Helen Miles, a distinguished mosaic artist, has dedicated over two decades to the art of mosaic-making, seamlessly blending ancient traditions with contemporary design. Her artistic journey began in Greece, where she studied under master craftsmen, immersing herself in traditional Byzantine techniques, particularly Byzantine iconography. This foundational training laid the groundwork for her later exploration of Roman mosaic styles, allowing her to develop a versatile and rich artistic vocabulary.
Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Miles’s career has been marked by a global trajectory. She has worked across the United States and the Middle East, experiences that have enriched her artistic perspective and technique. In 2003, she settled in Thessaloniki, Greece, a city renowned for its UNESCO-protected Byzantine churches. It was here that she fully immersed herself in the art of mosaics, eventually turning this passion into a full-time career.
Currently based in Edinburgh at Out of the Blue Abbeymount Studios, Miles continues to create mosaics that honor ancient traditions while embracing modern sensibilities. She primarily works with high-quality materials such as Winckelmans unglazed porcelain and vitreous glass tiles for her commissions. However, her artistic curiosity leads her to experiment with found and foraged materials, including stone, single-use plastics, and hardware. This exploration reflects her commitment to sustainability and innovation within her practice.
Miles’s approach to mosaic-making is characterized by a harmonious blend of historical techniques and contemporary aesthetics. She aims to honor the simplicity and directness of ancient mosaic traditions while creating pieces that resonate with modern life. Whether for interior or exterior spaces, her mosaics fuse historical techniques with innovative materials, resulting in works that both preserve the past and speak to contemporary sensibilities.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, Miles is a dedicated educator and writer. She teaches mosaic workshops and residential courses in both Scotland and Greece, sharing her extensive knowledge and passion for the medium with students worldwide. Her commitment to education is further demonstrated through her publications, including “Mosaics: Ancient Techniques to Contemporary Art,” a comprehensive guide that bridges the gap between traditional methods and modern applications.
Miles’s work has been featured in various publications, including the magazine “Mosaic & Glass,” where she was interviewed about her artistic process and inspirations. Her mosaics have also been showcased in exhibitions and galleries, further establishing her reputation as a skilled and innovative artist.
Through her dedication and passion, Helen Miles has carved out a unique niche in the world of mosaic art, blending her deep understanding of ancient techniques with a forward-thinking approach. Her work continues to inspire and captivate audiences, reflecting the beauty and diversity of the natural world through the medium of mosaics.