Tag Archives: Mosaic Art Retreat

Mosaic, Yoga, Creative Writing in Bali

5 Sep

Mosaic, Yoga, Creative Writing in Bali, Indonesia
with Christine Kenneally and Cait Scudder
January 6 – 14, 2017
$2450 Per Person Double Occupancy, Before October 1, Singles Available
$250 Discount if You Sign Up with a Friend

Mosaic Art RetreatsDo you long to inhabit your life more fully? Are you ready to transform old stories that keep you small, rearrange the pieces and start living from your most expansive, expressive self? Do you long to embody your divine feminine essence and let your radiance shine? Do you desire connection with sisters that raise your vibration and empower your purpose? Are you ready to receive and be led by the abundant, ever-present flow of life in and around you? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you know it is time. This retreat is for you!

Join us for this 9-day, 8-night journey of a lifetime on the magical island of Bali:

·  Yoga, Breath Work & Embodied Movement
·  Creative Writing & Expression Exercises to Strengthen Voice & Invoke Transformation
·  Daily Lessons in the Ancient Alchemical Art of Mosaic – Return home with several original pieces!
·  Traditional Balinese Blessing Ceremony with Local Priest & Priestess
·  Mantra, Singing and Chanting for Heart Opening and Chakra Activation
·  Sisterhood, Sacred Circle Rituals, Visualization and more!

Included:

  • Accommodation (double occupancy) with daily housekeeping service
  • All VEGETARIAN meals at the retreat center, which include breakfasts, lunches, dinners and refreshments
  • Complimentary drinking water for the duration of the retreat — we offer mountain spring water which is UV filtered
  • Mosaic Art RetreatsFree WIFI Access (use own laptop)
  • A complimentary massage at the retreat center spa, and additional spa services available
  • Airport Transfer from Ubud to the retreat center
  • Guided Trek to the local Bali Hindu temple in the mountain forest
  • All materials and tools for making mosaics. We provide a variety of materials (glass, pottery, stone, etc) and the substrates for building the mosaics on as well as adhesive and grout. We provide hand tools for cutting materials. If you would like, you may bring any special objects you would like to incorporate into your mosaics. We will be working in a variety of techniques, both direct and indirect. You will make a series of several small mosaic wall panels, and if you wish, you can make a unique piece of wearable mosaic art — jewelry!

A word about the food:

The retreat center restaurant uses the freshest produce, organically grown when possible. The menu features both Western and Asian cuisine including many Balinese specialties.

They cater for vegetarian/vegan preferences, gluten-free, soy free, lactose intolerance and special diets when required. They introduce as many fresh local products as possible when in season.

Leaders:

Mosaic Art RetreatsChristine Kenneally is a mosaic artist and instructor from Easthampton, MA. She has been teaching the art of mosaics to adults and teens since 2007 and falls in love with the creative process every time she witnesses a student experience it. Her personal mosaic work is inspired by nature and light and of the potential for healing and re-telling a story through bringing together broken pieces.

Mosaic Art RetreatsCait Scudder, MAT, RYT-500is a yoga teacher, writer and vitality coach who leads workshops and retreats on creativity, yoga and the art and practice of transformation around the world. She is passionate about creating safe spaces that build community, unleash flow, and inspire a return to the big questions of Who We Are and Why We Are Here. Her joyful leadership empowers others to witness and celebrate the fullness of who they are and courageously expand and express their unique gift to the world from a place rooted in authenticity, cultivated practice and activated joy.

For More Information or To Register, click here.

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Barcelona and Morocco with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode, May 2014

25 Jan

GaudiCultural Tour: Barcelona + Optional Morocco
with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode
Barcelona: May 24 – June 1, 2014
Morocco: June 1 – June 4, 2014
$2350 Barcelona Only

$650 Morocco Add-On

Join Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode for a blissful eight days in Barcelona getting up close and personal with Gaudi, Picasso, Dali, some local tapas, a little cava, a little Costa Brava, and a few Benedictine monks. And since we’ll be so close to Morocco, we’re offering an optional four-day add-on to Fes, a vibrant world heritage site with a medieval section of 9000 narrow pedestrian streets. This mosaic art retreat does not feature a daily class, but will feed you with ample inspiration for your next mosaic evolution.

