Tag Archives: Mosaic Art

Cape Town, South Africa Mosaic Retreat with Karla Duterloo

7 Feb

Cape Town, South Africa Mosaic Retreat
with Karla Duterloo
November 8 – 14, 2020
€1600 Euro per person

Always wanted to travel to South Africa but haven’t had a clue where to start planning?

Looking for a creative holiday destination that combines sightseeing with creating art?

If you’re looking for an opportunity to travel on your own, add a little adventure to your life and meet like minded people, enjoy having everything taken care of while enjoying new experiences — this might be just what you’re looking for.

Limited to a group of 8 participants.

 

What to Expect from this Creative Holiday

  • Be prepared to create three wonderful mosaic art works, learn new techniques, and work with a variety of materials.

  • Be prepared to sip our stunning wines or bubbles from time to time; we live literally adjacent to some famous vineyards.

  • Be prepared to experience breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages, friendly people, and different beaches at every turn. Our minivan and experienced driver will drive us around safely so we can soak up the beauty at our leisure.

  • Be prepared to be extremely busy this week with only great things to do, laugh, share stories and work, while experiencing another culture, making new friends, being creative and learn new skills, rejuvenate,relax and come back inspired.

  • Best thing however is you do not have to think about anything as we have it all covered: Airport transfer, excursions, further transports, entrance fees, wine tastings, mosaic materials, breakfast, most lunches and dinners, welcome and farewell drinks parties are all included and arranged for.


Accommodations

On our Atlantic Beach Estate  https://www.thelodgeatatlanticbeach.co.za/ you will stay at the Lodge, a five minute walk to our home where the studio is. The Lodge is 10 minute walk away from the beach so you will hearing the relaxing sounds of rolling waves throughout the day and night.  We have a pool at the Leisure center next to the Lodge, for you to use as a guest.

On the estate, you’ll see springboks jumping around on a daily basis, as it is the only golf course in the world where springboks are freely roaming over the full length of the course. Africa on your doorstep.

About the Mosaic Workshops

There will be over 20 hours of mosaic for us to cover; if youKarla 2 Art need more time, I can offer extended studio hours.

All mosaic materials and tools are all included in the price.

We’ll cover 3 different and unique styles of mosaic techniques designed by me. You can use these techniques to find your own voice in this medium.

The mosaic course is designed for beginners as well as more advanced students, as we all work on our own pace based on your mosaic experience. I do recommend having some experience in cutting techniques.

•   We’ll make a 20 x 20 cm (8″ x 8″) original abstract mosaic incorporating African Beadwork. You have now made your own souvenir from Africa!

•   We’ll explore a 20 x 20 cm (8″ x 8″) mosaic with paint and stacked beads only. The theme will be the inspiration from our surroundings, translated into an abstract landscape or a bird’s eye view scene. Another Cape Town souvenir in the pocket!

•   The last 20 x 20 cm (8″ x 8″)  mosaic we make is the one in which we combine all 3 techniques on a board. We’ll begin by painting and then add a combined mixture of beads and various mosaic materials on top of that.

Schedule

Sunday, November 8

17.00 – Until:   Welcome drinks and tapas dinner at the studio/house on the Estate, and get to know the other participants in a relaxing atmosphere. We’ll have an in-house art and mosaic tour and talk, while sipping bubbles from the region.

Monday, November 9

09.00 – 12.30:   Create an abstract mosaic with a beaded African artefact/ornament
12.30 – 13.00:   Lunch is served at the pool area
13.00 – 15.00:   Continue making mosaic
15.00 – 17.00:   Wine tasting at the nearby Wine Estate De Grendel https://degrendel.co.za
Evening free

Tuesday, November 10

09.00 – 13.30    Bead mosaic  “Ocean bird view scene”
13.30 – 14.00    Quick Lunch
14.00 – 20.00    Cape Town Excursion   www.waterfront.co.za/​

Wednesday, November 11

09.00 -11.00     Mosaic course
11.00                 Departure for our excursion
12.30 – 14.00    Lunch at Spier     www.spier.co.za

14.30 – 16.30    Stellenbosch Galleries at Church Street, Town visit
16.30                 Sunset and drinks on the lawn of a wine farm
18.30                 Back at the hotel

Thursday November 12

09.00 – 11.00    Mosaic in the studio, third project begins
11.00 – 21.00    Box lunch as we tour the Cape peninsula, famous for beautiful scenery, beaches, and photo ops. Farmers market at Noordhoek vineyards. http://cpv.co.za/
19.30                  Head back to the hotel after rush hour; arrive around 21.00

Friday, November 13

09.00 – 12.30    Studio time to finish mosaic works and pack artwork for transport home
12.30 – 13.30    Lunch/relax at the house
13.30 – 16.00    Final touches on your mosaic artwork(s) and packaging
17.00 – 18.00    Drinks/canapés around the pool and evaluate the week
18.00                 Farewell Dinner at a seaside restaurant

Saturday, November 14

​10.00                  Sadly checking out from our African adventure at the Lodge. Transport to the airport will be arranged. If you wish to extend your stay, please contact the hotel directly. If you travel further, we wish you a safe journey.

