Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Weh

Hi Amy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

Mosaicweh’s story began over 30 years ago when I first started exploring the world of art. From a young age, I’ve always wanted to be a creative, and I was fortunate to grow up in a household that fostered creativity. My journey began with watercolors, but my passion for texture and depth eventually led me to mosaics. I started with traditional materials like china, stained glass, and smalti, but over time, I embraced found objects and reclaimed materials, adding a distinctive dimension to my work.

After completing my art education in college, I honed my skills and deepened my understanding of various mediums. My studies gave me the foundation I needed to truly dive into mosaic art and develop my own artistic voice. A significant turning point came during the COVID pandemic when I had the freedom to experiment more extensively. I began working on larger pieces and incorporating more mixed media, which helped me refine my signature style and push creative boundaries with repurposed materials.

Recently, I transitioned into teaching as an elementary art teacher, a role that allows me to inspire young minds and share the world of mosaics. I’ve also had the privilege of leading Artist-in-Residence programs, collaborating with schools and communities on large-scale projects that bring people together through art.

I’m deeply grateful for the continued support from collectors, galleries, and art enthusiasts who value the originality of my work. Mosaicweh is growing, and I look forward to exploring new creative opportunities while sharing my passion for art with others.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, and I’ve faced my fair share of challenges along the way. For 20 years, I worked as a frame shop manager in a major retail chain. During that time, I had to plead for vacation time just to participate in art shows, balancing my passion for mosaics with the realities of a full-time job. The struggle to manage both my art and my career was tough, but it also helped me develop resilience and a deep appreciation for the time I now get to dedicate to my art.

Financially, as with many artists, there were times when making a living from my work felt uncertain, especially when starting out. Balancing a creative career with the need to sustain myself was a challenge. But those tough times also fueled my determination to continue pushing forward.

When I transitioned into teaching art, it was another big leap, as I had to adjust to the balance of being both a full-time educator and a working artist. It wasn’t easy, but it allowed me to grow in new ways and share my passion for art with others, which ultimately made me feel more connected to the community.

Today, I still encounter challenges, especially when it comes to managing the business side of things, but I’ve learned to embrace those hurdles as part of the creative journey. Every struggle has shaped who I am as an artist and has only strengthened my passion for what I do.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

I specialize in creating original mosaics using a variety of repurposed materials, such as found objects, glass, metal, and ceramics. Over the years, my work has evolved from traditional mosaic techniques using china, stained glass, and smalti, to incorporating upcycled materials that bring a unique texture and depth to each piece. I’m known for my bold use of color, intricate details, and the way I upcycle discarded objects.

What sets me apart from others is my focus on sustainability and creativity. I love working with materials that would typically be thrown away, giving them a second life in my mosaics. Each piece is one-of-a-kind and tells its own story—whether it’s a piece made from rusted metal, a vintage tile, or even paper scraps. I’m passionate about connecting with my audience through art that is both visually engaging and thought-provoking.

I’m most proud of how my work has developed over the years and how it continues to evolve. From my early days with watercolors to my more recent experiments with larger, mixed-media pieces, I’ve embraced every challenge and learning opportunity. I’m proud to have created a body of work that reflects both my growth as an artist and my commitment to environmental sustainability. The ability to inspire others through my art, and to see my pieces find new homes with collectors, continues to be one of my greatest rewards.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?

Some of the resources that inspire and help me do my best work include the *ArtJuice* and *Indie Podcast*, both of which offer valuable insights into the art world. I’ve continued to grow as an artist by attending workshops, such as those offered by the Chicago School of Mosaic, and staying connected to artist communities. I am a proud member of Wisconsin Craft, the Art Alliance of Greater Lake Mills, the Museum of Wisconsin Art, and the Wisconsin Alliance of Artists and Craftspeople. Additionally, magazines like *Mosaic & Glass*, *Create! Magazine*, and *Cloth Paper Scissors* provide endless inspiration and keep me informed about the latest trends in the art world. These resources have been instrumental in shaping my practice and connecting me with fellow creatives.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mosaicweh.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mosaicweh/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mosaicweh
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mosaicweh
• Other: https://www.threads.net/@mosaicweh