Byzantine Mosaic Technique

At present, there are two known techniques used by mosaic artists – the direct and indirect method. But did you know that there is also the so called Byzantine technique? This technique was used centuries ago by mosaic artists.
Even if the Byzantine Empire no longer exists, you can still make use of the technique to create any mosaic project. Here’s how you can do it:
First, you need to think of a mosaic design, pattern, or image that you want to create. After that, get a wood which is about three centimeters bigger than the mosaic’s size. Now, you need to cut four battens and you need to screw them in place at the wood’s edges. Fill it with black clay and wet it with water.
On a PVC paper, sketch the mosaic pattern/design/image and put the paper on the wet clay. From the paper’s top left border or edge, cut it into tiny pieces. Place the glasses, stones, marbles, and other tesserae to lay out the mosaic. Get a strong cloth and place it over the mosaic after you’ve applied wall paper glue or paste. Leave the mosaic for about two days.
After two days, remove the screws and the battens as well. Turn the mosaic cautiously. Cut the clay into small squares and clean the sides.
Now, you need to make a metallic or wooden frame and put a chicken wire in it. Mix equal amounts of fine sand and cement then add water to create a somewhat dry consistency. Pour the mixture into the frame.
Hold the mosaic in your hands and slowly lower it to the cement mixture. Tap the sides to get rid of air bubbles. After ten to twenty minutes, wet the cloth a little and remove it. The surface of the mosaic will be revealed. Using a sponge or a cloth, wipe the excess cement. Leave it for the next one and half hours and wet it again. After that, leave the mosaic for a couple of days (3-4 days) but try to water it every now and then. Use a lint-free clean cloth to polish the mosaic.
Once you’re finished with the project, you will have mosaic craft that appears to be from the Byzantine era. As you may have noticed, using the Byzantine technique is time consuming because you need to leave the mosaic for a couple of hours and even days to dry. You need to be patient and careful so that you will not commit any mistakes. Still, if you’re a beginner, don’t be afraid to commit mistakes because you can learn from them. The next time you create mosaic project, you will know what to do.
The direct method that artists use today is much better because the steps are easy. It only gets complicated when the indirect method is used. For simple and small mosaic designs, the direct method is highly recommended but when you’re already dealing with large scale mosaics, the indirect method is the best choice.
The Byzantine method is a bit complicated but with a bit of practice, you can get it too. Now you can add your masterpiece to your collections. Take your time and don’t rush your work. Get all the needed materials first; that choice, when you start working, you won’t be running to and from the hardware store.

Read More..

Mosaic Tiles

Perhaps you’re already familiar with mosaics. In the art industry, mosaic is a treasured form of art developed about 4,000 years ago. At present, mosaic is not only used in large scale projects but it can also be used to decorate your home. There are lots of mosaics tiles that you can choose from to use in your home projects.
Mosaic is simply the method of putting together lots of small tiles to create greater surface designs. True enough, mosaic is a meticulous and time consuming process. However, many homeowners are now realizing its boundless opportunities in creating designs for the home. It is a popular, stunning, and versatile tiling option which involves the use of unlimited materials. You can use the mosaic tiles for mirrors, tabletops, and other tile murals.
Mosaic tiles are available in different materials like copper, stainless steel, porcelain, stone, ceramic, glass, cork, and pebble. Within each of the category mentioned, you can still have other options. Pick out the material that you like and you will be able to get a custom made tile that will suit your needs.
You can choose among the many colors available for mosaic tiles. Name the colors of the rainbow and you can surely find a mosaic tile of the same color. Glass, ceramic, cork, pebble, stone, and steel tiles are available in a wide range of colors. Because of the endless variations in color, the homeowner can choose that perfect color for his or her home project. Check out different manufacturers of mosaic tiles and see what colors are available.
Why is it that many individuals are interested in mosaic? Well, the answer is quite simple. Putting together mosaic tiles of different color, finish, texture, shades, and materials is fun. After you’ve finished your project, you will be stunned to see the greater whole.
In your pool area, you can use interspersing glass tiles in ceramic background to light up the place. In your kitchen, you can create a head-turner design of alternating stainless steel and copper on the sink. For your shower room, floor, and walls, you can combine different colors of tiles to counter the monotone and boring atmosphere. If you know how to carry out a mosaic tile project, you can create great looking designs for your home. Use your imagination and creativity in making the designs and you will be able to create a masterpiece.
If you hardly know anything about mosaic, it would be best to consult an expert. Tiling projects are meticulous and with inadequate knowledge, you can ruin the whole design. Talk to a local mosaic professional and learn more about this art form. If you can’t do the project, then you can ask the pro to do it although it can be a bit costly. However, you’re guaranteed to get the best design and finished product. If you’re going to hire a pro, check his past works first.
Ask for pictures of the previous projects he has done. You need to ensure that you’re hiring the best in the field since you’re going to spend some money to accomplish it. You can ask your friends or family for referrals; perhaps they know someone who is good at mosaic tile art.
Mosaic tiles are great even for home décor. Contact a mosaic artist now and gain some helpful insights.

