About Mosaic Art Work
Mosaics are an ancient art form using tiny pieces of material to create a picture. At first they were mostly displayed in religious structures, such as synagogues, cathedrals and monasteries. Though mosaics began thousands of years ago, artists still use this popular art form to beautify homes and express creativity by using it to decorate walls and floors.
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Identification
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A decorative art form, mosaic is done by positioning small colored pieces of stone, colored glass, tile or other materials onto a sticky surface. Working with mosaics may seem similar to working a jigsaw puzzle because pieces are connected to form an image. But unlike jigsaw puzzles, mosaic art is creative where the artist forms a unique work of art rather than assemble a predetermined image.
History
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Mosaic art dates back 4,000 years when pebble cones were first discovered in backgrounds of designs for decorative purposes. In 8th century BC, the Greeks used different colored stones to create patterns. They would raise mosaic tiles to an art form, using more detailed patterns depicting scenes and portraits. The Romans used mosaics for floors, portraying their culture and gods, followed by the Byzantine period when eastern influence brought Christian themes to mosaic art, covering both walls and ceilings. It was during the Byzantine era that mosaics rose to their highest level. With the surge of Islam, mosaics took on Islamic themes, which is still displayed today in Middle Eastern mosques. The popular art form continued throughout history to the present. Visiting Madaba, Jordan, tourists can witness contemporary Islamic women creating mosaic art.
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Types
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There are various textures, sizes, colors and forms. Individual pieces, called tessera, range from tiles, glass, china and pebbles to mirror pieces. Themes vary, including landscapes, portraits, still life and designs.
The three basic working techniques are the direct method, the indirect method and the double indirect method.
The direct method involves gluing individual pieces onto the surface. Most suited for three-dimensional surfaces, the direct method works best for small portable projects. Although this method is good because the project is visible, a downside is the artist has to work directly at the surface. Another disadvantage is that it's harder to manage the project's flatness.
The indirect method is used for over-sized projects, this technique is used mostly in creating murals, benches and tables. It involves gluing pieces to a backing paper, face-down. The work is later moved onto a wall or floor.
As for the double indirect method, this technique arranges and glues pieces, face-up, onto a surface. Unlike the indirect method, you can see your work progress while working. After finishing the mosaic, the piece is turned over, secured with a medium. Next, it's installed the same way as in the indirect method.
Significance
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Mosaics have a historical and archaeological significance, in addition to providing an enjoyable hobby.
Studying ancient mosaics reveals historical events. In his book, "Mosaics as History: The Near East from Late Antiquity to Islam" author Glen Bowerstock shows the significance of history in mosaic art. Bowerstock focuses on late antique mosaics and how there are likenesses between mosaic art forms of Near East Christians, Jews and Muslims.
Mosaics reveal the art forms of particular historical periods, such as seen in the Greek and Roman styles of mosaic art. For example, many Roman mosaics display head and shoulder busts typical of Roman art (see Resource).
Archaeologists can analyze mosaics to determine the archaeology of period. Materials, such as pebbles, used in making mosaics in ancient Egypt showed the type of stones prominent back then.
Today mosaics are significant because they serve as a rewarding hobby. Working with mosaics offers an outlet in creativity in today's fast-paced world of technology.
Warning
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If you want to make your own mosaic, start with small projects before advancing to a full-wall mosaic. When working with the tiny pieces of glass and other sharp materials, wear gloves for protection. Also, keep all materials away from children and pets as they can easily hurt themselves.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Stock.xchng, Ed Kichura
