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Community Mosaic Mural

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Kyle and I with the installed mural!
At the end of June 2017 we installed the first Kasia Mosaics community mural project in Alamosa, Colorado.  I created the design and the color scheme for the pattern while my partner Kyle did the engineering drawings for the installation as well as the steal frame.  We had 36 volunteers come to our studio to learn how to use basic tools to shape glass and how to arrange it into a pattern at no cost to them.  I precut all the glass for the volunteers to work with and they each got to build a section of the mural with my help and guidance.  In total there were 93 sections that made up the finished design.  In addition to the volunteers, Kyle and I got to create many of the sections of the project.  Once all the pieces were ready, Kyle and I glued them on the the custom substrate Kyle built.  Then we grouted and installed it into the steal frame and finally onto the building.  Take a look our project photo album here: Community Mural Project

We also organized a successful Indiegogo Campaign to help us raise funds for the material cost for the mural.  Check it out here: Help Us Beautify Our Town With a Community Mural  To cover the remainder cost of materials, a grant from the Colorado Creative Industries was given to us by Jeff Owsley from Alamosa Small Business Development.
We installed the mural only 3 blocks from our studio so transporting it was easy!
Me with the mural before our team put it up on the building.
Iwona, Jurek and Kyle - our amazing installation crew.
Below you can see a few photos of our volunteers diligently working in our studio.  
Clockwise from top right: Marcia, Nickie, Luke, Liz and Matt.  
From the Left: Emily, Jeff, Me giving a demo and Kelsey.
Clockwise from the top: Kyle, Eva, Sam, Bryce and Emily.
Jeff and Hollie adding their sections to the layout - almost ready for gluing!
Gluing the mural, one section at a time.
Creating a map of who created which section so the volunteers can easily locate their pieces. 
Peeling the tape after the adhesive dried.
Cleaning the glass prior to grouting. 
Grouting the mosaic.
Close up.  Grouting with epoxy grout is a little bit more work than the standard grout but its perfect for the outdoors!
Polishing the grouted mosaic.
Close up of the signature plaque for the mural.
We even made the paper!
To read the full article, click Community Comes Together to Construct a Mural


Online Owl Class Coming October 2017

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Learn the art of stained glass mosaics while working on a variety of unique owl templates designed by artist Kasia Polkowska. This new class will be released during the first week of October. Email Kasia at kpolkowska@gmail.com to be notified when the class is out. The first 10 students to sign up will save $25 and receive a free gift! The class will be available for instant streaming anywhere in the world via the Kasia Mosaics Classes Website It will come with a full set of owl templates, full instruction for the entire Stained Glass Mosaic Process from start to finish, additional owl design tutorials, background pattern tutorials, information on substrates, adhesive and grout for both indoor and outdoor mosaics and more! All students will be invited to a private facebook learning group where they can interact, ask questions and post photos of their class projects.


Learn how to approach your first mosaic art project, how to cut stained glass using simple and affordable hand tools and how to use the versatile taping technique.


Learn how to glue your project and how to choose the right substrate for you mosaic.


Learn to easily grout your mosaic project.


Learn to create beautifully beveled edge that will give a clean, finished look to any mosaic project!

Lotus Flower Comission

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Blue Lotus Flower on Yellow, stained glass mosaic, 12"x12", 2017 ~Sold
Below are some of the color choices of stained glass narrowed down by the client.


All of the glass, including the flower petals and circles is completely handcut with just the tools seen below.


This is an original Kasia Mosaics Design which is often requested to be commissioned in different colors and sizes. The design is exclusively copyrighted to Kasia Polkowska and may only be reproduced by the artist. Below is a photo of an earlier rendition of the same design but larger (22"x22") and hence with a more detailed center and background. It is the mosaic that inspired the above commission.

Blue Lotus Flower 
stained glass mosaic, 22" x 22" (23" x 23" framed), 2013   ~Sold

Online Mosaic Owl Class Coming October 2017

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The Kasia Mosaics Online Owl Workshop will be released in early October 2017! The first 10 early sign ups will receive a discount as well as a bonus free gift. Email kpolkowska@gmail.com to reserve your spot.


More Info Here: http://www.kasiamosaicsclasses.com/course/online-owl-class/ The website is still under construction but will be ready for new students in 2 weeks!

This online course is not a basic couple hour class. It is a full length course where the students can immerse themselves in learning while creating a full set of owl mosaics while developing a very strong foundation in stained glass mosaics for indoor and outdoor while perfecting their glass cutting and shaping skills. 

This is a great option for beginners as well as intermediate mosaic enthusiasts who are serious about learning a new art form or improving their craft. Students will receive instant, lifetime access to the course material from anywhere in the world. The class comes with 8 project templates with individual tips and tutorials in addition to the full length class which can span over months of time if properly taken advantage of.

