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Jane Santos Mosaic Artist

  • BIO and Enquiry Form
  • Body of Work

Please click on the following pictures for more examples

Smaller Intimate Cityscapes

The following panels show the diversity of old houses in Wellington. Each house is authentic but the settings are my own. Each panel used porcelain, ceramic and glass hand cut tiles on sign plywood. Please scroll down for more examples in this theme.
Commissions welcomed. These panels would make good prints on art paper. Please inquire should you be interested.

Two Terrace Beauties
Two Terrace Beauties

Ref: jsnz0761. September 2016. 75 hours work.
Size: 600mm x 600mm.
Both of these houses are from Thorndon. No. 62 of a series depicting the old houses of Wellington.  The dog on the pavement is Jack and although he died in 2014, his shadow remains. This one is subtitled Jack's Shadow 9. The tree in front and the hedge and fence is raised to increase the depth of the finished panel.
 This panel was bought by a buyer from UK.

Inner City Living
Inner City Living

Ref: jsnz0659. February 2013. 45 hours work.
Size: 400mm x 400mm. This row of houses is in Tinakori Road, Wellington and are known locally as the "Painted Ladies of Tinakori Road"
The panel is in a private collection.

Stately Ladies of Thorndon
Stately Ladies of Thorndon

Ref: jsnz0718.  December 2013. Size 500mm x 500mm. 50hours work to complete. No.48 of a series featuring the old buildings of Wellington.
Sold at the National NZ Exhibition of Modern Mosaics in 2015

Roofs of Aro Valley
Roofs of Aro Valley

Ref: jsnz0571.  August 2011. 
Size: 500mm x 500mm 50 hours to complete.
   Sold

City Tapestry
City Tapestry

Ref: jsnz0505 October 2010. 
Size 700mm x 500mm.  No.32 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. The dog is Jack, our dog, who likes to wander around the streets in his dreams!
     Sold

At the End of the Close
At the End of the Close

Ref: 0224 March 2006
Size 600mm x 600mm   30 hours to complete
The small orange villa is an old miners cottage.
Sold

Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition

Ref: jsnz0298    December 2006
Size: 700mm x 590mm   45 hours to complete
No.15 of a series based on the old houses of Wellington. I just love that the houses are so individual in our city and this small white cottage sits next door to the grand yellow house.
Sold

Home Grown
Home Grown

Ref: jsnz0244    July 2006
Size 400mm x 500mm   30 hours to complete
The title refers to the native trees in the garden; the tree fern and cabbage tree.
Sold

Study of Two
Study of Two

Ref: jsnz0775 January 2017
size: 600mm x 600mm 69 hours to complete
No.64 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. The panel has some raised detail work. Houses featured from Thorndon, Wellington.
This panel has been sold

Urban Aspect
Urban Aspect

Ref: jsnz0776 March 2017
Size: 600mm x 600mm 70 hours to complete
No.65 of a series based on the old houses of Wellington. This one features houses in Thorndon. This panel sold from exhibition 2018.

Relaxing in Thorndon
Relaxing in Thorndon

Ref: jsnz0777     April 2017
Size: 600mm x 600mm    71 hours to complete
No.66 of a series featuring the old buildings of Wellington. Subtitled "Jacks Shadow 13". Trees, gates, fences and balconies raised work. 
This panel sold to buyer in London.

Hillside Living in Wellington
Hillside Living in Wellington

Ref: jsnz0827 November 2018
size: 400mm x 400mm 40hrs to complete


No.85 of a series featuring the houses of Wellington. The trees in the front are raised to provide depth to the panel. My later work features a lot of raised work. This panel sold in November 2019.

Te Aro Cameo
Te Aro Cameo

Ref: jsnz0831 February 2019
size: 600mm x 600mm 65hours to complete.

This panel is No. 87 of a series featuring the old buildings of Wellington. These houses are from Te Aro hence the title. Parts have been raised to aid perspective. Jack, our beloved dog is still there and this panel has been subtitled Jack’s Shadow no.21. The church behind is St. James which has been converted into apartments.
This panel won the “People’s Choice Award” in the Mahara Gallery 2019 Review Exhibition, December 2019

Panel sold April 2024

Nikau on the Terrace
Nikau on the Terrace

Ref: jsnz0833 June 2019
size: 600mm x 600mm 74 hours to complete

This panel is no.89 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. In the garden of this house are three nikau palms. These palms are forest dwellers native to NZ, which take a long time to mature. They make a perfect subject for my art. The palms and growth on the fence are raised on two layers of tiles. This panel is subtitled Jacks Shadow 23

Panel is on show in my Gallery and is for sale.

Wellington is a Garden
Wellington is a Garden

Ref: jsnz 0834 July 2019
size: 600mm x 600mm 80hrs to complete
This panel is no. 90 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. This one shows a cottage in Thorndon. It was built for the Turnkey of the local goal in 1865.
Sold November 2019 from Dunedin Art Show.

Isolation in Mt Victoria
Isolation in Mt Victoria

Ref: jsnz0894 April 2020
Size: 400mm x 400mm 40hours to complete

The panel features houses in Mt Victoria, a suburb of Wellington, taken from a photograph. Jack still runs the street and this panel is subtitled Jack’s Shadow 27. It is sold

Jack is Back in Mount Victoria
Jack is Back in Mount Victoria

Ref: jsnz1018 April 2022
Size: 600mm x 600mm 74 hours to complete

This panel is an intimate view of Jack set in a street in Mt. Victoria, Wellington, NZ, after a prolonged absence! Parts of the panel have been raised on two layers of tile to aid perspective. The panel is for sale.

