I will be offering handmade clay tile class this summer. Officially it’s called a Mosaic class but I am discovering  a lot of people, when they think of “mosaics” they think of little tiny pieces of colored glass tile or broken dishes mortared into a design of some sort.  And yes, that is what it is but there are many forms of mosaics.  It is an art form and it does take concentration when you have a whole mess of brightly colored pieces to pick from. Personally,  I have never liked the idea of breaking glass or china to get the effect I want.  Not that there is anything wrong with that type of mosaic.   I just like the softness of clay and the ability to create the perfect size tiles for any corner I may find myself in.

The word mosaic means ‘a picture or decoration made of small, usually colored pieces of inlaid stone or glass and or a  composition of a combined diverse elements’ according to Dictionary.com.

I also found another tidbit of information that it derives from Moses: ‘of or pertaining to Moses or the writings, laws, and principles attributed to him: Mosaic ethics‘.  I found that a little interesting because I enjoy learning about biblical times.  I really don’t know if that is true or not. But interesting to say the least.

My definition of mosaics is (something I have to explain to potential students) hand made tile from fresh clay.   I design a picture then I set out making each individual piece/ clay tile that I want in the design.  Some tiles are large and some are very tiny.  It is challenging and tedious but that is exciting to me.  Especially when I have a clear vision of what I want to communicate in the design.   My designs usually involve some type of 3 dimensional aspect to them.  I like sculptural pieces with form and depth and detail. And so I try to achieve that and I encourage others to do the same.  I tell my students to copy all you want but make it yours!  Meaning, copy the teacher, the magazine picture, the favorite thing, but make it something that speaks of you!

Sometimes I get students who have never taken anything like a tile mosaic class and they are overwhelmed.  They don’t know where to begin. Or they begin and easily get discouraged.  I suppose that is with anything new, really.  But I always encourage them and tell them about

my first year taking pottery classes. I would literally go home in tears.  And now 27 years later I am still crying.  Just kidding.  I have the pottery thing down.  It’s other things I cry about…. Anyways, the object is to have fun, be creative and just be!

Classes start Tuesday, May 28 from 6-8

For a 6 week session the cost is only $100.00

Bring your ideas and I will supply a way to make it happen!

Email me at Robin.chlad@gmail.com