Andersen Ceramics: Meet The Maker

Not every artist begins with a fine arts degree or a global sabbatical for inspiration. Sometimes, artistry is born from a simple moment of curiosity and a bit of spare time. That’s exactly how Neal Andersen, founder of Andersen Ceramics, discovered his calling in the world of handcrafted relief tiles.

Neal’s story isn’t your typical artist origin tale. There were no formal internships, no globe-trotting for inspiration, and no childhood epiphanies in the Louvre. What there was—what there is—is something much more relatable: curiosity, hard work, and a dash of serendipity.

A Cabinet, a Question, and a Creative Spark

It all began after Neal was laid off from his job in the semiconductor industry. With unexpected time on his hands, he followed a friend’s suggestion and visited an antique furniture auction. Hours of bidding and browsing led him to a stunning, carved cabinet from France. The piece was rich with old-world detail and artistic flair, and it sparked something in him.

After living with the cabinet for a while, Neal wanted another, but couldn’t justify the cost or space. So he decided to sell it. But before letting it go, he asked himself a simple question: What if I could preserve part of it? Specifically, the beautiful high-relief carvings on the doors.

That idea launched a years-long journey. Neal experimented with reproducing those relief images, testing techniques, developing processes, and discovering a way to transform those classical forms into handmade ceramic tiles.

The Birth of Andersen Ceramics

What started as a personal project turned into a professional passion. Over time, Neal honed his craft, found a market, launched a website, and began selling enough tiles to support himself. From that persistence and creative drive, Andersen Ceramics was born.

Today, Andersen Ceramics is a trusted name in handcrafted, high-relief tilework. The business offers a unique catalog of art tiles inspired by antique European furniture, nature, architecture, and Neal’s imagination. Each tile is a fusion of historic beauty and modern craftsmanship—created to last and designed to elevate any space.

Built to Last, Designed to Inspire

At Andersen Ceramics, the mission is simple but profound: create beautiful, enduring tilework with purpose and precision. Neal and his small team of artisans bring an unmatched attention to detail to every piece they make. Whether used as a kitchen backsplash, fireplace surround, or standalone decorative tile, each design is a testament to the craft and the story behind it.

“We don’t just create beautiful spaces,” Neal says. “We build them to last.”

Artistry That Comes From the Unexpected

Neal’s journey into tile making may not have started in a studio, but that’s part of what makes Andersen Ceramics so unique. It’s a business rooted in authenticity, powered by creativity, and shaped by a genuine love for craftsmanship.

So if you’re looking to bring timeless texture and artisan quality into your home, know this: every Andersen Ceramics tile is more than just décor, it’s part of a story. One that began with a carved cabinet, a moment of inspiration, and a bold decision to try something new.