaic. Here are the creatures that arrived today!

by Flying Kumquat Studio

by Beaded Glass Mosaics

by Tribou Mosaics

by Lotus Mosaics

Surf Board Bench

2011-08-22T12:34:00.004-04:00

The PieceMakers are collaborating on their first public mosaic piece! I (Amanda Edwards) was contacted by a non-profit group that's gathering old surf boards & giving them to artists to decorate. They're then turning them into public benches that will be auctioned off to businesses in Portsmouth NH. The money they raise will go toward keeping the New Hampshire coastline clean.

I received the surfboard about a week ago. Here it is, in all it's used glory!

The theme for the surfboard mosaic will be "In the Ocean"... although we haven't decided on a title for the finished piece yet. In all, 14 PieceMaker members will be sending me sea creatures to add to the board. I'll be creating a background & get the ultra fun job of designing the layout with all the cool creatures coming my way! As I get them, I'll post pictures of them on here.

I received the first amazing batch today, from Tina of Tina's Mosaics!

PieceMaker Events & Galleries

2011-08-21T07:37:00.014-04:00

The PieceMakers are always a busy crew. Here are a few events & happenings involving our wonderful team mates!

Tina's Mosaics will have artwork at The River Gallery! If you're in the area, stop by to see some of her stunning landscape mosaics.

The River Gallery
1335 Bay Street
Florence, OR 97439

To see more of Tina's work, please click here and take a look around her Etsy shop!

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Beaded Glass Mosaics will be part of the Ouachita Arts Trail, in Mena Arkansas, from October 7-9, 2011.
This is a free self guided tour of some of the Ouachita’s finest artists... our Beaded Glass Mosaics being one of them!
To see more of Beaded Glass Mosaics work, please head over to her etsy shop here.

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Amanda Edwards' work can be seen at Trinket and Fern... an artist boutique in Portland Maine's Old Port.
Trinket & Fern
On the corner of Exchange Street & Middle Street.
Portland, ME

To see more of Amanda's Work, head over to her etsy site here.

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Flowering Moon Mosaics is now showing her work at Art Works, in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Art Works is a vibrant community arts center. Their mission is to nurture the creative spirit, promote participation in the arts through education, exhibits and events and collaborate with diverse people to spark engagement and imagination.

Art Works
384 Acushnet Ave
New Bedford, MA

To see more of Flowering Moon's beautiful mosaic work, please head over to her etsy shop here.

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PieceMaker member, Tribou Mosaics, is currently showing her work at the Lucky Dog Gallery, in beautiful Rockland Maine. She also recently won the Eddie Harriman Award at the ever-popular Lobster Festival! Congrats!!

The Lucky Dog Gallery
373 Main Street, Rockland Maine

You can also see her work at the Union Fair Blueberry Festival. Please click here for more information.

To see more of Tribou Mosaics pieces, please head over to her Etsy Shop.

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The PieceMakers are working on a collaboration mosaic right now as well! Surfscapes, a non-profit organization in Portsmouth NH helping to keep the New Hampshire coastline clean, has asked us to create a mosaic surfboard for them. The board has seen it's days on the ocean, and the team is recycling it & turning it into a beautiful bench. The PieceMaker surfboard bench will be auctioned off, along with other artist's benches, to local Portsmouth businesses, and then installed in an outdoor public place. More to come as this project unfolds!

... and the winner is....

2011-07-09T06:20:00.005-04:00

*insert drum-roll here*

Congratulations to Waschbear Designs for being voted the over-all favorite piece!

It's a wonderful mosaic... full of spirit & made with much love. I know I speak for many of us when I say that I've come across wise old trees in the forest that exuded this same feeling that Waschbear has captured. It's a magical mosaic.

And congratulations to the two other amazing entries as well! Both of the other entries are vibrant, unique, and inspiring designs. Asking people to choose an over-all favorite piece seems almost cruel sometimes. :)

Thank you to Tiny Tile Mosaics, who will be giving the winner a gift certificate to their wonderful shop!

If you are a mosaic supply shop, and would like to sponsor one of our challenges by donating a gift certificate to the winner, please contact me at aledwards@gmail.com.

Tree of Life

2011-06-24T08:32:00.009-04:00

It's summer! - and the PieceMakers are all busy at mosaics, work, play, family, and all the other things that come along with this very busy time of year. I know that many of our members tried to get a piece going for this challenge, but 'tis the time of year where there just aren't enough hours in the day! Lucky for us all though, 3 of our incredibly talented team mates participated in this challenge. The theme is "Tree of Life". They're all spectacular pieces. Please take a moment to check out the shops of these three wonderful artists along with casting your vote for your favorite piece!

Entry 1.
Waschbear Designs

Entry 2.
Lotus Mosaics

Entry 3.
Pal's Creations

poppydog.com polls

Exciting Happenings in the PieceMaker World

2011-05-18T16:17:00.016-04:00

PieceMaker members are always busy... busy with glass, art, glass, life, and did I mention glass? It's sometimes hard to keep up with all the events, shows, new gallery exhibits. Here is a run-down of things happening right now, possibly in your neighborhood, involving a PieceMaker!

Tina's Mosaics

Tina sells her work at Brown Dog Antiques and Gifts. Stop in any day to see her beautiful work.

On Hwy. 101 and 6th St, in Florence Oregon.

Tina also has a mosaic piece entered in the Rhododendron Days Festival, in Florence Oregon. The festival is this weekend, May 20, 21, and 22.

Liz-Anna's on the Lake

You can see Liz-Anna's work every day the the Arts North Artisan Center, in Burns Lake, British Columbia.

Blue Wave Glass

Blue Wave Glass has a wonderful interview published on Audrey's Country Craft's Blog. Click here to read the interview.

Amanda Edwards

Amanda's large penny mosaic kitchen floor was recently on the cover of the Home & Garden section of the Portland Press Herald. Read the interview & see the article here.

