An Artist’s Kitchen: Tiles in Conversation with Paint, Light, and Form

Some projects feel more like collaborations than commissions, and this one definitely falls into that category. This luminous kitchen belongs to fellow artist Jean Sausele Knodt, and I was thrilled when she reached out about including some of my tiles in her remodel. It always feels deeply meaningful when another artist chooses my work for their home. There’s an unspoken understanding that the details matter, that every choice adds up to something more than the sum of its parts.

view of the kitchen backsplash above the stove, featuring a large panel of handmade plant and animal tiles in gray glaze, framed by Architessa’s Tangier field tiles in Desert White. White cabinetry and subtle lighting enhance the detail in the tiles.

Jeanie and her husband brought tremendous thoughtfulness to the design, selecting a calm, natural palette with just the right amount of warmth and contrast. The field tiles (Tangier in Desert White from Architessa) add subtle movement and texture to the space. Over the range, they installed a large panel made up of my plant and animal tiles in soft gray glaze, giving the space a gentle rhythm and a strong visual anchor. A few more of my feature tiles are scattered throughout the room, bringing unexpected moments of detail and delight.

Close-up of a section of the tile panel above the stove, showing the intricate relief and texture of the handmade plant and animal tiles in soft gray glaze, nestled among the textured field tiles.

Adding even more soul to the space is a beautiful original painting by Michele Montalbano, installed on the back wall. The connection between Jeanie’s tile choices and Michele’s painting feels natural, like they were meant to live in the same space.

painting by Michele Montalbano in place an an artist's kitchen

This installation is a perfect example of what happens when a room reflects not just style, but personality: layered, expressive, and alive. Many thanks to Jeanie for sharing the photos above and the video below, and for making this project such a joy to be part of. 

Ceramic Handmade Tile Installations, Kitchen Tiles Ideas - , Emily Margaret Ulm


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