Cha-Rie Tang is the founder of Pasadena Craftsman Tile, where she creates handmade decorative relief tiles in the tradition of Ernest Batchelder. Cha-Rie produces Batchelder Revival tiles, as well as classic reproductions and even original designs. She creates trim pieces and large tile panels, including plain field tiles for total installation projects. She also creates carved fireplaces, fountains and art pieces, using a range of design and artistic skills. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Cha-Rie Tang.
Image Credit: 1-5) Cha-Rie Tang
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I help homeowners realize their dreams and make a space that they want to live with. Every job is custom catering to individual likes and dislikes, and physical parameters of the site.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I give my customers the parameters of size, color, design, and cost; show examples of what I have done before, and discuss what they wish to achieve. Sometimes I lay tiles out right away; sometimes I draw out the designs.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I was trained as an architect, so I follow notable architects past and present. I think Santiago Calatrava is amazing. He combines expression with engineering and creativity. In my daily work as a tile artist I interact with homeowners and designers. I find them all worthy of respect because they make a commitment to redesign their space, exercise their design sense and make a difference in their world.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I look toward nature for inspiration. The large and the minute patterns offer unusual perspectives. I also look to historical precedence. From a kernel of good design there can be endless offshoots.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I have done many things in my life, from architecture to dance to computer graphics to tie-dying to glass fusing…. At this point they all come together. I had a lot of luck. You have to be ready for luck.