BARCELONA

Casa Mila, BarcelonaSaturday May 24: Transfer to Apartment and luggage storage; Cafe for coffee and pastries; Tour of neighborhood; Check-in and Siesta/Shower; Red Bus Tour/Welcome Dinner

Sunday, May 25:
Stamp and Coin Market Gothic Quarter; Picnic in Park Guell, tour of Gaudi House/Museum; Casas Mila and Battlo

Sagrada Familia, BarcelonaMonday, May 26:
Mini Mosaic session with Martin Brown using ceramic a la Gaudi; Picasso Museum

Tuesday, May 27:
Montserrat, the famed mountaintop Benedictine Monastery and Black Virgin; Sagrada Familia

Wednesday, May 28:
Market Visit and Cooking Class; Afternoon on Your Own

Salvador Dali HouseThursday, May 29:
Els Encants Flea Market and Vintage Shopping; Afternoon on the Beach

Friday, May 30:
8:30 AM – 7:00 PM Private Coach and Guide to Dali House/Museum, Lunch on the Costa Brava, including several Mediterranean villages and Dali’s home

Saturday, May 31: TBD; On Your Own; Farewell Dinner

Sunday, June 1:
Airport Transfer

BARCELONA ACCOMMODATIONS

We’ll be staying in a large, light-filled apartment in the heart of Barcelona near Plaza Catalunya. The flat has seven bedrooms (several are dorm-style), wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, table space for 17, lift, washing machine, and a lovely terrace. This will provide a common gathering space as well as ample room for food storage and the possibility of eating-in on quiet nights if desired. The apartment is two block from the metro, and very close to shopping and dining options.

MOROCCO

Join us as we travel to Fes, founded in the 9th century and the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities.  Within Fes is the walled medina, known as the “the city of ten thousand alleys.”   Twelve thousand years old, the huge medieval medina is a bustling time capsule. Known as “the city of 10,000 alleys,” the New York Times describes Fez as ‘faded but stately, crumbling but proud, the walled city of Fez might well be the largest and most enduring medieval Islamic settlement in the world. It is indisputably Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart.”  Artisans still practice traditional techniques, and the market is renowned for ceramics, zellige mosaic, spices, leather, textiles, and cuisine. Read more about Fes here.

Sunday, June 1: Arrival by air, train to Fes

Monday, June 2: Tour of medieval medina with English-speaking guide; visit to artisan workshops

Tuesday, June 3: Workshop TBD (zellige mosaic, Moroccan cuisine, belly dancing, calligraphy are among the possibilities); ceramic workshop visit

Wednesday, June 4: Train to Casablanca for flights home

MOROCCO ACCOMMODATIONS

In Fes, we’ll stay in a traditional guesthouse, or riad, consisting of several rooms surrounding a central courtyard. A Moroccan breakfast will be included each day, either in the courtyard or on the roof terrace, offering panoramic views of the medina and/or surrounding hills. Rooms may be single or double occupancy, with private bath.

LEADERS

Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode are professional mosaic artists, instructors, and travelers. Read more about Carol here and Pam here. The two have most recently led a workshop in Costa Rica, and have another planned for 2014/15 focusing on local culture and mosaic outreach.

TO REGISTER

To register or for more information, please email Pam. Deposit of $1500 is due March 1. Full payment is due by April 25. Suggested airline schedule is a multi-leg ticket NYC to Barcelona to Casablanca to NYC. Preferred schedules will be emailed to participants.

Marsh Mellow

28 Oct

It’s one of those glorious days that’s cool on the marsh and warm on the beach, and nature lets you choose whether you want to feel the wind in your hair while you listen to the fish jump in the marsh, or the sun on your shoulders while the gulls cry. Of course, I chose both, with a little hammock time thrown in for good measure. It’s October, and an idyllic time for a beach retreat.

It’s been a good week. Some nights there’s lots of giggling; some days an hour can pass in complete silence. Some nights we cook as a group; some nights we comb our hair and hit the village. Come as you are, be who you are, and use the time as you choose. Here’s a look at the week!

Mosaics on the Marsh, October 2013

23 Jul

Mosaics on the MarshMosaics on the Marsh Retreat with Pam Goode
October 21 – 25, 2013
Pawleys Island, SC
$375 – 550

Nothing soothes the soul quite like the lapping of tides against weathered docks, the tempered sunlight glinting across fields of watery grasses that thrive on the most tentative silts, the cry of majestic herons and hungry gulls, and a gentle fall breeze. Join us at iconic Pawleys Island for an old-style retreat in old-style surroundings.

