Mosaic tile art has a long and interesting history. This art form started in Mesopotamia, gained popularity with the ancient Greeks and Romans, and like a true classic, it has stuck around for centuries. These days, you can find mosaic tile art in contemporary homes, restaurants, and more.
One of the best parts of mosaic tile art is that it gives you so many options. Mosaic tiles come in different materials, shapes, and styles. Each piece brings something unique and striking to the art.
If you’re looking for mosaic tiles, you may have questions about the different types. The following list will give you a closer look at your options.
Types of Mosaic Tile
When it comes to possible materials, mosaic tile is one of the most versatile forms of visual art. Mosaic tiles can come in glass, metal, natural stone, or natural wood. Some mosaics even have a mix of various materials.
1. Glass
Glass mosaics add a beautiful level of shine to a room. Whether they cover an entire wall or just create a small focal point, they draw plenty of attention. Some glass tiles have more shine than others, but they all do lovely things with light. You can choose opaque tiles for a subtle shine. Or choose transparent tiles for a stained-glass effect. Mirrored glass tiles create an especially dramatic effect. Some mosaics combine all three types of glass for something truly unique.
2. Metal
Metal tiles, of course, also play with light and shine. However, these tiles may be either reflective or non-reflective. The type and the color of metal used will determine the overall appearance of the tiles. Generally, a reflective metal will create a brighter look, while a non-reflective metal will create a darker look. Types of mosaic metal include copper, aluminum, bronze, and chrome.
3. Natural Stone
Natural stone, along with glass, is one of the earliest forms of mosaic tile. And as one of the earliest mosaic materials, natural stone is great for those who want to create a simple, classic look. Types of mosaic stone include marble and slate. One of the biggest benefits of natural stone is that it’s durable. Owners can expect their artwork to last for a long time.
4. Natural Wood
Natural wood tiles add a rustic appeal to a home’s decor. Sometimes, wood tiles are painted. Much of the time, though, the artist lets the natural beauty of these tiles shine through. Natural wood offers a lot of variety, too. Virtually any kind of wood can make a great mosaic tile, so you can find everything from pine to oak.
5. Mix
Mix mosaics combine different types of tiles, such as glass and metal tiles, stone and wood grain tiles, and more. These mosaics take advantage of everything that each type has to offer. For instance, an artist can create something that plays with the light and has a natural appearance at the same time.
Types by Mosaic Style
Mosaic art also comes in different styles. Each one lends itself to a specific taste and decor. Some are simple and classic, while others are bold with big splashes of color. Some include a certain level of realism, and others lean toward the abstract.
6. Abstract Mosaic Art
Like all forms of abstract art, abstract mosaics use shapes, lines, and colors for their own sake rather than recreating scenes from reality. Artists often opt for bold, vibrant hues to create abstract mosaics. While abstract mosaic art often has no literal meaning, it can be used to convey certain emotions and feelings, like optimism and happiness.
7. Modern Mosaic Art
Not to be confused with contemporary art, modern art focuses on progress, experimentation, and playing with new perspectives. Artists may also use a variety of styles, like geometric patterns and abstract patterns.
A lot of modern mosaic art uses tiles to recreate famous paintings or posters. And since the modern art era lasted for about 100 years, those who create this kind of art have a lot to work with.
8. Street Mosaic Art
A lot of mosaic art is inspired by street art. Common themes of street mosaic art include colorful patterns, cut-out designs, images of people, and phrases. Street artists are often inspired by other street art, but they may also create their own designs.
9. Figurative Mosaic Art
Figurative mosaic art uses images of everyday objects, animals, and people. This can make the shapes and colors used to create the mosaic stand out more. Figuratie art spans across many styles, from the realistic to the abstract. These kinds of mosaics can depict religious figures, contemporary people, historical figures, or figures imagined by artists.
10. Art Deco Mosaic Art
The art deco movement influenced everything from visual art to architecture. Like modern art, it focused on progress. It also represented glamour and luxury. Glass and metal mosaic tiles work very well in art deco pieces.
