We are beyond thrilled to share that our very own co-founder, Carmen Rangel, has been recognized as Austin’s newest Net-Zero Hero! This recognition celebrates Carmen’s dedication to turning discarded materials into stunning mosaics and building connections through art.

This honor is a celebration for all of us at The Mosaic Workshop — and for everyone who has contributed to our mission over the years. Whether you helped lay tiles for Carmen’s recent project, Under the Sun, donated materials to be repurposed, came through on a community grout day, or helped out in some other way small or large, THANK YOU! Together, we’ve turned what might have been thrown away into something meaningful, vibrant, and lasting.

Since our founding in 2019, we’ve diverted tonnes of materials from the landfill, turning them into stunning mosaics that brighten public spaces and tell stories of community and resilience. From tiles and broken ceramics to mirrors and stained glass, we see discarded items not as waste but as opportunities for transformation.

Earlier this year, our mission was further recognized when we were named grand finalists at the City of Austin’s Circular Austin Showcase, earning a $10,000 prize for our contributions to a circular economy. We also became gold members of the Austin Green Business Leaders program, affirming our commitment to sustainable practices across all aspects of our work.

A Collective Effort

We couldn’t achieve these milestones without our incredible community of artists, volunteers, and supporters. Every piece of tile sorted, every mural grouted, and every workshop held is a testament to the collective effort that makes our mission possible. Together, we’ve transformed over 1,500 square feet of walls into mosaics that not only beautify spaces but also spark conversations about sustainability and the power of community.

Thank You, Austin!

We are deeply honored that the City of Austin has recognized Carmen and The Mosaic Workshop for our role in supporting a zero-waste future. This acknowledgment reinforces our belief that art and sustainability go hand in hand and that, together, we can build a more creative, sustainable, and connected world.

To Carmen, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! Your vision, passion, and dedication continue to inspire us every day. And to everyone reading this, we invite you to join us in our mission — whether by participating in a workshop, donating materials, or simply rethinking how you view waste.