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(Music by Steve Gunn, Barry London, C.J. Boyd, Lineland)
Jim Power, also known as the Mosaic Man, has been adorning the lampposts of New York City’s East Village for almost thirty years. After giving up his union carpenter job, Jim began beautifying the once rough and tumble neighborhood, supported solely by the donations he received on the streets. His work eventually came to be known as the Mosaic Trail — eighty lampposts covered in mosaics representing significant areas and people of the East Village.
In the ’90s, the Giuliani administration tore down fifty of the lamp posts. Ever since, Jim has been on a mission to rebuild the trail. It hasn’t been easy. Jim has been homeless for over twenty five years, but the neighborhood has come together to support him. A local landlord donated a studio space, friends help with the mosaic works, and he now has a website and an Etsy shop.
Jim’s not out for fame. He makes his art for the community that he loves and that loves him so dearly in return.
To learn more about Jim Power, visit his website.
3 Featured Comments
deb fearon from dizhasneatstuff said 8 years ago Featured
I've been inspired and have enjoyed Jim's work since the beginning, (whoops showing my age). Glad to hear he's got an Etsy shop and plan on supporting his work from afar. I love when art is created for the community, it feels more honest than art hung on gallery walls.
Stephanie Maslow Blackman from metalicious said 8 years ago Featured
What a powerful example of how art can transform a community. NYC has the reputation for being cold and exclusive, but there are pockets of wonderful all around. This is such a heartwarming example, thanks for sharing Jim's story and I'll be on the lookout for his art work!
Jim Power from MosaicManNYC said 8 years ago Featured
THANK YOU to Tara and everyone for the kind words and support! I hope you can all take a walk along The Mosaic Trail someday soon. As a token of appreciation, please use coupon code "ARTWEAR" at checkout in The Mosaic Man Etsy Shop for 10% off your entire order! And keep up with the latest from the 'Mosaic Man' on the Web/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest. Just look for @MosaicManNYC Be in touch! P.S. If you do buy a belt buckle, send pictures of you wearing it!!!
212 comments
Hillary De Moineaux from VoleedeMoineaux said 8 years ago
That is super cool!
Michelle Traub from mtraub said 8 years ago
"When it's gone, I'm on the next pole." I love how Jim recognizes the power of his work, but refuses to be too precious about it.
VaLon Frandsen from thevicagirl said 8 years ago
That is very fun. I love that he is transforming such mundane things into such great artwork.
Kiova Staley from joyridevintage said 8 years ago
So touching, the love of community and art above the need for money or success. Shame on Giuliani for taking down those posts, I hope twice as many are beautified in their place! Thank you Jim for being such a shining,humble example of human-ness!
moon from jewelsbymoon said 8 years ago
This is awesome and love the support. I will be sure to support this movement and send him clients from my private blog. Bravo! carry on...
Debbie from thelittlemarket said 8 years ago
amazing!!
Erika from ErikaPrice said 8 years ago
What an amazing guy! Such a shame the lampposts were torn down in the first place, but great to see community spirit in action. Rock on Jim, great to see you here on Etsy, and I LOVE your shop!
Pooja Campbell from 41GrantRoad said 8 years ago
What an amazing sweet man. I cant believe how simple he makes everything seem. He has had such a hard life and he's still finding the beauty in everything. He's a great definition of a true artist. Persevering and creating with a smile
Vanessa Ryerse from TheMosaicButterfly said 8 years ago
I have a lot to learn...
Justine Osborne from paintmydog said 8 years ago
I think its a great way of cheering up the city! and glad he has the resilience to keep on going!
Justin and Lauren Marsh from GoatandKettle said 8 years ago
What a cool mission of beautification!
theblackfeather from theblackfeather said 8 years ago
How inspiring! Beautiful!
Peace312 said 8 years ago
I adore these lampposts every time I'm hanging out in the East Village and I've always wondered how they came to be. Thanks for shedding light on a subject of much curiosity, as well as showing something so touching as one man's unwavering dedication to his art.
Vi-Anne from SweetPetitesHairTies said 8 years ago
That's an amazing story! The world needs more people like Jim Power!!! <3
EphemeraAndMore from EphemeraAndMore said 8 years ago
Amazing story, best luck to you, Jim! Thank you, Tara!
Anathalia from SCAVENGENIUS said 8 years ago
Fantastic story and work! So very inspiring!
Amanda Gynther from CafePrimrose said 8 years ago
Good story! Very inspirational.
Melissa R. from shesinpartiesjewelry said 8 years ago
As a native NYC gal, I have always wondered who was behind those lovely mosaics. Thanks so much for posting this!
