Mosaic art that shapes and transforms public and private spaces

A woman with blonde hair and a black top sitting at a table with a colorful mosaic art piece. Behind her are pink shelves filled with various colored files and a display of butterfly posters.

Kim Emerson is an internationally recognized mosaic artist, based in San Diego, California, USA. Since 1991, Kim has been designing, assembling, and installing large dynamic and colorful architectural mosaic projects for public and private spaces, and she also creates stunning small format fine art and wearable jewelry. Her work is both representational and abstract, and Kim is always inspired by life - drawing upon the natural environment and the cultural history of the places she represents.

Selected RecognitionS:

  • 2024 Award: Society of American Mosaic Artists (SAMA) - Best Community Mosaic in the Mosaic Arts International (MAI) exhibition for “Kaleidoscope of Butterflies” mural

  • 2024 Award: Contemporary Mosaic Art2 (CMA2) - Conference exhibition - Best In Show for Fine Art category

  • 2006 Award: Society of American Mosaic Artists (SAMA) - Best Architectural Installation in the Mosaic Arts International (MAI) exhibition for “Ocean Dances” sculptural fountain

  • 2005 Award: Society of American Mosaic Artists (SAMA) - Best In Show - Architectural category in the Mosaic Arts International (MAI) exhibition for “Between Bay & Sky” for benches, wall panels & wall fountain

  • 2000 San Diego “Orchid” Award: Presented by the San Diego Architectural Foundation, honoring the collaborative landscape design and team artworks for “Carley’s Magical Gardens” at Rady Children’s Hospital

Available Works

These available works offer a more intimate view of Kim’s mosaic practice. Each piece explores texture, light, and emotion through carefully placed tesserae. Designed as fine art, they bring beauty and meaning into everyday spaces. For inquiries and purchasing information, please contact the studio here.

Acqua Alta
16” x 16” x 2”
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Urban Archeology
 9” x 9” 1.5”
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VEnus of water
12” x 12” x 2”
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Explore Projects

Public

From civic landmarks to private homes and personal collections, Kim’s mosaics bring color, texture, and meaning into everyday spaces. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to reflect its surroundings and the people it serves. Discover work shaped by place, purpose, and passion.

Residential

Additional Offerings

Kim offers hands-on mosaic workshops and personalized mentorship for artists at all stages of their practice. Through her teaching at the she provides guidance in technique, composition, and material use, grounded in decades of professional experience. Her workshops and mentoring programs foster skill development, creative confidence, and a supportive learning community.

From the Studio

Explore behind-the-scenes moments, project highlights, press features, and reflections from Kim’s studio practice. These stories offer insight into her creative process, professional journey, and the inspirations that shape her mosaic work.