You can see also see Amanda's work any day at Trinket & Fern Artist Boutique, at 172 Middle Street, in Portland Maine's Old Port.

Pieceful Arts

Pieceful Arts is teaching at a Country Summer Arts program this summer, in Waterford Canada. Please contact her here for more information!

Look again soon for more updates, and to see PieceMaker member events & happenings that might be happening near you!

CONGRATULATIONS!

2011-05-08T07:08:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to our winner! The results are in!
The over-all favorite piece in our Kaleidoscope challenge is this awesome lamp by Beaded Glass!

First Place, Over-all favorite piece

Please head over to Beaded Glass' etsy shop to see more of her work!

...and coming in a VERY close second place....

2nd place

Pal's Creations

Thank you again to Tiny Tile Mosaics, for supplying the challenge winner with a gift certificate to their awesome shop!

And one more thank you to everyone who voted & for everyone who supports this incredible team!

Kaleidoscope Challenge

2011-04-29T09:51:00.014-04:00

When you're a kid, Kaleidoscopes are magical... and for many of us, I don't think that feeling ever really disappeared. As always, the interpretation of this theme from artist to artist is so different. I think you'll be wowed & inspired by the entries. Voting is at the bottom of this post. - yes, we're asking you to pick a favorite! The winner of this challenge will receive a gift certificate from Tiny Tiles: a great store selling some of the smallest tiles in the world.

Click on the artist's name to head over to their etsy shop, and see more of their work!

Entry 1

by Blue Wave Glass

Entry 2

by Pal's Creations

Entry 3

by Ocean Kisses

Entry 4

by Flowering Moon

Entry 5

by Waschbear "The Girl with Kaleidoscope Eyes"

Entry 6
by Beaded Glass

Congrats to All!

2011-03-07T06:56:00.003-05:00

First, Congrats to EVERYONE who entered the Feather Challenge! This team is full of SO MUCH talent... it's overwhelming, and wonderful. In total, 424 votes came in this past week.

The 1st Place Winner of this challenge is receiving a gift certificate from Tiny Tile Mosaics. Thank you Tiny Tiles!

First Place, Over-all Favorite Piece

Scarlet Bird of Paradise, by Waschbear

Congratulations Waschbear!!!

2nd place
Seagull, by Amanda Edwards

3rd place
Trail of Tears, by Beaded Glass

Again, congrats to everyone who entered... it was a wonderful challenge!

Feather Challenge VOTING TIME!

2011-03-01T00:01:00.017-05:00

Vote Vote Vote!

It's time to vote in our current Piece Maker Challenge theme, Feathers. We've gotten so many entires for this challenge, and as you'll see, the pieces submitted are all so different, and so wonderful! I don't know how we can ask anyone to vote for a favorite, but that's exactly what we're going to do. Almost all of the pieces you see are for sale... so if you would like more information on them, just click the artist's name above the work. Also, click on any of the photos to get a closer look at each piece.

The first place artist will be receiving a gift certificate from Tiny Tile Mosaics!

Happy Voting! ...and AMAZING JOB PIECEMAKERS!

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 1

by Waschbear

Scarlet Bird of Paradise

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Entry 2

by Callas Mosaics

Peacock

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Entry 3

by Rayna Clark Mosaics

Peep

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 4

by Palisade Stained Glass Art

Apique assiette antique red table with two mosaic surfaces using china, ceramics and glass with ivory grout.

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 5

by Amanda Edwards

Seagull

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Entry 6

by Lotus Mosaics

Abby Owl

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 7

by Flowering Moon

Red Bird Wall Hook

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 8

by Beaded Glass

Trail of Tears

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 9

by Greene Girls Studio

Phoenix

❖❖❖❖❖❖
Entry 10

by Pal's Creations

Mosaic Bird House

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 11

by Twin Brooks Mosaics

Peacock

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 12

by Oak Studios of Design

Feathers in the Sky, Round Mosaic Mirror

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Entry 13

by Flying Kumquat Studio

Friends of a Feather in all kinds of Weather

❖❖❖❖❖❖

Now the hard part... voting! This program will only accept one vote per computer. Voting will end on March 7th, and winners will be announced on March 8th. Good luck, and thank you for voting!

Meet PieceMaker Artist, Amanda Edwards

2011-02-13T17:00:00.001-05:00

This is the fourth interview in our series, "Meet the PieceMakers". Read on to learn more about PieceMaker member, Amanda Edwards!

How did you come up with your Etsy shop name?

My full name is Amanda Lynn Edwards... "Amanda Lynn". So, Mandolin Mosaics seemed too obvious to ignore.

"The Selfish Giant"

How long have you been creating mosaics? What was your first piece?

I did my first mosaic 6 years ago.... a sink in our children's bathroom. I wanted to do something really unique to it, and thought the kids would love the textures and colors of glass. About halfway through, I was already planning my next mosaic here in the house. By the time I finished the sink, I was a mosaic addict.

What other art do you do?

I have done all kinds of things. Sketching and working on and off with watercolors has been a part of my life for the past 20 years now. But, I've tried all kinds of art venues. I gone to pottery school, I've taken a handful of classes at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, I've done oil painting, sculpture.. you name it, I've tried it. Next on my dream list is to get into one of our local glass blowing studios.

What kind of shows have you been a part of? Have you gotten some kind of cool recognition for any work?

I've been a part of some great local shows around Maine, and Portland Maine's Old Port. It's always fun to be a part of something in Portland... so much good energy & excitement. I've done 2 solo shows in the Old Port as well, and for those I was part of the Friday Night Art Walk. The first Friday of every month is a big celebration of art here in Portland. Galleries all open, most have wine & cheese, and all the artists are there to meet the folks coming in to see their work. It's a lot of fun to be an observer, as well as to be one of the artists. I was also honored to have a piece hang in the Somerville Museum exhibit on Contemporary Mosaics. As for cool recognition, I'm currently a finalist in an art contest that Etsy is holding with NASA. Winners will be announced in mid- February. Keep your fingers and toes crossed!

