I have been spellbound by many beautiful mosaic murals in public spaces.  Inspired by other artists, I decided to make a mural along a 38 x 8 foot wall at the back of my studio. My talented collaborator and friend, Jose Reyes, joined me. We spent a year and a half creating this mural called “Joy”. I knew I wanted to use recycled materials and start with the sun and a bright, bold, colorful garden at the center. I wanted the energy to be dynamic, upbeat, and whimsical. I wanted us to create a piece full of surprises. There is a river running across much of the mural. I think of that as a world river walk. We incorporated previously used tiles, plates, figurines and more from many cultures and historical time periods. We used ceramic, terracotta, and even metal animals from ducks to frogs and birds. While the garden is the focal point there are multiple scenes including a Mexican farm, a Jamaican village, a Beatrix Potter-inspired English rose garden, a dog park, a tropical ocean and more. See how many animals (and a Day of the Dead skull) you can find in the Mexican farm. Have fun!