Mosaics on the MarshOur site will be a three-story “cottage” with double wraparound porches and ample work tables facing the marsh. The golden month of October features magnificent skies and a softer light, with average highs in the 70’s and lows around 60. Nine bedrooms, five baths, two living rooms, two kitchens, and indoor/outdoor dining areas offer plenty of space for spreading out or working as a group.

Our workshop will consist of a quick-sketch technique overlaid with a modified-watercolor technique to create designs using fauvist or realistic colors depicting life on the marsh. We’ll be able to churn out a large assortment of sketches and paintings the first day, giving you ample possibilities for your mosaic. We’ll also talk about color, mood, cutting methods, and finding your own style.

An assortment of boards will be provided. This retreat is designed for stained glass, however, you are welcome to bring other materials if you prefer.

Mosaics on the MarshThe retreat will be structured loosely, with a group session each day, as well as one-on-one time with the instructor and group studio sessions. You are welcome to work throughout the day or take time off for the beach or local exploration. The lovely sand beach is just across the lane, and the island is ideal for biking, as well as canoeing on the inlet. Across the bridge on the mainland, you’ll find plenty of cute shops as well as local restaurants (both island casual and casual gourmet). Meals will be on your own or as a group, either on the mainland or self-catering. We’ll have plenty of kitchen space!

A barrier island, Pawleys is one of the oldest resorts on the East Coast, measuring  just over 3 miles long and 1/4 mile wide, and a whopping population of 138. Flip flops and shorts are the norm.

Costs per-person for five-day mosaic workshop and accommodations:

$375 shared dormitory room (1 double and 5 twins)
$475 shared room (2 twin beds) (1 available)
$500 shared room (2 double beds) (1 available)
$550 single room (1 double or queen bed) (4 queens and 1 double available)

Cost for non-participating guest sharing your room: $250

Pam GoodeCost includes room, instruction, and some materials. Cost does not include transportation to the retreat location, meals, tools or mosaic supplies.

For more information or to register, contact Pam.

Sonia King Workshops at West Dean College, U.K.

5 Feb

Mosaic Intensive: Chichester, U.K.
Developing Artistic Expression with Sonia King
West Dean College
July 21 – 26, 2013
₤466 Non-Residential

Mosaic Intensive: Chichester, U.K.
Working in Monochrome with Sonia King
West Dean College
July 27 – August 2, 2013
₤608 Non-Residential

Sonia King West Dean Join Sonia King at the acclaimed West Dean College for a week (or two!) of mosaic immersion in an exceptional setting.

Artistic Expression, July 21 – 26, 2013

The goal of this workshop is to offer an elevated sense of what mosaic is about, offering a new way to think about one’s work and the knowledge to push to the next level. Special emphasis will be made on personal expression and developing one’s individual style. The class specifically covers working with texture, scale, andamento and spacing; achieving effects through varied cutting and laying styles and/or mixed materials; and working direct using cement-based adhesive.

Sonia King WorkshopStudents will produce a mosaic using a variety of techniques/materials. There is extensive inquiry into cutting techniques, varied materials and laying styles; essentially broadening the student’s skill-set. There are also varied discussions about design, the complexity of working with more than one material, spacing, andamento, and reflectivity.

Students will bring their own materials for use; possible materials include glass, unglazed ceramic, found objects, mineral specimens, beads, stone and fossils. There will be a limited selection of materials available for purchase.

Sonia King at West DeanYou work on your own project with lots of individual attention, dealing with issues that relate specifically to your work. However, all are invited into the discussions so there is a high level of learning from each other’s specific situations. Additionally there are group discussions and lectures on a variety of topics including design considerations when using multiple materials, cutting techniques, etc. A group review at the end focuses on problems solved and lessons learned.

Working in Monochrome, July 27 – August 2

Creating mosaic in a monochrome palette emphasizes the focus on cutting, laying style, reflectivity, scale and texture. Limiting possible decisions to the primary principles of mosaic offers learning opportunities that color can mask. Working within a single color family enhances technical skills while expanding our understanding of the subtle impact on personal expression.