Read More..

Mosaic in North Cyprus

Have you been to North Cyprus? If you happen to be there, try to visit Soli. This place is near Guzelyurt. If you want to see the ruins of Byzantine basilica, Roman-era Theater, and the Greek’s marketplace, you can find them all in Soli. It’s like exploring the time of Constantine the Great. Mosaic has a great influence in the life of Constantine and you can learn about mosaics in the 4th century.
Aphrodite is the Greek goddess and the people there worshipped her. The locals believe that Soli is the birth place of Aphrodite and that Saint Mark was also baptized here by Apostle Paul.
In 313, Constantine made Christian legal. Prior to the Milvian Bridge battle, he saw a very important vision. Through Constantine’s men were outnumbered, they were still able to defeat their enemies thereby saving his followers from persecution. Constantine’s men wore the Christian Cross during the battle and he greatly believed that Christ helped them to achieve victory.
The church of Constantine was patterned after the well-known Roman basilica. After the legalization of the Christians, those who were in hiding came out and they helped one another to put up a worshiping place. People who were not yet baptized stood on the courtyard before the ceremony.
Today, all you will see are the ruins of the basilica. With a guided tour, you will discover the different parts of the basilica. The rounded section of the ruins is known as apse. This is where worshippers stood wearing their brightest clothing. Before the ceremonies, incense bearers perfume the church with sweet smoke. After that, the Bishop in embroidered gold and gorgeous robes enters followed by chanters and candle bearers. With just the description of the tour guide, you can already imagine what took place in the ruins.
During that time, the emperor was worshipped like a God but most of the old Romans didn’t believe that the emperor was God. Later on, the emperor was no longer treated divinely although they still honor him. The emperor ruled the land in behalf of their god. During Constantine’s times, men were elevated in position or status based on their talents. For the advancement of Christians, ability and education were vital. Constantine also chose the families to create mosaic art.
Pieces of small stones can be created into a work of art. The mosaic artists used squares (not bigger than the fingernail). The squares are made from different materials like porphyry and marble. Stones with various colors were also used. Some of the mosaic tiles are ceramic and glass. Most mosaic artists use glass tiles for emphasis.
Drawings of the designs were vital for the completion of the project especially the large scale ones. The squares were called tesserae and they were placed over lime cement. The spaces in between the tiles were also lined with lime cement after the work is done. As you can see, the mosaic lasted for thousands of years and now, the modern world can witness its beauty.
The mosaic in Soli appears to be a goose but it is actually a swan representing Aphrodite. The mosaic artist created the mosaic in honor of the great goddess because during their time, pagan temples were being closed. The artist was a Cypriot and he wanted to preserve the memory of Aphrodite.

Read More..

Mosaic Artists

Today, there are lots of mosaics artists around the world. Even little kids can be mosaic artists if they want to. Age is not a determining factor for being an artist. Some of the world’s most popular mosaic artists today are Boris Anrep, Emma Biggs, Francis Scott Bradford, Trevor Caley, Martin Cheek, Zoe Coles, gery Drostle, and Nuala Flynn. Get to know them better.
Boris Anrep was a good mosaic artist. His works can be found in the Blessed Sacrament chapel. He made the mosaics back in the 1950s to 1960s. Most of his works are religion based.
Last March 2004, the mosaics of Emma Biggs were unveiled. The smalti and marble pavement mosaics can be found at Wharf Walk; which runs the length of Jubilee Palace. The mosaics theme was derived from the dockland history. The mosaics include – Billingsgate fishwives, 19th century furniture using shells, the captain of the ship given a hat as a bribe, 1858 rope, textiles trading, tortoise shell open market, vaults under the London docks, dockers, and the Canary Wharf.
Francis Scott Bradford died in 1961 yet his mosaics survived through these years. If you want to see his works, visit the American Cemetery and Memorial. This place is about three miles achoice, west of Cambridge. It is a graveyard for the 3,812 American crew members based in British Isles. You can find the mosaics of Bradford at the chapel of the cemetery – the east wall and the high ceiling. When you look up to the ceiling, you will see aircraft squadrons and mourning angels. The planes were headed to the last judgment and resurrection. Over the chapel’s altar, you can see Archangel.
Last 1999, Trevor Caley created a mosaic of Saint Patrick.
Among the classical mosaics themes is the ‘unswept floor’. You can find this kind of mosaic in Vatican. Martin Cheek also created a mosaic using such theme and it can be found in Canterbury Butchery Lane at the Roman Museum. The mosaic includes a discarded core of an apple, fish skeleton, a mouse, and mussel shells. This mosaic was created in the year 2000 as seen near the mussel shells in Roman numerals (MM).
You can find the work of Zoe Coles which was finished in 1999. You can find the mosaic in a shelter in Cawsand. Passengers can stay in the shelter as they wait for the ferry. The mosaic shows different scenes such as local life, wildlife like herring, tern, marine creatures (fishes, octopus, crabs, and shellfish), and gulls.
Gary Drostle helped the South Norwood community in creating a 9-panel mosaic. Together with Rob Turner, they finished the project in 1997. You can find this mosaic near Portland Road on the wall of a railchoice bridge. The theme is about the history of the original settlers, the means of transportation by various kinds of people, literary, cultural, industrial, and agricultural heritage.
Nuala Flynn created the Green Man. You can find this mosaic at Leytonstone High Road and it was installed in the year 2000. It is situated on John Drinkwater Close’s end wall.
These mosaic artists have created valuable masterpieces. Who knows… their works will be cherished by the next generations the same choice that the people of today value the ancient mosaics. Check them out now. There are online sites that features photos of the mosaics.