City Life
City Life

Ref: jsnz1214 January 2025
Size: 600mm x 600mm 68 hrs to complete

This panel is no. 121 of a series featuring the older houses of Wellington. The houses are as authentic as I can make them but not the streets. The houses are from all over Wellington. Jack still runs the street , and this panel is subtitled Jacks Shadow 41, as he died in 2014, but is immortalised in my house mosaics.

Wide Cityscapes

A series of cityscapes featuring the old houses of Wellington. Inspiration for these come from the Terrace, Thorndon and Mount Victoria. I work from photographs of the houses but the settings are from my imagination.
Commissions welcome

Leafy Vista
Leafy Vista

Ref: jsnz0766     November 2016
Size 1200mm x 600mm   122 hours to complete
 Subtitled "Jacks Shadow 10" No.63 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. Most of these houses are in Thorndon and Mount Victoria.  Commissioned piece.

On The Hill
On The Hill

Ref: jsnz0275     September 2006
Size 700mm x 500mm      52 hours to complete
   Private collection

Dress Circle
Dress Circle

Ref: jsnz0324      August 2007
Size 890mm x 470mm   55 hours to complete.
No.21 of a series. This was a commissioned piece.

City Escape
City Escape

Ref: jsnz0349   November 2007
Size 700mm x 430mm   57 hours to complete
No.24 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. It also features our dog Jack who loved to escape and wander.
  Private Collection

Thorndon Facades
Thorndon Facades

Ref: jsnz0473    October 2009
Size 700mm x 400mm   50 hours to complete.
No.29 of a series.
Sold

Hidden Gems in Wellington
Hidden Gems in Wellington

Ref:  jsnz0625   July 2012
Size 780mm x 400mm        65 hours to complete
No.42 of a series featuring the old buildings of Wellington.
This panel was awarded Overall Achievement Award at the NZ Magic of Mosaic Exhibition 2013.
Sold

Formidable Four on the Terrace
Formidable Four on the Terrace

Ref: jsnz0719    February 2014
Size 1200mm x 600mm            115 hours to complete
No.49 of a series. The four houses featured are taken from architect drawings on postcards. Although the houses are all on the Terrace they are not actually next door to each other.
   Private collection

Wellington Treasures
Wellington Treasures

Ref: jsnz0729     August 2014
Size1200mm x 600mm     115 hours to complete.
No.52 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. Jack, the dog, is there in the gateway!
  Private collection

Saint James
Saint James

jsnz0783 September 2017
size: 1200mm x 600mm 130 hours to complete
This panel features the old church of St. James which has been converted into apartments. A reflection of our times. Much of this panel is raised on two layers of tile to help with depth. This panel has been sold.

The Old Chinese Mission
The Old Chinese Mission

Ref: jsnz1029 June2022
Size: 1200mm x 600mm 130hours to complete

The panel is the 108th of a series featuring the old, heritage buildings in Wellington, New Zealand. Alongside the Mission is featured Spink’s Cottage and Katerine Mansfield’s house as well as 22 The Terrace. Other houses from around the inner-city are portraited here. Jack still runs the pavement and the Subtitle is Jack’s Shadow 31. Parts of the panel are raised to help with perspective.

This panel is for sale and enquiries are welcomed.

Mainly Hataitai
Mainly Hataitai

Ref: jsnz1030 August 2022
Size: 1200mm x 500mm 112 hours to complete

This panel is no. 109 of a series depicting the older houses in Wellington and inspiration was taken from a photograph in the suburb of Hataitai. Parts have been raised for perspective. Jack, is still running on the pavement and the subtitle of the panel is Jack’s Shadow 32. This panel has been sold to a private buyer

Wet & Wild
Wet & Wild

Ref: jsnz1044 Sep 2022
Size: 1200mm x 400mm 78 hours to complete

This panel is no. 110 of a series of cityscapes featuring the houses of Wellington. This year, with so many winter storms, I have depicted a sea swell along the Wellington shoreline. Parts of the panel have been raised in depth to aid perspective. This is not evident in the photograph.

Oriental Parade Reformed
Oriental Parade Reformed

Ref: jsnz1081 February 2023
Size: 1000mm x 600mm 95 hours to complete

The panel shows three buildings in Oriental Parade, Wellington, transposed into nature from the city, showing the contrast between the strict linear movements of the buildings and the freer movements of the foliage surrounding them. Much of the panel has been raised and worked on a higher level creating a depth of perspective. The photograph does not do justice to the different depths.

Mount Cook Transformed
Mount Cook Transformed

Ref: jsnz 1083 July 2023
Size: 1000mm x 500mm 110 hours to complete
No.113 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington.

The panel shows a group of three houses standing together in Mount Cook, a suburb of Wellington. They have been reformed into native vegetation. Parts of the panel have been raised to give a 3D effect. The panel has been exhibited in the annual Review Exhibition to celebrate the opening of Toi Mahara , a district Gallery, for Kapiti Coast. The panel is for sale. Inquiries via this website.

Embracing Green In Wellington
Embracing Green In Wellington

Ref: jsnz1157 August 2024
Size: 1200mm x 600mm 130hours to complete

The panel shows a row of old traditional Wellington grand houses looking up to other smaller houses on top of the hills. Although the houses are authentic, they are not found as a street.

