Dawn Mendelson has been creating mosaic and building communities through art for over two decades. Born in Texas and raised in Santa Cruz, California, Dawn earned her B.A. and M.A. from California State University, Long Beach, and later, a Community Teaching Artist certificate from Cal State Los Angeles. She discovered mosaic through an art store kit that sparked a new creative direction and kindled a passion in pique assiette, a form of mosaic using recycled materials. After years of making personal and commissioned work, Dawn was invited to teach with Piece by Piece, a nonprofit mosaic arts program. While leading workshops in South L.A. and Skid Row, she discovered a passion for helping people new to art find their creative voice. Dawn also helped developed ArtWorksLBC, an arts wellness program in Long Beach, CA, partnering with Rose Park Neighborhood Association. Her commitment to arts advocacy includes serving on several nonprofit boards and committees, as well as supporting and educating on a national level. www.dawnmendelson.com