Pilar Johnson from puffyp said 8 years ago
i actually met this guy when i was living back in NY, and laid a few tiles with him on a lamppost, he totally does it for the LOVE of the beautification of NY, which is very cool.
LivingVintage from LivingVintage said 8 years ago
Awesome!
Edie Ann from OhHoneyHush said 8 years ago
Wow!! Beautiful work Jim Power!
Ainur KOKSAL from Ainurcrochet said 8 years ago
Amazinggg!!
Sarah from CopperheadCreations said 8 years ago
That's awesome! I'd always wondered about who did those.
Susan Spurr from InSpurations said 8 years ago
P O W E R O F J I M. The trail connected a community.
PaperAltar from PaperAltar said 8 years ago
Amazing work - Beautiful Film !
Ira Lee Henson from MyInnerEvolution said 8 years ago
that is really moving- he has been at it for so long!!!! i think he would be such a cool person to know!!!!! i wanna give him a knee cushion though, his poor knees!!!!
Jane Priser from JanePriserArts said 8 years ago
Jim is a wonderfully talented artist!
Julie Pedersen from purposedesign said 8 years ago
I remember seeing these in the east village around St. Marks Place when I used to visit NYC in the mid 90's. Its so cool to find out about the history behind them. I'm sure I have a few pictures of them somewhere in my negative files. Thanks so much for this story.
Christian M. Martin said 8 years ago
hi, Jim; You're a better person than I am ! Thank you for serving in VietNam and helping to keep America safe. God bless and keep on 'mosaic-ing' along. Chris Martin.
Peshka from Peshka said 8 years ago
Wow! that is beautiful!
milocreativestudios from MiloCreativeStudios said 8 years ago
Awesome!!! Years ago I put together a huge mosaic on a retaining wall in my back yard and it was SO much work. I have much appreciation for Jim's work! Bravo!
Lynette from dishhandbags said 8 years ago
i really loved this!! what a great story and amazing artist!
Dax and Belle from aGangofTwo said 8 years ago
I met him once around the East Village, and he is a dying breed of artists that truly believes art heals.
TabbiesandTrains from TabbiesandTrains said 8 years ago
Fabulous belt buckles. Thanks Jim for making the world a more beautiful place with your generous and creative spirit !!
Sally from MorphElle said 8 years ago
Inspiring and productive. Admire his ability to create an historical record so full of hope out of anarchy
Pam from VintageRenude said 8 years ago
Awesome story, this is what art is all about to me.
deb fearon from dizhasneatstuff said 8 years ago Featured
I've been inspired and have enjoyed Jim's work since the beginning, (whoops showing my age). Glad to hear he's got an Etsy shop and plan on supporting his work from afar. I love when art is created for the community, it feels more honest than art hung on gallery walls.
specialgift from specialgift said 8 years ago
You are a wonderful inspiration to us all.
Amber from BambuEarth said 8 years ago
This is so inspiring. ♥
Jude Mott from WOLFEANDRABBIT said 8 years ago
Thats all the information you wrote about? Come on! Whats jims real story? Family schooling infulences inspiration. And no other images of this street work?
Terry from Parachute425 said 8 years ago
Amazing. It takes all kinds and I'm grateful there are all kinds. Jim and his work are keepers.
Georgia from JewelMeShop said 8 years ago
I admire the talent of "mosaic man". Congrats Jim!
David from TheMapShop said 8 years ago
Jim reminds me of the graffiti artist Banksy. The officials in Bristol, England began painting over his work until they discovered that it was worth preserving.
Amy from needleandfelt said 8 years ago
Jim my friend - mosaic on!!! Your work is beautiful and I am so touched by what you are doing. I hope my family and I can visit someday and take a walk down the mosaic trail.
Lisa Jane from SquattingGypsy said 8 years ago
Inspiring! Great story! Love the mosaics!
Michelle and Marguerite from OffbeatAvenue said 8 years ago
This was absolutely fantastic! Love the work! Keep it up Jim :)
LuAnn Poli from PaisleyBeading said 8 years ago
What a phenomenal story! I love his determination! Now THAT is Handcrafted America! What talent and artistry. Thanks, Tara.
Susan Sanford from ProfessorTiny said 8 years ago
Love his work, it adds a lot to the homemade quality of the East Village streets, In Philadelphia, Isaiah Zagar has been working on bringing mosaic to public spaces for some 40 years.
Debbi Bailey said 8 years ago
Thanks for sharing your art and your story! Your story is delightful and a good reminder of the how far we have come and how painful the journey was at times. Please keep sharing your art with the public!
gilded in gypsy from gildedingypsy said 8 years ago
What an inspirational story! It's too bad I didn't get to see those fantastic looking light posts when I was in New York. Your mosaics look simply amazing, keep up the great work!