"Secrets of Carina"

What would be your dream to mosaic?

I've been daydreaming of creating a mural in a public space for a long time... as far back as my teens. For the past few years, my mural daydream was, of course, using a glass medium. Just recently, I found out that someone likes my dream, and have been asked by the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital to create a mural in their atrium. I'm beyond thrilled, honored, and of course emotional because of where it is.

"Flight of the Jellies"

Is being an artist your full-time job? What other jobs consume your time?

Being a Mom is my full-time job. Being an artist is just part of who I am... and if I can make a little money to support my glass addiction along the way, then that's great!

"The Only Living Boy in New York"

Tell us briefly about your family & the area where you live.

I live on the coast of Southern Maine with my husband, 2 small children, old cat, and snuggly dog. I also have a step-son who lives in Texas. I've lived in New England my entire life (with the exception of two years exploring Alaska). The coast of Maine is unbelievably beautiful, and I feel so lucky to be able to experience it every day.

What are some of your favorite things about the PieceMaker Group?

There are so so many wonderful things about the PieceMakers. It's a group of amazing mosaic artists, who just happen to be amazing people too. It's such a supportive place. We all celebrate each others successes, comfort each other when things don't happen the way we wanted them to, laugh about our mosaic catastrophes, share our artistic dreams, inspire each other to try things that we never thought we would try. The PieceMaker team has become a very important part of my daily life & creative process.

Go to mandolinmosaic.com, or to etsy here, to view more of Amanda's work.

Meet PieceMaker Artist, Waschbear!

2011-02-05T05:00:00.002-05:00

This is the 4th in our "Meet the PieceMakers" interview series. Read on to meet PieceMaker member, Frances!

What's your real name? How did you come up with your shop name?

My real name is Frances. And as for my Shop name (and Flickr name)... you know the game where you have to say what kind of animal/plant/car someone would be? Well I never could find an animal that suited me... until my husband gave me the nickname "Waschbär", German for Racoon. Nocturnal, clever, shy, cheeky, omnivorous, likes wearing a mask... that's me! I changed it to waschbear to reflect my dual Swiss/English nationality (ok, and maybe a teensy little bit because the name Waschbaer was already taken).

How long have you been creating mosaics? What was your first piece?

I've been creating mosaics for about 6 years now. It all started because we needed a new water jug and I couldn't find one I liked. Take that and a certain affinity to broken china which comes from sharing a household with three small children... Only a mosaic Mom can say "oh well DONE, you broke another plate!" without a hint of sarcasm in her voice.

What other art do you do, if any?

This and that. Since completing a course at the Arts college in Basel in my youth - or actually far earlier, ever since I can remember - I have been consumed by the urge to learn as many different crafts as possible: mosaics and weaving are my favorites, but I also enjoy spinning, sewing, knitting, woodwork, building ovens and making garden sculptures.... My wishlist currently includes dyeing fibers and working with iron. And keeping sheep. Beer brewing would also be cool. Or bee keeping.... Life is just far too SHORT!!

What kind of shows have you been a part of?

I'm still working on this one. My piece for the current Piecemakers' feather challenge is the first I've entered in a competition, and I've only fairly recently looked into marketing my art. I'm pleased with how that's going so far.

What would be your dream to mosaic? ... a building? .... a town mural? ...etc..

I have so many dreams. The mosaic Pizza oven I built was the most amazingly fun project to do, so in a way I've already been lucky enough to realize one dream mosaic. The bathroom I'm currently working on is another. An empty room, tons of lovely glass tiles and only myself (and maybe my husband a bit) to please... that is pretty cool! I'd like to do a large mosaic dragon sculpture one of these days. And some more mosaic garden furniture.

Is being an artist your full-time job? What other jobs or hobbies consume your time?

No, I can't live off my art by any means - that would be great! But its really nice to be setting up a mosaic network, and who knows what it may lead to. Besides all the hobbies listed under question 3), I also have three children and a household to look after. And a part time job. Don't ask me how it all works out! It does somehow and that's the main thing.

Tell us ,briefly, about your family or your daily life or about the area where you live.

I live in Switzerland. My parents are both English but they moved here before I was born, so I've spent my whole life living in or around the quite small but very nice city of Basle. My husband is Swiss and my children are growing up speaking both English and Swiss German. We live in a house which I'm doing my best to cover in mosaics bit by bit and we have a largish garden which I'm certain still has room for another mosaic sculpture or three...

What are some of your favorite things about being part of the PieceMaker group?

The PieceMakers have managed to transform Etsy from a big scary anonymous place into a warm welcoming friendly place for me. There's plenty of encouragement, valuable exchange of know how and last but not least lots of great humor - my kind of place, I'm really glad to be here!

To see more of Waschbear's Work, check out her etsy shop by clicking here!

Meet PieceMaker, Ocean Kisses

2011-01-29T18:12:00.020-05:00

This is the third interview in our series, Meet the PieceMakers. Read on to learn more about our wonderful PieceMaker member, Ocean Kisses!

What's your real name?

Patsy, but my friends call me Patti and I usually introduce myself as Patti. Only my family call me Patsy.

How long have you been creating mosaics? What was your first piece?

I've been creating mosaics for about 3 years now. Someone gave me a mosaic "kit" with a frame and a small box to mosaic in it. The first piece I did without a kit was a back splash for behind my bathroom sink.

What other art do you do, if any?

I also paint, do stained glass, write, sew, and I play guitar and write music.

"Ocean Scape"

What kind of shows have you been a part of? Have you won any prizes or gotten some kind of cool recognition for any work?

I've never really entered any kind of contest with my mosaic art except with the PieceMakers team and I did get first place once. My paintings have been displayed and sold in galleries.