Read More..

Mosaic Books

If you’re learning to do mosaics, perhaps its time that you purchase any of the popular mosaic books available in the market. Here is a list of great books about mosaic.
Glass on Glass Book by Seymour
In this book, you will learn how to transform your table into a work of art. You will use stained glass for this project because of its translucent properties and glowing color. If you’re an avid gardener and you want to add something different to create a more interesting effect, learn how to create mosaic table. The book costs under $20.
Mosaic Unlimited by Stewart
In this book, you can learn innovative techniques. You can use such techniques to complete the easy projects included in the book. Hot glass mosaic is also introduced in this book. The projects come with colored pictures and detailed instructions. The book costs under $16.
Mosaic Mirror, Planters, and More by Stewart
You will find fourteen dazzling mosaic designs in this book for platters, frames, and mirrors. Detailed instructions are provided with photos included. Inspiring projects will surely tickle your interest in mosaic and one great thing about the projects is that you won’t need any molds. This book costs under $15.
Backyard Mosaics Book by Sheerin
You can use this book to cheer up your deck, garden, patio, and yard. Outdoor mosaics are great and this book provides varied lovely designs that will suit different spaces. Whether you’re an experienced or a novice mosaic artist, this book can be very useful. It only costs about $14.
Mosaic Table Art Book by Kyle
This book features sixteen designs for contemporary and floral tabletops. It teaches the reader mounting techniques. The instructions are easy to understand with full colored photos of the project. This book is only about $17.
Mosaic Pictures in Glass Book by Stewart
Stewart is an author of several mosaic books and some of his works were mentioned earlier. In this book, you will learn how to create mosaic arts on tiles, plywood, travertine, etc. Different patterns are also provided such as landscapes, florals, still lifes, seascapes, and fantasy. Colored photos are available and you can choose among options like cover glass construction, selection, and framing. This book costs more or less $16.
Tiffany Garden Book by Bishop/Day
You will learn how to create charming mosaic pieces for your outdoor spaces using bricks and stepping stones. You can choose among the twenty patterns. The book is only $14.50
Garden Variety Book by Bisho0/Day
Here you will learn more about garden motifs specifically for garden stepping stones with different sizes, shapes, and scenes. The book provides complete instructions, glass lists, and the materials needed. Some of the patterns are also great for windows. The book has colored photos.
Tiffany Garden II Book by Bishop/Day
In this book, you will find twenty five designs for brick shapes (14” and 8’x8’). It also has complete instructions on how to make tabletop and stepping stones designs.
You can get the books in leading bookstores or you can try searching for them in online stores. The mosaic books are really affordable and you can read them at home or even in the office during break time. With the colored pictures, you can already imagine the actual project. Hurry and be a mosaic artist. Purchase any of the books now.

Read More..

