Water has always been a source of fascination and comfort for me. Whether swimming, kayaking or scuba diving, I’ve always been drawn to water, how light interacts with it, how currents shift, and how life thrives in these submerged worlds. That sense of movement, depth, and mystery is something I sought to bring to this mosaic.

When I was presented with the opportunity to create the Shad Mosaic for the Mosaics on Main installation, it felt like more than just an art project—it was a chance to tell a story that has been unfolding for centuries in a medium that also has long endurance. The American Shad symbolizes resilience, change, and the connection between people and the river that is part of the local culture. Throughout history, this waterway has provided food, industry, recreation, and inspiration, and I wanted this mosaic to honor that relationship.

Working on this piece was at times humbling, often overwhelming, exciting, and deeply rewarding. Every tile choice, every tile snip, every shift in texture, was made with the intent of bringing the river to life—the shimmer of the Shad, the swirling currents, the swaying plants, the quiet stillness of the smooth river rocks beneath. I hope that when people see it, they don’t just see glass and porcelain, but a reminder of the river’s enduring presence.

It has been an incredible experience contributing to Mosaics on Main, and I’m truly honored to have my work become a part of Middletown’s landscape. I hope this mosaic brings joy and beauty to the Harbor Park pedestrian tunnel and sparks curiosity about the river ecosystem, and how we are all connected to the rivers that shape our world.

The mosaic is currently on display at 428 Main Street, Middletown, CT, through the end of March 2025. The work is scheduled to be installed over the summer, along with other mosaics from many very talented local artists in their permanent locations at the Harbor Park Tunnel.

*The images of the mosaic in the tunnel in the video above are mock-ups.