Abby Gordon is a teacher and artist living in the Fairmount section of Philadelphia. She began creating mosaics in 2003, learning primarily from Philadelphia mosaic artists Isaiah Zagar and Mike Smash.

She became partly because several years of undiagnosed Lyme disease left her able to do little else, including the PhD. in history that she had begun to pursue. Luckily, the Lyme disease went away with heavy antibiotics, and the passion for mosaics stuck around.

Abby has taught mosaic-making to groups of students in various settings. In the summer of 2006, she worked with adjudicated youth in a program associated with the Mural Arts Program and artist Don Gensler. Most recently, she and two other teachers instructed a small group of 3rd-6th graders at The Philadelphia School at 25th and Lombard Streets. Students created individual mosaic panels that were then installed at Markward Playground at 26th and Pine Streets. The panels depict the Schuylkill River, the train that runs alongside Taney Park, and various other aspects of Park life. For pictures of these projects, click here. You can also read an article from the Chestnut Hill Local about Abby’s work with the Mural Arts Program by clicking here.

Later this summer and fall, Abby will be offering mosaic classes to both children and adults at the University City Arts League. For more information on classes or to sign up, visit the UCAL website.

Abby’s work can be seen and purchased at Ali’s Wagon at 2017 Fairmount Avenue and, later this summer, at Ethnics Furniture at 928 Pine Street.

For inquiries about custom installations, house numbers, or anything else, email mosaics@abbygordonmosaics.com.