Some objects only reveal their full potential when bathed in the right kind of light, and ceramics are a perfect example. A matte surface suddenly hums with shadow and texture, while a glossy glaze blossoms into something rich and unexpected. Christopher Russell intuitively understands this transformation, and Geo, his wall-mounted lighting series, has been inspired by centuries-old tile-making traditions. Instead of simply reflecting illumination, these tiles channel it, allowing light to seep gently through the spaces between and spill onto the wall behind in a soft, mesmerizing halo.
One of the most compelling aspects of Geo is its versatility, which makes it particularly appealing to design enthusiasts who value both individuality and quality. Each installation is custom-commissioned, allowing clients to collaborate with Russell on glazes, colors, textures, and even dimensions. No two installations are ever the same, so this art integrates into interior and architectural spaces, serving as both sculpture and light source, equal parts ambiance and artistry.
Russell brings over thirty years of experience to this work, and it shows in the quiet sophistication of every piece. His ceramics carry a layered, thoughtful quality that is deeply grounded in art history and craft traditions, yet feels entirely fresh and forward-thinking. He draws inspiration from an eclectic range of sources, from art history, architecture, decorative arts, literature, botany, to the visual oddities he encounters daily, resulting in a kind of visual mashup that feels vivid, personal, and alive.
Russell’s talent for scale and adaptability is also evident in his public art. His bronze Bees for Sunset Park, commissioned for a historic New York City subway station, brings a playful energy to the urban environment.
Similarly, his ceramic wall painting for NYU Langone Hospital proves how his vision translates beautifully into both intimate and large-scale spaces. His work has been exhibited at prestigious venues including the Everson Museum, The Bernardaud Foundation in Limoges, LongHouse Reserve, and many more. This is an artist who knows how to create work that belongs equally in a home, a hospital, a museum, or even a bustling subway platform.
What makes Geo particularly exciting is how approachable it remains despite its sophistication. It invites curiosity and interaction, encouraging viewers to step closer, shift their perspective, and watch how the light subtly changes across the surface, bridging the gap between art and utility in ways that few other objects can.
Russell himself reflects on his creative drive by saying, “It is my nature to make things; I come from a family of makers.” That lineage and love of craft are evident in Geo, which feels less like a manufactured product and more like something alive.
