Artist Dawn Mendelson will teach an Introduction to Mosaic Art class June 20 at the Irvine Fine Arts Center. We caught up with Mendelson.
What will students learn?
Students learn how to use mosaic tools, explore placement and the flow and direction of the pieces and think through design and composition. We also talk about practical elements such as what glues work best for different projects and what you can mosaic on.
What are the most common “aha” moments during your workshops?
I often work with people convinced they are not creative, only to discover they absolutely are. Mosaic is wonderfully accessible. A misplaced piece or unexpected color can change the direction of the work. There are no mistakes, only discoveries.
What do you hope people take from this?
A new way of seeing the world. Mosaic teaches us that creativity exists in the smallest details. Flower petals become bits of glass, cracks in the sidewalk resemble stone patterns, and tree bark feels rich with texture.
What makes the Irvine Fine Arts Center work for this?
It offers so many creative opportunities that it is inspiring just to walk in the front door. I led a workshop where students created the mosaic trash receptacles and planters that still stand outside the center. It remains one of my most rewarding projects.
Sign up at yourirvine.org.
