John Sear:

Mosaic Artist and Muralist

John Sear is a Brooklyn-based mosaic artist and muralist whose work transforms reclaimed materials into vibrant expressions of resilience and community. He is dedicated to creating public art that not only enhances shared spaces but also invites people to recognize the creative potential all around them.

With roots in Brooklyn spanning four generations, John’s work reflects a profound connection to the city’s people and places. His practice combines the ancient tradition of mosaic making with inventive use of reclaimed construction materials, reimagining discarded objects into lasting expressions of beauty. Each piece reflects his belief that both materials and communities carry untapped potential waiting to be renewed through effort and creativity.

John’s lifelong career in the construction trades has shaped his artistic vision, giving him both technical skill and a unique perspective on the waste generated by the building industry. Seeing this constant cycle of waste became a turning point, motivating him to redirect materials toward new purpose. His mosaics embody this philosophy of transformation—turning fragments into cohesive works that mirror the resilience and spirit of the neighborhoods they inhabit.

Beyond his personal practice, John is deeply committed to collaboration and community engagement. He regularly leads workshops and public art initiatives that empower participants of all ages to contribute to the creative process. These projects not only result in shared works of art but also foster connection, pride, and a sense of ownership within the communities they serve.

Through his work, John shows how fragments can be reassembled into something whole and lasting—a reminder that renewal is always possible, in materials, in communities, and within ourselves.