Where Craft Meets Character: The Story of Motawi Tileworks

It all started in a garage.

In the early ’90s, Nawal Motawi was handcrafting ceramic tiles in her Ann Arbor garage and selling them at the local farmers market—long before “artisan” was a buzzword. Inspired by the curves of Art Nouveau and the geometry of Midcentury Modern, her designs struck a chord. People couldn’t get enough. In 1992, Motawi Tileworks was born.

Today, over 40 tile lovers carry on the tradition in our Ann Arbor studio, making tiles that are anything but ordinary. Each piece is crafted by hand with intention and artistry. Motawi’s colorful, dimensional tiles appear in gallery displays, kitchen backsplashes, fireplaces, bathrooms, and large-scale public installations across the country.

From original designs to licensed collections with Frank Lloyd Wright and Charley Harper, our tiles are sold in 300+ shops across North America.

As Nawal says, “It’s fun to be good.” We live that out daily through collaboration, artistry, and a culture that values people as much as product.

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Brooklyn Metal Works (BKMW) is a non-ferrous metal art studio that offers professional workspace for the development of art, objects, and jewelry. In addition we offer concept and technique based classes and workshops for all levels of learning. Our exhibition space and artist lecture series promotes artists, designers and makers from the metalsmithing field and beyond. Our studio prioritizes creating a safe and sustainable working and learning environment, complete with a wide inventory of tools and equipment. Responsible studio practices and stewardship of resources are at the core of our vision.

Our collaborative setting is designed to foster exploration, encourage experimentation, and strengthen the knowledge base of all involved. Brooklyn Metal Works promotes and furthers critical dialogue among those who practice, write, and invest time and energy into the field of jewelry and metalsmithing.

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Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) is a vibrant global nonprofit dedicated to elevating the art quilt as a respected form of fine art. We define the art quilt as a layered, stitched creation—or a piece that draws on this tradition in inventive, contemporary ways.

For over 35 years, SAQA has built an international network of more than 4,000 artists, curators, collectors, and art professionals. Through world-class exhibitions, inspiring publications, professional development, and a strong sense of community, SAQA fosters both public appreciation and the growth of our members’ creative journeys.

Our vision is bold: to see the art quilt recognized and celebrated in galleries, museums, and collections worldwide. Whether you’re an artist or an art lover, SAQA invites you to explore, connect, and grow with us as we celebrate the creativity and diversity of the art quilt.

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