Smalti is a traditional enameled-glass mosaic material with highly reflective qualities and a wide range of colors. Made from molten glass poured into flat slabs, cooled, and cut into individual pieces, smalti has been used for more a thousand years throughout the world to produce beautiful mosaic artwork.
The course begins with a brief history of the material and a presentation of examples of both ancient and modern smalti artworks. Exercises introduce students to the nuances of working with this special material, which can produce many visual effects through different ways of cutting and laying. Differences and similarities among Mexican, European, and Asian smalti are discussed. Over the 8 weeks, each student makes a 10" x 10" mosaic of their own.
Some mosaic experience is helpful, although not required; returning students who wish to work on advanced projects are welcome. The instructor provides substrates, adhesives, and smalti for exercises in the first class.
A $45 supply fee is payable to instructor at the first class, covering smalti for class exercises, substrate for exercises and student projects, design supplies, and adhesives. Students provide smalti for their individual project.
Download the supply list for this class
Instructor: Bonnie Fitzgerald
8 sessions; 2.5 hours each