Spring Time Lotus Flower

Online Flower Mosaic Class

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Today on April 27th the fully virtual version of the popular Kasia Mosaics Online Stained Glass Flower Class is LIVE! It is now available to students worldwide and can be accessed by registered students from anywhere, anytime.  There is no time limit on how often you can watch the videos and no set time on when you need to start or complete your project. Visit the new Kasia Mosaics Classes Website to sign up for the Online Class.

http://www.kasiamosaicsclasses.com/course/online-flower-class/

Just like the onsite workshop, the online class is suited for all levels – a beginner as well as an advanced student will enjoy and benefit from the class.  No prerequisites or drawing skills are needed to be able to successfully complete the class project. The class covers the basics of every step of the stained glass mosaic process from start to finish.  It is a great choice for someone looking to develop a strong foundation in stained glass mosaics and to grow as a stained glass mosaic artist.

What Are The Benefits of Taking This Class?

  • With a lifetime access to the class materials, learn in the comfort of your own home/studio while creating a beautiful stained glass mosaic flower.
  • Learn how to score, break and shape stained glass with hand tools – no need to spend money on grinders and wet saws.
  • You don’t need to know how to draw to create a mosaic via this Online Class as it comes with a full set of flower designs that may be used for a variety of hobby projects.
  • The additional flower designs allow you to continue practicing your new skills following the completion of their first class mosaic without having to worry about the design aspect of creating a mosaic in these early stages of learning.
  • The techniques covered in class can be further applied to more complex projects down the line after you build a strong foundation through practicing the lessons covered in class.
  • You will have access to a private Kasia Mosaics Online Class Facebook Group. This is where you get to ask questions, share your progress, interact with other students who are taking the class and be inspired by their results.
  • The class project makes a beautiful accent for your home or an artful gift for a special someone.
  • You have the option to purchase additional project templates, kits and frames.

Kasia Mosaics Summer Retreat

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More Than a Workshop 

 


This is a unique opportunity for fans of Kasia’s stained glass mosaic art and technique as well as those who love nature and the outdoors as much as Kasia and her partner Kyle do. This retreat combines learning a new approach to stained glass mosaics as well as exploring and enjoying some of the local favorites when it comes to sightseeing in the foothills of Colorado.  Visit the new Kasia Mosaics Classes Website to register, to see the potential time line, hotel suggestions etc.  If you have any other questions, please email kpolkowska@gmail.com

http://www.kasiamosaicsclasses.com/course/colorado-mosaic-retreat-summer-2016/

 

Here Is What Kasia and Kyle Have Planned

 

Students fly into Denver, Colorado on a Wednesday July 6th in time for the Welcome Dinner in the Kasia Mosaics Denver Studio surrounded by lots of colorful mosaics sure to inspire a beginner as well as an intermediate mosaicist. This will be a perfect meet and greet where we will enjoy Kyle’s home cooking as well as other refreshments including wine and local beer.
The time spent with Kasia and Kyle will be a combination of learning the basics of stained glass mosaics, creating and finishing an 18″x18″ framed mandala mosaic as well as a few excursions to see and enjoy some of K&K’s favorite, easy to access mountain vistas where students can enjoy a nature walk, a hike or even just kick back and take in the view.

What You'll Learn 

 

The workshop would include all materials and tools.  We would have a structured class each of the three days and students would finish their projects by Saturday late afternoon/early evening.  At that point we might have some informal good bye refreshments.
During the class we will focus on glass cutting while going through ever part of the stained glass mosaic process and completing an impressive mosaic.  The students will have 3 templates to choose from.  Through out the day in the studio, we will have light snacks like coffee, cookies, fruit.
More details coming soon!





 

The Sights

 

The nature outings would be in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid afternoon storms.
  • Boulder, maybe Chataqua Park would be very cool as we can go for nature walks in the foothill (if we get a big hiker, they can go up Green or Bear Mountain – both great hikes) 6 mile round trip with a lot of elevation gain.

  • Indian Peaks for the big Colorado views, perfect for a stroll, or a picnic around Brainard lake, a short 2 mile hike around Long Lake or a 5 or 6 mile hike out and back to the bigger views but this is high up so not for everyone.
  • Roxbourough State Park– amazing rock formations. (click the included links to see photos of these places).  The photo below was taken in winter, it will be green and sunny in July – the rock formations are spectacular. 

Sunset at Trillium Lake - Oregon

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In September of 2015, I spent a few days in the Mt Hood region of Oregon. We camped in a national forest near Trillium Lake. This was part of our (my partner Kyle and I's) 8 month long cross country trip. The days spent in this area were calm and relaxing. The forest was quiet, the skies blue and mostly clear and Mt Hood was majestic.


