As someone who loves crafting and exploring new techniques, 2023 brought me a truly unforgettable experience: a micro mosaic course in Ravenna, Italy. Known for its rich history and breathtaking mosaics, Ravenna provided the perfect backdrop to immerse myself in the intricate art of micro mosaics. I’d love to share my journey and insights from this enriching week.
The Art of Micro Mosaics
The course, hosted by the Mosaic Art School, was designed for intermediate to advanced learners and spanned five intensive days. Our focus was on the direct-on-stucco technique, also known as Roman putty. This method allowed us to directly embed tesserae — the tiny tiles that form mosaics — onto a prepared base. The main material we worked with was smalti glass, which we learned to heat, pull, and shape into colourful micro tiles.
Crafting My First Piece
The piece I created during the course was a small rectangle-shaped pendant, measuring 4.5 cm by 2.4 cm. When I first saw a bezel, I immediately envisioned a fragment of Van Gogh’s The Starry Night. The challenge was to capture the swirling motion and vibrant colours of the painting in such a small space. Pulling the glass into the perfect shapes and shades was meticulous work, requiring patience and precision.
Working on such a detailed project taught me the importance of taking breaks. The close focus required can quickly tire your eyes, and stepping away for a moment allows you to return with a fresh perspective.
Beyond the Workshop: Ravenna’s Mosaic Heritage
The course concluded with a guided tour of Ravenna, a city renowned for its mosaics. Walking through its streets felt like stepping into a living gallery. Highlights included:
- Stunning Churches: The Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia stood out with their intricate mosaic decorations, each telling stories through shimmering glass and stone.
- Mosaic Museum: A treasure trove of historical pieces, showcasing the evolution of this art form over centuries.
- Souvenir Shops: Filled with modern and traditional mosaic-inspired creations, they offered endless inspiration for future projects.
Ravenna’s mosaic artistry left me in awe, reminding me of the beauty that can emerge from patience and dedication.
Why I Love Trying New Techniques
This course was more than just a learning experience; it was a celebration of my passion for crafting. Whether I’m painting, working with ceramics, or creating handmade accessories like key chains and hair clips, I’m always drawn to techniques that combine artistry with precision. Micro mosaics fit perfectly into my creative journey, allowing me to blend my love for colour and detail.
A New Chapter in My Crafting Adventure
Leaving Ravenna, I felt incredibly proud of my first micro mosaic piece and inspired to continue exploring this art form. It’s amazing how a small pendant can hold so much meaning and serve as a reminder of the beauty of learning something new.
For anyone passionate about crafting, I highly recommend diving into micro mosaics. The combination of history, technique, and creativity is truly rewarding. And if you ever get the chance, visit Ravenna — it’s a city that will capture your heart and ignite your imagination.
Let’s keep creating and celebrating the art of making! If you’ve tried micro mosaics or have a favourite crafting technique, I’d love to hear about it in the comments.