ThePattypanShop from ThePattypanShop said 8 years ago
What a Powerful story! Keep up the amazing work!!!
Shari from samdesigns2009 said 8 years ago
Beautiful and inspiring. All the best to you, Jim.
Shannon O'Shaughnessy from silverbranchhome said 8 years ago
You are awesome!! I love your work!! Love your shop!
Vickie Moore from WingedWorld said 8 years ago
I loved reading this story about a man's quest to beautify his part of the world! Very inspirational!
Jason and Andie from andiespecialtysweets said 8 years ago
We feel good after watching this -it evoked a visceral feeling of optimism. Beautifully filmed by the lovely Tara, as well. We're so glad (over here on the west coast) to hear about Jim and this project and know of his Etsy shop too!
kathi roussel from kathiroussel said 8 years ago
fantastic work and love given freely to the world. It makes me sad and angry that stupid bureaucrats took down 50 of his lamposts...??? what were they thinking-- if anything at all?? beautiful feature... and best wishes to Jim for the continuation of the wondrous trail!!
betsy bensen from betsybensen said 8 years ago
so cool! go, Jim, go!
Janet from FeltOnTheFly said 8 years ago
"the Giuliani administration tore down fifty of the lamp posts" Really? Why? I'll bet there's more to that part of the story. I wish you would have given a little more fact there and/or dug a little deeper... that part of the sentence seems to imply that something horrible was done. While it's always a shame to destroy artwork, maybe their was a reason for it. Maybe in hindsight the people responsible would have done something different now. That statement seems so accusatory. Love the lamppost art. I'd love to go see those lampposts in person : )
Erin from ErinAntiques said 8 years ago
This is so inspiring! :) love your amazing work and passion Jim!
iammie from iammie said 8 years ago
Amazing!
Kristy Overman from KRUSTYstuff said 8 years ago
power to jim!
Scott from vinylclockwork said 8 years ago
Great Story thanks for sharing it. Some great work by Jim
Elena Fom from Attractive1 said 8 years ago
Great story!
Matejka Max from NattyMatty said 8 years ago
Wow!
Debbie Stocker from VintageWantsNotNeeds said 8 years ago
Keep up the good work - those lamp posts look amazing and I am sure they brighten up otherwise ordinary streets.
Haroulla from SugaBelleBoutique said 8 years ago
You are amazing!!!!!!!! I have goosebumps!
Oncle Hope from OncleHope said 8 years ago
Im touched. Such an artist, love the way he makes the city beautifull with his art that is there for everyone to see. Free. Just for the joy of it.
Jasmin Bauer Victor Torres from aCoupleofPhotos said 8 years ago
This is so very inspiring! Fantastic story and video!
Dozy from MadeByDozy said 8 years ago
A truly inspirational story, thank you :-)
Erica Walker from EricaWalkerJewelry said 8 years ago
I love this story, thank you.
Victoria Baker from LittleWrenPottery said 8 years ago
Great story, I wish I'd know about this before visiting New York - great to see some of the history of the place I'd love to have something like this in my town!
Sheila Rinehart from PoshPrincessBows1 said 8 years ago
Awesome story, very cool work!
Joselyn S Walsh from bluemoose said 8 years ago
Wow! A truly Awesome Man! He sees the BIG PICTURE.. and Beautifies it. !!
Niftic from NifticVintage said 8 years ago
What an inspiration to ALL! Thanks for sharing this talented man's work and story.
Jeanie from KnotinLoveDesigns said 8 years ago
Tara, you and your wonderful team have captured a part of your wonderful NYC that we who have not or, unfortunately, will not be able to experience. I am awestruck at this remarkable man. No words can explain what I feel right now. You should be very proud of your work and I can only THANK YOU for bringing Jim to us and sharing in this wonderful artisan. Bless you Jim! Peace
Zoui from XZOUIX said 8 years ago
i LOVE street art and i'm an occasional contributor too :) these are some rad pieces that Jim creates :) it kinda reminds me of this beautiful "tree sculpture" in Haight/Ashbury ♥
Beliz from ThreadEtc said 8 years ago
Great and wonderful story !!!
Liesl Carlson from lcarlsonjewelry said 8 years ago
This is amazing! I love that he realizes what power the community can have.
Stephanie Maslow Blackman from metalicious said 8 years ago Featured
What a powerful example of how art can transform a community. NYC has the reputation for being cold and exclusive, but there are pockets of wonderful all around. This is such a heartwarming example, thanks for sharing Jim's story and I'll be on the lookout for his art work!
