Embedded Files
Object: Seahorse Commission
Materials: Vitreous Glass Tesserae with Black Grey Grout on Concrete
Dimensions: 17.5" Diameter
Method: Direct onto a pre-cast stepping stone.
A classic silhouette of a seahorse was desired, personalized with the name "Moye".
A sunny border with light grey triangles makes sure you always find this stepping stone, day or night. The watery center is inhabited by this stylized little creature gently holding itself steady in the current.
Close-ups & Process
Close-ups & Process
01 I decided to darken the grout a little more than originally planned for more of a dramatic look. The flowing movement of the tiles is accentuated by doing this.
02 A simple white was chosen for the lettering of "Moye". This kept it clearly legible without taking the focus off the seahorse.
03 To give the skin of the seahorse a unique texture in this limited space, larger tiles were incorporated. They were shaped specifically to fit the scalloped sections that run up the back of this little fella.
04 Detail
05 Design drawn to size.
06 Bright oranges and yellows bring in a sun reference for the border. I often like outlining in the background color first to reinforce a crisp shape for the subjects, in this case the lettering and the seahorse.
07 Consistent spacing between the tiles is the norm. A wider distance is occasionally used for emphasis, as in the line running through the body of the seahorse and its overall outline.
08 Some exercise is had by bringing the stepping stone outside occasionally to clean off loose mortar and to give the peanut gallery a chance to chime in.
09 The work continues.
10 Detail
11 Sweet face is ready to grout.
12 At the right angle you get the added treat of seeing a few choice tiles which have an iridescent sheen.
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