Class at the Institute of Mosaic Art

Deciding to take this class was a very good choice.  Peggy and I drove to the warehouse district of Emeryville, near the bay in Oakland, and we were greeted with this wonderful building that had mosaic masterpieces on the outside and inside.  It was overwhelming at first with so much visual stimulation but I got used to it during the week.  The Institute of Mosaic Art (IMA) is the brainchild of a truly accomplished artist and businesswoman – Laurel True.  She was a GREAT teacher.  The kind you listen to every word and soak up all she has to offer.  Her artwork and mosaic projects are beautiful.  Laurel also does public art projects in Ghana in western Africa.  I really learned a lot.  Mosaic art is part craftsmanship and part artistic inspiration.  Take a look at the photos and you will quickly decide on your favorites.  I worked on a cake plate for the first project and was truly challenged.  For my second piece I envisioned the design in the middle of the night and was inspired to interpret one of my “Shirley Style” photos (see the post “Risky Business”.  It was a great choice and it came together quickly.  Grouting was our last activity and we learned great tips on how to make this easy and beautiful.  ENJOY.