Tina Francis from TinasBeadMind said 8 years ago
Amazing and inspiring story. WHY were his lampposts torn down! Could Giuliani not recognise the value of his art to the community? Jim's belt buckles in his Etsy shop are stunning little works of art.
MitosisGlass from MitosisGlass said 8 years ago
What a cool story! Thank you for sharing. I love stuff like this.
Marion Bissett said 8 years ago
Shame on Giuliani! It would have been a great idea if the city had saved those decorative post. The city could have sold them as pillars of Mosaic Art; standing on the base where the art started to where it ended. The metal above the design being removed. The pillars could have been auctioned off to those who wanted to preserve something beautiful and in time, historical. I would have loved one for my garden in Al. Keep this inspiring talent going, Jim, and God Bless.
Jim Power from MosaicManNYC said 8 years ago Featured
THANK YOU to Tara and everyone for the kind words and support! I hope you can all take a walk along The Mosaic Trail someday soon. As a token of appreciation, please use coupon code "ARTWEAR" at checkout in The Mosaic Man Etsy Shop for 10% off your entire order! And keep up with the latest from the 'Mosaic Man' on the Web/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest. Just look for @MosaicManNYC Be in touch! P.S. If you do buy a belt buckle, send pictures of you wearing it!!!
etcher101 from EtchStitchandBurn said 8 years ago
That was a truly inspirational story to watch!! You are an wonderful man, Jim...it takes a special person to give everything in order to make the world a more beautiful place for others. New York should give you a grant so you can keep doing such a wonderful thing for everyone! Keep going!!
Katie McClanahan from WearYourWild said 8 years ago
Awesome post! (Both the blog and the lights)
Danielle Yve from GardenofYve said 8 years ago
That is so inspiring! I'll have to check it out the next time I'm in the city.
Robin Romain from RawBoneStudio said 8 years ago
Wow I cannot wait to visit the mosaic trail someday. Jim you are so inspiring and your work is gorgeous!
yoborobo from yoborobo said 8 years ago
Love Jim! He's a true artist!
milie diaz from milie32 said 8 years ago
Awesome Jim ! ! My hero of the arts and crafts world! :)
andwhatelseisthere from andwhatelseisthere said 8 years ago
This is the only Etsy VDO I actually comment on. All I can say about Jim and his work is that what he does is a true gem. Keep up the artistic spirit.
pomella from pomella said 8 years ago
A wonderful character - love him (& dog) :)
Carla Hansen from myneedlehabit said 8 years ago
I was living in the East Village in the late 80's and I remember Jim diligently glueing away. So now I feel kind of historical....in a good way.
Theoni from cubo said 8 years ago
great work! and i am so happy seeing in the blog a post about mosaics!! :D
M Wheatley from wheatleypaperworks said 8 years ago
All the best Jim.
Jim McLean from BackyardBrand said 8 years ago
From one Jim to another... AHHhhrrOOOOOOO00000000000ooooooooo!
NICOLE Dotto from DOTTO said 8 years ago
oh my goodness WONDERFUL. Jim reminds me of Ben Wilson of London who I would marry in a second allllso. you exceptional gentlemen you.
Gwendolyne from AtelierGwendolyne said 8 years ago
That was such a wonderful story. Jim you are a bright and beautiful light. I am so happy Tara did your story it is very inspirational. Thank you Tara thank you Jim. The more that people can light up this world the more the world will begin to be seen in the light!
lisa lehmann from thebeadgirl said 8 years ago
what a great story. a true artist. thank you for sharing. is there a way to sponsor him other than buying his work?
Windy City Novelties said 8 years ago
Thank you for sharing such a great story! I wish Jim and his dog the very best!
Lesley from LesCargo said 8 years ago
People like Jim are who really make communities personal, who add history, culture, and beauty to a world that is ever-equalizing, cheapening, and making everything and everyone the same with no personality. Jim, you amaze me with being homeless for 25 years, with patiently re-building the 50 that got torn down, with your selflessness to the community and friendliness to random people that walk by. Good luck in everything you do! :)
tigerbalm505 said 8 years ago
Have enjoyed these works of art often. Remind me a bit of the community mosaics of Grant's Tomb and ,of course, all of antiquity Thanks Jim for bringing more pleasure into our lives. Thanks a lot..
