By Barbara Arnstein
For those who wish they could spend more time outdoors, Robin Frey’s business, Wonder Moss, brings the feeling of relaxation found in woodland spaces indoors to them. The artist and owner, a former Springville resident whose business is headquartered in Buffalo, and is now also in a Studio Space on Main Street in Springville, crafts maintenance-free moss wall art and decor for homes and businesses that feature various types of tranquil green elements. Wonder Moss is one of the first businesses to make preserved moss wall art widely accessible in the Western New York area. Its free, in-person design consultations provide clients with the opportunity to explore hands-on, unique moss varieties, colors, and textures for the creation of one-of-a-kind pieces. The varieties she uses include lichen moss, mood moss and pillow moss.
redefi ning the connection between nature and design”, said Robin.
Following the principles of biophilic design, Robin creates pieces that help reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance well-being, introducing a fresh perspective to residential and commercial interiors. “I am thrilled to bring something entirely new to the Western New York area”, she commented. “Making a positive impact on people’s lives is so rewarding.”
“I use real moss, ferns and other botanical items that are sustainably harvested and preserved.”, she said. “I use local natural elements when I can, and source what I can’t from my North American suppliers. I enjoy collecting driftwood from the shores of Lake Erie, and mosses, polypore mushrooms, tree bark, and branches from our forests.”
“I create everything from small decor pieces for homes to large scale custom moss walls for commercial applications, including moss logo signs.”, she continued. “Hotels, restaurants and retail businesses find moss walls beneficial, not only for the ambiance and the low maintenance, but also for the sound dampening qualities.”
Wonder Moss has some exciting projects in the coming months that will showcase Robin’s artistry and commitment to biophilic design. This January, Wonder Moss will be installing two moss walls at a prominent downtown Buffalo hotel, adding a touch of natural elegance to its modern interiors. These vibrant works of art will both create a calming, inviting atmosphere for guests, and provide a showcase for biophilic design in hospitality spaces. Robin’s Wonder Moss works will also be on display at the Springville Center for the Arts’ Olmsted Gallery during the Member Show, that will run from January 8th – February 22nd.
In the spring of 2025, multiple moss walls and decor pieces from Wonder Moss will be featured at the highly anticipated Designer House Showcase hosted by the Junior League of Buffalo. creating a breathtaking blend of art and nature. This event, running from April 26th to May 18th, 2025, offers the public an exclusive chance to explore the finished show house and witness the transformative power of biophilic design. “Visitors will see how Wonder Moss is redefining the connection between nature and design”, said Robin.
To learn more or to book a free custom design consultation, visit www.wondermossart.com, email wondermossart@gmail.com, or call/text Robin at (716) 330-9202. Existing artwork can be viewed and purchased at the Wonder Moss Studio which is open on special days and by appointment. The studio is located in The Lab (a project of the Springville Center for the Arts), at 67 E Main Street in Springville, NY.