Denise Davidson
Santa Cruz, California
Monterey Street Design
Tell us a little about your artistic background: Do you have any professional art training? How did you get started in mosaics?
I graduated from De Anza College (Cupertino, CA) with an AA in Commercial Photography. Along the way I started taking digital art classes and ended up being a Graphic Designer. About 15 years ago I wanted a creative outlet that did NOT involve a computer. I stumbled upon mosaic art at an Open Studio here in Santa Cruz. I started taking workshops and attended my first SAMA conference in 2013.
What about mosaics resonates with you?
I’m not sure what resonated with me other than I felt like I could do this! I started using vitreous glass because a friend gave me a grocery bag full of tiles. Because of my graphic design background I was able to use those tools to get my vision on paper. I never felt very comfortable with illustration. Then, after that first SAMA conference when I saw all the beautifully different styles and techniques I was hooked.
What is your favorite part of the mosaic process?
My favorite part is starting a project. I’ve already thought about it, designed it in my head, done sketches, and made my cartoon the size I needed. Ready to cut glass!
A Perfect Day by Denise Davidson
Do you have a favorite subject matter? What is it? Where do you find inspiration for subject matter?
I typically tend to focus on the natural environment. I’m mostly inspired by the natural beauty of coastal California and the Sierra.
Do you have favorite materials you like to work with? What are they?
I work with stained glass currently. Love the colors, curves and shapes I can cut.
Work in progress - click to see video
What is your favorite thing you have created and why?
My favorite piece is the one I’m currently working on. I just finished the first panel of a triptych for an outdoor installation. It will be 15ft x 3 ft. It’s so fun working with huge elements in my piece. In this case, flowers, butterfly and a bee.
What would you like to learn/add to your mosaics experience?
I always love learning new techniques. (I think I just finally cracked the code on using groziers) I love passing the info on to my students in workshops.
Hummingbird Birthday by Denise Davidson
What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of mosaics?
Small cuts on my fingers. Contrary technical information. Sometimes it’s so difficult to sort through all the information.
What is your least favorite thing about mosaics and why?
Gluing direct. Don’t like getting all that adhesive all over my hands all day. I use a double indirect method.
One more Ride by Denise Davidson
Tell us a little about your studio. Do you listen to music while creating (what type/bands)or do you prefer the TV(what shows/genera/channel)? Silence? Pod cast? Etc.?
I have a 10 x 12 She Cave in our backyard. My husband built it. Its cozy. I listen to a lot of pod casts, and music while I work.
If you could give readers one single piece of advice, what would it be?
Jump in, don’t hesitate, learn all you can.
Tell us about your single greatest mosaic moment:
My first Open Studio. People came and they bought art. Amazing.
Who are your top 3 favorite artists or top 3 most influential artists?
Sonia King, Kathleen Crocetti, and of course, Cherie Bosela
Butterfly and Flowers by Denise Davidson
