Ontario Mosaic Artists presented 3 Artist Talks as part of it’s Reflections exhibition. 


 Valerie Brownell
“Contemporary Mosaics as Fine Art in the 21st Century”
Internationally-acclaimed artist, Valerie Brownell, shared how mosaics have changed from floor and wall decorations in ceturies past, to fine art such as that exhibited in Reflections. 
The presentation and slide-show, featuring images of Valerie’s own work, provided a behind-the-scenes commentary on artistic decisions such as design, materials choices, and andamento that work together to elevate a mosaic and communicate a message. 
Dianne Sonnenberg
“Finding My Artistic Voice: Connection with Family, Community, and Culture”
Dianne shared her story of reconnecting with her First Nations community and culture, and the effect it has had on her artwork (she was adopted into a Michigan family as an infant, and found her family in Ontario in 2013).
Jenny May Gifford
“Fairbank Village Mosaic Planter Project”
Jenny May talked about her community mosaic project in Fairbank Village, along Eglinton Ave. West near Dufferin St. in Toronto. 
Twenty-eight large concrete planters adorned with mosaics (112 different panels!) now grace the streets, celebrating the neighbourhood’s rich history, its diverse residents and vibrant spirit. Jenny May shared her experience creating the many designs, collaborating with the community, and installing the mosaics with her small but mighty team of volunteers.