Smidiríní Mosaics

17/11/2025

Roscommon’s mosaic story continues!

Huge credit to Triskell Design and Chris Judge on this beautiful new mosaic, supported by the 1% for Art Programme.

16/11/2025

Did you know Roscommon once had its own mosaic factory?
Local man, Liam Stephens and I are documenting and researching the people who worked there, the stories, their processes, and the mosaic locations still visible in Roscommon and around the country. We’d love to hear from anyone with memories, photos or information!
Please feel free to get in touch.

Take a look at this short video produced by Roscommon County Council in conjunction with The Heritage Council.

👉 https://share.google/cW7rgNhzirV0BzuQ6
Let’s piece Roscommon’s mosaic heritage together!

Roscommon has a unique Mosaic Heritage and tradition. Up to the 1930’s, mosaics were imported to Ireland until John Crean brought mosaic artists over from Italy to set up Irish Mosaics in Roscommon in 1954. John and his brother worked in the mosaic trade from 1938, (John having served his apprenti...

27/10/2025

I was delighted that the students got to see the mosaics in St. Peter’s and Paul’s, Clonmel. Nothing compares to standing in front of the real thing, especially having had a short class previously on how they were made, manufactured and installed.

02/08/2025

John Sollinger (Solly) will be teaching a mosaic workshop at the Gallery at the end of August! It is John's only in person workshop in the world this year and it's in Listowel!

As part of Olive Branches: An Artist Gathering celebrating 10 years of welcoming visiting artists in residence to Olive Stack Gallery Listowel, Ireland
There are only 4 places left so grab one while you still can!
(Daisy Image - Stained Glass Mosaic by John Sollinger)
Follow the link to book https://www.olivestack.com/products/fluid-double-reverse-mosaic

06/07/2025

Ireland… or Italy .. Would you believe these stunning mosaics are in the heart of Dublin?

They’re from John’s Lane Church on Thomas Street. While the sculptures and stained glass often get the spotlight, the mosaic work here is equally breathtaking but rarely mentioned.

In my role as a specialist with the Heritage in Schools Scheme, I’m passionate about sharing the story of Ireland’s mosaic heritage with young students. From sacred spaces to shopfronts, these tiny tiles hold many stories.

I’d love to start a conversation!
Do you know of any hidden mosaic gems around Ireland?
Church floors, public spaces and buildings, shop fronts, thresholds etc wherever they may be, drop them in the comments! 👇