​I’ve just returned from the Contemporary Mosaic Artists 2 (CMA2) conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and I’m still carrying that particular kind of creative energy that only comes from being surrounded by people who get it. You know the feeling—when conversations jump effortlessly from materials to meaning, when everyone notices how the light hits a shard of glass, and when you don’t have to explain why tiny details matter so much.

The conference tagline said it perfectly: “Connecting Mosaic Artists: Building Community.” Mission accomplished.

It’s hard to capture just how inspiring the experience was, it’s going to take a few posts to do it justice. But what rises to the top first is this: the power of being in community.

Mosaic art can be a pretty solitary pursuit. Many of us spend long hours in our studios cutting, placing, adjusting—sometimes talking to ourselves (no judgment). There’s a rhythm to it that’s deeply satisfying. But stepping into a space filled with artists from across the country is a powerful reminder that we’re part of something much bigger.

At CMA2, that sense of connection was everywhere. It showed up over meals, in spontaneous conversations, and in the easy exchange of ideas, techniques, and encouragement. People shared struggles as openly as successes, and there’s something refreshing about realizing everyone else is figuring it out too. Inspiration came not just from the work itself, but from the stories behind it—and the people creating it.

And CMA2 is just one piece of a much larger mosaic (couldn’t resist). There are vibrant organizations all over the world creating opportunities for artists to connect and grow. Each has its own personality, but they share a common thread: bringing people together through a shared love of mosaic.

What really struck me is how essential these communities are—not just for learning new skills, but for sustaining a creative life. Inspiration doesn’t only live in materials or finished pieces. It lives in conversation, in collaboration, and in seeing how others approach their work (and occasionally solve problems you didn’t even know you had).

Being in community reminds us we’re not alone in our questions or challenges. It broadens our perspective, nudges us out of our habits, and often sends us home with new ideas quietly taking root.

On a personal note, I’ve spent the past 18 months volunteering as co-chair of the conference. And let me tell you—there were a lot of details. Like, a surprising number of details. The conference’s success is absolutely due to the incredible team of volunteers who signed up for the long haul, especially my co-chairs, Shelley Beaumont and Lisa Scarbath. From the start, there was a strong sense of trust between us, which made navigating the inevitable ups and downs (and spreadsheets) not only manageable but genuinely rewarding.

And why Albuquerque? CMA2’s founder, Pam Givens, simply “had a feeling” it would be be a good place—and she was right. She connected with Erika Harding at the Groove ArtSpace, who then brought together a dedicated local team. That group made everything possible, from launching exhibitions to organizing tours to—yes—covering hotel conference room floors with protective paper to accommodate enthusiastic (and occasionally messy) workshop participants.

A heartfelt thank you to Molly Bell, Beca Kulinovich, Leah Mitchell, Lea Briggs, Dian Afek, and Jill Gatewood for their hard work on the ground. And to the many others who contributed behind the scenes or during the conference itself—your efforts mattered more than you know.

There’s so much more to share in the coming weeks—so many moments, ideas, and experiences worth revisiting. Look for future posts about the Exhibition, Calling Cards, Speakers and so much more.

Because while we often make art alone, our inspiration is rarely a solo act. It’s built, shaped, and strengthened in community. Shelley, Bonnie & Lisa 

To learn more about CMA2 click here.