Mosaic art has gained popularity as a medium for streetart and public space murals due to its durability and visual appeal. The vibrant and resilient nature of mosaics makes them an ideal choice for many public art installations worldwide. From commissioned art in New York’s mass transit network to street artists repairing potholes with stunning mosaic art, here are some noteworthy public space mosaic art installations:
- Emememflacking – Mosaic Street Artist: Based in Lyon, France, Ememem is known as “the pavement surgeon.” He transforms potholes and cracks in pavements into beautiful mosaic artworks using colorful pieces, including glass, ceramic, wood, bitumen, and even Lego bricks. His art can be found throughout Europe, acting as bandaids for various pavement imperfections.
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- Jackie Chang – “Signs of Life” & “History / His Story”: Jackie Chang has created commissioned mosaic art adorning the walls of subway stations in New York City. His thought-provoking designs feature glass, ceramic, and granite, often incorporating enigmatic text and images. His works, such as “Faith/Fate” and “History/His Story,” captivate subway travelers with their urban poetry.
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- Ann Schaumburger – “Urban Oasis”: Amy Schaumburger’s “Urban Oasis” mosaic series can be found in the 5th Avenue subway stations in New York City. These artistic animal-themed mosaics, including monkeys, penguins, horses, and ducks, add a touch of intrigue and elegance to the station’s interior and exterior walls.
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- Peter Sis – “Happy City”: Czech-born American illustrator and filmmaker Peter Sis designed the captivating “Happy City” mosaic in the 86th street subway station in New York City. This four-part mural features intricate details, including children from different cultures and fairytale-like floating animals, evoking a sense of joy and wonder.
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- Barbara Takenaga – “Forte” & “Blue Rails”: Barbara Takenaga’s mesmerizing mosaic art pieces, “Forte (Quarropas)” and “Blue Rails (White Plains),” adorn the White Plains Metro North Station in New York. “Forte (Quarropas)” showcases intricate swirling abstract compositions, while “Blue Rails (White Plains)” represents the flowing water of the city, with laminated elements adding to their allure.
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- Pavement Project, Brussels – Mosaic in Public Spaces: Ingrid Schreyers’ mosaic project in Brussels inspired a municipality-wide initiative in Schaerbeek. The local government started offering free mosaic installations in front of people’s homes, resulting in a wide array of creative designs, including pet portraits, scenery, abstract art, and musical instruments.
pavement-project-belgium-public-space-mosaic-art by zakiah marble
- Beverly Hills Library (former building): The previous Beverly Hills Library building featured a vibrant mosaic facade depicting a colorful row of books on a shelf. Although the building no longer exists, the mosaic art in its original form represented a playful mid-century statement piece.
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- Park Güell by Architect Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona: Barcelona’s Park Güell, designed by architect Antoni Gaudi, is a visual marvel filled with bright and colorful broken mosaic art. From vibrant rooftop benches to whimsical sculpture fountains, the park immerses visitors in a fantasy world. It remains a must-see attraction and a source of inspiration for art enthusiasts worldwide.
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These are just a few examples of the incredible mosaic art installations found in public spaces around the world. You will see more in our upcoming blogs Soon