Sonia King at West DeanWe’ll work direct in a variety of materials with special attention to cutting techniques, methods of laying, and broadening your skill set. The class specifically covers working with texture, scale, andamento and spacing; achieving effects through varied cutting and laying styles and/or mixed materials; and working direct using cement-based adhesive. There are also varied discussions about design, the complexity of working with more than one material, reflectivity and more. Most importantly, you’ll leave the workshop with an elevated sense of what mosaic is about, a new way of thinking about your work, and the knowledge to enable you to push to the next level. Some prior mosaic experience is recommended.

Each student will produce a mosaic using a variety of techniques/materials. Possible materials include glass, unglazed ceramic, found objects, mineral specimens, beads, stone and fossils. Plan to bring your materials with you. There will be a limited selection of materials available for purchase.

Sonia King at West DeanStudents will work on their own projects with ample individual attention, dealing with issues that relate to their specific  work. However, all are invited into the discussions so there is a high level of learning from each other’s specific situations. Additionally there are group discussions and lectures on a variety of topics including design considerations when using multiple materials, cutting techniques, etc. A group review at the end focuses on problems solved and lessons learned.

West Dean

Located in SouthEast England and 12 miles from the coat, West Dean is internationally known for its programs in visual arts and conservation. The 6400 acre estate features exceptional gardens for an inspiring and peaceful stay.

For more information or to register for either session, click here.

Images from previous workshops at West Dean are here.

More about Sonia King here.

Portraits in Serbia with Andjelka Radojevik, June 2013

17 Jan

Mosaic Retreat: SerbiaDetails; Portraiture
with Andjelka Radojevik
June 1 – 9, 2013
June 15 – 27, 3013
€ 2100 – 2700

Andjelka Radojevik WorkshopsJoin Serbian artist Andjelka Radojevik for one of two upcoming workshops in the Balkans and Belgrade, Serbia. Workshops are designed to combine studio instruction with an introduction to Andjelka’s beautiful homeland —  safe, fabulous food, and widely English-speaking.

“I teach the indirect method, and offer strong direction to enable you to make your best mosaic ever. At the same time, I would like to make it a relaxing and joyful workshop, full of memorable moments. I’ll respect if you would like to have more privacy and more free time. I’ll be available for you 24 hours daily not only as a teacher, but as a friend too!”

Details, June 1 – 9, will focus on lips, an eye, or a small bird

Portraiture, June 15 – 27, will include a full facial image.

Andjelka Rodovejik Workshop“I will assist you in choosing a drawing. The mosaic materials I prefer for this class are natural stone and ceramics. We will use smalti for small details; however, students are welcome to bring their own smalti or gold should they wish to use more. Workshops begin at 9:00 am and end at 5:30 PM. Coffee and lunch breaks are provided. The agenda is not fixed on excursion days.

If a student cannot finish their mosaic on time, they will receive all the necessary material and instruction to finish their mosaic at home.

The workshops will consist of practical and theoretical elements with plenty of examples. The number of students is 1 – 6 max. Friends and family are welcomed. Please, contact me for more details.”

Andjelka Radojevik WorkshopPrices:

Details Workshop, June 1 – 9, 2013
€2100
Surcharge for a Companion: 900 Euro
€500  Deposit is Required upon Registration. Balance is Due upon Arrival.

Portrait Workshop, June 15 – 27, 2013
€2700
Surcharge for a Companion: 1200 Euro
€500  Deposit is Required upon Registration. Balance is Due upon Arrival.

Rate includes:

  • All necessary mosaic material: natural stone, ceramics and smalti for details, nippers, hammer, incus, tweezers.
  • Transfers from/to the airport.
  • Accommodation in Vrnjacka Spa (central Serbia, the most beautiful spa in the Balkans, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) during summer season). Accommodation will be provided in Villa Mignon Hotel, plus two nights in Belgrade.
  • Three meals per day and non alcoholic drinks.
  • Belgrade sightseeing (the World’s largest Orthodox Christian church – Saint Sava’s Temple; Kalemegdan fortress; Saint Paraskeva mosaic church; Prince Michael Street, etc).
  • Visit to mausoleum of the Serbian Royal Dynasty – Oplenac, representing one of the largest mosaic surfaces in the World (38.000 sq ft).
  • Visits to the most beautiful Serbian restaurants.

Rate Does Not Include:

  • Air Fare
  • Spa Treatments
  • Telephone Costs
  • Gold Smalti (arrangements can be made at an additional cost)
  • Car Rental
  • Tips
  • Alcoholic Drinks
  • Visa Expenses (Please, determine in advance if you will need a visa; if so, I can help)
  • Travel Insurance

Andjelka Radojevik Workshop

Additional Information:

Learn more about Andjelka and Serbian hospitality here or here.

