Mosaic Workshop

A chance to take a deep dive into the ancient rules of mosaic making and find out how they apply to both classical style mosaics and contemporary work. Andamento is the visual flow or direction within a mosaic, produced by the placement of rows of tesserae. It’s an often-forgotten part of the art of mosaic but andamento, along with the use of the Roman rules, is a crucial tool to help you learn how to make harmonious mosaics. This course is suitable for all levels, but participants are advised to learn basic cutting techniques before attending.

Are you looking to sharpen up your mosaic and glass cutting skills? In this workshop Rhona and Una will give you an overview of the tools used in their work, and you’ll get to try them out under their guidance. You'll perfect your technique cutting vitreous glass, porcelain, marble/stone, bone china and smalti. The tools will include: wheeled nippers, tile nippers, and hammer and hardie (for mosaic), and glass cutters, running pliers, grozing pliers (for glass).

Tessa Hunkin is a renowned British mosaicist who is also a brilliant writer and insightful commentator on mosaic history. In this excellent course Tessa gives you a detailed overview of the history of mosaic in the 20th century with examples spanning Europe, America and the Soviet Republics. Students will discover little-known mosaics and see how the art form has had rather different roles in public arenas around the world.
Tessa will also introduce the key players in the modern history of mosaic and discuss how to identify the different aesthetic qualities of numerous public mosaic works.

This mosaic introduction day is an informal creative workshop during which we will make a mosaic plaque providing you with all the skills necessary to start making your own mosaics at home.

The class is suitable for beginners and improvers alike. As a beginner you will learn the basics of how to design a mosaic, cutting and laying tiles and what materials and tools to use. As an improver you will be supported in your project. Basic materials and tools and refreshments are provided. This class runs every week on a Tuesday evening. Classes do not have to be taken consecutively so you can fit them around the rest of your life. To book, please email Alex directly: alex_mchallam@outlook.com

David will take you through all the steps involved in creating a square or circular or shell shaped pebble mosaic measuring 45cm/18inch square or in diameter. This will weigh about 20kg (45 lb). Time is given to discussing materials, methods, tools and techniques as dictated by your interests. David's wife, Caroline, who is a designer and mosaicist will be on hand to offer support. Classes are usually limited to 4 people, so that everyone gets the best out of the day. Once completed, your pebble mosaic will be cast and can be collected at a later date once it has cured. Tools and materials are included in the cost. Hot and cold drinks will be provided, just bring your lunch. Please contact David for next available dates: 07980 086266, mail@olicanamosaics.co.uk

Beginners are welcome on these courses as are those who wish to take on a more ambitious mosaic project. These classes are an opportunity to immerse yourself in the creative play of mosaic-making while Liz guides you to achieve your specific goal. Not only do you learn (or hone) new skills you also get to produce an artwork to take home. Previous participants have made decorative mirrors, garden tables, swimming pool features, house names and much more! The garden studio is equipped with everything you will need and delicious lunches are included. You can also stay in our luxury ensuite rooms and this is all set close to Hove’s lovely promenade and sea. Bonus!

Discover the captivating art of glass fusing in this hands-on workshop designed for beginners. Learn the essential techniques of cutting, layering, and fusing glass to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces. Guided by Una Galbraith, you’ll explore the properties of glass, experiment with colour and texture, learn how to cut glass, and design two or three small projects.

Oliver Budd will show you how to transpose an artwork or design into mosaic (either one of your own or an interpretation of another artist’s design). He’ll explain how he works with artists and designers, to interpret their design, reproduce it in the language of mosaic, and fabricate it to a high level of craftsmanship. Following the creation of your mosaic onto a 30x30cm panel, Oliver will teach you a unique setting technique suitable for all installation situations – external, internal, wet areas, but predominantly a technique that’s portable yet secure for public display. PHOTO © Oliver Budd

Liz is a UK leader in the teaching of the poly sculpting technique for mosaic. During these classes she will expertly guide you step by step through the process. From carving with hot knives and wire brushing to create your shape, render techniques and installation tips these two-day courses leave you not only with a substantial sculpture ready for mosaic but with the knowledge to continue alone. No experience is necessary but it is certainly an opportunity to take your mosaic ambitions up a notch. The garden studio is equipped with everything you will need and delicious lunches are included. You can also stay in our luxury ensuite rooms and this is all set close to Hove’s lovely promenade and sea. Bonus!

