Are you looking for a new way to bring Mid Mod design into your home décor? While we are all familiar with traditional Mid Century Modern pieces, like Eames chairs, starburst clocks, hairpin leg coffee tables and atomic lighting, choosing unique wall art is another great opportunity to let your retro flair shine. Artist Erich Meager offers several collections of carefully crafted MCM shadow tile art that draws its inspiration from the iconic Palm Springs breeze blocks.
What are Breeze Blocks?
Even if you don’t know what they are called, you have definitely seen them if you have any experience around MCM design. Made to keep the strong desert winds and harsh heat at bay, breeze blocks are walls made up of simple cement blocks carved out in the middle in various shapes.
Because Mid Century architecture usually includes an abundance of windows in its focus on blurring interior and exterior spaces, having a barrier provides insulation from the sun, creating a much-needed cooling effect. Breeze blocks serve both style and function by allowing for privacy without obstructing the breeze or view.
Popularized in the mid-century in the sunny climate of Southern California, breeze blocks became a staple for Mid Century Modern design. Due to the inexpensiveness of the materials, artists crafted many different styles ranging from simple lines and shapes to more elaborate patterns. Palm Springs is perhaps the most well-known location for breeze block design; this is where artist Erich Meager found his muse to create a variety of geometrically thrilling pieces for your home.
Shadow Tile Art Meets Mid Century Modern
Known for its dramatic use of shading and three-dimensional design, shadow tile art is inspired by the original ceramic medium. Erich saw an opportunity to utilize this visual appealing style and combine it with the simplicity of MCM design.
“My theme is the beauty of geometry through lines and layers,” Erich says.
During COVID lockdowns, he spent much of his time on long walks through Palm Springs, where he first came up with the idea of crafting his own take on shadow tile art.
“I kept going by these buildings and thought, I wonder what you could do if you took one of those really simple designs and layered it so you could sort of accentuate the curves or the straight lines,” he says.
Erich uses paper, acrylic and wood materials to craft his various pieces. With multiple precision cut layers, every panel is a unique and complex reimagining of simple lines and shapes. His multiple collections each highlight different elements and geometric themes.
Styling Your Shadow Tile Art
Including art in your MCM home décor will give any space an elevated look and feel, and give you the opportunity to display your own personal take on the style.
Erich designed his panels with this in mind.
“I live in a house that was built in 1950, so I know what it means to be Mid Century Modern,” he says. “It is something that is always in the back of my head. I’m always thinking about the lines and how important geometry is in mid-century buildings, and in my artwork.”
Select one of his panels for a simple by impacting statement piece, or collect more to craft your own patterned wall reminiscent of a breeze block feel. To make a truly personalized piece, he will even customize the color of certain panels to better fit your home.
Erich’s artwork brings together classic MCM design elements, simple materials and his own creative touch for a unique and visually interesting take on Mid Century Modern art.
“The design is already there, hidden in the layers; I’m just the one who reveals it,” he says.
To see more of Erich’s breeze block inspired artwork, visit erichmeager.com.