Leasa from LeasaDesigns said 8 years ago
What a great story! Anything mosaic makes me happy - love all the colors and ability to design almost anything with broken tile! I have been saving a box full of broken tiles and tiles waiting to be broken for future projects around our house! This has inspired me to get on it and create!! (before my husband throws them out! ha) Love the belt buckles too!!
rebekah desloge from yourmomdesigns said 8 years ago
how inspiring... I would love to see Jim's art in person.
Jane Phillips from myCrazyHands said 8 years ago
This is so COOL! Jim, art, and his dog :)
Danielle from SailorsRavineStudio said 8 years ago
Thank you for doing those poles Jim. Really beautiful.
Todd Shaffer said 8 years ago
Great film, saw it come up on Vimeo Staff Picks and halfway through I saw my own photograph. Glad I could contribute!
blackeyedsuzie from blackeyedsuzie said 8 years ago
fascinating video - thanks tara!!
Mary Alice from mzbellz said 8 years ago
I definitely have to go down to the village and check this out. I'm not that far. from the city. Live in Queens. I think it's totally cool. And I'm glad Jim is getting recognized for his work.
Celena McMahon from Rembrandtrocks said 8 years ago
SUCH A LOVELY STORY! I LOVE THIS - GUY ALREADY!
caitie queen of my own little circus from CaitiesFleaCircus said 8 years ago
Wonderful story..... art triumphs!!!! Very interesing video!!!!! Thank you for sharing this........ c
Dominique Adeli from KidzCreationz said 8 years ago
really nice story! this art is so amazing! LOVE IT!!!
Michael and Lisa from honeystreasures said 8 years ago
Very cool work, Jim.
Jess Towne from JeezumCrowVintage said 8 years ago
Keep up the great work, Jim! Your mosaics are one of the things that makes New York City a special, one of a kind place. I really appreciate your artistry and dedication. :o)
WaxBeachArtist from BeachAngelCharms said 8 years ago
More power to you Mosaic Man! That is too cool!
EvesBoudoir from EvesBoudoir said 8 years ago
Love you Jim, love your work. What an inspiring story, thank you :)
scbeachbling from scbeachbling said 8 years ago
Fantastic story of redemption and validation through art. Jim Power will live on through his work for generations. Art makes us breathe, think, revel in our memories and dream of our future! BRAVO, JIM! Good luck with your shop! (:
Shannon DeBalli from CoquettishlyAdorned said 8 years ago
Bringing art to the people, what a beautiful thing to do. God Bless Jim and all the street artists. Beautiful!!!
Barbara Ricci Remensnyder from barbararemensnyder said 8 years ago
What an exciting idea!!! Thanks for sharing, Jim!
Kathrine from pinkpurr said 8 years ago
I'm sure many an-Etsian can relate deeply to this man's need and drive to create his art. I for one, cannot imagine life without mine... it is the air we breath and always at a price. So I hope I will not be misunderstood by saying: "this man needs to be published"! It's a pity that 50 of his works were torn down, likely before anyone could document it. Are there any kind hearted volunteer photographers, publishers etc... in the area that can help this man out and get him some cash so he can have a decent home to come home to? ... All whilst recording this man's art into history before it's too late? He deserves a home at the very least!
Joanne Culbreth from HappyMooseGardenArt said 8 years ago
Finally stopping my corporate day job after 35 years to work my Etsy shop...because of people just like this. This story made me cry....I stand in awe. Hat's off to him....he ROCKS!!! Joanne Happy Moose Garden Art
ravenramandmoon from ravenramandmoon said 8 years ago
It was wonderful that etsy was able to do this story and highlight all your amazing work! God Bless.
Jessica from gphite said 8 years ago
Absolutely wonderful! Beautifully captured in this little video. I hope to see them in person some day.
Angela Roberts from LittleQuiltsBigHugs said 8 years ago
I loved watching Jim's story, his wonderful work and everything he stands for - so inspirational! Thank you.
Penny Dixon from Pennyjanedesigns said 8 years ago
Thanks for this. Art for the sake of your own well-being and that of the community. That's the way it should be! Truly inspiring.
Teje Karjalainen from TEJESARITA said 8 years ago
Wow, just amazing! Thank you so much for sharing! He shows us that if you enjoy to create something, you do it what ever happens or what ever difficulties you have - or perhaps exactly because of that! Finnish wishes from Greece!
Lisa Zinza from ZiBagz said 8 years ago
Bravo Jim Power .. you have touched my heart ♥
Kathleen Fox from KathleenFoxPaintings said 8 years ago
Now that's a trail I intend to walk! Thanks, Jim for sharing your art with everyone.
Ursula Elmes from YouOrganic said 8 years ago
lovely story! beautifully shot
Sissy Benedetto from ABCbirdhouses said 8 years ago
Great story. The next time I am in NY, I will look for his work. Very impressive.