Fore more information or to register, contact Andjelka here.

Exploring Mosaics in Glass Retreat, September 2013

9 Jan

Exploring Mosaics in Glass
with Bonnie Fitzgerald
September 6 – 9, 2013
$345 + Your Choice Lodging / Meal Plan

Mosaic Workshop Bonnie FitzgeraldJoin Maverick Mosaics’ founder Bonnie Fitzgerald for a 4-day mosaic retreat at Pennsylvania’s only residential craft school, Touchstone Center for Crafts. At Touchstone, nature and creative energy combine to produce a unique synergy and students learn in an atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie.

Exploring Mosaics in Glass is a comprehensive class offering a strong foundation for constructing decorative art mosaics. Students will be introduced to several types of glass materials applicable to mosaics. Day one begins with an overview of contemporary glass mosaics and their role in both the decorative and fine art world. We will then cover design principles, terminology and technical considerations. We will dedicate a portion of Saturday to design work, including composition and color theory. Students will then solidify their design and create their mosaic cartoon. Students are encouraged to create original designs; however, the instructor will have optional patterns available for those who feel more comfortable creating from an existing design. Our last day will be spent on grouting and finishing techniques, friendly critique and Q & A.

Materials offered will include stained glass, vitreous tiles, art glass tiles, millefiori, fused glass and glass gems. Instructor will provide an ample amount and variety of materials for you to complete your project. Students are welcome to bring supplemental materials that they may wish to incorporate into their design, and a suggested materials list will be sent out 2 weeks in advance.

Saturday and Sunday will be full studio days allowing for plenty of time for fun and creativity, with time allotted to enjoy our beautiful surroundings with walks and fresh air!

This workshop is suited for anyone new to mosaics or folks wishing to take their work to a new level. Students can expect a great deal of personal instruction and guidance.

Suggested projects include a 16’ X 20” mirror surround or a home décor piece measuring approximately 1 square foot. Students must provide their substrate (instructor will provide resources in advance). You may work on any 2-dimensional project. A separate supply fee of $45 will be payable to the instructor. Fee includes tool loan, ample selection of tesserae, adhesive and grout.

Mosaic Workshops Bonnie FitzgeraldTo view Bonnie’s portfolio with many glass mosaic examples please visit Bonnie Fitzgerald Art.

Touchstone Center is located in the Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, 60 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, PA. They offer full room and board in residence halls or cabins. Click here to visit the Touchstone Center website for more information.

Workshop and lodging reservations will be handled through Touchstone beginning February 2013. Students are strongly encouraged to pre-register directly with Bonnie.

Mosaic Intensive with Sonia King: Paros, Greece, 2013

6 Nov

*WAIT LIST ONLY

Mosaic Intensive: Greece
Working in White on the Greek Island of Paros
with Sonia King
June 17 – 21, 2013
$2375

Mosaic Art Retreats GreeceJoin Sonia for an intensive five-day mosaic workshop on the sun-drenched island of Paros in Greece.  Paros is famous for the beautiful white marble that the ancient Greeks carved into statues like the Venus de Milo. We’ll take our inspiration from this amazing material and work all in whites, tone on tone. This will be a rare opportunity to enhance your mosaic skills in an inspiring and stimulating environment.

Sonia King Intensive GreeceCreating mosaic in a monochrome palette emphasizes the focus on cutting, laying style, reflectivity, scale and texture. Limiting possible decisions to the primary principles of mosaic offers learning opportunities that color can mask. Technically, there will be extensive inquiry into cutting techniques, methods of laying and broadening your skill set. The class specifically covers working with texture, scale, andamento and spacing; achieving effects through varied cutting and laying styles and/or mixed materials, working direct. There will be discussions about design, the complexity of working with more than one material, reflectivity and more. Most importantly, you’ll leave the workshop with an elevated sense of what mosaic is about, a new way of thinking about your work and the knowledge to enable you to push to the next level. Prior mosaic experience is recommended. Some white materials will be supplied. (A list of the supplied materials will be sent in advance so class participants can bring additional materials, or even additional colors, if they wish.)

Mosaic Art Retreats GreeceThere will be an optional side trip on one day, by ferry, to the island of Delos to see ancient mosaics.  Participants may choose to come along or to remain in the studio working.  The atmosphere will be relaxed and there will be ample time for swimming and sunning on the beach steps away from our hotel.

