Frank Lloyd Wright (1867–1959) is recognized worldwide as one of the greatest architects of the 20th century. In 1927, Wright submitted a series of cover designs to Liberty magazine. All were rejected by the editors as too “radical” and were never published. One of these designs was “Saguaro Forms and
Our graceful Koi Pond tile is a scaled adaptation of a larger mural originally designed for the Grand Rapids [Michigan] Art Prize competition. The response to the mural was so overwhelming that Nawal Motawi decided to create a smaller tile for production. Actual Tile Size: Approximately 5 7/8” x 7
This delicate stylized design of waterlilies, common in the tranquil ponds of the Midwest, is adapted from Frank Lloyd Wright’s drawing “Waterlilies”, which is thought to be designed for an art glass screen in 1895 but never produced. This early example epitomizes Wright’s ability to incorporate themes from nature and
This design was inspired by a tiny design of a tiny bit of peacock feather on an Arts & Crafts-period vase. Nawal Motawi found that little hint of an idea irresistible, and this beloved tile is the result. Actual Tile Size: Approximately 3 7/8” x 7 7/8”. As each Motawi
English artist William DeMorgan created tiles that were dust-pressed flats, the designs looking like charcoal sketches overlain with watercolor paintings. While a very different technique from Motawi’s own raised-line “cuenca” style, this Sunflower tile is one of three vertical floral pieces adapted from his work. The Tudor Rose and Carnation
Nawal Motawi, founder and principal designer at Motawi Tileworks, has always been enchanted with butterflies. At long last, she has brought the monarch to the Motawi butterfly collection. Actual Tile Size: Approximately 3 7/8” x 7 7/8”. As each Motawi tile is crafted by hand, dimensions may vary slightly by
We collaborated with illustrator Cary Phillips on this vibrant floral design. Phillips’ work has been used in children’s books, for greeting cards, and even on fabrics. We find her lush nature themes translate beautifully to tile. Actual Tile Size: Approximately 3 7/8” x 7 7/8”. As each Motawi tile is
Our contemplative Riverscape tile evokes the quiet grace of a Japanese landscape. Actual Tile Size: Approximately 3 7/8” x 11 7/8”. As each Motawi tile is crafted by hand, dimensions may vary slightly by up to 1/16″. Tiles are 5/8″ thick and have a notch at the back for hanging.
We draw frequent inspiration from the stunning woodblock and letterpress prints of Yoshiko Yamamoto. 4×12 Eucalyptus, a design depicting the eucalyptus trees of the Pacific Northwest, is one of multiple Motawi art tiles based on Yamamoto’s work. Motawi tiles are striking art pieces and installation accents. Each tile is made
Mid-century modern meets Motawi mastery in these tiles based on the work of celebrated wildlife artist Charley Harper (1922-2007), a self-described “minimal realist.” Actual Tile Size: Approximately 3 7/8” x 3 7/8”. As each Motawi tile is crafted by hand, dimensions may vary slightly by up to 1/16″. Tiles are
“She was a rare thing. Fine as a bee’s wing.” – Richard Thompson “Beeswing” This deceptively simple little bee was a bit of a perplexing design. Nawal Motawi spent many hours getting these bees’ wings and stripes to merge with the border just right. Actual Tile Size: Approximately 3 7/8”