We got to go here. Motawi Tileworks factory and outlet store in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Motawi makes beautiful tile and has rights to make the wonderful images of Charley Harper into ceramic art pieces. His work is perfect for reproduction in the lovely colors and finishes of kiln-fired glazes.
When I look at a wildlife or nature subject, I don’t see the feathers in the wings, I just count the wings. I see exciting shapes, color combinations, patterns, textures, fascinating behavior and endless possibilities for making interesting pictures. I regard the picture as an ecosystem in which all the elements are interrelated, interdependent, perfectly balanced, without trimming or unutilized parts; and herein lies the lure of painting; in a world of chaos, the picture is one small rectangle in which the artist can create an ordered universe. - Charley Harper
It is possible one or two made it back to Wisconsin.
Another Motawi tile theme is arts and crafts/mission-style designs. You can see a few here and many more at their website.
Speaking of Mission....
Here at NDL we are going to adapt and adopt the Motawi company Values and Mission Statement.
Bout time we had some direction around here!
Values and Mission Statement
What do we do?
We make distinctive stuff and do things in a (relatively) healthy way. We share our story.
And we have fun.
Why?
We believe we can make the world a better place by making beautiful (or at least cute) things for everyday places and model healthy(ish) neighborhood and family practices.
How do we do this?
We make things that are valued for their design and quality (or their quirkiness, or because they amuse us, or because they help us reduce, reuse, or recycle stuff).
We cultivate an intentional (home) workplace culture that fosters (almost) constant improvement, positivity (mostly through the wit and wisdom of Mary Englebreit and Calvin and Hobbes, greeting card slogans, or signs we see on our travels) and consistently high (as possible) performance all while drinking lots of coffee.
Wish us luck at our next performance review!