Valerie Bolen from valnorthwoods said 8 years ago
What a sweet wonderful man! Loved this tale of him and his mosaic journey. THANKS for posting this one.
Sandra Bellestri from BellestriOriginals said 8 years ago
Incedible! You are awsome!
paula from PaulaArt said 8 years ago
this was heartwarming. loved it. good post!
Anita Bondi from AnitaBondiDesigns said 8 years ago
thank you jim for being and inspiration and a beautiful example of integrity and authenticity. your work is amazing and i loved learning about your history and seeing the progression through to this day. i hope to visit the mosaic trail and to meet you one day my fellow artist friend.
Michael Quirk from QuirkMuseum said 8 years ago
Hey, it's good to hear the story about the Mosaic Man and his art. I've seen some of his work downtown but didn't know the story behind it. Keep going...
claudia beckwith from anotherplanetglass said 8 years ago
He is such a positive and beautiful force in this world - an incredible inspiration!!!!! Keep on with the mosaic magic!!!!!
Dana Osborne-Biggs from UrbanHeirlooms said 8 years ago
I love people like that! I cannot imagine being ordered to destroy someone's artwork, and I'm glad the city is allowing Jim to continue his project. The world needs more Jim Powers!
Jeanellen from Jeanellenart said 8 years ago
What an inspirational and articulate man! This just goes to show that anything you put your heart and soul into is possible. I live not far from NYC and next time I visit, I will be sure to find the Mosaic Trail. What a great lesson on what we think we know of a person is not the whole beautiful story. Wishing Jim Powers a long healthy life to continue to beautify New York.
Victoria Letemendia Koupparis from LavenderField said 8 years ago
So inspiring! good thing I went back thru my old emails and saw that I had forgotten to open the one that had a link to this video/article. "When it's gone, I'm on the next pole." = This is sorta how I feel about my necklaces. I've learned not to attach myself emotionally too much to them (still working at it). Thank you so much for sharing this!!!
Marcy Langworthy from ManhattanHippy said 8 years ago
I've seen these beautiful light posts but had no idea where they came from or the touching story behind them. I'll be sure to follow your work from now on, what an inspiration, thank you for sharing!
Claire Varley from Brighteyesshop said 7 years ago
This is so special, the way creativity prevails in all circumstances. Despite homelessness, he brought beauty to the streets of New York. I hope one day I can see his work first hand.
Megan from MegansMenagerie said 7 years ago
Wow, what an inspiration! I go to NY often and will definitely be making a special trip next time to see his work. What a beautiful story.
Caroline from ArtbyHeroux said 7 years ago
A True Artist. So inspiring.
Karen from BellaBargains said 7 years ago
Amazing... Simply amazing...
Alisa from AlisaDesign said 7 years ago
Amazing work! Lova that Blue Moon Mosaic Belt Buckle! ;)
Helen Mills from 1820BagCo said 7 years ago
I remember all this when I was living up in New York, it was crazy back then and I remember thinking it was such a shame...Glad to read that he is still inspired....
Nicola and Jessica Belton from CelticKnittingCo said 7 years ago
Awesome work you are a true artist!!
SilverFoxDesigns6 from SilverFoxDesigns6 said 7 years ago
Absolutely fantastic! Keep up the good work Jim! Hopefully people will come to realize what a precious legacy they are destroying and start preserving it instead.
Alison Herr Scates and Chuck Scates from ACESFINDSVINTAGE said 7 years ago
Wow, what a fabulous inspiration! Thank you Jim for making the world a more beautiful place!
Lisa from NirvanaRoad said 7 years ago
One day I will have to take a walk down The Mosaic Trail. This is a great story and I love his artwork!
Gwynne Collins from DaysLongGone said 7 years ago
What an inspiration! Your work is beautiful, Jim!
Desiree from ArtDecoDame said 7 years ago
Great story and absolutely beautiful work!
LetsAllMakeBelieve from LetsAllMakeBelieve said 7 years ago
Awesome!! :)
Matilde Cánepa González from matildecanepaArtnow said 7 years ago
I am moved by this man with his altruistic work It is a chronicler of his culture, community! beautiful mosaics jim Power peace and love!
Sarah from Birchmoonrocksfibers said 7 years ago
Wow- very cool. Many good wishes to Jim from the west coast!
Jim McLean from BackyardBrand said 7 years ago
"Art is a victory of futility and non-utility."
StillVintage from StillVintage said 7 years ago
What a wonderful story
Connie Caldwell from WiseLines said 7 years ago
Will be in NYC this summer - will definitely make the Mosaic Trail a destination! Inspiring! Fabulous! Truly a "pocket of wonderful!"