A mosaic workshop in nine pre-recorded lessons, this is an online version of Helen's weekend workshop in Classical Mosaic Technqiues - but with the extra advantage of you being able to watch it again and again and work at your own pace.
Designed to be useful for people who are new to the art of mosaic as well as for more seasoned mosaicists. As you work through the lessons, you will be taken through the stages of designing and building a mosaic. The classical mosaic ‘rules’ are explained and then demonstrated with an overhead camera as we work together on the bird design. Advice will be given on sourcing supplies and you will also be given access to a private Facebook group where you can post photos of your mosaic, ask questions, and get feedback.

San Francisco-based mosaicist Michael Kruzich has combined two key techniques into one intensive five-day masterclass. He will teach you to work in the Ravenna Method (or direct method into temporary binder) as well as how to draw and plan out andamento and tessellation of mosaic lines, which is of great value before creating a mosaic. As with most disciplines, continued practice of these principles eventually becomes second nature and really pays off in the successful expression of mosaic work. PHOTO © Michael Kruzich

Prices start from £40 a hour for a one to one class but vary according to the length of class, materials and how many people attend.
Workshops can be tailored to suit different age groups, abilities and creative targets, so you could book an amazing material for friends, family or colleagues. Get in touch with Helen to discuss the possibilities: helenmilesmosaics@gmail.com

Learn glass fusing techniques in a relaxed, creative environment, making unique pieces like jewellery, tiles, and hanging decorations. Una Galbraith is an award-winning artist who uses kiln-formed glass to explore subjects including psychology and nature, often informed by the Scottish landscape; one collection has been inspired by the peat bogs of Caithness.

Solange and Alexandre Piffer are travelling all the way from Brazil to teach you how to create beautiful mosaics with china using the picasiette style. The name “picasiette” comes from the French phrase “pique assiette”, which means “scavenger”. You can choose to create flowers or animals, like roosters, dogs or cats, in this masterclass. You’ll learn about curvature, colour choices and texture. It’s a fun and creative class, but be prepared as it is hard and intense work – however, it is worth every minute because the student work is always incredible! PHOTO © Solange Piffer

This workshop is designed to give you time to immerse yourself in classical mosaic techniques and to become familiar with the traditional ways of cutting and laying mosaic tesserae. Suitable for beginners and improvers as well as advanced mosaicists seeking to learn the classical mosaic techniques. Subjects covered: mosaic substrates; how to cut and glue Winckelmans and vitreous glass tiles; the classical mosaic techniques of shaping and laying tesserae; design principles; andamento or the internal flow of mosaics; how to grout and finish your mosaic.

One of the most inventive mosaicists around, Gary is also a brilliant teacher. As well as expert tuition, you'll be able to use the amazing resources of his lakeside studio.

Discover the timeless art of mosaics in this four-day workshop designed for participants of all skill levels. This workshop will guide you through the fundamentals of traditional mosaic-making and is fully accessible to beginners as well as those with some mosaic experience. Over the course of four days, you will learn about the classical secrets of laying your mosaic tiles to create harmonious work and come away with the knowledge you need to continue making mosaics at home.

Belgian mosaicist Mieke Ceusters will guide you to create a modern mosaic that resembles an ancient Roman one. She’ll explain how to cut and place tesserae (you’ll be using primarily marble with optional smalti accents). You will gain an understanding of the origins, cultural significance, and traditional techniques used in ancient Roman mosaic art. This masterclass, which is suitable for both beginners and improvers, will equip you with both the technical skills and artistic appreciation to confidently create your own Roman-inspired mosaics. PHOTO © Mieke Ceusters

Learn the ancient craft of mosaic with a professional mosaic artist Courses for adults and children, 12 yrs +. Suitable for beginners and those with some experience. You can come with your own ideas or use the templates supplied to create your own unique piece of art for the home or garden. You’ll learn how to cut tiles, and basic mosaic design. Courses are relaxed and informal and take place in my bespoke riverside studio in Otley, near Leeds. Class sizes are kept small so that everyone gets plenty of space and attention. Materials, tools and refreshments are included.