Mosaic

MARTIN CHEEK

Glass Furnace / Martin Cheek Mosaic Project: Noah's Ark

Brief: To make a group mosaic of Noah putting his animals on to the Ark. This is a classical subject for a mosaic taken from the Old Testament. Examples can be seen in many Byzantine Cathedrals such as St Marks in Venice, Monreale and the Palatina Chapel in Palermo.

Method: Working on mesh each student will start by producing a pair of animals - say a lion and lioness for example lining up, one behind the other, to board the ark. The beauty of working on mesh is that however many animals we get we can compose our composition around them, making the finished mosaic as big or as small as we wish. Once we have a good selection of animals we can start on the design for the finished mosaic. During the second week we can all work as a team on the background in order to complete the mosaic.

This project aims to… provide an opportunity for those who have previously made some mosaics and therefore have some experience in mosaic making. It aims to expand on those existing skills and develop your personal style and creativity. The course will instruct further in direct and indirect mosaic techniques, using a variety of materials including glass and ceramic tesserae. Grouting techniques will also be covered.

It is for… Those with some experience of making mosaics

During the course… You will design and make at least one pair of animals in the first week and work together as a team in the second week in order to mosaic the background and complete the mosaic. Martin will cover numerous techniques to help you understand further about mosaic design.

By the end of the course… a combination of lectures on Roman techniques, demonstrations and individual help will ensure that students will go home fully inspired and equipped to go and tackle larger projects such as patios, tables and murals.

After the course… Many previous participants have gone on to become professional mosaicists whilst others have taken it on as a serious hobby.

Please bring… reference material, pencils, PVA glue, paper plates, work clothes - preferably an apron, sunglasses, a notebook / sketchbook and a camera (if available)

Click to enlarge the image

Martin Cheek

Martin Cheek graduated in graphic design from Exeter College of Art & Design in 1981. Having made award winning films as a student, he subsequently worked on several puppet animation projects including 'The Wind in the Willows' 'Paddington Bear' 'Noddy in Toyland' and 'Portland Bill'. He then set up his own production company Cheeky Films Ltd. For many years Martin wads a part time lecturer at the Royal College of Art. He is a former art critic for the Daily Express and now works full time as a professional mosaic artist. Martin is regularly commissioned by both private and corporate clients as well as by museums. His work also appears in leading National magazines and newspapers as well as on television. His weekend courses in the UK and abroad continue to be popular with students from all over the world keen to learn the art of making mosaic. Over 1200 people have now attended Martin's courses. You can also view Martin's work by visiting his website: www.martincheekmosaics.com

* An additional €20 registration fee is charged during application
** The amount of deposit to be paid is €300
*** The accommodation is full board and the fee is € 35 euro per person/per night in room for 3-4 people. Single and double rooms are limited.
Please click www.glassfurnace.org/yeni/kampus_en.php link for details.