I have worked the panel on two layers to assist with perspective. The dog running the pavement is Jack who is my logo for the houses of Wellington. This panel is subtitled Jacks Shadow 39. This panel is offered for sale.

Scenic Wellington

These panels are panoramic and show the houses sitting on the hills around Wellington. The compositions of the panels are mine although each house is taken from a photograph. Please scroll down for more examples. Commissions welcome

Scenic Wellington
Scenic Wellington

Ref: jsnz0752.  April 2016. 
 Size 600mm x 1200mm. 125 hours to complete using hand cut tiles of porcelain, ceramic and glass on sign plywood.
The view is representative of Wellington looking up the hills.
This panel won 1st place in the 2-D category, 2nd overall and People's Choice award in the Magic of Mosaics National Exhibition, Orewa 2016.
Was awarded People's Choice in New Zealand Academy of Fine Art Summer Exhibition, Wellington 2017. Sold March 2017

The Hills Are Alive
The Hills Are Alive

Ref: jsnz0730. September 2014. 
Size 600mm x 1200mm. 120 hours work to complete.
No. 53 of a series based on the old houses of Wellington.  This panel was completed shortly after the death of Jack our dog who gets into the mosaic should there be a pavement to walk on. This one is subtitled "Jacks Shadow".
This mosaic sold at exhibition in Auckland, NZ 2015

Oriental Bay
Oriental Bay

Ref: jsnz0654.  January 2013
Size 500mm x 700mm 65hours work. Taken from a photograph. No.44 of a series featuring the buildings of Wellington. Sold

Living On The Hills
Living On The Hills

Ref: 0724 April 2014
Size 600mm x 1200mm98 hours to complete
No.50 of a series featuring the houses of Wellington
Sold

Magic of Wellington
Magic of Wellington

Ref: jsnz0735     August 2015
Size 600mm x 1200mm  125 hours to complete
Subtitled "Jacks Shadow 3".
Awarded 1st place for 2-D and overall 2nd place at NZ Magic of Mosaics Exhibition Pataka, Porirua. Sold

 

Island Bay View
Island Bay View

jsnz0791                  December 2017
size:   930mm x 430mm
This panel is an outdoor piece and commissioned. It took 40 hours to complete. 

Summer in the City
Summer in the City

Ref:  jsnz 0793      January 2018
Size: 1200mm x 400mm       94 hours to complete
Panel features some of the older houses in Thorndon. Settings and gardens are my own. Parts of the panel are raised with two layers of tile. Jack is still there! 
This panel can be viewed in my Gallery. It is for sale.

Before The Fall
Before The Fall

Ref: JSNZ 0778     June 2017
Size: 1200mm x 400mm     94 hours to complete
Most of the panel features houses in Thorndon or Mount Victoria. The street setting is mine as are the gardens and trees.  This panel sold from my Gallery.

Grand Illusions
Grand Illusions

jsnz0795 February 2018
size: 1200mm x 400mm 95hrs to complete
This panel is No. 71 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. Most of these are in Thorndon. This panel is subtitles Jack Shadow 17. Although Jack died in 2014 his shadow still runs through my cityscapes.
This panel won the Award for the best 2-D in the NZ Association of Modern Mosaics Exhibition, Orewa, 2018 and was sold from the exhibition.

Vintage Collection
Vintage Collection

Ref: jsnz0804 April 2018
size: 1200mm x 400mm 108hours to complete
This panel features more of the old houses of Wellington. Nothing grand; just small kiwi villas we all take for granted but which are slowly disappearing. These villas can be found in Mt Victoria, Te Aro and Thorndon. Much of the mosaic is raised on two layers to help with depth. Jack’s Shadow still runs and this is subtitled Jacks Shadow 18. This panel won the Margaret Coupe Award in the New Zealand Association of Modern Mosaics exhibition, Orewa, in 2018 and was sold from the exhibition.

City Variety
City Variety

jsnz0826 October 2018
size: 1200mm x 400mm 108 hours to complete
No. 84 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. Much of the panel in the foreground is raised on two levels. This is a continuing trend in my work. It adds depth to the work and added interest. Jack, my mascot. still runs the streets. This panel is Jack’s Shadow 19. This panel was sold (June 2019).

Tinakori  Road
Tinakori Road

Ref: jsnz0832 May 2019
size: 1200mm x 400mm 110 hours to complete

This panel is taken from a photograph. It shows a set of iconic houses on Tinakori Road, Wellington. They are not pretty but pretty imposing. Parts of the panel have been raised on two levels of tiles to aid perspective. Jack is here on the steps, so subtitle is Jacks Shadow 22.

Panel is for sale and showed at the NZ Academy of Fine Arts Winter exhibition 2019.

Charming Characters in Wellington
Charming Characters in Wellington

Ref: jsnz0855 September 2019
Size: 1200mm x 400mm 90hrs to complete
This panel is no.91 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. These houses are in Mount Victoria, Newtown, Thorndon, Mount Cook and Newtown. The panel also features a magnolia tree as well as native fern and cabbage trees. Parts of the mosaic have been raised for emphasis and perspective.
The dog is Jack and this panel is subtitled Jacks Shadow 24. Jack is my mascot for any mosaics that have a pavement! This panel won the People’s Choice Award at the Academy of Fine Arts, Wellington for the summer exhibition 2019
The panel sold from the website September 2020

Heritage in Te Aro
Heritage in Te Aro

Ref: jsnz0907 October 2020
Size: 600mm x 600mm 74 hours to complete

These 4 semidetached houses were built in 1908 and stand on their own in Aro Street. They are a beautiful example of Edwardian style which contrasts very differently from their surroundings. Jack still runs on the pavement and this panel is subtitled Jack’s Shadow 29.

