Transform Your Mosaic Practice with Classical Andamento

Location: Roman Circus House, Roman Circus Walk, Colchester CO2 7GZ

Time: 10am - 4,30pm

Dates: 14th June 2025 - 12th July 2025 - 2nd August 2025 (click on the 'option' on the right)

Do you want to deepen your understanding of the flow and structure of mosaics? Are you looking for a way to master the fundamentals of classical andamento in its purest form? Whether you're a beginner or an experienced mosaic artist, this one-day workshop will give you the solid foundation you need to enhance your craft.

This workshop isn't just about learning a technique; it's about transforming how you approach mosaics. By the end of the day, you'll have a deep understanding of classical andamento—a core skill for anyone serious about mosaic artistry, whether you're replicating Roman mosaics or working with your own designs.

What to Expect:

1. We’ll begin the day with a fun, rapid fire exercise, to create a small mosaic designed to highlight a very crucial aspect of this training.
2. Next, you'll create two separate Andamento Pathway Boards, these are permanent references that will, at a glance, remind you of what classical andamento does when it is used, and the effect on the lines when it's not used!
3. Then, you’ll choose your own mosaic to work on—either a Roman pattern (for those who want to explore the world of Roman mosaics) or a different design of your choice. You’ll apply the gold standard of classical andamento to your chosen design, ensuring that you build confidence in your technical skills without getting distracted by all the different styles and standards of work when classical andmento is used.

Throughout the day, we’ll also explore:

• How Roman mosaics use andamento to create structure and flow, with practical examples.
• How Victorian mosaics (from the late 1800s) apply similar techniques, showing how classical training influenced later works and providing valuable insights for professional tilers involved in restoration.
• The variations in applying andamento, highlighting how artists with classical training still produce unique stylistic outcomes.

Who Is This Workshop For?

This workshop is designed for modern mosaic artists of all levels who want to fully understand the principles of classical andamento, whether you’re working on Roman mosaic reproductions or creating your own designs. It’s ideal for those who are serious about mastering this foundational technique and want to approach their mosaics with a deeper understanding and intention.

It’s also perfect for professionals working on Victorian mosaic floors or any mosaic restoration project, as we’ll cover the classic and contemporary applications of andamento.

What’s Included:

• One full day of hands-on learning from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, with personal guidance through every step.
• A hard copy of the Classical Andamento Workbook (Workbook 1), which you’ll use during the workshop and take home for reference.
• Tesserae to complete your mosaic if you don’t finish on the day.
• Second Zoom workshop on classical andamento in Roman mosaics (Workbook 2) at scheduled dates, for further learning and follow-up support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Can I choose my own pattern? Yes, you can choose your own pattern, but please send it to me in advance for approval to ensure it fits the workshop’s focus.
• Do we grout? There’s no time for grouting during the workshop, but if you need it you’ll have enough grout to take away to finish at home (the two pathway boards won't need grouting).
• What if I don’t finish my mosaic? No problem! You’ll leave with enough tesserae to complete your mosaic on your own.

This workshop is a foundational experience that will leave you with a richer understanding of mosaics, and how to approach your work with confidence and skill. By the end of the day, you'll see mosaics differently—you’ll see beyond the surface.