California Tile
The Golden Era: 1910-1940
For centuries hand-crafted tiles have been a predominant decorative surface throughout the world, from the Middle East and Europe through North Africa, to Mexico and the West Coast of the United States.
In California the tile makers excelled in their craft, producing richly patterned tiles for building, facades, interiors, gardens, furniture and even for the table. By collecting together hundreds of works from dozens of tiny local producers, this exhibition revealed the variety and artistry of California Tile in a way never before appreciated.
The heyday of California Tile lasted a mere thirty years before the depression and the advent of World War II wiped out this extraordinary flowering of West Coast creativity. The two volume catalogue of the exhibition produced by the California Heritage Museum stands as the definitive guide to this fascinating period in the decorative arts.
On behalf of my students, colleagues, and myself, I would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to the amazing folks at the California Heritage Museum. Everyone was incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, and friendly to our large group! My students had a blast while learning about renowned artists important to California and Los Angeles' rich history. We look forward to coming back next school year!
Mr. Filidor, Educator - TEACH Tech Charter High School, South Los Angeles