We had the good fortune of connecting with Josh Gionfriddo and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Josh, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
It all started when I wanted to spend my spare time creating mosaics out of wood. Every time I completed a mosaic, I wanted to get going on another one. Since the beginning, I had a good feeling about my mosaics and dreamed and hoped it could become something someday that is more than a hobby. Suddenly people around me began showing interest in my art. After I sold my first mosaic, I couldn’t wait to sell another one. Now what was a dream is turning into a reality.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What I am most proud of about my art is that each and every piece is unique and one of a kind. I never create the same exact mosaic twice. I use all reclaimed wood for each mosaic. I am continuously reflecting on what I can do to improve and grow Modern Mountain Mosaics. Where I am today isn’t where I was two months ago or six months ago. My artwork and business are evolving one piece at a time. Seeing each new customer interested in my art, fuels my desire to believe that I am on the right track with making something special. I want everyone to know that each Modern Mountain Mosaic piece is one of a kind. From the design to the texture of the wood, to the hand painted skies and with each piece having it’s own unique name- no two pieces will ever be the same and I am very proud of that.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First of all, anyone who decides to visit Breckenridge is in for a real treat. I would start out each morning with breakfast at Columbine Cafe, my favorite breakfast joint. Order up the CBH Benedict and a waffle. Then, take a hike down Aspen Alley, which is one of my favorite hiking trails (Nature is where I get my inspiration for my artwork). Head downtown for a walk down Main Street. I love our community.
Go to Whiskey Star for an early dinner, hands down some of the best food in town. After dinner, enjoy the gorgeous mountain views and go fishing until sunset so that you can hopefully catch a beautiful trout.
Finally, the day is not complete until you stop by Higgles Ice Cream for a double scoop of O!Rio ice cream in a fresh waffle cone.
Additional stops to make during the week: Fiesta Jalisco for Mexican food; Mountain Anglers for fishing tackle and/or fishing advice; Daylight Donuts; Baker’s Tank trail; catch a show at the Riverwalk Center; Cool River Coffee House; The Eclipse movie theater; and most importantly the Breckenridge Ice Rink, where I spend many hours coaching and playing hockey.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My fiancé, Jodi, has always been supportive and encouraging. She is my truest and toughest critic. She believes in me and encourages me to work hard at what I am doing. She also gives every mosaic its own unique name. I am grateful for her love and support in any and all of my endeavors.
Website: modernmountainmosaics.com
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