Collection: Denise Marshall

A second-generation California native, mosaic artist Denise Marshall grew up in Fullerton and her work can be seen in locations throughout the city. Her work has beautified the grounds of Golden Hill Elementary School with several mosaic projects, many involving the students.  Her most recent endeavor was a series of stepping stones signifying the changing of the seasons working with her youngest protégés to date – kindergarteners! 

Denise has her political science degree from Park University in Parksville, MO and completed graduate work in international studies.  After taking a break in her career to raise her two children (who grew up stepping around glass shards all their lives) she began devoting her time to her art in early 2000. Since that time she has done commissioned work for schools, private businesses and private collections. She also traveled to Ravenna Italy to learn the smalti technique of mosaic. Some of her favorite work has  been with children and it gives her great pleasure when she meets a young person from her past tells her that the work they did for a class project is still hanging in their room!  She loves doing public art for a similar satisfaction as many times people will stop and thank her for making their community more beautiful.

 Over the past several years, Denise has also turned her talents to ceramics, creating spectacular pieces including bowls featuring unique shapes and glaze combinations.

 Much of the inspiration for Denise’s colorful creations come from her love of the California beaches she grew up with – including one of her most recent projects experimenting with beading on driftwood.  Escaping into her art as she creates images through the beauty of the glass keeps Denise busy and happy in whatever genre she decides to create.