Sunset at Trillium Lake, stained glass mosaic (framed), 24" x 48", 2016
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

Here we found a tranquility we longed for on the busier days of our long trip. While hiking around at the foot of Mt Hood, watching the setting sun and the still reflection of the vista in Trillium Lake, knowing that there is turmoil and boiling lava below, that feeling which filled me at that moment was magical.

A photo I took at Trillium Lake.
Below you can see a few photos taken during the time that I've worked on the mosaic.  All of the stained glass in the mosaic is completely hand cut and shaped by me using a few basic hand tools.

I worked on the mosaic for about a month and a half.  All of the glass used in the mosaic is made in the USA and hand cut and shaped by me using basic hand tools.
All the glass is meticulously hand cut by me.
Working on the sky reflection in the lake.
Grouting.


Close up view of Mt Hood.

Closer Detail.

View of the framed mosaic.

Detail the shaped glass trees.

Above you can see a good size comparison of the completed, framed mosaic.

First Friday Art Walk - Denver, Colorado

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Come to the February 5th First Friday Art Walk in the Santa Fe Arts District in Denver, Colorado (6pm to 9pm).  Visit my mosaic studio #302 on the third floor.  We'll have lots of art, not just mosaics but also painting and prints for you to enjoy!  You'll also have a unique opportunity to see my stained glass mosaics in person, truly the best way to experience glass.  I have lots of new projects displayed since the December Open Studios (we were closed in January due to Holiday travels) - hope to see you there!

The very latest addition to the Kasia Mosaics Studio is this photo collaboration with Kyle Cunniff.  We've printed some of both of our photos from last year's cross country trip and have created wood block print transfers - they are quite a sight to see!
These three landscapes are some of the newest editions to my studio.  Be the first to see them framed and displayed.
This piece will great you even before you enter my studio!
Here is another mandala that you get to see all grouted.
And another - there really is lots to see!
This is the latest landscape that I've just completed.  It is all glued, grouted and framed, ready to be admired by its first viewers.
The Red Lotus mosaic is now beautifully framed.  Many of my works are larger than people realize.  The best way to truelly experience them is in person.

Sunset Over Boulder

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Sunset Over Boulder, stained glass mosaic (framed), 24" x 48", 2016
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/ 

Having lived in Colorado since the beginning of 2012 I have seen many beautiful sunsets over the foothills.  Often the really good ones are seen from the car, driving between Denver and Boulder or Boulder and Lyons.  You just sit there and take in that fleeting magical color display as the color of the mountains changes.  Everything in the foreground begins to blend in and become one, making way for the show the sun has in stored for you. 


When surrounded by such beauty, you don't always jump at the photo op, sometimes you just look.  I've seen many incredible sunsets in Boulder.  This mosaic is an impression that I carry with me.  I just flip through the many beautiful memories I have and there it is, a compilation of my favorite Boulder View, glowing in blue with bursting sunbeams lighting up the clouds.  This is why so many people fall in love with Colorado.

The mountains are made with Kokomo Glass, hand cut by me.

The trees are also hand cut with those same tools as well as using Kokomo Glass.

The sky is created using Bullseye Glass.

The mosaic is custom framed.

Kasia Mosaics Online Class

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Yellow Lotus Flower, stained glass mosaic on board, 11"X11" (12"X12" framed), 2016  ~SOLD
This is one of the designs I've created for my online class.  Besides in-studio workshops, I teach an Online Stained Glass Mosaic Flower Class that focus on my approach to stained glass mosaics.  The class is geared at beginners as well as anyone wanting to try a new technique or simply to get an opportunity to work on some of the designs I've created for this class.  Check out more details here: http://kasiamosaicsonlineclasses.blogspot.com/

Each student receives a packet of 8 flower designs that they get to use during their learning process.  A set of finished mosaic flowers will make an impressive display at home or wonderful and unique gifts for loved ones.

In the class the students get to experience the whole stained glass mosaic process from start to finish at their own pace in the comfort of their home.  The class comes with 3.5 hours of DVD instructions that can be watched at anytime.  I demonstrate how to use the four basic glass cutting tools: a glass scoring tool, running pliers, flathead tile nippers and wheeled nippers while teaching the students how to cut glass for mosaics.  I give many demos including showing how to use my taping technique, how to glue and grout.  Additionally I've recently began adding new demos where I give special tips on each design.  The above flower was created by me while demonstrating how to cut each flower petal as well as how to add leaves to this flower (that can be applied to any of the included templates). 