The panel was SOLD at the 2021 Christchurch Art Show.

Church and State

Panels showing former churches of Wellington which have been converted into houses or apartments. Commissions welcome.

Divine City Living
Divine City Living

Ref: jsnz0738    January 2015
Size 600mm x 700mm 83 hours to complete
No.54 of a series. This panel has raised work to help provide depth to the finished work. Raised work on the church and fences is explored more fully in 2016 & 7 panels.
Sold

City Conversion
City Conversion

Ref: jsnz0317    May 2007
Size 500mm x 500mm   50 hours to complete
The church was taken from a photograph, but the setting is mine. This church/house is in a Wellington suburb.
Sold

 

Church & State
Church & State

Ref: jsnz0755 June 2016
Size: 600mm x 600mm 75 hrs to complete

Panel is number 60 of a series featuring the older houses of Wellington. Although the houses are authentic the settings are my own. This panel shows the old Orthodox Church in Webb Street and the Police Barracks in Mount Cook which was designed to look like Scotland Yard. Jack still runs the pavement although he died in 2014. This panel is subtitled Jack’s Shadow8.

This panel has SOLD

Individual Vintage Villas

These photographs show a special series featuring iconic villas of Wellington. These houses were generally built in the Victorian age and used many native timbers. They were a common sight in our cities. Many have been lovingly restored. Others have been adapted to suit modern needs. Others, of course, have been pulled down to make way for 21st century city living. These, here on this page, are still recognizable and are treasured by their owners.

Konini Victorian Villa
Konini Victorian Villa

jsnz0807 June 2018
size: 300mm x 300mm 33 hours to complete

Heritage Berhampore
Heritage Berhampore

jsnz0811 June 2018
size: 300mm x 300mm 32 hours to complete

This panel shows a double fronted villa on raised ground

Character Aro Valley
Character Aro Valley

jsnz0810 June 2018
size: 300mm x 300mm 28 hours to complete

Early Wellington Villa
Early Wellington Villa

jsnz0808 June 2018
size: 300mm x 300mm 30 hours to complete

Leafy Wellington
Leafy Wellington

jsnz0806 June 2018
size: 300mm x 300mm 32 hours to complete

Vintage Wadestown Villa
Vintage Wadestown Villa

jsnz0809 June 2018
size: 300mm x 300mm 32 hours to complete

Victorian Charmer
Victorian Charmer

jsnz0805 May 2018
size: 300mm x 300mm 30 hours to complete

Transforming Wellington

This page shows a series of older historic houses in Wellington surrounded by native flora thereby capturing their unique beauty and majesty.

Transforming Wellington 1 (Oriental Parade)
Transforming Wellington 1 (Oriental Parade)

Ref: jsnz0929 February 2021

size: 600mm x 600mm 64hours to complete

This panel is No.98 of a series featuring the older houses of Wellington. Parts of the panel are raised to help perspective. The original house stands on the harbourside and the tower on the roof could have served as a walkway for seamen’s wives to wait and watch for their returning husbands from the sea. The panel features a nikau palm, a native to NZ and a pohutukawa tree for balance.

This panel is to be exhibited in Wellington in March 2021. It is for sale.

Transforming Wellington 2  (The Terrace)
Transforming Wellington 2 (The Terrace)

Ref: jsnz0953 April 2021
size: 600mm x 600mm 71 hours to complete

This panel is No.99 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. This panel features Somerled House built in 1900, designed by Thomas Turnbull. He designed many old buildings in Wellington. This mosaic surrounds the house with native foliage as means of transformation. Parts of the mosaic are raised to help perspective.

This panel is for sale

Transforming Wellington 3 (Berhampore)
Transforming Wellington 3 (Berhampore)

Ref: jsnz0954 May 2021
Size: 600mm x 600mm 74 hours to complete

Another iconic shape of a house in Wellington, taken from a photograph and transformed by native flora. Much of the work is raised to help with perspective.

Transforming Wellington 4 (The Terrace)
Transforming Wellington 4 (The Terrace)

Ref: jsnz0955 June 2021
size: 400mm x 400mm 42hours to complete

Transforming Wellington 6 (Newtown)
Transforming Wellington 6 (Newtown)

Ref: jsnz0957 July 2021
Size: 400mm x 400mm 51 hours to complete

Parts are raised to aid perspective. This villa is a fine example of double balconies and fretwork.

Transforming Taranaki Street
Transforming Taranaki Street

Ref: jsnz0958 August 2021
Size: 600mm x 600mm 72hours to complete
This panel is 104 of a series featuring the older buildings in Wellington. Parts of the panel have been raised to aid perspective.

This panel is for sale and enquiries can be made via this website.

Bolton Street
Bolton Street

Ref: jsnz0990 December 2021
Size: 700mm x 700mm 84 hours to complete

This panel is a commissioned piece and is framed. The facade of the house is framed by imagined foliage.

Transforming Wellington 8 - Brooklyn
Transforming Wellington 8 - Brooklyn

Ref: jsnz0963 October 2021
Size: 600mm x 600mm 80 hours to complete

The panel shows a renowned historic house in Brooklyn, a suburb of Wellington, NZ transformed into the native bush. Parts of the panel have been raised to aid perspective.