11. Ancient Mosaic Art
Ancient mosaic art is often used to depict mythical or historical figures or scenes. These pieces often use elaborate shapes and designs, but some are more simplistic. In any case, ancient mosaic art imitates classical art. It adds a level of elegance and austerity to a room.
Types of Subject
Mosaic art also has different subjects. You can find this kind of art with a variety of themes.
12. Portrait Mosaic Art
Art can be used to study human nature. Usually, when people think of portraits, they think of paintings and photographs. But mosaic art can feature portraits, too. And there’s something very striking about the human form when it’s reflected in mosaic tiles.
13. Animals Mosaic Art
Animals are a favorite feature in art. Virtually every culture has used animals as art subjects. Animal-centric art can create any theme you want. You’ve got the regal fierceness of the tiger, the cunning playfulness of the fox, and so much more.
14. Landscape Mosaic Art
Landscape art can take you anywhere you want to be. You can visit a tranquil autumn stream, a spirited town, or even a mythical place. Mosaic tiles bring these places to life in a unique way. They add a certain level of texture that makes landscapes seem more vibrant.
15. Food/Beverage Mosaic Art
Food and beverages are a frequent subject in art. Many kitchens feature paintings of wine bottles, bowls of fruit, and other food items. A lot of mosaic art features food and drink, too. This kind of art adds a special touch to kitchens, wine cellars, and dining rooms.
16. Mythology Mosaic Art
Mythology is a major part of human culture, and it’s an easy theme to capture in art. Mythical creatures like dragons and centaurs are popular, and so are gods and goddesses.
17. Patterns
Patterns are very popular in art. There are a few possible explanations for this fact. One is that many cultures have a strong aesthetic preference for symmetry and geometric patterns. Another is that patterns remind us of things and places we love. In any case, they also feature heavily in mosaic tiles. You can find everything from flower-shaped patterns to clean geometric lines.
Types by Application
With its myriad shades of colors and patterns, mosaic tile art is a versatile way to bring a bit of whimsy and vintage charm to any space. Mosaic tile art is a great way to add a splash of color to an otherwise neutral wall or accent a room with a distinctive focal point. No matter the look you’re going for, there are many different places you can use mosaic tile art in your home. Because mosaic tiles are so durable and built to last, you can put mosaic tile art almost anywhere in your home or business.
18. Wall Mosaic Art
Many people put their mosaic tile art directly onto their walls. It’s a relatively quick and simple way to update your kitchen or bathroom with a stylish flair that’s also functional. It’s also a great way to incorporate art and design into your home in a unique way.
19. Backsplash Mosaic Art
Mosaic tile art can be used to give a kitchen backsplash a unique look. While mosaic tile art is typically installed on a flat surface, you can use it to create an interesting backsplash in your kitchen. This is especially true if your kitchen backsplash is bland and white, as it will stand out against that backdrop. Black and white tiles are a classic choice for this type of project, but you could also mix up the colors for something more bright.
20. Floor Mosaic Art
Adding mosaic tile art to your floors is a creative way to add personality to a room. It’s especially great for high-traffic areas, like kitchens and hallways.
21. Countertop Mosaic Art
Countertop mosaic tile art is usually installed over a countertop. It’s an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to the fact that it cleans easily. Plus, it provides countertops with a way to stand out. Countertop mosaic art adds something beautiful to the kitchen, but it does so in an unexpected way.
22. Wall Border Mosaic Art
You can also use mosaic tiles to border an entire wall. Instead of creating a centralized focal point, you’ll diffuse the shine all across the room.
23. Water Feature Mosaic Art
If you’re looking to create a luxurious and relaxing space, mosaic tile art is a natural choice. That’s one reason why so many people choose mosaic tile art for their pools and other water features. Glass mosaic tiles are naturally water-resistant and durable, which makes them the perfect material for pool or spa areas. This kind of art can create a comfortable, spa-like atmosphere. Or if you’re looking for something a little more fun and whimsical, brightly-colored fish can provide what you need.