My students also get to participate in a private facebook learning group where they get to post photos of inprogress projects as well as finished ones and ask questions along the way.  They also receive a couple of useful pdfs. For their first project, I include a custom built frame.  Anyone who wants can add additional frames to their initial order or get those at a later date.  Besides the flower templates, I also offer owl and mandala designs that come with custom substrates.  Those are great for future projects but can also be added to the class order.

Adding leaves - each leaf is hand cut by me.
Working on the background.  Each piece is hand cut and fitted.
The mosaic is glued into a custom oak frame built by my partner Kyle.

High Alpine Lake

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High Alpine Lake, stained glass mosaic 24"x48", 2016 available for sale
This mosaic is inspired by various hikes here in the high Rockies of Colorado.  Rather than paying homage to a specific lake, this is a tribute to high alpine lakes in general.  I've lived in Colorado since 2012 and have hiked to many such lakes as this region is blessed with countless gems of this sort.  I don't quiet have a favorite but have some that I've visited more than others in the Indian Peaks Wilderness as well as the Rocky Mountains both areas within driving distance where I've lived, ideal for day hike excursions.  

This photo gives an idea of scale and show how the mosaic is framed to match the mountains. 
In this mosaic I worked to convey the feeling of being in such places, hiking up high above the treeline, being surrounded by beautifully patterned granite mountains and rocks, coming upon a pristine body of water, encircled by peaks that shoot up to 13,000 to 14,000 feet into the perfect and warm Colorado Sky that is the bluest blue I've ever seen.  Having completed and stepped back from this mosaic, I now see that it can be so many more places that I've imagined, depending on who is viewing it and what amazing places they've gotten to experience. 

Progress.  All of the glass in this mosaic, including the mountains and the lake, is completely hand cut by me using basic hand tools.
Grouting - black really makes the bright blues pop!
The mosaic is almost revealed!
Close up of the beautifully patterned glass during grouting.


Denver's Westword Feature on Kasia Mosaics

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Last month I was interviewed by Westword's Jamie Siebrase for the arts section of the online publication.  Below is a screen shot of the intro to the feature.  Click here to read the full story: http://www.westword.com/arts/have-art-will-travel-kasia-mosaics-back-in-denver-after-an-epic-road-trip-7579083


Here I am quoted form the article: “The main thing I like to focus on is the great American landscape,” Polkowska says. In New York City and other urban environments, she’d struggled to connect with nature — but that changed in Colorado. “I want to show people, with my work, what a beautiful country we live in,” she says. “I’d like to inspire people to get out there, and to care about the land and take care of our natural resources a little more.”

To read the full story click on the link above.

My Love Affair with Mountains

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My most favorite subject matter for mosaics is the Great American Landscape.  I say 'most' because I enjoy investigating numerous, varied subjects and themes through my mosaics but the landscape owns the greatest part of my heart.  I hike around the country, take lots and lots of reference and inspirational photos, do a ton of sketches when I get back to the studio and then ... I hand cut and shape the thousands of pieces of glass it takes to create each one of these mosaic mountain scenes that are actually much larger than you can imagine from these photos. They span up to 4 feet in width and I plan for them to keep getting larger!

 

I had a full year off from creating my mosaic landscapes in 2015 due to an extensive cross country journey I embarked on which took most of that year and about 6 months to plan and organize leading up to the trip.  This leaves quite a gap in my portfolio but I've been very busy since returning to Colorado and back to work and eager to create as much as possible!

Fun Fact: In just one of these mosaics, I've counted there to be about 2,000 hand cut circles. I often ask myself what was I thinking?!?! Hope you enjoy and are inspired to get out there and surround yourself with our incredible landscape this Spring, the time of the year when a part of the landscape that has been a sleep for many months reawakens and brightens up our world with the most beautiful shades of color spread all around.

Sunset at Trillium Lake, stained glass mosaic (framed), 24" x 48", 2016
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

In September of 2015, while traveling around the United States, I spent a few days in the Mt Hood region of Oregon.  We camped in a national forest near Trillium Lake.  This was part of our (my partner Kyle and I's) 8 month long cross country trip.  The days spent in this area were calm and relaxing.  The forest was quiet, the skies blue and mostly clear, The MOUNTAIN was majestic.  Most of our trip was very busy as we were combining travel with work so it had its moments of stress.  But here we found a tranquility we longed for in those busy days.  The feeling that filled me while at the foot of Mt Hood, watching the setting sun and the still reflection of the vista in Trillium Lake, knowing that there is turmoil and boiling lava below, was magical.   