Vintage Terrace
Vintage Terrace

Ref: jsnz1103 October 2023
Size: 400mm x 400mm 40 hours to complete

This panel shows a house on the Terrace in Wellington. The panel has been worked in two layers to help with perspective. Jack is seen on the pavement and this piece is subtitled Jack’s Shadow 34. It is on exhibition in The Academy of Fine Art, Wellington as part of the Art To Go exhibition 2023-24

Victorian Splendour
Victorian Splendour

Ref: jsnz1104 October 2023
Size: 400mm x 400mm 41 hours to complete

This panel is a companion to Vintage Terrace. It shows a house typical of the period transformed by its setting. Jack is on the pavement and the piece is subtitled Jack’s Shadow 35. It is also on display at the Academy of Fine Art, Wellington in the Art To Go exhibition. Parts of the piece have been raised and gives a 3D effect to the panel.

Widow's Walk Transformed
Widow's Walk Transformed

Ref: jsnz 1109 December 2023
Size: 400mm x 400mm 40 hours to complete


No. 117 of a series featuring the old houses of Wellington. This one is on the Terrace and features a Widow’s Walk at the top. Jack is on the pavement and this panel is subtitled Jack’s Shadow 37. Parts of the piece have been raised to give a 3D effect.

NZ Birds

A series of NZ birds in close-up. Scroll down to view more of these cheeky birds. Commissions welcome.

A Good Year
A Good Year

Ref: jsnz0524   September 2010
Size 500mm x 500mm 40 hours
  Private collection

Tui Feast
Tui Feast

Ref: jsnz0319   May 2007
Size 600mm x 600mm   40 hours work.
Panel shows a group of tuis in a kowhai tree. Tui are nectar feeders and have irridescent black feathers. Early European Settlers named these birds "Parson birds" due to their collar of white feathers. They are excellent mimics and Maoris taught them to repeat words.
Sold

Pukeko Picnic
Pukeko Picnic

Ref: jsnz0318    May 2007
Size 600mm x 630mm   40 hours work.
Selected by Save the Children 2008 for greeting cards.
Pukeko are generally flightless birds native to New Zealand which live in damp swamps. 
Sold

Twos Company
Twos Company

Ref: 0321     July 2007
Size: 600mm x 630mm     45 hours work.
No.4 of a series of NZ birds.
This panel shows a pair of pigeons called kereru. These are large and heavy birds which feed on the berries of native trees.
 For sale. POA

Follow My Leader
Follow My Leader

Ref: jsnz0471   October 2009
Size 400mm x 300mm 24 hours work
Panel shows a pair of pukeko walking along the edge of a swamp.
 Sold

Spring Returning
Spring Returning

jsnz0790 November 2017
size: 600mm x 500mm 55hours to complete
Panel shows my favourite birds feeding in a kowhai tree. A wonderful sign of Spring returning. This panel is for sale.

Tui Tui Gum Feast
Tui Tui Gum Feast

jsnz0782 June 2017
size: 200mm x 400mm 25 hours to complete
This panel was sold on the Kapiti Coast Arts Trail 2017

Magic of Kowhai
Magic of Kowhai

Ref: jsnz1020 May2022
Size: 400mm x 400mm 30 hours to complete

Glorious Spring when the kowhai blossom and tuis can’t get enough of the sweet nectar!

Seashore Birds

These panels were inspired by daily walks along Waikanae beach where, depending on the season, many species of birds were seen. Scroll down to see other panels in this series. Commissions welcome.

Beachcombers
Beachcombers

Ref: jsnz0322        July 2007
600mm x 610mm    45 hours work.
Panel shows a crowd of pied oystercatchers on Waikanae beach.
Private collection

Beachcombers
Beachcombers

Ref: jsnz0320 June 2007
Size 600mm x 630mm   45 hours work
No.3 of a series. Panel shows Pied Stilts on Waikanae beach.
Private collection

Fly Past
Fly Past

Ref: jsnz0430   April 2009
Size 400mm x 400mm Panel shows pied oystercatchers
  Sold

Flight Path
Flight Path

Ref: jsnz0434 May 2009
Size 400mm x 400mm  Panel shows a flock of terns.
Sold

 

Beachcomber Gathering
Beachcomber Gathering

Ref:    jsnz 0756           June 2016
Size: 500mm x 400mm    46 hours to complete

This panel shows a group of pied oyster-catchers on Waikanae  beach.

Beach Hunting
Beach Hunting

jsnz0794 January 2018
size: 200mm x 800mm 24hours to complete
Panel shows a group of pied oystercatchers which are often seen on Waikanae beach.
This panel is sold

Return to the Lagoon
Return to the Lagoon

Ref: jsnz1019 April 2022
Size: 600mm x 600mm 48 hours to complete

The panel shows a group of pied stilts in the lagoon close to the beach.

Everyday People

These panels show people doing everyday activities often with a lot of panache! Commissions welcome.

Game On for the Sevens
Game On for the Sevens

Ref: jsnz0619   February 2012
Size 780mm x 500mm   60 hours work
Panel depicts a group of rugby fans dressed in fancy dress for the Rugby Sevens. The costumes were seen over a number of years.
The panel won the Margaret Coupe Award for humorous mosaics at the New Zealand Magic of Mosaics Exhibition 2013.
The panel is for sale and is presently in my own Gallery.
 Enquiries welcome.

