Student Interviews 2026

Intermediate student Allison Philbrick - started with Mrs Mosaic in 2024

1.     What first sparked your interest in mosaics, and how did you come across it?

I was looking to take up a new creative hobby but struggle with drawing so was researching online for alternative art forms. I came across a mosaic of a bird in hues of blues and creams and it was beautiful. I focussed my research of mosaics and found some abstract mosaics and some mixed media mosaic art and decided I wanted to try it. That was almost 2yrs ago now and I love my classes and in being involved.  

2.     Can you recall the moments when you realised mosaics were something you wanted to try yourself?

After doing my research I knew I wanted to give mosaics a try but I really wasn’t confident that I would be able to pursue it due to my lack of drawing ability. However, Nicola has been brilliant in introducing me to different design methods which have allowed me to pursue not only my abstract ideas but pictures too. With Nicola’s help I have discovered ways around my drawing limitations that has not restricted me at all in my mosaic designs.

3.     What was happening in your life at the time you discovered mosaics, and how do you think that influenced your interest?

I had found myself in the fortunate position of being able to reduce my working hours to part-time which has allowed me the time to attend the classes/workshops and in being able to work on my ideas independently at home.  

4.     Who or what played a role in introducing you to mosaic art?

I initially attended one of Mrs Mosaics workshops for beginners with a friend. I found the workshop so relaxing and inspiring that I asked Nicola if it was possible to join her classes. Nicola has been very patient and supportive and I credit her for all my mosaic achievements. She has patiently taught me the basic techniques which has allowed me to improve and take on more complex projects. I also find Nicola’s work very inspiring. Every time I attend one of her classes there is always something new to look at and Nicola always a new project on the go. I love looking at these and other students work as I find seeing new designs and colour schemes really inspiring in planning my next mosaic endeavour.

5.     How did your first experience making or viewing a mosaic make you feel?

My first mosaic workshop experience was so informal and welcoming that it made me feel very relaxed and provided me with the perfect environment to learn and get stuck in. The pace of the workshop was perfect and Nicola was very open to answering all my questions. Although it was my first ever time of trying mosaics, Nicola made me feel able to take on the next steps and has literally helped me grow creatively and practically. For me this blend of creativity and techniques has suited my learning style and encouraged my interest in mosaics to develop. I am so pleased I found Mrs Mosaics.

6.     What drew you to mosaics over other art forms or creative outlets?

In my early career I was very performing arts based but when I decided to change from this environment it took me several years of thinking what else I could do as a creative outlet. The Covid lockdowns made me decide I wanted to do something that I could also eventually do at home. I wanted to be able to potter about enjoying my home whilst also fulfilling my creative ideas. Mosaics has provided the perfect solution and with Nicola’s help and support I am now set up at home where I am able to while away some hours doing mosaics. I use my classes to learn, improve and try out new ideas. For me this is a perfect combination.

7.     How has your relationship with mosaics evolved since you first discovered it?

I am now much more confident in trying new ideas and in blending mosaics with another art forms such as pottery. I get excited when thinking of new projects and love to research and look at what other people are doing. I love hearing about Nicolas’s exhibitions and projects too as I find these really inspiring. I feel I am now getting ready to experiment more in progressing my own style and direction and this primarily based on seeing Nicola’s work develop and evolve.

8.     Please describe a personal memory or story connected to your first mosaic project?

My first mosaic project was an abstract panel. I started with using the shapes on my mum’s rug as a starting point but under Nicola’s guidance it quickly took on a life on its own. I loved the process of everything coming together. I am quite reserved in nature so I was really pleased when Nicola invited me to display my panel as part of her student’s exhibition. It was a very good but pleasing experience to go to the venue and see my mosaic panel up on the wall! I absolutely loved seeing the other students work too. There were some absolutely stunning and unique pieces of work on display.

9.     In what ways do mosaics reflect your personal background, experiences, or personality?

At the moment I have just been trying out various ideas and learning the techniques, textures and working with materials. I feel that I am now at a point of where I can focus in on a carving out a specific style and direction of my own. This is still very much a working progress but it is an exciting phase to be engaging with and I am looking forward to finding and developing my own form once I have found it. 

10.  What keeps you coming back to mosaic work, and what does it give you personally?

I love everything about it. I enjoy meeting the other students and seeing their work and designs develop. I love catching up with Nicola and seeing her work and commissions evolve. I am in my element with the learning aspect of mosaics and enjoy seeing my finished pieces. Even if they don’t quite meet my expectations, I am happy with the journey of learning I have undertaken. It is lovely to be able to put life on pause for a few hours of mosaics. But I think most of all I really enjoy being part of the Mrs Mosaics realm where anything is possible creatively with the potential for a very satisfying and stunning end result.  

Nicola's comments

I love Allison's enquiring mind, she always pushes her line of enquiry fully and really wants to delve deep into the processes. She is a perfectionist in her drive to fully execute her mosaics with a full understanding. She can be quite tough on herself but fully accepts her journey is all about discovery and what knowledge she will take into her next mosaic project. We have a shared interest and love of glass and the processes so I always look forward to hearing and seeing all of Allison's other creative outlets...whilst discussing musical theatre and dance! I find Allison a wealth of information too!