The Good Shepherd Mosaic

There are several ‘The Good Shepherd’ mosaics that you can check out.
In Ravenna Italy, you can find a 5th century mosaic of the Good Shepherd at the Galla Placidia Mausoleum. It is of Byzantine heritage. When you enter the mausoleum, you will see this mosaic art. You if you examine it closely, you will notice that it has a variety of bright colors and different tiles were used to create the ‘depth illusion’.
During the Roman Empire, Ravenna City played an important role in the mosaic industry. It was a fleet base during the time of Emperor Augustus and by 402 AD, Honorius made the city a capital of the Roman Empire in the west. From 493 AD to 540 AD, the city was full of buildings and outstanding monuments. Mosaic icons dominated during this time. Buildings and churches had mosaic works and one of the greatest works is the Good Shepherd at Galla. In this mosaic, you can see that Jesus is leading a faithful flock of sheep. When one of the sheep was lost, He went out to find it. The mosaic tells a lot about the life of Jesus as well as His Kingdom.
Another Good Shepherd mosaic can be found in Ravenna but this art work is of Greek origin. It was created in the late 20th century. The mosaic shows the Lord carrying the lost sheep. The sheep symbolizes an individual who has strayed. It also shows that God will do everything He can to bring back a lost soul. Through this mosaic, many people were able to understand the likeness and image of God; and that He gives the people freedom of choice.
The Simple Shepherd is of Greek origin and it can also be found in Galla. It is for sale for only $14. The mosaic shows Nicholas Planas, a priest.
Many years ago, religion is a very important part of the everyday life of people. Although religion still remains an important part of modern society, the passion and intensity of the worshippers in the past was reflected in their great works. Most of the ruins and relics dating back centuries ago show that the mosaics were reflections of their beliefs, ideology, and faith.
Christians were not free to express their belief back in the old days. Through art works, they were able to impart to the world their strong faith to the Lord. If you have a chance to visit the Galla Placidia Mausoleum, take the opportunity to see the three mosaic art works by various artists. Mosaic works like these are rare and it tells a lot about history. Mosaic has definitely withstood the test of time.
Galla Placidia Mausoleum offers breathtaking mosaics and aside from that, you will also have a chance to visit one of the oldest structures in Ravenna. The mausoleum itself was built back in 430 AD in honor of a powerful empress – Galla Placidia. It wad intended to be a tomb for the Empress but she was buried at St. Petronilla near the basilica of St. Peter in Rome. Millions of tourists and local visitors are impressed of the mosaics in the mausoleum.
Aside from the Good Shepherd mosaics, you can also find other mosaic designs like that of the starry night and he golden patterns of plants and flowers on the side arches. Come to the mausoleum and be intrigued by the magnificent mosaics there.

Read More..

Greek Mosaic

In some archeological sites, remains of mosaic-like works have been excavated. The remains dated back as early as 4th millennium BC. It was from the Sumerians living in South Mesopotamia. The mosaic-like work consisted of clay, onyx, and cockleshells and it was found in the temple of Ouruk. In the Greek area of west Asia Minor, rubble floors were also found. It shows that the Greeks somehow knew about the art.
Another area in Greece, in Olinthos, natural pebbles was used to decorate the drawings. Such drawings were inspired by the ancient myths. A floor mosaic was found which dates back to 432-348 BC which shows Bellerophon slaying Chimaira while riding a Pegasus.
In Macedonia Greece, another floor mosaic was found but this time, it was made from glass pieces. According to experts, the mosaic was created in the 4th century BC.
The 2th century also showed mosaic pieces of glass, marble, and stone but this time, the mosaics were of different designs and colors.
From the Greeks, mosaics were spread to Italy, specifically in Rome and Pompeii. You can find mosaics in their baths, temples, and houses but it only utilized a certain technique called monochrome. During the Byzantine era, the mosaic artists became top quality artists. Most of the time, walls and floors were used as base for many mosaic arts. The palaces, temples, and vaults were also decorated with mosaic work and the artists also used natural stones, marble, gold, silver, and colored glass.
The artists used a variety of themes. Some of them used ancient myths, faces of emperors and empresses, hunting scenes, religion, belief, and many other designs.
The Greek’s favorite tesserae were pebbles especially for their floors. The Macedonians used polychrome pebbles for buildings and other prominent structures.
If you happen to be in Greece, don’t forget to check out Chios. It offers a magnificent historical attraction – Nea Moni. It is only about 11 kilometers achoice from the main city of Chios. According to written history, the monastery was founded by hermit monks. These monks found a Virgin icon and they persuaded Constantine IX to build a church and monastery. Its ecclesiastical architecture has attracted many people from different parts of the world, especially those who love mosaic art. The mosaics in Chios are highly regarded.
For other works of art, you can visit Palace of Ioustiniani, the Byzantine Museum, and the Maritime Museum. While enjoying the amazing mosaics in Greece, you can also check out the traditional festivals there. Even tourists can participate in the festivals which showcase traditional dances, drinks, and foods. You can witness these festivals on the month of August. From May to October, Greece is a great place to visit because of its fair weather. Summer vacation in Greece can be fun as you explore many interesting places. Visit the museums in the area and see the beautiful mosaic works from the ancient times.
The Greeks played an important role in the development of mosaic. The ancient people were already creative and used their imagination to create fantastic works of art which stood the test of time. For centuries, the ancient mosaics were buried underground and yet, when they were finally uncovered, most of the mosaics were still in good condition.
Truly the works of the ancient people were among the best. Visit Greece and don’t forget to check out the mosaics.

Read More..