Public commission for a new park in Hillsboro, Oregon, 2008.

The mosaics for this water feature were designed in conjunction with the landscape architects for the park. After the park was named Magnolia Park, I took the cue from several varieties of Magnolia trees that were to be planted in the park as inspiration for the designs of the mosaics. We decided to make borders around the three stone mounds in the water feature, and I also created a center medallion that surrounds the drain. Magnolia Grandiflora, Denudata, Liliflora Nigra and Stellata varieties are depicted in each of the three borders.

I used an unglazed porcelain tile made by the French company Briare. Their Mazurka line of tile has a lovely palette, and is made for wet areas to be slip-resistant. I hand carved the lettering tiles that spell out the magnolia names, and made molds to make the multiples I needed for the project.

To see detailed shots and step by step progress of the project, click here.

 

Photos by Loren Nelson and Lynn Adamo.

back to architectural index