Mosaic Art Retreats GreeceThe course fee includes:
* Get-acquainted dinner on the evening before the workshop begins, June 16
* Individual instruction/coaching by Sonia, structured to meet each participant’s experience level and goals.
* Group discussions on the art of mosaic, cutting techniques, ergonomics, technical issues, the business of art, critical thinking and problem-solving strategies for design/implementation and more.
* Substrate, adhesive, marble and the use of a hammer/hardie. Bring your own hand tools. Participants may also want to bring additional materials to work with, such as glass, unglazed ceramic, smalti, beads, found objects, etc. More info on recommended tools and materials will be supplied.
* Optional day trip to visit ancient mosaics on the island of Delos with lunch and shopping opportunities on Mykonos
* Closing night dinner party, June 21

Not included:
* Transportation (airfares, ferries, taxis, etc.)
* Meals (other than breakfast at the hotel and the get-acquainted and closing dinners)
* Optional side trip to visit the ancient mosaics on island of Delos plus lunch & shopping on Mykonos

Mosaic Art Retreats GreeceSpace is limited so early registration is recommended.  Cost is $2,375 US. Ten participants are required for the class to be held. A deposit of $500 is required on booking and the class fills on a first-come basis. Balance of the fee is due by February 1st, allowing ample time for buying air tickets at the best price.  After February 1st, refunds will be given provided the opening is filled. (There is always a wait list so a refund is likely.) Refunds will be less any money transfer fees. Payment may be made by US $ checks, US $ wire transfer, Western Union or PayPal. (PayPal incurs a small percentage transaction fee)

Direct inquiries to Sonia.
Include contact info (name, address, phone, e-mail). As the workshop approaches, recommended tool information, details about materials and advice about logistics will be sent.

See images from the 2011 workshop on Paros

Click here for a flyer in PDF format for printing

Community Mosaic Mural Retreat in Haiti, 2013

5 Nov

Global Mosaic Project: Haiti
Community Mosaic Mural Project
with Laurel True
March 23 – March 29, 2013
$1796 per person, Double Occupancy

Global Mosaic Project, Haiti

Join mosaic artist Laurel True and youth from Art Creation Foundation for Children in Jacmel, Haiti for an amazing mosaic-making adventure.

Global Mosaic Project, HaitiBe part of a group of international mosaic artists participating in global outreach and voluntourism on this unique trip combining community mosaic mural making, sightseeing in one of Haiti’s most beautiful regions, and visits to local art centers, schools, and beaches.

Participants will contribute to the rebuilding and beautification of Haiti while working alongside Haitian youth artists from Art Creation Foundation for Children (ACFFC) on a community project facilitated by Laurel True.

View of Jacmel, HaitiThis hands-on, cross-cultural collaborative process will result in the creation of a public mosaic mural that will become part of a city-wide beautification project being created by Laurel’s students at ACFFC called Mosaique Jacmel.

Jacmel is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches and abundance of artists and musicians. The architecture is reminiscent of New Orleans. Jacmel folks are friendly, welcoming, and motivated to rebound after the devastating earthquake.

This trip is appropriate for Mosaic artists and novice artists alike. Seasoned mosaic artists will benefit from professional development training in community mosaic project facilitation, and novice mosaic artists will receive hands-on training while participating with other community members learning about mosaics.

Global Mosaic Project, Haiti

Mosaic Haiti Itinerary

After our arrival in Port-au-Prince, we’ll visit a famous art gallery founded by musician Issa El Saieh, and enjoy lunch at the historic Hotel Oloffson. We then travel northeast to visit Mirebalais, where Laurel and a team of Haitian mosaic artists have created multiple projects in the new Merebalais Hospital being built by Partners in Health. We’ll return to Port-au-Prince for our first evening together in Haiti.

Global Mosaic Project, HaitiThe following day we travel southeast to Jacmel. Our days will include working on the mosaic mural and relaxing in the evenings at a stunning waterfront hotel, Cap Lamondu. Laurel will offer several professional development sessions in the evenings, including a debrief on the day as well as clear information on best practices for mosaic creation and project facilitation.

An afternoon will be set aside to relax on one of Jacmel’s beautiful beaches and enjoy tropical juices or rums. Our last evening in Jacmel will include a project dedication and an evening of traditional Haitian music.

