Marie Picchoitti is a mosaic artist.

Photo courtesy of Fountain Hills Artists’ Gallery

The Fountain Hills Artists’ Gallery will hold a demonstration Tuesday, Feb. 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., led by mosaic artist Marie Picchoitti.

Picchoitti’s love for mosaic art started 10 years ago with a visit to New Mexico.

“Every single little shop had colorful crosses made of mosaic glass and ceramic tile. I decided to make one myself. But three times the size,” Picchoitti said. “It took months to complete, and I was completely hooked.”

Glass mosaic is a medium that takes a lot of time and effort to create a single piece, says Picchoitti. It is forgiving, yet stubborn, fragile yet permanent.

Picchoitti’s subject matter is inspired by the Southwest and also by the shapes, textures and colors of the actual sheets of glass that she uses.

“There’s something mystical about taking broken glass and assembling it to reflect beauty and light, and I’m grateful to be on this journey of discovery,” Picchoitti said.

The gallery is located at 16858 E. Avenue of the Fountains and is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about exhibitions, events, workshops and upcoming demos, visit fountainhillsartistsgallery.com.