Featured Artist: Karel Murphy, Philomath OR

I have been deeply moved by the transformation, connection and magic that occurs when separate materials are brought together to form an integrated whole. This theme is central to my work with mosaics, mosaic jewelry, and glass fusion. Many times, my work will incorporate all three together.

Each project begins by gathering materials, such as different sizes and shapes of glass, ceramic tiles, semi-precious stones, charms, beads, buttons, and smaller found objects. Assembly then begins with placement of color, patterns, and texture into the designed project. The result may be in the form of a piece of mosaic jewelry, a representation of a bird’s feather or other life form, some visual movement like flowing water, or an abstract landscape design. Always my focus is on harmony and integration of materials. If the artwork is only made using glass, I fire it in a glass kiln where more transformation takes place through the application of heat.

Artistic work for me is a metaphor for living a satisfying, balanced, and harmonious life. To live this way, it is important to explore the elements that work and fit together, discard or transform what doesn’t, and keep going deeper, ever changing, and discovering. It is my hope that my artistic creations telegraph and inspire that sense of depth, harmony, and balance.

You can see more of my work at
http://www.karelmurphydesigns.com/