Night Sky, Mosaic, 2020, 10" x 12"

Mosaics are a tactile medium. Whether made from glass, ceramic or stone, they call out to be touched. The height or depth of each tile can create shadows and textures which further enhance their allure. Though many of the materials are quite commonplace -- rocks, pebbles, and ceramic tiles – they can take on another character within the composition of the artwork. As the artist making the mosaic, that tactile feel of each tile or tesserae, as the tiles are traditionally called, is just one important component of the work. Another over-riding consideration is the andamento, an Italian musical term which is often used to describe mosaic work. Andemento is based on the Italian word andante, meaning to walk, and refers to the flow or movement of the tesserae. I often think of the andamento of a mosaic as conversations among the mosaic tesserae, where different parts of the mosaic talk amongst themselves. I love making mosaics. I am intrigued with the textures and patterns which I can create with a wide variety of materials, and the intricacies of creating a work of art one tiny piece at a time. My work is often inspired by nature. I create landscapes – both realistic and abstract – to reflect or make sense of what I see in the world around me. As one reviewer stated, “each of her imaginative mosaic constructions is a symphony of visual and tactile materials– glass, ceramic, stone, and pottery. This lively exhibit of abstract geometric designs, stunning undulating landscapes and playful patterns of color is a joyful concert for the eye that is not to be missed.”

Beth Klingher is an educator and an artist. Her primary medium is mosaic art using glass, ceramic and stone. Her work includes both realistic and abstract art, with specific emphasis on natural landscapes. Beth taught middle school math in the New Haven Public Schools for almost ten years, and is currently a teaching artist working with schools all over the Northeast to integrate art into their curriculum, with specific emphasis on math. She has also completed a number of large-scale murals at hospitals, schools and with community groups. Prior to her career in education, Beth founded and served as President of Willow Solutions, a technology company specializing in custom software solutions.

www.bethklingher.com

@bklingher