I am honored to present this month's featured Mosaic Artist, Daryl Lynne Wood .

Daryl Lynne's latest mosaic 'Heads of State, Round Table Summit' is so incredibly unique that I knew there must be a story behind it.  I asked if she could provide a little insight into her inspiration & process...

Daryl Lynne   When I work in my studio I listen to CBC all day.  I hear so many programs about Round Table Summit Meetings along with all the atrocities on the daily news.   I become overwhelmed with the thought of wasted human life in areas of cultural conflict.  

Being able to create art work in a peaceful setting usually seems so far removed from the everyday suffering of so many people, that I wanted to make some small effort towards the idea of communication and tolerance amongst varied cultures.

My purpose became to manifest "peace by piece". I laid each mosaic piece in the hope of communicating an alternative to violent conflict and the idea that mixed cultures could co-exist the way varied materials coexist in harmony in a mosaic.

Kid Serve Supervising Artist & Director Josef Norris shares his experience creating mosaic murals with children:

• m.a.s.   any advice for artists interested in working on large scale mosaic projects with children?
• Josef    The most important part of any kids project is to form a strong partnership with the adults involved.  Be careful of volunteers – they’re great if they show up – but don’t count on them.  Work with small groups of kids, usually not more than 6 at a time.

The Prix Picassiette International Mosaic Exhibit in Chartres, France included a rich array of subject, material, texture & color in both 2 & 3D mosaics.  Special thanks to mosaic artist & exhibitor Arlene Piarulli for sharing her photos with us!

The Prix Picassiette Mosaic Exhibition was created in 1996 at the 10th anniversary of the 3R association. The Association promotes the creation of mosaics and was inspired by Raymond Isidore who covered his house with mosaics. The "maison picassiette" is located in Chartres, France.