High Alpine Lake, stained glass mosaic (framed), 24" x 48", 2016
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

This mosaic is inspired by various hikes here in the high Rockies of Colorado.  Rather than paying homage to a specific lake, this is a tribute to high alpine lakes in general.  I've lived in Colorado since 2012 and have hiked to many such lakes as this region is blessed with countless gems of this sort.  I don't quite have a favorite but have some that I've visited more than others in the Indian Peaks Wilderness as well as the Rocky Mountain National Park both areas within driving distance where I've lived, ideal for day hike excursions.  In this mosaic I worked to convey the feeling of being in such places, hiking up high above the treeline, being surrounded by beautifully patterned granite mountains and rocks, coming upon a pristine body of water, encircled by peaks that shoot up to 13,000 to 14,000 feet into the perfect and warm Colorado Sky that is the bluest blue I've ever seen. Having completed and stepped back from this mosaic, I now see that it can be so many more places that I've imagined, depending on who is viewing it and what amazing places they've gotten to experience.

Sunset Over Boulder, stained glass mosaic (framed), 24" x 48", 2016 
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

Having lived in Colorado for years, I have seen many beautiful sunsets over the foothills.  Often the really good ones are seen from the car, driving between Denver and Boulder or Boulder and Lyons.  You just sit there and take in that fleeting magical color display.  The mountains change colors.  Everything in the foreground begins to blend in and become one, making way for the show the sun has in store for you. When surrounded by such beauty, you don't always jump at the photo op, sometimes you just look.  I've seen many incredible sunsets here.  This mosaic is an impression that I carry with me.  I just flip through the many beautiful memories I have and there it is, a compilation of my favorite Boulder View glowing in Blue with bursting sunbeams lighting up the clouds.  This is why so many people fall in love with Colorado. 


Ptarmigan Trail - Glacier National Park, stained glass mosaic (framed), 30" x 30", 2014
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

This mosaic is inspired by one of the hikes we did in Glacier National Park in Montana in the summer of 2014. We combined the Ice Lake Trail with the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail. On this 15 miler there were too many awe inspiring views to count. It was impossible to choose a favorite ... but emerging of the Ptarmigan Tunnel after 10 miles of pushing along, crossing our fingers not to run into a grizzly, yet kinda hoping to get a glimpse of one in the distance, trying to take in all the beauty of the lush and colorful, flower filled landscape, the final view of the Belly River Valley with the bright blue Elizabeth Lake appeared on the other side.  It was so drastically different than everything leading up to it that it made the strongest impression on me. Still today it is as clear in my memory as if I was just there.

Hands down it is one of the best hikes I've ever done and would do again in a heartbeat. Don't miss it if you are planning a trip to the magic filled Glacier National Park.
 


Cathedral Sky, stained glass mosaic (framed), 24" x 48", 2014   ~SOLD

In the very early spring of 2014, while driving on US Highway 36 between Lyons and Boulder, I was confronted with the most magical and serene view - I couldn't get it out of my head ... right away I knew that it was meant to be my next mosaic.  Actually I had to put my other very exciting project on hold because I needed to create this one so badly!

The drive on that road is really beautiful with the rolling foothills and our famous Boulder Mountains on display for all the cyclists and drivers to enjoy. The leaves on the trees were newly blossomed and everything was covered in an afternoon haze. The mountains and the sky almost became one as they created a peaceful backdrop for this lovely scene. It seemed kinda cloudy yet the sun was shining brightly underneath the thin layer of clouds. Right away my mind began to race as this mosaic began to come to life in my head during that lovely drive.

The Dallas Divide, stained glass mosaic (framed), 16" x 48", 2014 

In September 2013, Kyle and I were planning a trip to the San Juan Mountains here in Colorado.  But ... due to the epic thousand year flood in Boulder where we lived at the time, there was an unfortunate change of plans.  First we were displaced from our home for nearly six weeks and had a lot of after math to deal with.  Needless to say, we had to cancel our plans. This mosaic was my way of visiting the mountains I dreamed of seeing that fall but couldn't.  

Sanitas Valley - Spring, stained glass mosaic (framed), 24" x 24", 2014   ~SOLD 

Here in Colorado, there are infinite places to hike around and to challenge yourself going up all those high peaks.  But I often like to take the more relaxing path, one like the hike up Mt. Sanitas in Boulder.  I especially enjoy the walk through the valley below, between Hogback Ridge and Mount Sanitas looking toward the foothills, with my favorite view of Green Mountain, one of the high points in Boulder. This is where I can simply enjoy something beautiful while taking an easy morning stroll, taking in a familiar view which I've really grown to love in all seasons and all times of day. 

