The process of creating custom, permanent installations is a thrilling experience.  I enjoy the excitement of meeting a client and listening to their vision for the project. This meeting is usually followed by the creation of preparatory sketches, materials selections, and a pricing and timing quote.  Once accepted, a flurry of activity follows: re-scaling the design to full size, ordering materials, and (sometimes) preparing a maquette.  I've learned a great deal from clients and have developed a "to-do" list to help us work together most effectively:

1.  Information.  The client may be new to mosaic and require education to help articulate her vision.  Considerations such as color, transparency/opacity of glass or other materials, placement, purpose, lighting conditions, and desired style are all-important.  The second drawing illustrates the importance of the preparatory sketch; upon viewing, the client decided to exclude the cross from the mosaic, as that motif was found elsewhere in the installation space. 

2.  Maquette.  A maquette is a small "mock up" piece rendered in the selected materials to ensure that the artist and client share a common vision for the work.  The maquette provides a guide as to how the finished piece will appear and provides a visual to help the artist and client communicate in more meaningful ways.    

3.   Measure Twice and Create Once.  As several hundred hours of work can go into a single installation, it is critical that the finished work fit the installation space.  This presents a particular challenge in the presence of arches, difficult-to-reach spaces, and the like.    

I've also learned it's important to plan for the unexpected.  In creating the double door panels for "Come, Holy Spirit", I asked the client where the install doors would be located.  I was assured they would be in an indoor, temperature-controlled space.  In an abundance of caution, I tested several adhesives; subjecting them to freeze-thaw cycles and exposure to sunlight.  (Only one of five passed the test!)  Once the windows were completed, I learned they were to be installed in a completely different set of doors on campus, and that location was outdoors!   Years later, the panels remain in great condition.  (Whew!)