What would be your dream to mosaic?

I would like to do something large. I'm thinking of cutting out a design in wood...a large design and mosaicing that.

Is being an artist your full-time job? What other jobs or hobbies consume your time?

I wish I could make a living as an artist but so far that hasn't happened. Until it does I have had a house cleaning business since 1980. I have just opened a new transcription business at home and am training for that so that I can get out of the cleaning business. I also have my vintage shop on etsy http://oceanvintage.etsy.com

Tell us ,briefly, about your family or your daily life or about the area where you live.

I live in Southern California. The city I live in is inland from the beach communities so it is much warmer and mountainous. There is a huge flock of wild parrots that fly over my house every morning, sometimes landing in the tall trees or telephone lines to squawk and play. They hang out for about 20 minutes and then leave. Just before the sun goes down, they fly over again but usually do not stop. I do not have any children. I share my life and my home with a very mellow man, a White German Shepherd, a cat, two doves, and two Cockatiels.

What are some of your favorite things about being part of the PieceMaker group?

This is a great group. It's informal and easy-going. I have enjoyed getting to know all of the members and have found everyone to be happy to share information and lend support. I love that there are themed challenges to make me think outside the box and do artwork I might not have thought to do.

To contact Patti, or see more of her work, click any of the blow pieces in her etsy shop:

Etsy
Oceankisses

Meet PieceMaker Artist, Libby Kennedy

2011-01-16T06:00:00.015-05:00

The 2nd in our series of Interviews we're calling, "Meet the PieceMakers". Libby is a wonderful artist & an inspiring member of our team.

What's your real name? How did you come up with your shop name?

My name is Libby Kennedy. Since I try to create all of my mosaics using recycled items I thought a lotus flower would be a good representative of sorts. The lotus grows from the mud and muck at the bottom ponds and blooms with new life out of that darkness. I get many of my substrates from alleys around my neighborhood and thrift stores. Items people essentially see as garbage, I see as potential to turn into something beautiful.

How long have you been creating mosaics? What was your first piece?

My first mosaic was approximately four years ago, maybe five. We have a pass through window in our kitchen and I wanted to tile that. Not sure if that would be considered mosaic but it led me to use stained glass and mosaic a large mirror that had been in our bedroom. It still hangs in our living room and I love it.

Do you participate in shows? ... or sell your work locally?

All of the shows, save one have been at churches. The first one I did I was so incredibly nervous. I still get jittery but it’s gotten easier as each one comes and goes. In the church I have attended since I was a kid one of my hurricane lamps sits in the sacristy and that’s pretty cool for me to see every week. I am also involved in a small art show around Valentine’s Day with a handful of other artists that I love attending. There is also a local nursery here that has quite a few of my items for sale. It’s neat to go there and see my work hanging around.

What would be your dream to mosaic?

A dream mosaic for me would be a huge window just filled with color. I have made a few small frames with mosaics on the glass itself as opposed to the outside of the frame and some of them I just can’t give up or sell. Seeing the light come through just makes me extremely happy. I would love to be able to pass that feeling on to another.

Is being an artist your full-time job?

I wish being an artist was my full-time job, but perhaps in a few years. I have worked as a medical transcriptionist from home for almost 10 years now. Time flies. I would love to be able to have my own studio and be able to spend the day there. It’s sometimes so hard to stay focused on my ‘real job’ when some cool idea pops into my head. I get so excited when I start working on a new project.

Tell us ,briefly, about your family or your daily life or about the area where you live.

I live in Tucson, Arizona with my two daughters and husband. I pretty much grew up in Tucson and we live in the same neighborhood I spent my days running amok. I do all of my work out in the garage and am almost always joined by our malamute Aspen and kitty Suki. They’re so cute, I love it! Time is certainly limited in the summer as it gets so darned hot here. Perhaps when we hit it big we can put some sort of cooler out there.

I’m so glad I came across the PieceMaker mosaic team. What a fun bunch of kids they are. Such humor and support comes from this team it’s amazing. It seems like I’ve been a part of the team forever but I know it’s only been a short time.

Please visit Libby's Etsy shop by clicking here. :)

Meet PieceMaker Artist, Rayna Clark

2011-01-12T09:28:00.007-05:00

We will be highlighting different PieceMaker Artists every week or so. These interviews will prove to be inspiring, some may be funny, some may be down right crazy. :) One thing is for sure... they'll all be a great read. Enjoy this first, of many, PieceMaker interviews to come.

Rayna Clark

My name is Rayna Clark, and I have my etsy shop name Rayna Clark Mosaics because that is pretty much what it is. It is me and my glass nippers creating away whatever strikes my fancy.

I have been creating mosaics and other arts for 12 years now, and I remember making my first piece like it was yesterday. It was a tea cup, and I still have it framed in my studio.

Other than making mosaics, I also enjoy making jewelry, and lotions and bath products.

I have attended many local shows and have started applying my work to the internet where I have met some great people and been introduced to some brilliant artists.

My dream ideal mosaics are the ones that can touch a persons emotions. I get a lot of joy from making pieces that mean something.

Being an artist takes up all of my time, and I have been doing it full time for 2 1/2 years, but have been doing mosaics again for 12 years. I just finally made the leap to give up my day job and stay focused on my art since 2008.

I live in Indiana right now, and it is quite the little artists heaven. Showing your work here and being recognized here is a great reward to me.

I have just recently joined the piecemakers group, and am very happy to be a part of such a great little tight nit community. I enjoy working with all of the artists and staying up to date with all that they are doing in their shops as well.

Thanks so much for taking the time to learn about me and my etsy shop her at piecemakers.

Please visit Rayna's Etsy shop by finding her name under the list of members to the right of this page.

Last Minute Holiday Shopping!

2010-12-15T08:46:00.014-05:00

This is it... just 10 days left until Christmas. There is still time to order some amazing mosaic pieces, and have them by the big day. :) Here is a selection of magical holiday work, all created by some of the PieceMaker members.

