We treasure our micro mosaic ring from Orsoni designed and crafted by the talented Antonella Gallenda. It never fails to elicit ooh's and aah's when we wear it and we long for the day that we are able to study with the Maestra in Venice at the fabled Orsoni Foundry.
A scene from Venice in gold smalti by Antonella Gallenda
We were absolutely thrilled, therefore, when we were given the opportunity to act as her assistant in her one day micro mosaic class at the SAMA conference earlier this month.
It was an incredible experience to watch 20 students create mini masterpieces in just one day.
Maestra Gallenda had done a phenomenal job of preparing for the class from pulling every one of the thread-like glass filati herself to gilding the lovely frames you see above. To make it easy for students to dive right in, she had prepared several beautiful patterns for students to choose from – ranging from a sprightly daisy to a sensuous Venice silhouette.
Every single aspect of the class was thought through to perfection.
Best of all, Antonella is a lovely, warm, thoughtful teacher – everything one could ask for when attempting mosaics for the first time.
One day micro mosaic and and three-day smalti workshops are planned for Miami and LA this May. This is an incredible opportunity to study with one of the finest mosaic teachers in the world.
Courses are limited to only 15 participants.
Details are below. We simply cannot recommend this opportunity highly enough. Go! Be transported to Venice!
Los Angeles (Trend USA, 14528 Meridian Parkway, Riverside CA)
1-Day Programs: May 2nd OR May 3rd, 2011
3-Day Program: May 4th - May 6th 2011
Miami (Coverings, Etc. 7610 Northeast 4th Court, Miami)
1-Day Programs: May 9th OR May 10th, 2011
3-Day Program: May 11 - May 13th, 2011
1 Micro Mosaic Day Course Description:
From 9 am to 5 pm you can work on a micro mosaic project, using the traditional stucco (putty) and the tiny rods that Antonella has pulled using the torch to melt the glass.
The fee of $300 provides:
- A gilded wooden frame
- A model to be replicated
- The necessary putty and rods
- The tools
From 9 am to 5 pm you can work on a mosaic project, using the traditional tools (hammer and hardy) and the smalti we produce in the Venice foundry.
The fee of $650 provides:
- A wooden panel
- A model to be replicated
- The use of smalti, glue and tools
I've taken two Orsoni courses, and also Antonella's micromosaic workshop at SAMA Chicago. She is a wonderful teacher, calm, patient and with a great sense of humor. Her experience working with Lucio Orsoni and producing his work for more than 25 years means she has a great background from which to draw as an instructor. If you're interested in the micromosaic technique but can't swing a full trip to Venice, these short courses are a great way to try this addictive art form!
ReplyDelete