MOSAIC WORKSHOP STUDENT PROJECTS

First Project:
Smalti Panel, 10" x 10"
For the first project, students created panels that are ten inches square, based on their original designs, which they then execute in Italian smalti glass. This is the same material used in ancient Venice and Ravenna. The color is brilliant and the small unit size is easily used to create detailed images.

The individual mosaics are cut to appropriate sizes and shapes with a tile nipper. The tiles are arranged dry on the pattern, then lifted with a removable system using wallpaper paste and tracing paper, then adhered to the panel with thin set mortar. Grouting for panels this size is done with unsanded grout, or not at all, depending on the desired effect.

Second Project:
Italian Glass, Large Panel
For the second project, students built on their experience from the smaller panel to create a larger mosaic panel. Students worked on a variety of surfaces, including table tops, mirror frames, and other furnishings. Shaped cutout panels are created by using a jigsaw to cut plywood. There is a wider range of materials to choose from for this project, including Venetian glass (which is a larger unit size than smalti), ceramic and porcelain tile, and natural materials. Students may use the dry lift transfer method (as used in the first project), or may adhere the materials direct to the panel using thin set mortar.

For commissions, competitions, and teaching information, please address inquiries to:

Joshua Winer/Mural Arts
Boston, Massachusetts
Telephone: 617.930.6010
Email: jw@joshuawiner.com