From the first stroll down this path all the way back in 2012, I knew I either wanted to draw this place or to create a mosaic tribute to it.  I've walked here during every season and decided that I wanted to recreate the spring version first.  Day after day I went in spring, waiting to see an abundance of purple flowers ... I had no luck, maybe bad timing.  I saw lots and lots of yellows =)  Initially I was going to create a yellow field of flowers but then decided that as the artist, I can make them any color so I got my purple field of flowers in Sanitas Valley after all. 

Cascade Canyon, stained glass mosaic (framed), 24" x 48", 2013  
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

This mosaic is inspired by my trip to the Teton Mountains in July of 2012. Kyle and I hiked the Canyon/Paintbrush Loop where the mountain views were spectacular, especially from our backcountry campsite in the Northern section of Cascade Canyon near Lake Solitude. Everything was so lush and green, the wild flowers were blossoming everywhere - the blue and yellow ones stood out to me the most but the reds and pinks were equally impressive.  

A thunderstorm was brewing as we arrived at our campsite so we held our breath as it roared.  Following the storm a thick fog rose from the ground to fully cover the tall peaks and decrease visibility of the scenery.  Just as we watched it rise, we watched the fog fall back to the ground and reveal the spectacular scenery back to us.  The fog kept coming and going until it fully dispersed at sunset and we got to enjoy watching the mountains be bathed in the bright light.  

We observed the marmots and the picas and even saw an antelope run across the meadow.  We fished in the lake, listened to the creek run past our camp as we enjoyed our supper and slept under the stars. This was one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited and used a variety of views and aspects that I've photographed to design a scene which I hoped would convey all that I loved about it. 


Impression of a Colorado Fall, stained glass mosaic (framed), 36" x 36", 2013   ~SOLD

This landscape has been inspired by my impression of the changing, vibrant aspen trees in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado where I live. Aspens live in large colonies and many share one root system so they change colors within their group.  That's one of the reasons the fall foliage is so incredible in the mountainous Colorado landscape. While the colors transition from green to yellow, the barren rocky peaks begin getting snow peaked which creates a wonderful accent to the golden landscape.  This is what creates one of the most magical color displays that nature paints for us.  This is why people travel from all over the world just to get a glimpse.  If they are lucky enough, they will leave with this kind of impression that I've worked to capture in this mosaic.

Vermont Autumn, stained glass mosaic (framed), 36" x 36", 2013 
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

As you can see from the title above, this mosaic has been inspired by Vermont's legendary and magical fall foliage.  The mountains may be smaller on the East Coast, but the fall colors rival those found in the Colorado Rockies. 

The September prior to creating this pieces, Kyle and I were driving up to our friends' farm and the reds stood out to me as particularly vibrant and shiny.  In this mosaic, the green conifers and half the red trees are created with iridescent glass which shimmers in the light and recreates the impression of seeing the bright, vibrant foliage in person. 

On our drive, there is a particular spot where you can catch a quick but a very expansive view of the mountains, where thy appear very mighty and pointy, reminiscent of the Rockies, disappearing in all directions into the distant sky or clouds - depending on what kind of a day it is.  On this particular occasion it was the latter, the sky was covered in semi dark clouds but there was still enough light to illuminate the the brilliant carpet of trees covering the mountains below.

 Vermont Spring, stained glass mosaic on board (framed), 18" x 36", 2012   ~SOLD 

This lovely scene was inspired by part of the beautiful panoramic view I used to have from my porch while living and working on a sheep dairy farm in Northeast Vermont. In the spring and in the summer, the fields and pastures would blossom in colonies of flowers, change color almost every week as different flowers took the spotlight. I especially loved seeing the yellows and the pinks together. Here I recreated one of my favorite memories of another place I hold dear in my hear, reliving some of my most beautiful memories I carry with me forever.  

 Green Mountains, stained glass mosaic on board (framed), 36" x 36", 2012
Available for Sale: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

I've always loved mountains but none as much as green mountains! I don't just love mountains but hills as well.  Combine mountains, hills and a perfect blue sky and I'm in paradise =)  I feel that I've been on a quest to find my perfect landscape, my perfect green hills that roll back into the distance and evolve into magnificent mountain peaks.  The search has led me to discover so nay beautiful places.  I realize that its not the destination but rather the journey that I've been enjoying all of these years.

When I lived in Lismore, Australia back in 2006, I was mesmerized by the endless rolling hills covered by beautiful carpet of green grass.  I used to look out the bus window and as it glided up and down the sloping road, I breathed in the scenery and daydreamed of walking through the beautiful landscape.  This is my tribute to 'Green Mountains' veiled in my ideal sky - a place so beautiful it will inspire many to look for it.


