Cosmic Bird Mosaics

‘Wild Things’ (2024), glass and ceramic mosaics. Commissioned by MTA Arts & Design for 14 St-7 Av station. Photo by Photo: Trent Reeves. All images © Fred Tomaselli and NYC Transit 14 St Station Complex,

Known for his large-scale, collaged resin paintings and ongoing series of reimagined front pages of The New York Times, Fred Tomaselli is captivated by what he describes as the “friction” between beauty and ugliness or internal and external forces. He often observes interactions between humanity and nature through rhythmic patterns and vibrant colors.

In New York City’s 14 St-6 Av and 14 St-7 Av subway stations, a series of new murals titled Wild Things have been unveiled in the historical spirit of the MTA mosaics. An avid birder, the Brooklyn-based artist highlights species that live year-round in New York City.

Detail of mosaic in 14 St-7 Av station

Passageway from 7 Av to 6 Av

Detail of work in passageway from 7 Av to 6 Av

Mosaic located in 14 St-6 Av

Mosaic detail located in 14 St-6 Av

Mosaic located in 14 St-6 Av

Wild Things marks Tomaselli’s first permanent public artwork in Manhattan and reflects his mixed-media approach to collage in ceramics and glass. Commissioned by MTA Art & Design, the mosaics join more than 350 permanent installations accessible to public 24/7.

Learn more about the artist’s work on Instagram. You might also enjoy Contemporary Art Underground, a celebration of New York City Subway art, Nick Cave’s 360-food “Soundsuit” installation, or Nancy Blum’s sprawling tile blossoms.

I visited Demura Sensei's Costa Mesa Dojo tonight, to help judge their Holiday Jr. Kata Tournament and Sensei Roy's last night of teaching as Head Instructor there for the past 13 years, and as Instructor for 30 years before. His students surprised him with a presentation of a new gi (uniform) and new Eku bo and carrying case, cards, gift certificates, a homemade (from scratch) cake and messages of their love and respect. It was a lovely evening, and a wonderful tribute to Roy, his teaching and helping so many of us. I didn't get any tournament photos as I was judging, but Chris sent some that he took after. Thank you, Sakai Family.

Costa Mesa Dojo Instructors, Future, Brian Hilliard, 1981-2014 jacki long, 2014-2024, Roy Center