Theresa Ryales from TheresasGourmet said 7 years ago
Thank you for sharing this wonderful work that you do! You have touched many with it and now me!
Chris Ferebee from CathodeBlue said 7 years ago
These lampposts were neat to see around the neighborhood. I used to live in the East Village in the late 90's-2000's and they were all around. Was funny to see them transformed into kooky, iconic visual landmarks...sort of symbolic of the neighborhood itself and the patchwork of people living there. Although, between you, me and the lamppost, a good majority of the posts were in fact picked apart & vandalized, or simply weathered off. So this notion that the "Giuliani administration" "tore down" all of Jim's handiwork (predictably) implies a personal vendetta. More likely it was the fact that said 'Giuliani administration' was repairing old, broken lighting and doing general infrastructure upgrades, thus making it possible for many people, including I'm sure, many Etsy folks, to live safely, thus allowing a creative and vibrant neighborhood to thrive. Unfortunately Jim's mosaics happened to be on some of the (hundreds) of lampposts that were repaired/replaced. And more than likely, at that time his work didn't have the notoriety that it has today, thus there wasn't an incentive to save them (?). All in all it's good to know that Jim's still active and that there's an attempt to preserve/repair the posts that are left.
CHRISTINE SHMISTEEN from TheArtOfFinerThings said 7 years ago
this is my favorite and I'm glad to see it featured again.
Matejka Max from NattyMatty said 7 years ago
Cool!
sarah parker from thehouseofhemp said 7 years ago
amazing. congratulations.
dawna rubihid from lepetitchatrobin said 7 years ago
awesome!
Caitlin Edge from knitsbycaitlin said 7 years ago
Great story.
eva andrews from catchaleaf said 7 years ago
I really love the video, a fantastic story!
Mel Ladner from epicstitching said 7 years ago
Public art is such a funny thing, sometimes it's considered vandalism, and other times it's considered culture. I'm sorry to hear that the culture that Jim adds to the areas he does mosaics are subject to vandalism. How ironic. I hope that by making others aware of his amazing story that the Etsy community can help support artists like him in their endeavours to make our world more beautiful.
Andrea V from BeachyChicDecor said 7 years ago
very cool! :)
Stacey McCaffrey from vintagejane said 7 years ago
Met this man at the Etsy pop up shop this December......kind as could be! Love his work and attitude!
Sukran Kirtis from SukranKirtisJewelry said 7 years ago
wow, incredible story and work, best of luck and business
Jim Power from MosaicManNYC said 7 years ago
Hey all! Just launched a campaign on crowdfunding site Indiegogo to support the rebuilding of The Legendary Mosaic Trail! Go to Indiegogo DOT com And search for "The Legendary Mosaic Trail" Read more about the campaign, check out some of the awesome perks available, and donate if you'd like. THANK YOU!
Rachel from PeppersJewelry said 7 years ago
Nice work! I love mosaics.
Amber from BambuEarth said 7 years ago
Funny this is a repeat blog post.. but, still interesting. ♥
Sarah Cownley from GlimpseCards said 7 years ago
Wow, what an amazing story!
DewyMorningVintage from DewyMorningVintage said 7 years ago
Amazing story of creativity and truly living in the present. He creates and moves on to the next work of art, with no attachments. Your work is truly inspiring and beautiful!
Jennifer Serene from ViennaIsLove said 7 years ago
awesome - adding character to the city!
H88255 from HillarysSuperfoods said 7 years ago
What a great story! Terrific work!
Leah Moses from Yumyo said 7 years ago
what a great story! Gotta love that perseverance.
JW Lin from JWPersonalShop said 7 years ago
Great job
Samantha Palmer from MissMagnoliaVintage said 7 years ago
What a neat guy! People like this define a city. Wish there were more people like him.
enchantedplanet from enchantedplanet said 7 years ago
Wow! I LOVE this story. And I LOVE Jim's Beautiful work too. WAY TO GO, MOSAIC MAN! :)))
Cybele from cyberbelle said 7 years ago
This is the best!! Art for everyone, available in daily life, made with love. Inspiring and energizing. Thank you for the art, Jim Powers!
rakubuttons from rakubuttons said 7 years ago
Nice to see this article resurface. I hope the city and the people will always view these works as a gift and true art rather than vandalism or some kind of urban decay like Rodia's Watts Towers and other visionary/outsider creations.
Amy Spock from BeadsandThreadsbyAmy said 7 years ago
Powerful and inspiring story. Thank you for your work to beautify all of us!