Tour coordinator Lisa Rueff will lead optional morning yoga classes on the hotel terrace.

Accommodation & Reservation Details

Cost for this trip is $1,795 based on double occupancy in fine hotels in Port-au-Prince and Jacmel, Haitian/English-speaking tour guide, lux ground transportation, and delicious Haitian meals each day.

**Price does not include airfare to Haiti, or return airfare.
***Please note that $200 will be tax-deductible as a direct contribution to the ACFFC.

To reserve your space and for more information, please contact Global Adventures Tour Director Lisa Rueff. Leading international yoga and service trips abroad, she looks forward to sharing this rewarding experience in Haiti with you.

Contact Lisa: globaladventures@me.com

More About Laurel

Laurel True, Global Mosaic ProjectLaurel True is based in New Orleans, and has maintained a professional studio practice in architectural, public, and fine art mosaics for over twenty years through her company, True Mosaics Studio. Her vibrant mosaics can be found in hospitals, parks, hotels, and in public, commercial and residential settings worldwide. Laurel teaches and lectures internationally and facilitates community-based mosaic projects through her organization The Global Mosaic Project. Laurel began working in Haiti in 2010, with Art Creation Foundation for Children, where she has an ongoing role as Lead Consultant for the Mosaique Jacmel Project. Laurel is the co-founder of the Institute of Mosaic Art in California, and has been teaching mosaic techniques for almost twenty years. For more information, please visit www.TrueMosaics.com and www.acffc.org.

All About Orvieto, Italy

2 Oct
Mosaic Retreat Orvieto, Italy 2013

Orvieto, Italy

There’s something about a hilltop village that makes the heart sing. Maybe it’s the isolation, the close-to-the-clouds-ness, dreams of castle life, or simply the striking beauty of ancient stone structures standing tall against a pristine sky. Whatever chords are being plucked in our hearts, we all want to climb that hill and walk through those cobbled streets. Or maybe it’s just me . . . .

Mosaic Art Retreats Orvieto Italy, 2013

Etruscan Caves, Orvieto

Considered one of the most picturesque villages in Italy, Orvieto is located in luscious Umbria, replete with verdant valleys and minus the touristy overload of Tuscany. Just a bit over an hour from Rome, Orvieto has the history with less of the bustle. Populated since Etruscan times (beginning in Italy around 800 BC), the town sits on a perch of volcanic tufa built over a labyrinth of Etruscan caves, tunnels, and tombs, yielding one of the most dramatic sites in Europe.

Mosaic Art Retreat Orvieto, Italy 20123

Orvieto Lane

With brilliant views over the 2000-year old walls across the surrounding countryside, Orvieto is accessible by funicular (built in 1888 and powered for almost 100 years by tanks of water beneath each car; fully refurbished in 1990). Sited 700 feet above the surrounding areas and boasting a measly 6500 inhabitants, Orvieto is less than a mile long and a half-mile wide, with a pedestrian-only city center. Think morning strolls with cappuccino and the sound of Duomo bells ringing the hour.

Mosaic Art Retreat Orvieto, Italy 2013

Orvieto Vineyards

Orvieto is renowned for the production of dry white wines under the DOC Orvieto and Orvieto Classico, as well as a number of reds sold under the DOC Rosso Orvietano. We’ll be visiting one of the Orvieto Classico vineyards, complete with the original house dating back to 1300. And of course, there WILL be wine tasting!

Mosaic Art Retreat Orvieto Italy 2013 Accommodations

Our Convent B&B with Valley Views

Accommodations for the Mosaic Art Retreat in Orvieto are at the lovely San Lodovico Convent B&B with updated rooms and private baths alongside 14th and 15th century frescoes and lovely gardens. Built along the original city walls, bedroom views span the valley below.

Mosaic Art Retreats, Orvieto Italy 2013

Duomo Column

And speaking of the fabled Duomo, it’s a show-stopper. Commissioned by Pope Urban IV, construction of the 14th century structure lasted almost three centuries, and includes elements of both Romanesque and Gothic design. The facade contains decorative elements of mosaic, stained glass, and sculpture, and creates a breathtaking sight when the sun strikes the golden face. Our time in Orvieto will include a private mosaic tour of the cathedral, considered one of the finest achievements of the Late Middle Ages.

For an overview of the Mosaic Art Retreat in Orvieto, click here.

For a full itinerary, click here.