My work with stone and ceramic tile began in the 1980’s while I was working my way through graduate school for a Ph.D. in psychology. While learning the craft of tile setting, I fell in love with the gorgeous colors and patterns that appeared in cut stone, and which could be brought out through creative juxtaposition. I began using different color slates from quarries around the world to create images that captured a spirit and depth of nature that could be reflected back through this organic material. I was particularly attracted to creating images of native wildlife that could enhance a sense of place in an outdoor environment.

Through the Garden Wall began as a way to continue developing the use of stone mosaic as an art form for architectural, landscape or public art, as well as a practical and beautiful design surface for interior residential and commercial spaces. As new projects have come, I’ve begun using ceramic and glass again as well as stone for custom designs and mosaics. The stone pallette has grown to include crystals, fossils, agate and rare stones well as slate, limestone, granite and marble. Some of my newest work involves abstract pieces that blend materials and evoke a sense of place without literal representation.

All my commissioned designs are created in consultation with clients, either as works of art that can be installed on their own, or as part of a traditional tile environment, as in a residential kitchen or bathroom. In addition to artistic considerations, all my work is done at the highest level of craftsmanship, to be structurally sound and visually precise. Please call or email me if you have a project you’d like to discuss, or for a free consultation and estimate if you’re in the S.F. East Bay.

Quoted from www.fransegal.com