From Waste to Wonder –
The Mosaic Revival of Old Mannequins
In 2022, I received a truly unique commission: to mosaic a discarded, damaged mannequin.
What made this project particularly special was not only that the mannequin had traveled all the way from Switzerland, but also that I was given complete creative freedom in the design process. The only request was that she should wear something cheerful and colorful — and from that point on, I could fully immerse myself in the creative journey.
A New Life in a Broken Body
When she arrived, the mannequin was in quite poor condition: one arm was broken, and there were several other minor damages as well. Before I could begin the mosaic work, the first step was to reinforce the structure and replace the missing parts. I repaired the broken arm and prepared the entire surface for the mosaic process.
Upcycling Elevated to Art
Mosaic art offers a fantastic opportunity to give an object a new identity. The carefully selected glass tiles shimmer in ever-changing colors under sunlight, thanks to their unique reflective properties. I designed the pattern of the mannequin’s dress to evoke a nature-inspired yet modern look.
Around the larger floral motifs, I created a subtle grid of small, shaded tiles to enhance transitions and create visual harmony. The combination of glossy and matte pieces added depth and dimension to the surface, turning the mannequin into a truly eye-catching and unique piece of art.
This project was not only about creativity but also about embracing the importance of sustainability. What was once destined for the landfill was transformed into something with new function and artistic value. Most of the glass pieces came from leftover materials of previous projects – giving both the mannequin and the materials themselves a renewed life.
The entire process, from concept to completion, took 10 full days. The final artwork now resides in a special place, where it continues to delight and inspire those who encounter it.
For me, this experience reaffirmed the idea that art and sustainability go hand in hand. Even something once discarded can become meaningful and beautiful – all it takes is a little patience and imagination.
Fusion – The Embrace and the Play of Shadows
The torso was originally damaged, but it was rescued and given a new purpose. The glass mosaic consists of carefully selected pieces that shimmer with a special brilliance and depth when illuminated. The artwork is made from approximately 85% recycled materials, contributing to sustainability.
The concept: The title – Fusion – refers to the deep connection between man and woman. The female figure in the center holds her arms in the shape of a heart, embracing the man, and together they form a unified whole. However, the composition can also evoke the image of a witch entangling the man, her thorns causing pain – this duality is what gives the piece its true depth and thought-provoking nature.
Glass mosaic is a magnificent art form that provides a timeless and unique appearance. The precisely arranged mosaic tiles on the surface of the torso not only create a striking visual effect but also offer a tactile and luminous experience. The green shades evoke nature, while the black and darker tones symbolize strength and stability.
This unique piece is nearing completion and will soon be available for purchase.
The final touches – a wooden head and legs – are still in progress to give the artwork its full form. Such a distinctive creation is ideal for collectors, interior designers, or anyone who appreciates one-of-a-kind art and the aesthetic value of upcycling.
If you’d like to breathe new life into your old objects with custom mosaic work, feel free to get in touch with me!