Botanical Mosaic Workshop

Update: Cyclone Alfred has played havoc with our botanical workshop! This workshop will now run for 6 weeks til April 12th so that those affected by flooding can still attend.

In this workshop, we’ll select a favorite flower or leaf to serve as the subject of your mosaic. The example above is a glimpse of the kind of mosaic we’ll be creating. Personally, I’ve always been drawn to the fragrance of frangipani flowers. Their simple, curved petals evoke that endless summer feeling, and their understated beauty has always fascinated me.

You’ll choose your own flower or leaf, and together we’ll simplify the form as much as possible while still retaining its recognisable features. Think of the way Andy Warhol simplified iconic faces in his screen prints—Marilyn Monroe’s face, for example, was reduced to just a floating mouth, but we still instantly knew it was her. We won’t go quite that far, but the first lesson will give you tips on how to finesse and simplify your design.

This workshop will also introduce you to the wonderful world of mosaics! I’ll guide you through traditional mosaic tools, materials, and cutting techniques. After you finish your flower or leaf, we’ll create a contrasting background to make your mosaic pop.

At the end of the course, you’ll take home a framed mosaic of your very own special flower or leaf.

Amended Course Dates and Booking Details:

The course runs for 6 weeks, with the following dates :

Tuesday’s from March 4th through to April 8th

and / or

Saturday’s: March 8th through to April 12th

I anticipate this project will take at least 3 sessions to complete. Since everyone works at their own pace, you’re welcome to attend as many sessions as you need within the course period to finish your mosaic. You can book a specific day each week (e.g., every Tuesday) or fast-track the course by attending both sessions in a two-week period. Please let me know your starting day and advise me of each session you will attend.

Session Times:

Tuesday’s: 10.00am to 2.00pm

Saturday’s: 10.00am to 2.00pm

Please note that all sessions must be completed within the course period as this is a one-off class.

Course fee: $220

Material fee: $75 (to be paid at the start of the course)

Bookings via Eventbrite are finalised. Please email Jane at janefurney49@gmail.com if you would like to participate.

About this class:

This workshop is suitable for beginners and those with some experience with mosaics. You will be exposed to the traditional hammer and hardie cutting technique, different laying techniques and how to use colour in mosaic art.

Your framed piece will be 20cm x 20cm.

The $75 material cost covers the substrate, glass (smalti) and timber frame. Please note that gold smalti is not included but will be available to purchase in small bags, if desired.

Our class sizes are small (maximum 6 people) to ensure everyone receives individual attention.

What to bring:

  • safety glasses (if you do not wear eye glasses)

  • closed-in shoes as we’ll be working with glass

  • an apron to protect your clothes

  • any special or personal objects that you think will enhance your mosaic

Mosaic Studio:

Our classes are held in Bella, a fully equipped mosaic studio, in the beautiful grounds of Villa Rustica. The studio is a friendly creative environment where students are encouraged to explore their creativity.

Complimentary tea and coffee facilities are available, and the studio has a refrigerator if you wish to bring lunch.

Your teacher:

The course will be led by Jane has been making mosaics for over 20 years. Jane is an experienced mosaic teacher who loves sharing her passion for mosaics.

Jane is a member of the Mosaic Association of Australia and New Zealand.

Welcome to Bella, the mosaic studio!

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Painterly Mosaics Workshop with Mireille Swinnen