Christine McQuitty

I’ve lived in Juneau about 30 years, and have worked in a large variety of jobs, from commercial fishing crew, cook, to administrative manager in a state agency. I began working in mosaics recently, after dabbling in stained glass and drawing. When I completed my very first mosaic piece though, a mirror, I discovered I had found a passion. Earlier in my life I had helped with some tiling projects: counters, hearths, floors and walls, generally for friends, so perhaps I shouldn’t have been surprised.

I love mosaic: the color, texture, design, the process. I love giving everyday objects a place of pride in their environment, the tile work emphasizing what they hold or support. My goal is to challenge myself with more ambitious projects and designs, especially representations of the life around me.

I love the ocean and all of its living creatures, so my personal palette and designs often involve our marine surroundings. My favorite designs occur when I can name a piece from the very beginning, such as "Otterfall", or "Starfish Love", or when I have a person in mind for a piece, know something about their passions and palette, and create a piece accordingly.

I like to incorporate beads, sea glass, buttons, and found objects; items to add a smile or whimsy to the work. I have created mosaic tabletops, frames, boxes, shelves, trivets, plant stands, and mirrors. Of course there is much more to do.