The Beautiful Ancient Art Form Brought Back to Center Stage by the One & Only Allison Eden

Just got off the phone with the amazing Allison Eden. Been admiring her glass mosaics for quite some time. Was thrilled to have the opportunity to interview her. So here goes.   

~ Do you remember the first mosaic that sparked your love affair with glass? 

Yes, I was walking by a store window after dusk and I fell in love with the colors of the lamps lit up in the window. I thought, I need this in my life somehow.  I was a sewer of clothing but then I fell in love with the glass, like I could eat it, it was so delicious. Well, I wouldn’t actually eat it but you know what I mean.  

Yes I do. So what are the materials you work with to create your masterpieces? 

I first started with elmer's glue and glued the glass to the wall. Now I use Laticrete. It is the finest.  I use a hand cutter - it looks just like a pencil and I can make the most crazy shapes.  

We make entire pieces in the studio and then make a map with numbers on it and make it easy to install.  

And you have a sketchbook for when inspiration strikes?  

I used to have an appointment sketch book but now it’s just a sketch book since COVID came along. Pictures of things - inspiration comes from everywhere.  

My modern dance teacher said, “An artist is never bored.”  

No, I’m never bored especially with two teenage boys.  

Oh, wow - how old are they ?

17 and 18 years old. The silver lining with COVID is they are with me 24/7. They don’t know any better that they could be out with their friends.  

So it’s like a blessed torture.  

Well I wouldn’t say it’s torture...

I don’t mean from you, I mean from COVID. I’m having a flashback of visiting Amsterdam...walking through Ann Frank's house. It’s like we’re all in hiding from Hitler.  

Well, it’s not that bad.  

I know, but we’re all in hiding from COVID. Can’t wait to take the masks off!!! They make it so hard to breathe. Which brings me to much of your beautiful, natural subject matter. You bring a lot of nature scenes into your artwork. Is the sea side your favorite?   

I would live at the beach, so serene, wonderful - I love aquatic scenes.  

Wow, so that’s how you see the sea… serene. I’m envious. The ocean intimidates me but it is so beautiful.  Anything ever scary to you? 

“No Just go for it!” My first job was a floor for Burger King. I was 23 and rented a car to go to Home Depot and got a video on how to do floors but I didn’t finish the video, I was like, I can figure this out. And I did! Plus I had nothing to lose. And I got free burgers from Burger King for years. They eventually tore the building down but I never feel scared of an opportunity. I never turn a good opportunity down. I take every opportunity. Go for it! 

Wise words, Allison ~ thank you so much for your beautiful artwork and your beautiful heart.  Cheers to a joyful 2021! I have faith it’s gonna be fun ;)