Carleton Manor Mosaics

Garden Art

Garden art is what inspired my journey into mosaics. When I bought my first home, I was eager to spruce up my new yard but found myself cash-poor. Determined to create colorful decorations, I dove into mosaics, knowing only that tiles could be glued to a base. With boundless enthusiasm but little knowledge, I embarked on my first projects. Unfortunately, I made numerous mistakes, using unsuitable bases, tiles, and adhesives for outdoor use. The following spring in Anchorage, as the snow melted, I was disheartened to find bare forms surrounded by piles of loose tiles.

For years, I shifted my focus to indoor art, which I enjoyed immensely. However, I frequently faced questions about the suitability of my creations for outdoor settings, which reignited my desire to try again. This time, I learned from my past mistakes. I began constructing my own forms, often repurposing items found at thrift stores, and joining them with fiberglass mesh and thinset tile mortar. This new approach allowed me to spread my wings and explore a whole new dimension of garden art.

Living in the high desert and striving to be a responsible citizen of Planet Earth, we have reduced the majority of our lawns. Consequently, finding creative ways to brighten up our yard has become essential. The process of transforming my outdoor space with vibrant, resilient mosaics has been both a challenge and a joy, adding beauty and personality to our environment.