From Hand to Hearth: The Untold Story of American Mosaic Fireplaces with Ted Ellison

Saturday, February 6, 2021, 2:00pm EST

Architects Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright placed a mosaic fireplace at the heart of a pivotal work of modern domestic architecture. This collaboration of vision and craft sparked a period of experimentation that produced some of the most unique and finely crafted mosaics in American history. From intricate, architectural geometries to flowing, organic ornaments on shimmering surfaces, these craftspeople produced work inspired by nature and perfectly tailored to the finest American homes.

Twenty-five years later it was over, and these mosaics have fallen from memory, not receiving the attention they merit.  Ted Ellison has researched these installations over the past 15 years and has compiled an illustrated presentation that shows the broad range of impressive craftsmanship within these forgotten masterpieces. He presents the story of their creation and the surprising methods employed in their fabrication. Mosaic artists will be inspired to elevate their craft through creative experimentation while gaining a better understanding of this part of our history. lncludes Q&A.

Theodore Ellison studied art and apprenticed in a glass studio before starting his leaded glass and mosaic business in 1998.  Honoring the artistic integrity of the Arts & Crafts tradition, he’s created original designs for homes all over the country. His work has appeared in Fine Homebuilding, Old House Interiors, Style 1900 and Old House Journal. He’s written on the history of glass for American Bungalow and presented on the history of mosaic at the National Arts & Crafts Conference in Asheville and the Pasadena Heritage Craftsman Weekend.  theodoreellison.com