A Creative Retreat at Hacienda Mosaico

Winter Break Time!

Greetings from Martha's Vineyard! As most people know, winter on our island can be quiet, cold and a good time to get away! Recently, I recently embarked on an artistic journey to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, delving into the vibrant world of mosaic artistry at the enchanting Hacienda Mosaico. Guided by the immensely talented Susan Weschler from Colorado, our mosaic workshop was a whirlwind of creativity and inspiration.

Hacienda Mosaico is located in Colonia Versalles, a typical upscale Mexican neighborhood that affords visitors a chance to experience the charm of daily life in old Mexico. You will find cobbled streets, where tortillerias and markets catering to the locals rather than the tourists…..craft shops, cantinas, night life and adventure. Hacienda Mosaico is ideal for small retreats and intimate parties as well as a quiet respite from the busy world….a tranquil vacation destination in a tropical environment for adults.

This walled garden hacienda with swimming pool and inviting common areas is artist owned and operated. Art abounds! Made on site mosaic furnishings serve to enhance your breakfast in this lush garden setting. Palm, mango, guayaba, and banana trees, along with flowering ginger, hibiscus, jasmine, bird of paradise as well as the ever-present bougainvillea create delight for all the senses. The weather was perfect every day; 80’s with not a cloud in the sky!

“Mosaics by Susan”

My fabulous teacher, Susan, in her studio (www.mosaicsbysusan.com). Check out her site and go to one of her workshops in Colorado!

Having previously taken a workshop with Susan last year, my passion for mosaics had flourished, leading me to craft nearly 15 intricate pieces.

Adorned with beads, crystals, gems, stones, and tiles, my creations mostly featured circular designs, brimming with color and texture. These mosaics found a home in my shop, sparking the beginning of a new artistic direction revolving around nautical themes like whales, mermaids, and a series dedicated to ocean waves.

One of the most delightful aspects of the workshop at Hacienda Mosaico was the diverse group of 11 women in attendance, hailing from different parts of the country and spanning a range of experience levels, from novices to seasoned artists. Together, we formed a tight-knit community, exchanging creative anecdotes, techniques, and fostering a supportive environment that nurtured our artistic endeavors.

Carrying my boards and supplies all the way from Martha's Vineyard in my 2 suitcases, I was fully committed to immersing myself in this mosaic-making experience. In the workshop, I meticulously crafted two mosaics—a resplendent, bejeweled whale and an enchanting mermaid—each piece a reflection of the newfound skills and inspiration garnered during my time at Hacienda Mosaico.

Packing the “substrates” in my suitcases had been tight when leaving Martha’s Vineyard, let’s just say it was even tougher with the mermaid and whale loaded with tiles, beads, glass and stones! I literally broke out in a sweat after wrestling with that whale, cutting my fingers to bits and panicked that it might not fit in the suitcase!! It did and I wrapped 4 bandaids on my fingers as I raced for the waiting Uber. ;) Chopped up and dirty fingers are (I’m learning) the hallmark of a mosaic artist.

As I returned from Puerto Vallarta, my heart brimming with newfound creativity and memories of shared laughter and artistic exploration, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to expand my mosaic artistry under the guidance of Susan Weschler and alongside a group of talented and inspiring women.