First Snow Orb, by Mottled Mosaics

The Stars of Today, by Beaded Glass

Snowflake Necklace, by Amanda Edwards

Mosaic Box, by Waschbear

Mosaic Votive, from Lotus Mosaics

Mosaic Candle Holder, from Oak Studios of Design

Gifts Under $25!

2010-12-05T14:31:00.013-05:00

All of the PieceMaker artists have wonderful gifts in their shops.

Here are a few items that are $25 or less!
Happy Shopping!

$20, from Lotus Mosaics

$18, from Oak Studios of Design

$22, from Mandolin Mosaics

$25, from Twin Brooks Mosaics

$13, from Lotus Mosaics

$18, from Mandolin Mosaics

$22, from Oak Studios of Design

$15, from Twin Brooks Mosaics

2010-11-20T20:25:00.004-05:00

It's that time of the year... time to start thinking about gifts, what to buy for who, who would like what. The PieceMakers are all busy stocking up their shops for the busy season...with both small gifts, and large ones! Come by and take a look at all goodies. Click on a photo to head over to the artist's etsy shop, and maybe cross a few names off your list!

Happy Shopping!

$45.00
Callas Mosaics

$125
Blue Moose

$13
Kim's Custom Caps

$500
Greene Girls Studio

$33
Amanda Edwards

$65
Pal's Creations

$120
Beaded Glass

Over-all Favorite Mandala!

2010-11-09T07:59:00.006-05:00

Congratulations to each of the entries for our Mandala challenge. Mandalas are so special, and each of the pieces entered are wonderful examples of this spiritual art form.

1st Place, Over-all Favorite Piece
Pal's Creations

First place also is receiving a gift certificate from Tiny Tile Mosaics!

Second Place
Callas Mosaics

Thank you to everyone who voted, and those who checked out the shops of these amazing artists.
Come back to our website soon to check out some wonderful Holiday Gifts!

Mandala Challenge

2010-10-30T07:26:00.007-04:00

Welcome to our current challenge theme... Mandalas! "Mandala" is a Sanskrit word that means "circle". They can be spiritual, or symbolic of part of the human experience. Please look them up to learn more about the art of the Mandala, and maybe even try to make your own!

The entries are each so beautiful. It will be hard to pick a favorite, but that's what we're asking you to do. :) Also, to find out more about the artist, just click on their name's above their entires.

Pal's Creations

Amanda Edwards
Maine Winter

GreeneGirlsStudio
"Rays of Peace"

Callas Mosaics

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Kevangirl's Mosaic Funk at the Riverside Arts Market

2010-10-22T09:00:00.002-04:00

If you're anywhere around Jacksonville Florida for the next 2 Saturdays, head to the Riverside Arts Market. KevanGirl will be there, selling her amazing mixed media mosaics. There's food, art, music, performances... a big party, and not to be missed! Check out Kevan's etsy shop for a small glimpse at what you'll be seeing.

Saturday, October 23 & 30

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Located in the center of Jacksonville near the intersection of

Interstate Highways I-95 and I-10

Beautiful Autumn

2010-10-18T07:51:00.010-04:00

The Fall is wonderful for so many reasons... the beauty of the leaves, the excitement around Halloween, the joys of Thanksgiving. Here is a look at a few things, created by PieceMaker artists, to get you even deeper into the spirit of Autumn!

Welcome Fall Mosaic Sign

by Greene Goddess

Autumn Leaves Mosaic Tiles

by Kim's Custom Caps

Autumn Tree

by Amanda Edwards

Taylor Smith and Taylor ACEO

by Callas Mosaics

Red Mosaic Earrings

by Twin Brooks

140 Fruit China Mosaic Tiles

by Pals Creations

Sun Jewels Mirror

by Ocean Kisses

CONGRATULATIONS!

2010-09-10T16:21:00.004-04:00

A big congratulations to the winners of the PieceMaker Summer Evening Challenge!

First Place, Over-all Favorite Piece

Summer Vase by Pal's Creations

Thank you to Tiny Tile Mosaics for donating a gift certificate to the winner of the Summer Evening Challenge!

Second Place
Summer Afternoon Tea Pot
by Callas Mosaics

Thank you to everyone who participated, submitted a piece, and to all those who voted!

Our next challenge theme will be Mandalas....so check back here on November 1st to see all the entries, and cast your vote once again. :)

Summer Afternoon Challenge VOTE VOTE VOTE!

2010-09-01T10:43:00.008-04:00

Hello once again! It's time to vote in our Summer Afternoon Mosaic Challenge! The pieces are all wonderful... and stir up so many great memories of summers past and present. Please check out the shops of these creative artists... there are many treasures to be found in each! :)

Happy Voting!

1. Summer Vase
by Pal's Creations
The pieces in this water pitcher are a combination of old china, and my first everyday kitchen set that I had in 1968! The purple focal is from a ceramic flower pot that my mom made when I used to teach ceramics. The flower pot broke, and I didn't want to throw it away,so now I still have portions of my mom's ceramic flower pot to cherish once again.

2. Soleil Pendant
by Kim's Custom Caps

3. Summer Afternoon Tea Pot
by Callas Mosaics

"When I was little, I dreamed of small imaginary beings. Back in my day we didn't have much for television...let alone computers. We made up things. There was a woods behind our house that we would explore. I remember this huge tree. It was a perfect climbing tree. I'm sure our mother would have had a heart attack, if she known we climbed that high. We would go way up to the top, so we could see the ground, all around us. We played for hours, in great expectation, that one summer afternoon, we would find where the imaginary beings lived. Well, we never found any. Through my mosaics, I'm able to recreate some of those thoughts and ideas I had as a small child. After all...isn't it some of those dreams and ideas that keep us young?"

