Introduction to Roman Mosaics

The Ancient Art of the Muses

DATES OFFERED:

September 11 – 12, 2010

February 19 – 20, 2011

Great course for beginners, no cutting needed. We work with beautiful, natural stone. See lots of mosaic slides from my travels, and learn the secrets of ancient geometric pattern.

Sessions: 2
Times: Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM and Sunday 10 AM – 1 PM
Level: Any, no experience required.
Cost: $210
Materials: $40, paid to instructor first day of class includes substrate, thinset mortar, and a starter pack of marble and stone to take home.

Register directly with IMA.

Institute of Mosaic Art Visiting Instructor, Lillian Sizemore, shares her enthusiasm for ancient mosaics with this foundation course that prepares students for IMA intermediate classes such as Indirect Technique, Intro to Smalti, Ancient Meets Modern and Architectural Applications.

Kathleen’s piece just after applying enhancing sealer

The instructor introduces the cornerstones of Roman decoration and technique, including various setting styles known as “opus”, andamento, figurative emblemas, and mind-blowing geometric patterns found in the architectural setting. Lillian will discuss the little known aspects of the Roman mosaic workshops and tie it all together with a digital presentation of mosaics from her international travels.

Samples made by Lillian

Working in the direct technique, students will create a 12 x 12 in. study choosing from actual ancient mosaic designs or create their own work informed by the Roman style.

Beginner’s welcome – here is Henry’s first mosaic ever!

Lillian shares tips for successfully working with stone and a rich palette of marble and stone is provided to each student to complete their study. Instructor demonstrates cutting techniques with hammer & hardie and nippers and students will practice working with these tools. Wet and dry-grouting techniques will be discussed as options for finishing the studies.

All materials and tools will be furnished and the materials fee includes a starter pack of marble and stone tiles to take home. Students are welcome to bring additional stone and personal tools.

See more photos from our wonderful classes here.

Introduction to Roman Mosaics at Institute of Mosaic Art, Feb. 2010