 Mountain Spring, stained glass mosaic (framed), 36" x 36", 2012   ~SOLD

Through my work, I explore many aspects of my interests.  I love nature, landscapes, patterns and colors.  I've been drawn to mountains ever since I was a child and am still fascinated by them, in particular by the mountainous landscape after the snow melt when everything slowly comes to life in vibrant colors.  I am fascinated by flower fields that spring up in these environments, away from most people, hidden in beautiful secluded places.  

While I lived on a remote farm in the beautiful Vermont, I got to see the fields change every week - it was spectacular.  One week a field was a green blanket of grass, the next week yellow dandelions covered fifty percent of it - I've never seen anything so beautiful and undisturbed.  The flowers took turns.  Another week the field was pink with clover and so on.

I feel that purple flowers in particular are a sign of the arrival of Spring. I often see them shooting up through the snow letting us know that its that time of the year. It is my dream to find myself in a purple field like the one that I've created in this mosaic. I want there to be a variety of flowers some more pink some more blue but all in harmony with each other existing in that magical moment when its their turn to come out from the earth for that brief moment and to breath in the pure mountain air.
 
Moving to Colorado in 2012, being confronted with the scope of the Rocky Mountains, I knew I had to add a new factor to my work which was mostly pretty small scale.  Seeing these new, very large and monumental mountains, I didn't want to squeeze them into a small canvas. I decided to direct my energy and focus into mainly large scale mosaics. 

Even though I've been creating mosaics since 2007, this one was the first of its kind.  It was a pivoting point for me and my work.  In the midst of 2012 it became my largest and loudest landscape and it dwarfed my other work.  Up to this point I've worked just as meticulously on my mosaic scenes but due to limited resources I kept the scale pretty small.  Each and everyone of those pieces is unique, has its own story and is filled with the discovery and the play that has shaped me into the creator that I am today.  But every once in a while, I've made sure to take the time to go wild and create something with no boundaries. That is where the biggest magic happens!  That is what this mosaic symbolizes to me.  There are no words to describe the wonder and sense of accomplishment I felt when I stepped back from it and took in what I created.  This is a very special piece for me.

First Friday Art Walk

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Its that time of the month again - The Santa Fe First Friday Art Walk is happening this Friday April 1 from 6pm to 9pm. Visit the Kasia Mosaics Studio in the 910 ARTS Building in Denver. See my current works in progress, an array of completed colorful mosaics, Kyle's water colors, our friend Gaby might stop by to display her jewelry and that's just the beginning. 

All the art studios and galleries will be open so its a very fun way to kick off Friday Night! If you'd like to come scope out the space as a potential student and ask some questions, its best to come early as the night gets busy and sometimes I don't have a chance to talk to everyone. Before 7:30pm its pretty slow so its a great time to chat.  We will serve wine and beer through out the night.

Teton Mounains in Earthtones

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Tetons, stained glass mosaic on board, 14" x 24.5" (15.5" x 26" framed), 2015 ~Available for Sale

This version of the Tetons came about during the late fall, early winter here in Colorado.  The land is brown.  The grass is straw.  The colors are subdued.  This is the West.  During this time, I often time travel, not just to different seasons but also places where I've took good memories from.  The Teton Mountains are just that.  


I've been thinking about those mountains, in those sepia tones before the snow covers them.  After the snow melts but the bright spring hues have not come back yet.  Then I add the sun!  The sun always brings back the magic.  In this mosaic I am looking at this beloved landscape being brought back to life during Magic Hour, that time during the day when it may be getting colder as the sun is calling it a night but not before reminding us of its majestic powers to do just what you see here.

 The beginning. 

 All of the glass is hand picked and hand cut to create the best effect.

 All ready to glue. 

 Grouting.

Teton Alpenglow

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Teton Alpenglow, stained glass mosaic, 16" x 25" (17.5" x 26.5" framed), 2015 ~Available

This mosaic is inspired by the soft rosy light that sometimes hits the legendary Teton Mountains in Wyoming during sunrise.  These mountains always look majestic.  They are always awe inspiring.  The alpenglow though is an extra special sight to see.  It is so brief that you want to breath in every moment of it.  When the Tetons are surrounded by alpenglow, one really does feel like on a set of a fairytale but it is even better because it real.  Time stops and you can't take your eyes off of the mountains.  The atmosphere is nothing short of magic, real magic here on earth.  I created this mosaic as a reminder that these places are real, that these moments are real but if you don't wake up early and don't make the effort, you'll think that this kind of magic only happens in our imaginations. 

 Testing out my glass choice for the sky.

 Smoothies - what keeps me going in the studio =)

 Progress.

 All glued!

 The tape is peeled - all ready for grouting!

Grouting!

