Mosaics have become an increasingly popular hobby for many due to their accessibility and the therapeutic nature of the craft.
Nelmari Oosthysen, owner of A Peace of Art, says, “Mosaics are one of our more popular arts and crafts and beginner-friendly mosaic kits can be found in both our Port Elizabeth and Bloemfontein stores, making it easy for anyone to get started.”
Creating mosaics allows individuals to express their creativity, providing both relaxation and satisfaction as they see their ideas come to life. This hobby can be tailored to various skill levels, meaning that both novice and experienced artists can explore the art form through small projects to more complex installations.
A Peace of Art has been running creative workshops for 20 years. “We are more than just a craft shop, we are a place of inspiration and personal growth.”
What Are Mosaics
Mosaics are artworks created by assembling small pieces of material—such as glass, stone, ceramic, or even recycled materials—into a larger composition. The tiny pieces, known as tesserae, can be uniform in size and shape or varied, adding depth and texture to the final design.
Nelmari says that both their shops have a wide variety of mosaics including the traditional coloured shapes as well as ornate and decorative items that can really enhance your mosaic project.
Mosaics can be used to create a wide array of images, patterns, and scenes, contributing to their popularity in both interior and exterior design. The combination of materials allows artists to experiment with colour, light, and shadow, resulting in vibrant and dynamic visual experiences.
Origins of Mosaics
Mosaics date back thousands of years, with origins rooted in ancient civilizations. The earliest known mosaics were discovered in Mesopotamia and date as far back as the 3rd millennium BC, where small stones and pebbles were arranged in patterns.
Ancient Greeks and Romans further refined this art form, using colourful stones and glass to create intricate designs that adorned floors and walls in public buildings and private homes. Mosaics served both decorative and functional purposes, often depicting mythology, nature, and daily life. The craftsmanship involved in creating these artworks made them a symbol of wealth and sophistication in ancient cultures.
Famous Mosaics
Throughout history, several famous mosaics have captured the admiration of art lovers. One of the most notable is the “Alexander Mosaic,” which depicts the Battle of Issus and is housed in the House of the Faun in Pompeii.
Another significant work is the “Basilica di San Vitale” in Ravenna, Italy, known for its Byzantine mosaics that illustrate biblical narratives with brilliant colours and intricate detail.
In modern times, the “Beverly Hills Hotel” features a famous mosaic pool that continues to attract visitors. These renowned examples highlight the diverse historical contexts and artistic techniques that have defined mosaic art.
Tools Needed for Mosaics
To successfully create mosaics, a specific set of tools is essential. A Peace of Art has extensive Mosaic supplies including all the equipment needed. Key tools include:
1. Nipper or Tile Cutter: For cutting tiles or glass into smaller pieces.
2. Adhesive: A strong glue suitable for the materials being used.
3. Grout: To fill in the spaces between tesserae, providing a finished look.
4. Spatula or Grout Float: For spreading grout evenly.
5. Safety Gear: Gloves and goggles to protect from sharp edges and debris.
6. Tweezers: Helpful for placing small pieces accurately.
How to Apply Mosaics
Nelmari says, “We run regular mosaic workshops where we provide you with the equipment, mosaics, glue and grout. The workshops are about four hours in duration and are run by our experienced, helpful and knowledgeable team. These events are loads of fun and a great place to find peace and allow your creative juices to flow.”
Applying mosaics involves several steps, starting with the selection of a design. Artists may choose to replicate existing patterns or create something original. Next, a suitable base is prepared, which can be made of wood, concrete, or glass.
The tesserae are then arranged according to the design, glued in place, and grouted to fill the gaps, enhancing the overall appearance. Sealing the finished piece with a protective coating is essential for outdoor mosaics to safeguard against the elements.
This hands-on involvement makes the process engaging and fulfilling.
Step 1: Start by sketching a design onto a piece of paper.
Step 2: Using a marker, transfer your design onto the wood, concrete or glass base.
Step 3: Gather your mosaics and place them ready for application.
Step 4: Glue each piece individually and apply them to the base to suite the pattern of your design.
Step 5: Let glue sit for the prescribed period.
Step 6: Spread the grout using a grout float. Press very hard to get in between all the spaces. The grout takes about 20 minutes to dry.
Step 7: Using a sponge and water, lightly wipe off the excess grout. Let sit for 24 hours to dry.
“By equipping oneself with the right tools and understanding the basic techniques, anyone can embark on creating stunning mosaic artworks, celebrating this ancient yet continually evolving form of artistic expression. Join our workshops and let us guide you on a journey to finding peace through the joy of working with mosaics,” concludes Nelmari.
Contact and follow A Peace of Art
Facebook: @apeaceofartcreativeartsandcraftsworkshops
Instagram: @apeaceofart
Port Elizabeth: 85 Main Road, Walmer. Tel: 072 304 0797
Bloemfontein: 7 Avenham Street, Avenham. Tel: 076 192 1637
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