4. Love on a Summer Afternoon, Pendant & Ring
by Amanda Edwards
So many people plan their weddings for summer afternoons... the flowers are all out, weather is wonderful, traveling is easy for guests. For the PieceMaker's Summer Afternoon mosaic challenge, I created this pendant & ring set... celebrating the (slowly but surely) changing times... where 2 people, gay or not, can be married, according to law, and celebrate their love with family and friends, any summer afternoon they choose. :)

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They're all Winners!

2010-07-09T12:44:00.007-04:00

Well, the cool thing about only having 3 entries is that they're all winners. :)
But really, in the Piece Maker challenges, everyone who enters is a winner... because every piece is just amazing & inspirational.

The votes were all close this time... and those who participated should all be congratulated on their beautiful work!

First Place, Over-All Favorite Piece
The Only Living Boy in New York, by Amanda Edwards

Second Place
Ballet Slippers, by Pal's Creations

Third Place

Hookah Smoking Caterpillar, by Greene Girls Studio

Thank you again to Tiny Tile Mosaics for donating a gift certificate to the winner of the Music challenge!
Check out the Tiny Tile shop for some cool tiles, and new ideas!

Music!

2010-07-02T06:53:00.008-04:00

It's that time again.. time to vote in another PieceMaker Challenge! This time, the theme was "Music"... open to personal interpretation. Although we only have 3 entries, it's going to be a tough vote, as always. :)

Ballet Slippers, by Pal's Creations

Hookah Smoking Caterpillar, by Greene Girls Studio Inspired by Jefferson Starship's "White Rabbit".
Measures 2 feet X 3 feet, and is done on wedi board.

The Only Living Boy in New York, by Amanda Edwards
Inspired by Simon and Garfunkel's song, The Only Living Boy in New York.

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New Work and a New Challenge

2010-05-21T06:24:00.015-04:00

Spring is almost over, and the PieceMakers have been hard at work in their studios, creating all kinds of wonderful work inspired by the warmer weather. Click on the Artist's name to head over to their shops and see more of their inspiring work.

Two Fish, by KevanGirl

Mosaic Plant Cradle, by Ocean Kisses

Turtle Blues Mosaic Wall Art, by GreeneGoddess

Summertime Mosaic, by CallasMosaics

Mosaic Butterfly, by Amanda Edwards (Mandolin Mosaics)

Blue Mosaic Welcome Sign, by TwinBrooks

Mosaic Tea Pot China Flower Pot, by Pal's Creations

The Beach, by MJMosaics

... and one of our PieceMakers selling LOTS of wonderful hand cut mosaic tiles...

Sakura Butterfly Mosaic Tiles, by Kim's Custom Caps

Challenge Announcements

Once again, congratulations to the winners of our past mosaic challenge, and to everyone who participated. Our next (and current) challenge theme is MUSIC. It's open to your interpretation, any size, any shape, etc. The due date for your final photos and your Work-in-Progress photos is June 30th (by midnight). Please send photos to Amanda Edwards here.

Tiny Tile Mosaics is donating a gift certificate to the winner of the Music challenge! - so get your nippers sharpened, and start cutting! Check out the Tiny Tile shop & start planning your spending spree.
www.tinytilemosaics.com

The Votes are in!

2010-05-08T07:21:00.007-04:00

It was a CLOSE vote throughout the week! What a wonderful challenge this was.. each piece submitted was inspirational & just beautiful. Congrats to everyone who submitted a piece... all of the PieceMakers are amazingly talented artists.

Coming in First Place, Over-all Favorite piece.....

"Flowerful Springs and Flying Things" Mosaic Table, by PS Mosaics

... and a VERY close second place goes to.....
Spring Flowers, by Pals Creations

Congratulations to the winners of our Heavenly Spring Challenge! Both of the pieces are stunning works of art!

Our very own Ocean Kisses shop is donating this amazing piece of stained glass art for our first-place winner prize. Please go check out her shop to see some more of her beautiful work!!
Thank you for donating this wonderful 1st place prize piece Ocean Kisses!

Heavenly Spring Challenge... VOTE VOTE VOTE!

2010-05-01T05:00:00.009-04:00

It's that time once again..... time to vote on your over-all favorite piece in yet another PieceMaker Mosaic Challenge. :) - and it's going to be as hard as ever to choose just one! Our theme for this challenge was Heavenly Spring......

1. Welcome Sign, by Twin Brooks

2. Blooming Spring Tree, by Amanda Edwards (Mandolin Mosaics)

This piece was made to celebrate the coming of Spring. The tree branch was built by myself using clay, then attached to the mosaic, and covered in glass to become part of the piece. I hand painted the vintage frame, and the bird sitting on the tree branch is a delicate porcelain piece. Stained glass, tile, clay, millifiori. Measures 19" x 28".

3. Circle of Love, by Kim's Custom Caps

In this little piece, I used lots of bright colors and retro flowered patterns. I wanted it to be cheerful and positive, just like Springtime makes me feel!

4. "Flowerful Springs and Flying Things" Mosaic Table, by PS Mosaics

5. Spring Flowers, by Pals Creations

6. Only God Can Make a Tree, by GreeneGoddess
A tribute to my mom's favorite poem...

Please Vote for your over-all favorite piece. There will be only one vote per computer. Come back on Saturday, May 8th to see the results of the vote! Good luck to everyone who entered a piece. They're all wonderful!

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If you're in Brooklyn.....

2010-04-29T07:20:00.003-04:00

Betsy Greene, a PieceMaker through and through, is part of an exhibit at The Brooklyn Art Library, also known as the Art House Co-op Gallery, in Brooklyn NY. The exhibit is titled "The Space Between Us". If you're in the area, stop by to check out some amazing art, and to support our wonderful PieceMaker!

Brooklyn Art Library
201 Richards St #16
Brooklyn, NY 11231

"Karma Chameleons", by Greene Goddess
I dream of a world where people don't promise change~ and then only do so when it "fits" them and their motives. They are the " Karma Chameleons" of the World...