Purchase Kasia's Art Online

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All available artwork can be purchased directly from the artist: http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/ See what is currently available, the prices and dimensions of the artwork.

Email: kpolkowska@gmail.com with all inquiries and questions

http://kasiamosaicsstore.blogspot.com/

Everything can be shipped anywhere in the continental US and Canada while being fully insured for its value while in transit (other shipping options available upon request). 

A custom monthly payment plan is also available (buyer keeps artwork while making payments). Each artwork comes with a certificate of authenticity. 

Ursus Borealis ~ A Limited Time Print

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For a limited time, Ursus Borealis will be available as an archival art print. Pre-Order Here: https://www.kasiapolkowskashop.com/product/pre-order-sale/ The rest of the shop is still under construction =) But the print is up!

Me, Kasia, holding the finished bear up - so happy with how he turned out!
I designed this bear for my son Ethan. In creating this piece, my hope was to give him a part of me, of whom I am today. I realize that as people, we change with time and even though I may not imagine this now, I may be a very different person when he grows up. This bear will be a time capsule of when his mom spent a lot of time in the outdoors, exploring the Rocky Mountains, hiking, camping and taking in the magnificent views that inspire us to cherish and protect our public lands.

I did a series of small sketches to work out the ideal scenery.
Why a black bear? First, it is my favorite animal =) To me a black bear symbolizes wild places as they should be. Even though bears can adapt to living in varied environments, especially in their shrinking habitats here in the US, their natural environment is the kind of place I'd love Ethan to grow up knowing.

Even though Ethan is currently a baby, I chose a color palette that is sophisticated, something he can grow into.
Mama bears are great protectors of their cubs, fearless and courageous. This one will hang in Ethan's room where she can look over him and even visit him in his dreams as it is believed that dreaming of a bear can help one draw its power.

The mosaic bear ready to be glued onto the substrate which was hand cut by Ethan's Dad Kyle.
I aim to instill in Ethan a curious of animals and their environment. This bear will be a great introduction to the magic of the vast animal kingdom of the forest and of the mountains as well as of the cosmos beyond.

Grouting and Polishing, the final touches before painting the edges and hanging it in Ethan's room.
The landscape inside of the bear is that of the Rocky Mountains but not of one particular place. It is inspired by my camping trips through out Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. There is also a hint of the Canadian Rockies and Alaska where the Northern Lights can be witnessed. I haven't been to either place and I've never seen the Aurora Borealis but I hope to experience exploring the Northern Landscape with my little boy so we can take in the magic together.

Ursus Borealis, stained glass mosaic bear silhouette, 24"x40", 2018 NFS

Due to the popularity of Ursus Borealis on Instagram as well Facebook, I am making it available as an Art Print for a limited time. Read more about it and Pre-Order here: https://www.kasiapolkowskashop.com/product/pre-order-sale/ The rest of the shop is still under construction =) But the print is up! 


First Friday Art Walk - December 4, 2015

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Come to the December 4th First Friday Art Walk in the Santa Fe Arts District in Denver, Colorado.  Visit my mosaic studio #302 on the third floor.  We'll have lots of art for you to see hanging on the walls while you enjoy some red wine.  You'll also have a unique opportunity to see some of the works in progress I have laid out on the table plus a couple of recently completed new works.
Above is my current work-in-progress depicting a sunset over Trillium Lake at the foot of Mt Hood.  I am working off a photo I took while visiting Oregon.  I've still got a lot of work on this one but it is fun to see a mosaic in these early stages.  This piece is 48" x 24".

Above is a mosaic owl I've created for a recent contest winner via the Kasia Mosaics Facebook Page.  I just finished the piece today but it will still be in the studio on Friday prior to me shipping it out on Monday to its new home.

The above mosaic is all finished and waiting to be framed.  It is quite a sight to see in person as it stands 3ft tall.  The black grout lines in between the bone colored glass really make the mosaic pop.

Above I look up at the owl I roughly sketched out for a new mosaic I started last night.  Thus far I've just got the eyes and hope to start on the feathers soon.  This piece is laid out on one of my work benches and is also fun to see in these very beginning moments when the glass starts to cover up the sketch.

Lastly if you visited the studio in November and saw me working on the blue lotus flower, it is no longer in the studio.  It is all finished, framed and has been shipped to its new owner.  Though if I have a chance today or tomorrow morning, I might start working on a small flower for fun but also testing new ideas for classes and workshops that conduct here in the studio each month.  The next in house class is December 12-13, 2015.

See You Friday 6pm - 9pm in my studio #302 in the 910 Arts Building located at 910 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO, 80204.  Its been a busy month!  Since moving in at the beginning of November with the Holidays, I've only had 3 weeks of actual studio time but have been busy indeed!
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