Public Arena
Public Arena

Ref: jsnz0556     March 2011
Size 600mm x 600mm     80 hours work
Panel shows a crowd of fans in the stadium watching the game. The Santos family is in the back row!
 Sold

Our People, Our Land
Our People, Our Land

Ref: jsnz0552     January 2011.
Size 600mm x 600mm    50 hours work.
Panel depicts faces of New Zealanders showing the diversity of genders, races, ages and characteristics of our land where we live.
Panel awarded 2nd place in a national exhibition of Modern Mosaics Waihi 2011
  Panel is for sale and is presently on view in my own Gallery.

Cheeky Monkeys
Cheeky Monkeys

Ref: jsnz0432     May 2009
  Size 400mm x 400mm   20 hours work
Panel shows my grandchildren on an outing in USA.
    Private collection

Our Special Place
Our Special Place

Ref:  jsnz0520   May 2010
Size: 350mm x 350mm 24 hours work.
This small panel shows my grandchildren in a pohutukawa tree on a visit to Rotorua. There was dappled sunlight in the tree which shone on the gold tiles. ( not so easy to show in photograph). It was exhibited in Sydney, Australia as part of Mosaic Association of Australia and New Zealand where it was awarded Highly Commended.
  Private collection

Class Renunion
Class Renunion

Ref: jsnz0559   March 2011
Size 250mm x 250mm    24 hours work.
This panel was exhibited in Hobart, Australia as part of Mosaic Association of Modern Mosaics where it sold.

Meditation
Meditation

Ref: jsnz0651   November 2012
Size 500mm x 890mm   65 hours work
Panel shows my granddaughter resting on a tramp in the bush, under a macrocarpa tree, with the light striking the gnarled bark of the tree. She had wild unruly hair at the time and is carrying a rucksack.
Private collection

The Last Crowd?
The Last Crowd?

jsnz0875 February 2020
size: 600mm x 600mm 87 hours to complete

This panel features a group of spectators before the Covid 19 pandemic and social distancing, hence the title above.

Covid 19 My Way
Covid 19 My Way

jsnz0895 May2020
size: 800mm x 400mm 40 hours to complete

This panel was completed using porcelain, ceramic and glass tiles hand cut on sign plywood. We are all different and our masks reflect our differences! The panel is in a private collection.

There's Always One
There's Always One

Ref: jsnz0961 September 2021
Size: 400mm x 400mm 30 hours to complete

This panel continues my obsession with Covid 19. There’s always one who won’t wear their mask which is mandatory at Level 2. But equally, there’s always one who is there to remind us! Love the humour in this panel.

One Year On - Zoom
One Year On - Zoom

Ref: jsnz0960 September 2021
Size: 600mm x 600mm 56 hours to complete

Looks like we’re still wearing masks, one year on during this pandemic. Another motley assortment of people and masks. The one at the top left is a self-portrait wearing one of my all-time favourite masks.

The panel is for sale and enquiries are welcome from this website.

Flora Panels

These panels show a series of flora in close-up. Commissions welcome.

Flowers of Kowhai
Flowers of Kowhai

Ref: jsnz0284 October 2006
Size 600mm x 600mm 36 hours to complete
No.2 of a series depicting the flora of NZ in close-up. The kowhai flowers in Spring and is the favourite nectar for tuis.
Private collection.

Kakabeak
Kakabeak

Ref: jsnz0283   October 2006
Size 600mm x 600mm   40 hours work
No. 1 of a series depicting flowers in close-up.
  Private collection

Rengarenga
Rengarenga

Ref:  jsnz0294   November 2006
Size 700mm x 500mm    40 hours work
Panel shows the flowers of the NZ lily which blooms profusely in early summer.
 Private collection

Flowering Branch
Flowering Branch

Ref jsnz0316   April 2007
Size 600mm x 600mm     40 hours work
 Panel shows the flowers of the pohutukawa which flowers in summer around Christmas.
Private collection

Summer Flax
Summer Flax

Ref jsnz0355   January 2008
Size 400mm x 400mm    25 hours work
Private collection

Beauty of Waterlillies
Beauty of Waterlillies

Ref: jsnz0229     April 2006
Size 500mm x 500mm      24 hours work
Panel is raised in the centre. It was chosen by Save the Children for greeting cards in 2007.
  Sold

Homage to Clivias
Homage to Clivias

jsnz 0856 October 2019
size: 600mm x 600mm 40hours to complete
This panel used porcelain, ceramic and glass to portray these beautiful flowers which this year graced my garden. There is some raised work, which the photograph cannot do justice.
This panel is for sale although currently is on exhibition in Wellington.

Summer Agapanthus
Summer Agapanthus

jsnz0830 January 2019
size: 600mm x 600mm
This panel used porcelain, ceramic and glass hand-cut tiles on sign plywood.
It is for sale and can be seen in my Gallery.

White Kakabeak Stripple
White Kakabeak Stripple

Ref: jsnz0762 September 2016
Size: 200mm x 800mm 18 hours to complete
This panel is No. 29 of a series featuring the flora of New Zealand. The kakabeak is a shrub that is usually red in colour. The white form is much rarer. In 2016 I had a white one growing in my garden and influenced this panel. It is on display in my home and is not for sale.

