Mosaic Techniques & Traditions: Projects & Designs from Around the World

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Readers interested in learning about the history, technology, and aesthetics of mosaics will find that King's beautifully and comprehensively illustrated volume is an excellent source of both practical information and artistic inspiration. She details the evolution of mosaics from their first manifestations around 3000 B.C.E. in Mesopotamia to the present; chronicles the breathtaking mosaics of Europe, Africa, and the Americas; and surveys the many materials used in their construction, from broken tiles to gold. The basic process has remained the same over the centuries, and King offers detailed how-to instructions in the second, and largest, portion of the book, providing specific information for the budding artisan on materials and tools, techniques, and designs. Project ideas take up the final third of this fresh and useful book, with five projects of varying difficulty derived from three geographical areas. Full of photographs both of finished mosaics and the steps required for their crafting, King's book will inform, instruct, and delight craft lovers. Lauren Roberts
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Book Description
With the breathtaking work of hundreds of artists on display throughout, this visually arresting volume showcases mosaics from all corners of the globe and teaches the skills needed to produce 15 beautiful pieces of your own. The history of the art, tools and materials, and techniques come first: bases, adhesives, and grout; shaping and placing tesserae; practical and artistic design considerations; and several methods of creating the actual mosaic. Put that information to use on an array of magnificent international projects, all beautifully illustrated and with the level of difficulty noted. Five mosaics from Europe include a lovely and easy Blue Willow Tray and French birdhouse. An American-inspired Flutterby Garden Stake made of mirror simply sparkles. Plus: Sun Disks, a Rock Garden Fountain, Island Wave Vase and more.



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Mosaic art, often characterized by color and fantasy, continues to be some of the most imaginative work in the contemporary craft scene. These two books showcase some of the best work of the past and present. Cheek is well known as a designer, teacher, and author of several books on mosaics. Unlike his previous Design Sourcebook: Mosaics, which is a collection of works by many artists, this book features photographs of his own works, with a narrative giving advice based on his own experience. King's book includes step-by-step projects for garden ornaments and furniture, but it is most notable for the numerous photographs of indoor and outdoor mosaics from all parts of the world. Both books are for advanced or professional craftspeople and are suitable for public libraries and academic art collections. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.


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