Rich and Dona from TheCottageMouse said 7 years ago
Excellent. Jim gets an A plus.
Pat Parker from PatsPottery said 7 years ago
I love this story also, and wish I could afford a $100 belt buckle.
Chris from brokenasphalt said 7 years ago
Pure Love
Rachel from 2TrickPony said 7 years ago
i missed this one the first time around thanks for the repeat! I used to live in the village. this was great to watch.
Catherine Maria Charalambous from BouncyTree said 7 years ago
What an incredible story and such a selfless man! All the best and may he continue his beautiful works without another lamp post being taken away.
Andrea Hughes from PopLoveHers said 7 years ago
Stories like these really get to me. That's one of the things about Etsy that I really adore - that sense of support & community for everyone out to make the world a more magical, wonderful, pleasant place through their craft. Jim's work is absolutely stunning and it warms my heart to see that his community is reaching out to support him and his craft because in the end, everyone benefits. There are few things that brighten a gloomy day than the sudden, unexpected appearance of art in the middle of nowhere!
IKA PARIS from ikabags said 7 years ago
Jim; You are amazing!
janicewd from janicewd said 7 years ago
Beautiful art Jim! The lampposts must be beautiful. You truly have a love for art and I do love the blue moon mosaic too. Wonderful:)
J.K. Ramirez from HudsonBlueArtisans said 7 years ago
Walking downtown I always wondered who he was... Jim Thanks for many years of selfless creation
Kerime Sevilen Mustafaoglu from ASHYL said 7 years ago
I love the video, thank you.
Kathy Johnson from KathysLittleAttic said 7 years ago
What a beautiful story!
Rick Beerhorst from studiobeerhorst said 7 years ago
Just the boost I needed this morning!
Nemki from nemki said 7 years ago
I absolutely love this. Imagine if all of us creative-types used our skills to slowly transform our cities and towns, especially the more depressing and run-down sites? I'm sure it would make people so much happier to live somewhere more beautiful! :)
crankbunny from crankbunny said 7 years ago
Jim's work is all over the east village - on storefronts, planters, and little bits of sidewalk sometimes too. Since I moved from the ev, I miss his work being part of my life so much. He truly is a selfless man and only wants to live and create with his dog always at his side. Love that Etsy did a feature on him!
Helen N. Hanson from NonToxicSpiritArt said 7 years ago
Thanks for this feature on Joim. What beeter work then to decorate everyday life on the streets with ART! Wonderful.
Helen N. Hanson from NonToxicSpiritArt said 7 years ago
better.....sorry, no coffee yet...
Gary Sieveking from JubileeSigns said 7 years ago
I was just going to say he should post this project on Kickstarter.com, but I see he's already got something similar on a different site. I feel he would have great success with Kickstarter!
Anita Spero from AnitaSperoDesign said 7 years ago
What an amazing story. This is true love for art. It brought me to tears. Thank you,
emberair from EmberandAir said 7 years ago
Wonderful work and a truly amazing story!
Nita Blum from GoldenPlumeJewelry said 7 years ago
so powerful. in love with the work!
June from ArtOnAString said 7 years ago
Great story!! Thank you so much for sharing this! Truly beautiful art!
vivi diy from vividiy said 7 years ago
Wonderful discovery
Zalina from MYPEACEofJEWELRY said 7 years ago
I thought I loved mosaic, having mosaic things around the house, but this is at a different level and I love it. I will make sure to walk it when I'm in NY.
accentonvintage from accentonvintage said 7 years ago
Fantastic art and person!! Truly an inspiration!
Kristi Matta Heather Kromer from KMHKArtistry said 7 years ago
Clever, I like it.
Melissa Moody from MoodyMe said 7 years ago
Jim, Your work is admirable and you are a true inspiration! Thanks to your dedication your vision is shared and brings joy and peace to our culture! Thanks for all that you are, a star! Hope to see your work some day in the big apple. Also would love to see some rings on your etsy site. best, MJM
Marcy Langworthy from ManhattanHippy said 7 years ago
I can't remember where I first heard about The Mosaic Man, but I've been following you for awhile now. I'm a New Yorker and I always smile when I see your work out and about. Best of luck to you!
Ann Eames said 7 years ago
Jim, your commitment to building community and connection and bringing joy into others' lives through art is beautiful and inspiring. Thank you.
Carlos Alberto Renteria from LovelyFurnishings said 7 years ago
This artistic individual has contributed countless hours. It's amazing how time goes so quickly when you enjoy working on your vision. This happens to me to me too, sometimes I loose track of time and work towards perfection to have a beautiful handmade item. Great work!