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I’ve often heard artists express the thought that they’re not fond of doing commissions. Most have expressed this because they want to follow their own inclinations [the muse] and intuitions, and not have to accommodate the thoughts and wishes of others. On some level I understand this feeling and respect their desire. For myself, there is something inherent about mixed media mosaic that seems to invite a conversation or collaboration. The tesserae itself [mosaic-speak for the media used to create the image], such as: stained-glass, tiles, beads, smalti, crockery, etc. are so varied, a conversation within the components themselves is necessary. Uniting these different materials into a single composition requires a conversation unto itself. Entering a conversation with others is also essential within my personal process. This is especially true when doing large murals. There are so many ways of depicting what to express and how to express it in this medium that really invites collaboration.
I want to take a moment to share with you the kind words one of my clients recently provided me regarding our own collaboration. His words express our process so beautifully:
"A friend-of-a-friend referred me to Theresa as part of my efforts to find a local mosaic artist whom I could commission to create an installation piece to surround the front door of my newly-renovated home. Once I viewed her work on her web site, I knew I’d found her, feeling immediately drawn in to her distinctive artistic style. “Creating Beauty Inspired By Nature” indeed concisely describes her work. She and I began discussing my initial design ideas and, sparked by her own creative responses, we quickly found ourselves on a collaborative path that led us to a piece that wildly and wondrously exceeded all my original expectations. Theresa was able to quickly tune into the essence of my original vision and brought me along with her on a journey that ended up richly enhancing it. I found an easy chemistry with her warmth and engaging presence. I also came to a deep appreciation of her sensitivity and ability to integrate my thoughts and feelings about the installation with her own unique interpretations, masterfully integrating not only the connections I feel with my cultural and national heritage but also the natural environment surrounding my home. I feel my home has been uniquely sanctified by Theresa’s gorgeous creation. I feel profoundly grateful and honored every time I walk through my front door, which is always preceded by a meditative pause to contemplate anew the spirit she has enshrined through her artistic expression. " ~ Jim
This was a very fun collaboration for me as well. Truly something greater than our individual thoughts was given space to take form. I love doing this kind of work! Once I start a larger piece I welcome those involved to come to the studio to see it in process and discuss the over-all image with me. That’s important to me also, as I want to bring joy and beauty to those with whom I’m working as they will be in a long relationship with the mosaic upon completion. One other feature of mosaics is that they are made to last for decades if not centuries. Consider the many Byzantine compositions unearthed in areas throughout the Mediterranean. Also, materials for these mosaics have significantly improved even beyond the endurance of the traditional materials. For instance, until rather recently sanded grouts with acrylic polymers have also lasted for decades, but now there are high-performance epoxy grouts for use in exterior and water applications that previously weren’t available. Given that these things are so enduring, the people who encounter these mosaics will have a significant on-going relationship with this image and art-work for a long time. This is precious and even a priceless aspect of commissioning a mosaic work of art. I’m available to discuss any potential place you might see a space for mosaic in your world.
Thanks for stopping by my site today. And maybe one day we will meet to collaborate in creativity!
Theresa