"I'm a Man Without Conviction.
I'm a Man Who Doesn't Know
How To Sell A Contradiction...
You Come And Go~
You Come and Go"
(Culture Club)

Work Work Work

2010-04-14T07:47:00.013-04:00

A PieceMakers hands are always busy! Some new wonderful works from our talented members!

.....and just a little over 2 weeks until the voting begins on our current challenge, Heavenly Spring! Come back on the 1st of May to see the entries. :)

Shabby Chic Cabbage Roses Mosaic Mirror, by Kim's Custom Caps

Sun Jewels Garden Mirror, by OceanKisses

Movement of a Maine Tide, by Amanda Edwards

Consuming Fire, by KevanGirl

Red and Blue Mosaic Pendant, by Twin Brooks

Time is ticking....

2010-04-06T10:03:00.011-04:00

The deadline for our next challenge, Heavenly Spring, is coming! Just a reminder that your final photos are due to Amanda Edwards no later than midnight, April 30th. Voting will start here on the blog on the 1st of May.

The PieceMakers are always busy working on pieces... here are a some new works from just a few of our talented members. :) Click on the artist's name to head over to their etsy shop.

Happy Creating!

Sleeping Cherub Statue, by Pal's Creations

Beetle Lightswitch Plate, by Amanda Edwards

Mosaic Flower Pot, by Callas Mosaics

Sun Jewels Mirror, by Ocean Kisses

And the Winners are...

2010-03-08T06:28:00.006-05:00

Congratulations Winners!!!

The results are in! The winners, for our Dream a Little Dream Challenge, are....

First Place
Over-all Favorite Piece
The Selfish Giant, by Amanda Edwards (Mandolin Mosaics)

Second Place
Karma Chameleon, by Greene Goddess

Third Place
"Toscana Sogno" by PSMosaics

All of the winning pieces are amazing.... as are all of the pieces that were a part of this challenge. The PieceMakers are such an inspirational group of artists. If you have a moment, please click on the names of the artists that were involved in this challenge & check out their etsy shops. Many of the pieces submitted for the Dream a Little Dream challenge are for sale in the artist's shops.

Again, a big Congratulations to everyone who took part, and a special congratulations to our 3 winners! :)

Our next Challenge theme is, "Heavenly Spring". Pieces need to be done & submitted to Amanda Edwards no later than midnight on April 30th. Everyone get outside, feel the sun, let it inspire you, and get those glass nippers out!

Time to Vote! Dream a Little Dream

2010-02-27T13:03:00.037-05:00

Time to Vote! The challenge theme this time around was "Dream a Little Dream". Along with photos of the pieces submitted, artists also submitted a brief explanation of their inspiration this time around. As usual, there will only be one vote recorded per computer..... and it's going to be as hard as ever to decide which piece to vote for! Voting ends on the morning of March 8th, and results will be posted here that afternoon. An early congratulations to all the artists that participated. Every piece is stunning!

Challenge Piece 1

- member withdrew-

Challenge Piece 2

Follow your Dreams, by Twin Brooks Mosaics

Challenge Piece 3
"The Selfish Giant", by Amanda Edwards, Mandolin Mosaics
I have loved Oscar Wilde since I first read one of his stories at 13. He has a very special place in my heart. It's not uncommon for me to be caught in a daydream, and be thinking of Oscar, one of his stories, what it would be like to sit and talk to him. The Selfish Giant, written for children, is one of my favorite Oscar stories. So, for this challenge, I have done this piece.... inspired by The Selfish Giant, to honor Mr. Oscar Wilde... a man who has given me endless hours of dreaming. Measures 27"x31"
Read (for free) The Selfish Giant, by Oscar Wilde

Challenge Piece 4
Dream, By PalsCreations

Challenge Piece 5 "Toscana Sogno" by PSMosaics

The perspective aspects of this piece were challenging as I hoped to create a 'real' feeling of looking out the window at the 'dreamy' Tuscan landscape! The overall dimensions are 34" by 28". My inspiration for the composition of "Tuscan Dream" came from a landscape print by artist, Jane Farrimond Keltner.

Challenge Piece 6

"Karma Chameleons", by Greene Goddess
I dream of a world where people don't promise change~ and then only do so when it "fits" them and their motives. They are the " Karma Chameleons" of the World...

"I'm a Man Without Conviction.
I'm a Man Who Doesn't Know
How To Sell A Contradiction...
You Come And Go~
You Come and Go"
(Culture Club)

Challenge Piece 7
"Little Girl's Dreams", by Callas Mosaics

Update on our February Challenge

2010-01-29T11:13:00.012-05:00

Happy New Year to all!

Just an update on our February challenge! For anyone who doesn't already know, the theme is "Dream a Little Dream". ... open to your interpretation of course. All entries are due to Mandolin Mosaics by midnight February 28th. So, get snipping!

Also, here are a few cool pieces that some of the PieceMakers have been working on in the New Year. You can find their shop links to the right of this page for purchasing information.

Callas Mosaics

OceanKisses

GreeneGoddess

TwinBrooksMosaics

PalsCreations

2009-12-22T18:02:00.001-05:00

It's a FIRST for the PieceMaker Challenge! WE HAVE A TIE!
The results are in, and our first place winners for the All that Glitters challenge are GreeneGoddess AND My European Touch! Congratulations to our first place winners!

All the entires were wonderful, and truly met the challenge! What an inspiring group of artists!

All that Glitters!

2009-12-08T00:00:00.009-05:00

It's voting time once again! "All that Glitters" was our theme this time around.. and the entries sure got it right! :) Please vote for your over-all favorite piece. Voting ends in one week, on December 22nd. Click on the name below each photo to head into our artist's shops. Each of these would make wonderful gifts this holiday season!