NZ Flora
NZ Flora

jsnz 0992 February 2022
size: 600mm x 600mm 74 hours work
The panel is no. 36 of a series featuring NZ flora. Parts of the panel are raised to aid perspective. This panel features many of our unique trees from the towering kauri to immature lancewoods in the foreground.

Feast of Nature

These panels shows various subjects inspired by my own experiences. Scroll down to see other examples. Commissions welcome.

High Country Autumn
High Country Autumn

Ref: jsnz0374   April 2008
Size: 600mm x 600mm     37 hours work
This panel was inspired by a trip to the high country on South Island during a bad drought hence the sheep looking mournful. The sheep are merinos.
   Private collection

Gecko 2
Gecko 2

Ref: jsnz0351   December 2007
Size 500mm x 900mm   30 hours work
  Commissioned piece.

Still Waters Run Deep
Still Waters Run Deep

Ref: jsnz0367   January 2008
Size 600mm x 600mm   35 hrs work
This panel is for sale and is presently in my Gallery
 If you wish to enquire about this panel or any of the others on this website, please use the enquiry form on the BIO page

Poppies 3
Poppies 3

Ref: jsnz0554 January 2011
Size 500mm x 900mm    24 hours work
This is an outdoor panel made by the indirect method and cemented onto cement board for stability and strength. 
Commissioned piece.

Fishing for Tuatuas
Fishing for Tuatuas

Ref: jsnz0419   February 2009
Size 600mm x 600mm   30 hours work
Inspired by watching fishermen on Waikanae beach.
This panel is for sale.  If you wish to enquire about this panel or any of the others on this website, please use theenquiry form on the BIO page

Uniquely Nikau
Uniquely Nikau

Ref: jsnz0747 October 2015
Size: 640mm x 1200mm 70 hours to complete
The nikau palm is native to New Zealand and they grow profusely in my area. They are really best when growing in native bush.
This panel has been raised in part to help with perspective. I think that the triangular shape of the panel enhances the grace of these palms. It is for sale and can be viewed in my Gallery.

Split Panels and Slices of Life

These panels explore the idea of different shapes to enhance the subject of the mosaic. Split panels work really well for outdoors where each piece can be attached separately and allowing the gap between to be customised. The triangular shape is called Slice of Life because it is like a snapshot of nature.
 Commissions welcome.

Taylors Sunflowers
Taylors Sunflowers

Ref: jsnz0596     October 2011
Size 700mm x 1200mm   40 hours to complete
This is a split panel which is designed to be installed with the break showing. The panel was completed using the indirect method with cement board as a backing for strength.
Commissioned piece.

Emergence
Emergence

Ref: jsnz0220    January 2006
Size 500mm x 800mm      15 hours to complete
This panel is one of 24 completed showing the black tree fern.
  Private collection

Koru in Four
Koru in Four

Ref: jsnz0069   September 2004
This is a panel in four pieces that can be arranged in different shapes. This one is the original and is used as my logo. It is an outdoor piece and hangs on my house wall.
 Not for sale.

Red Gecko
Red Gecko

Ref: jsnz0351    December 2007
500mm x 900mm    30 hours to complete.
 Private collection.

Uniquely Nikau
Uniquely Nikau

Ref:  jsnz0747    October 2015
Size 640mm x 1200mm        70 hours to complete
The nikau palm is a native NZ tree and this panel shows a group of three. They are host to mosses and other plants.
This panel is an indoor mosaic and is for sale. If you are interested in enquiring about this panel or any other please use the enquiry form on the Bio page.

Family Crests

A series of heraldic crests for old family names.
Commissions welcome

Roche Family Crest
Roche Family Crest

Ref: 0721   March 2014
Size 300mm x 300mm. No.1 of a series.
 Commissioned piece.

Kelly Family Crest
Kelly Family Crest

Ref: jsnz0722    March 2014
Size 300mm x 300mm
 No.2 of a series.
Commissioned piece

Roche Family Crest jsnz0721Mar14.JPG

Homage to the All Blacks

These panels were done as homage to our national game and the All Blacks. They also show that mosaics can be used to give movement.
Commissions welcome.

Flying Tackle
Flying Tackle

Ref:  jsnz0440   July 2009
Size 400mm x 400mm   25 hours to complete.
One of a series featuring the 2009 All Blacks.
The player in red is from England
Sold

Blocked
Blocked

Ref: jsnz0443   July 2009.
Size 400mmx 400mm        25 hours to complete
 Same team but new opposition in South Africa.

Passing the Ball
Passing the Ball

Ref: jsnz0444   July 2009
Size 400mm x400mm    25 hours to complete.
The series were done to show that mosaics could be used for movement, excitement and thrills.

Captains Try
Captains Try

Ref: jsnz0442     August 2009
Size 400mm x 400mm   25 hours to complete.
 Panel shows Richie McCaw (who wore a helmet then) scoring a famous try from Australia

Black Haka
Black Haka

Ref:  jsnz0522   September 2010
Size 400mm x 400mm     25 hours to complete.
Panel shows a small part of the team during the traditional haka before the game. Ritchie McCaw is in the middle.

Ready to Play
Ready to Play

Ref: jsnz0523   September 2010
Size 300mm x 400mm   20 hours to complete.
This panel, one of eight, shows All Black, Cory Jane, ready for action

Thirty Men, One Job
Thirty Men, One Job

Ref: jsnz0595    September 2011
This panel shows the All Black line up for the World Cup. So much hope rested on this team. Very memorable and exciting challenge. It was a challenge to do a portrait without actually putting on faces as the board was so small.

