Kristin Peck - Plaster Mosaics

Plaster
Mosaics

Kristin Peck

2003 Kristin Peck

Published by

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All photography by Joe Jacobs.

Library of Congress Catalog Number: 2002113121

ISBN: 0-87349-535-7

eISBN: 978-1-44022-016-6

Dedication

To my boys, Ryan and Connor, who can drive me crazy; and to myhusband, David, who keeps me sane. I think thats a pretty good balance.

Acknowledgments

Without the support of such a fine publishing house like Krause Publications and its amazing staff, this book would not be possible. Thank you Julie, Jodi, and the Krause art department. I have learned that although an authors deadline is a lot of work, the real work begins after its written.

I would like to also thank the manufacturers who gave their total support during this project.

Plaid Enterprises

Walnut Hollow

Kemper Tools

FM Brush Co. Inc. (manufacturers of the Dynasty paint brush)

Silkpaint! Corporation (manufacturers of the Air Pen)

A special thank you to Michaels Arts and Crafts, Elmer Baggott, Pam Hawkins, Veronica Towey, Sandy Bares, Lauren Powell, Katie Munday, Michele Hester, Beth McCleery, and my photographer, Joe Jacobs.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The word mosaic conjures up many images, from a faded fountain among the ruins of Italy to the glass and steel mosaics found in modern public buildings. Today we recognize the time and commitment that goes into creating a mosaic, and these pieces have become symbols of luxury. Historically, mosaics were more prevalent. They were mainly used to embellish architecture, but their pictorial compositions were later used to embellish floors, fountains, and even furniture. The history of mosaics is riddled with artistry that repeats itself and evolves from one period to another. From ancient Babylon, where mosaics were created from semi-precious stones, shells, and bits of pottery, to contemporary artists who use cement and metal in their mosaic work, mosaics have been a popular form of self-expression. Each period has its own unique perspective, and each period represents the values and artistry of its time.

The earliest mosaics were created by ancient civilizations using pebbles or shells. The designs were simple, abstract, and usually consisted of two colors. Later more colors were introduced, but the simplicity of the design usually dominated the surface. Mosaics became an effective and resourceful means of paving floors and walkways. Because of their endurance, both physically and artistically, mosaic arts continue to thrive even in todays world.

One of the greatest galleries of mosaic art lies at the feet of Mount Vesuvius. With the entombment of Pompeii came the salvation of some of the most moving and awe-inspiring mosaics the world has ever seen. What is it about a mosaic that lures the observer to investigate what our eyes tell us? Were drawn closer until we can see that this is not made up of one piece, but of many fragments that create a whole. No two alike, mimicked but never duplicated, the concept has inspired artists from every medium to create mosaics from just about everything.

In the past, we have had to gaze at mosaics from behind the glass of a museum or from a distance as we watch some unattainable TV program heralding the splendors of the rich and famous. With Plaster Mosaics, we will now be able to enjoy the beauty of mosaics without the expense of obtaining them. Plaster mosaics are affordable, easy to do, and limitless in their applications. What would have taken a mosaic artist two weeks to accomplish will take you two hours. What would have cost that same mosaic artist hundreds if not thousands of dollars in materials will cost you only a few dollars.

As this is a new technique, your creations will truly be one of a kind. In addition to having something unique, theres no standard against which to compare your work. This means that no one will notice a mistake, because theres no precedent for that mistake. You will be the creator of a work of art that will appear as if it was taken from the villa walls of Pompeii.

Step-by-step instructions will build the skills needed to apply your plaster mosaic art to just about any surface. From these projects, you will be able to alter, add, or create your own technique or style. I encourage you to explore all of the possibilities this technique has to offer.

Classical mosaic art by Irina Charny.

Introduction to Color

W hen we look at anything, whether its a car, a piece of furniture, or even a flower, we all notice one thing firstcolor. After color comes pattern and then texture. Because color is first, its the one thing that will make or break a project. For example, when we view a painting and the color is horrible, we turn away. Its difficult to move past the color to see what the painting was all about. Color affects us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It has a direct effect on our moods and perceptions, whether they are good or bad.

The psychology of color has been studied for years, and its lessons are incorporated into our everyday lives. Hospitals are swathed in soothing shades of pastel to create a calming atmosphere. Retail stores, on the other hand, use bright intense colors to create excitement and a sense of urgency. Lively warm colors draw us near, excite us, and fill us with happiness. Grays or black introduce a mood of quiet and soberness. No matter what the subject matter, you can create a mood by choosing certain colors.