Visitors and residents in Jacksonville, Oregon encounter delightful and eye-catching architecture, design, and artistry at nearly every turn. In a town rich with historic appeal, there are also many modern artists who contribute to the town’s charming aesthetic.
One such artist is Jeremy Criswell.
If you’ve visited or passed-by the Pony Espresso Café recently, you’ve undoubtedly noticed Criswell’s seven mosaic bird sculptures perched gracefully on the outdoor decks of this local landmark. Each bird is unique and all are handmade, using high-fire ceramic tiles, Italian mosaic glass, and found objects set in steel-reinforced concrete. Criswell chose Pony Espresso for its reputation as a community gathering place, and a welcome spot for visitors.
A ceramic and metal artist as well as a sculptor specializing in art for public enjoyment, Criswell says he is “always looking for new opportunities and creative ways to incorporate art into public spaces.” He is also drawn to the idea of blurring the line between private and public art. “By installing a sculpture in a strategic location—a garden, porch, or patio,” he says, “a private party can maintain ownership of the piece, while, at the same time, share it with the public. Allowing others to enjoy the artwork enhances the neighborhood and creates a greater sense of community for locals and visitors alike.”
Criswell designs custom pieces for residential, institutional, and public spaces. His most notable project was the mosaic sculpture “River Mountain” commissioned by the Josephine County Cultural Coalition for the front lawn of the Anne Basker Auditorium on G Street in Grants Pass. He designed and created the mosaic waterway, bug path, and geologic time-walk pavings for the Oregon Hills Park in East Medford, which incorporated tiles made, under his direction, by the children of Santo Community Center. Criswell has also designed many custom gates, screens, and sculptures for residential customers in the area.
The installation at Pony Espresso will be up through the summer, and all birds are for sale. Stop by the café for additional information and pricing.
To learn more about Criswell’s work, visit jeremycriswell.com.
Submitted by Greta Mikkelsen