By Sheldon Brown –
Michael O’Kelly, award-winning fine artist, has been designing and producing ceramic murals and architectural elements for over 20 years. His impressive body of work includes the 50’ x 10’ historic mural in front of the Ventura Mission (look for the Ventura Breeze tile), the Santa Barbara Zoo Mural and Fountain, Camarillo Library Fountain and Murals, ceramic art for Disneyland, and design work spanning Paso Robles to Beverly Hills to Las Vegas.
One of the key techniques Michael employs is Cuerda Seca, a distinctive ceramic style known for its vibrant, decorative tiles with unglazed resist lines that separate colorful glazes. This method creates a mosaic-like appearance with clearly defined borders and often results in a slightly raised, tactile surface. These exquisite tiles have adorned palaces, churches, and historic buildings for centuries.
The Cuerda Seca technique is believed to have originated in Persia during the 9th and 10th centuries, later spreading to Spain (Al-Andalus). It gained popularity in the 14th and 15th centuries in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) and eventually made its way to other parts of Europe. By the early 19th century, it appeared in California, influencing the Spanish Revival and Malibu styles.
For over 100 years, these high-fired ceramic elements have been incorporated into architectural decoration, home remodels, and new construction.
Michael offers custom-designed and handcrafted ceramic pieces, including backsplashes, door and fireplace surrounds, window sills, swimming pool and jacuzzi liners, fountains and wall murals. To contact Michael, call 805-701-4488. Instagram: @artist_michaelokelly. Facebook: Ceramic Legacy.
