Introduction to Mosaics using Glass Smalti

May 20, 2017

Location: New Orleans School of Art and Craft
Level: Any
Time:  10 - 4pm
Cost: $165, including materials

Mosaic artist Laurel True will introduce students to this wonderful, light catching material that dates back to the Byzantine era. Beginning and continuing mosaic students will enjoy learning about this beautiful glass material that is surprisingly accessible. Smalti is a beautiful, rich and reflective material made from poured glass. This workshop will introduce students to the history of this exquisite material and its uses in today's mosaic world.

Class will begin with a digital presentation showing how smalti is made in small batches by artisans today in Europe and beyond. Instructor will go on to introduce students to the unique qualities of smalti and how this material can be combined with other mosaic materials for exciting and rich effects. 

Class will cover basic design, use of adhesive mortar bed and both ancient and contemporary cutting techniques. Each student will experiment with working with the hammer and hardie to cut smalti, as well as gain an understanding of how to use modern tools with as little waste as possible.

Students will learn how to set Italian and Mexican smalti directly into a tinted mortar bed to create a 6” x 6” mosaic wall hanging to take home. Smalti starter pack and custom-made frame provided.

New Orleans School of Art and Craft is located at:
3041 N. Rampart in Bywater

Mosaics by Randy Sanders, Rachel Rodi and Intro to Smalti students