Windows of Wellington

This page is devoted to my latest series featuring the windows from Wellington houses. The window is authentic but the features are my own

Arched Window
Arched Window

Ref: jsnz1113 January 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 20hrs to complete

This panel has SOLD

Sweetheart Window
Sweetheart Window

Ref: jsnz1114 January 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 15hrs to complete

The panel is number 2 of a series featuring the windows of the older houses in Wellington.

It is for sale and price is by enquiry.

Double Arched Window
Double Arched Window

Ref: jsnz1115 January 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 15 hrs to complete

Panel is number 3 of a series featuring the windows of Wellington. It is for sale and price is by enquiry

Bay Window
Bay Window

Ref: jsnz1116 January 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 15hrs to complete

Panel is number 4 of a series featuring the windows of Wellington. It is for sale and price is by enquiry

Attic Window
Attic Window

Ref: jsnz1115 January 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 18hrs to complete

Panel is number 5 of a series featuring the windows of Wellington's older houses. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry

Stained Glass Window
Stained Glass Window

Ref: jsnz1118 January 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 14hrs to complete

Panel is number 6 of a series featuring the windows of older houses in Wellington. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry.

Twin Arched Window
Twin Arched Window

Ref: jsnz1119 February 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 14hrs to complete

Panel is number 7 of a series featuring the windows of older houses in Wellington. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry.

Window Box
Window Box

Ref: jsnz1120 February 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 12 hrs to complete

Panel is number 8 of a series depicting the windows of older houses in Wellington. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry.

Arts And Craft Window
Arts And Craft Window

Ref: jsnz1121 February 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 14 hrs to complete

Panel is number 9 of a series depicting the windows in older houses in Wellington. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry.

Portland Crescent
Portland Crescent

Ref: jsnz1122 February 2024
Size: 250mm x 200mm 16hrs to complete

Panel is number 10 of a series depicting windows of Wellington. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry.

Victorian Terrace Window
Victorian Terrace Window

Ref: jsnz1123 February 2024
Size: 250mm x 200mm 16hrs to complete

Panel is number 11 of a series depicting the windows of Wellington. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry.

Cottage Window
Cottage Window

Ref: jsnz1124 March 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 16hrs to complete

Panel is number 12 of a series depicting windows of Wellington. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry.

Heart Shutter Window
Heart Shutter Window

Ref: jsnz1125 March 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 17hrs to complete.

Panel is number 13 of a series depicting the windows of Wellington. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry

Circular Window
Circular Window

Ref: jsnz1138 March 2024
Size: 250mm x 250mm 14 hrs to complete

Panel is number 14 of a series depicting windows of Wellington houses. It is for sale and the price is by inquiry.

Miscellaneous

WHITE ZANTEDESCHIA
WHITE ZANTEDESCHIA

jsnz0892 April 2020

size: 400mmx 400mm 26 hours to complete.

This panel is unframed and is for sale. It features two leaves intertwined.

Close Encounters in Level 2
Close Encounters in Level 2

jsnz0896 June 2020
size: 600mm x 600mm 48 hours to complete

Lots of varieties in face masks! A fun way to remember the Covid 19 pandemic. The panel is sold.

Jane Santos Mosaic Artist

short video of my inspiration and examples of work

Materials and Tools

Materials
Materials

I use manufactured tiles in my panels. The majority are porcelain and are sourced from France. They are 25mm ( 1 inch) square and are ideal for cutting with wheeled hand cutters. I like precision and often the tiles are cut extremely small especially with the cityscapes. The colours are soft and there is a good range of colours as well as glazed and unglazed versions. Alongside these, I also use a variety of glass both in tile form and sheets. I also use millefiori and other miscellaneous bits and pieces which I have collected over the years.

Tools
Tools

I use wheeled hand cutters to cut the tiles. These are by Leponitt and the wheels can be adjusted easily with Allen keys. Cutting blunts the cutting edges and the wheels need to be adjusted to ensure that the cut is sharp and straight.

The base board I use is sign ply wood. This is made from hard wood and is smooth and less likely to warp.

The adhesive I use is Weldbond. This is a pva glue but once dry the bond is really strong. The glue also dries clear.

Technique
Technique

I start my work by sketching the panel in great detail. Labelling notes to help with colour. I tend to work a small area at a time cutting a small amount of tiles as required. Where the areas are raised I work with two layers of tiles. For the base layer I use unglazed ceramic tiles and then build with glazed on top for the final layer.

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Back to Category of Examples
Two Terrace Beauties
18
Smaller Intimate Cityscapes
Leafy Vista
16
Wide Cityscapes
Scenic Wellington
16
Scenic Wellington
Church and State
3
Church and State
Konini Victorian Villa
7
Individual Vintage Villas
Transforming Wellington 1 (Oriental Parade)
11
Transforming Wellington
A Good Year
7
NZ Birds
Beachcombers
7
Seashore Birds
Game On for the Sevens
12
Everyday People
Flowers of Kowhai
11
New Zealand Flora
High Country Autumn
6
Feast of Nature
6
Split Panels and Slices of Life
Roche Family Crest
3
Family Crests
Flying Tackle
7
Homage to the All Blacks
Arched Window
15
Windows of Wellington
WHITE ZANTEDESCHIA
4
Miscellaneous
Materials
4
Materials and Tools

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