Finding Beauty in Broken Pieces: Mosaic Art with Miriam Sushman – Joleen’s Happy Time Craftcast 69

Craftonians, welcome to Episode 69 of Happy Time Craftcast! Joleen checks in from Big Raven Farm with cozy fall updates before chatting with mosaic artist Miriam Sushman, whose journey from photojournalism to mosaics is as vibrant as her art. Together, they explore turning found treasures — from Golden Books to vintage magazines — into beautiful, story-filled creations that celebrate imperfection and joy. Guest BioMiriam Sushman is a Milwaukee-based artist who discovered her love for mosaic art after careers in photojournalism and graphic design. Her vibrant pieces blend stained glass, collage, and reclaimed materials, weaving together nostalgia and heart. When she’s not in the studio, Miriam brings her playful spirit to gardening, cooking, and improv comedy — creativity truly shines through everything she does.  Follow MiriamWebsiteInstagramFacebookEtsyEpisode Chapters with Timestamps[00:00 — 04:29] — Welcome from Joleen at Big Raven Farm (and goodbye to fall!) [04:30 — 09:14] — The behind-the-scenes hustle of hosting creative retreats[09:15 — 10:59] — Introducing guest artist Miriam Sushman[11:00 — 16:39] — From photojournalist to mosaic maker — Miriam’s creative evolution[16:40 — 21:59] — The joy of stained glass and the temptation of new mediums [22:00 — 27:29] — Rediscovering beauty in old magazines and Golden Books[27:30 — 32:59] — Experimenting with collage, adhesives, and glass-on-glass techniques[33:00 — 39:44] — Tools of the trade: from glue sticks to mosaic glue (and a few surprises!)[39:45 — 46:19] — The art of embracing imperfection and creative play[46:20 — 53:59] —How creativity connects memory, materials, and meaning[54:00 — End] — Joleen’s reflections and closing thoughtsQuotes from the Episode“Sometimes the most beautiful art starts with something someone else threw away.” — Miriam Sushman“A glue stick can be a gateway to magic — who knew?” — Joleen Emery“Creativity is a balance between comfort zones and curiosity.” — Miriam Sushman“It’s okay to start with what’s broken — that’s where the light gets in.” — Joleen EmeryResources and Links🏡 Big Raven Farm Retreats — Registration for 2026 retreats is open!🧩 Adhesives & Tools Mentioned:Yohoo Glue Stick — acid-free and perfect for collage.MAC Glue (formerly used for mosaics; alternative recommended by artist Corey Dollar of Marvelous Mosaic Fine Art).📚 Inspiration Source: Golden Books and vintage Life Magazines — the unexpected treasures behind Miriam’s recent works.Love "Happy Time Craftcast"? 👉Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts and leave a review to help others discover our crafty community 👉Stay tuned for more Happy Time Craftcast with Joleen Emery. Subscribe now!👉FOLLOW  ME ON TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM 👉SIGN UP FOR THE ART KIT OF THE MONTH CLUB