1. Oak Studios of Design

2. Callas Mosaics

This is a six-segmented papier-mache ornament. Every other segment is either tiny tiles or clear, textured glass over gold leafing. I grouted in a lipstick red.
4. GreeneGoddess

The WINNER!

2009-11-10T20:31:00.000-05:00

The winner, and overall favorite piece,
in the "It was a Dark and Stormy Night" challenge is....

Ocean Kisses!!!!

It's such a unique piece.... full of expression, and right on the mark for this challenge. Congratulations! - and if you would like to purchase this beautiful award winning piece, please check out OceanKisses Shop here: SHOP

Congratulations to the 2nd and third place winners... GreeneGoddess, and Pal's Creations. What wonderful work everyone did!

Our next challenge theme will be "all that glitters". Your final pics are due on December 5th. So, get your glass out & start working!

It was a Dark and Stormy Night

2009-10-31T10:24:00.008-04:00

The entries for our 'It was a Dark and Stormy Night' challenge are in! Once again, they are all beautiful. Voting will be as hard as ever! Good luck to everyone. :)

1. OceanKisses

2. Pal's Creations

3. GreeneGoddess

4. MJ Mosaics

5. Ibreak4Glass

On Sept. 11, 2009 a knock came at my door, One of my 14 year old's friends said that Sam was hit by a car. I haven't been able to go down the street since, but this was my Dark and Stormy night. I jumped out of my neighbors car as it was still moving, first thing I saw was Sammy's black sneakers, neatly aligned next to the curb, then I saw him lying in a pool of blood. I never saw the car, only the color of it, that is the Okre colored square with the broken windshield. I never saw Sam's bike that too was a blur to the left with a sea of onlookers and First responders. The Sky is dark purple to the right with gold and silver foil under neath to give it an eerie feel. To the right is blue, it wasn't quite night but the glass on top of the glass is A Mother's tears. This is "It was a dark and stormy night"my submission to the Piecemakers Challenge
This is the largest piece I have ever done that is not glued to a wall or a window.
it measures 18" wide by 15 1/2" tall on hardi-backer board

VOTING!
Only one vote per computer will be recorded. The winner will be announced on November 9th. Tiny Tile Mosaics will be donating a git certificate or the winner. :)

We have a Winner

2009-09-08T18:57:00.001-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS to our WINNER... Sylvana Baracchini, Mixed Media Madness !!! Her Zebra is an amazing piece, and won with 46% of the vote! She is a talented and wonderful member of the PieceMakers group. Please head to her shop to check out more of her beautiful & inspired work!

First Place

Our second place winner
Amanda Edwards, Mandolin Mosaics

Third Place
Greene Goddess

Thank you to everyone who participated! All of the entries were wonderful, and it was so hard to vote!

Our next challenge is.......

Our next challenge theme is "It was a dark and stormy night". Get your thinking caps on, and your glass nippers out. Final & work in progress pictures of your challenge piece will be due on October 31st...boo! Send pictures to Amanda Edwards, via Mandolin Mosaics. Voting starts on the 1st of November. Good luck!

Time to Vote!

2009-08-31T23:59:00.006-04:00

The challenge pieces have all been submitted! Thank you to everyone who participated! As always, each piece is wonderful. The challenge theme was "The Wide World of Animals"... with a loose interpretation. It's always fun to see what everyone came up with.

Only one vote is recorded per computer. You're voting for your overall favorite piece. The winner will be announced in one week... on September 7th. Good luck everyone!

Entry 1
by I Break 4 Glass

Entry 2
by Mandolin Mosaics (Amanda Edwards)

Entry 3
Eclectic, by Sari

Entry 4
by Mixed Media Madness (Sylvana Baracchini)

Entry 5
by Greene Goddess

Entry 6
by Pals Creations

Now the hard part... voting!

New Challenge has only 29 days left

2009-08-02T14:03:00.002-04:00

We deep into yet another fabulous challenge. "Wild Animals Around the World"...
Get your art on, and create with us a mosaic with the theme of animals. Use your itmagination,
create an animal in the country you live or a favorite from some where else....you are only limited by time right now. Challenge WIPS are due at the end of the month (August).

...and the winners are....

2009-07-17T15:29:00.001-04:00

The votes came in! Boy was it hard to vote this time. Congrats to everyone who participated... each piece was amazing!

1st place
Greene Goddess 46.00% of votes

2nd place
Ocean Kisses 24.00% of votes

3rd place
IBreak4Glass 12.00% of votes

CONGRATS LADIES!!!!!!!!
Everyone did such amazing & inspiring work! :)

Now, roll up your sleeves and get ready for the next challenge!
Challenge: Wild World of Animals
Due no later than midnight Aug 31st
Email all final photos & work in progress pics to Amanda
Open to YOUR interpretation...

Installation Challenge

2009-06-27T18:03:00.017-04:00

Piece Makers Installation Mosaic Challenge

It's time to vote for your favorite pieces! Everyone did a wonderful job on their pieces. Once again, I'm in awe of the artists in our PieceMakers group. Every piece here is amazing and inspiring. It's going to be a hard vote, but let's all try. :)

Look at all the entries and then cast your vote at the bottom of this post. You can click on each picture to get a closer look at this piece.

The Amazing Entries

A.

Pal's Creations
Kitchen mirror installation with hand painted tempered glass tile frame, and those same glass tiles as a diamond accent around the kitchen.

***********

B.
Greene Goddess
Beautiful Ocean panel addition to wood fish tank base.

***********

C.

Oceankisses

Gorgeous underwater panel, complete with bubbles!

***********

D.

Twin Brooks Mosaics

Perfect frames for her two beautiful boys

***********

E.
Mandolin Mosaics
Ommage to a seaside garden Light Switch Cover

***********

F.
MJ. Mosaics
Pink Roses Bathroom Mirror

***********

G.
IBreak4Glass
Striking Kitchen Window

VOTE BELOW!!