Terms  & Conditions

Price of the Mosaic and Art Retreat 2020
€1600 Euro per participant

What’s Included

  • Transport from and to CT International Airport

  • 6 nights luxury accommodation in double room with golf course views at the Atlantic Beach Estate Lodge including continental breakfast

  • Drinks and tapas on Sunday afternoon at the studio/house

  • Drinks and canapés on Friday afternoon next to the pool at the studio/house

  • Lunches at the studio, take away lunches and wine tastings. Entrance fees.

  • All tours mentioned in the itinerary

  • Mosaic course and most materials

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare tickets to and from Cape Town
  • Dinners in the evening (except from Sunday).  Local dinners are mostly inexpensive, between R100 and 200. Wine is around R40 for a generous glass.

More Images here!

About Karla  

Karla Duterloo is an award winning artist with years of experience in the field of moshttps://static.wixstatic.com/media/ce3446_aaf8f49442294898a8019b91bfa0844f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_276,h_275,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/IMG_0009.webpaic. Her expertise as a mosaic artist has allowed her t o develop a truly authentic and unique style. This is particularly recognisable in her series of Nguni and other wild animal heads (buck, kudu, deer and buffalo). She has sold her animal heads to both local and international art collectors from over 20 different countries. Beyond the obvious beauty of each individual animal head (as not one is the same) there lies a deeper value within the collection as a whole.

Upon moving to South Africa Karla quickly realised the threat to the countries dwindling wildlife numbers. Her collection of animal heads serves as a vehicle to spark dialogue about this issue. Keeping the work connected to the land she incorporates a variety of locally sourced items such as different beads and beadwork seen throughout the collection. This led her to collaborate with local crafts men who shared their insight about traditional colours and the history of beading within African culture and craft.

The driving force behind Karla’s work is her love and passion for all things colour. She has a series of small 20 by 20 (cm) mosaics that play with colour and form. Beyond mosaic, she is also a skilled abstract painter and as of recently has been experimenting with a body of work that seamlessly merges the artistry of mosaic and abstract painting together as a cohesive whole. Her latest is a series of beadwork mosaics of bird-eye-view seascapes.

As an artist, she is constantly striving for that innovative edge that keeps her art modern, relevant and dynamic whilst always staying true to her own style.

​Karla initiated and organised 2 successful global Mosaic Charity Projects,  (London 2012 and Nepal 2013)  and has been working on a Charity Mosaic Art Project in a children hospital in Cape Town.

Karla her work is featured in the various international mosaic books. Previous exhibitions in the UK, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy and South Africa. Her work is held in private and corporate collections in over 20 countries.

For More Information or To Register:

Contact Karla!

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Mixed Media Mosaics on Cape Cod

2 Mar

Mixed Media Mosaics on Cape Cod with Amy Marks
September 29 – October 2
, 2017
Workshop Fees: 2-Day Workshop, $240 
(includes materials)
Housing Fee: 2 nights: $110, 3 nights: $160

Enjoy the beauty of Cape Cod in the company of other mosaic artists.

In the 2-day mixed media workshop, we’ll create either an 8” x 10″ wall hanging or a 10” x 10″ mirror. You’ll learn how to create your own tesserae with polymer clay using a variety of techniques including stamping, painting, and gold leafing. You’ll also learn how to embellish glass tiles, transfer images onto clay, and mosaic with beads.  You’ll combine all three media into an abstract mosaic that is not grouted. This class is open to students at all levels.

 

Accommodations
Accommodations will be at The House on Koi Pond, featuring two bedrooms with queen beds, one with 2 twin beds and second floor bedroom with small bed. This delightful cottage has 2.5 bathrooms, a fully stocked kitchen, dining area and living room. The workshop will be held in the beautiful all-season enclosed deck overlooking 1.5 beautifully landscaped acres. We’ll be near Nauset Light Beach, part of the Cape Cod National Sea Shore, and right on the Cape Cod Bike Trail which goes all the way to Provincetown. More information on Koi Pond House here.

Friday, September 29, 2017  (Tour Day)
After check in at the House on Koi Pond, we’ll visit the Cultural Center of Cape Cod in South Yarmouth, MA to see the New England Mosaic Society’s Member Exhibition. Then, onto the Church of the Transfiguration in Orleans to view Byzantine-style mosaics made in the studio of Alessandra Caprara in Ravenna, Italy. Weather permitting, we’ll take a walk at Nauset Light Beach, part of the National Seashore and end the day with a mouth-watering seafood dinner at one of the Cape’s wonderful restaurants.

Saturday, September 30, 2017
We’re two steps from the Cape Code Bike Trail. Start the day with a bike ride or walk on the trail followed by breakfast. The workshop begins at 9 and ends at 4:30 with Happy Hour on the deck. There is an hour for lunch (or you can keep working!) when you can enjoy the beautifully yard, take a walk, relax by Koi Pond, listen to a waterfall or get to know other mosaic artists. We can all go out to dinner or you can have dinner in and continue working on your project during open studio time.

Sunday, October 1, 2017
We’ll follow the same schedule as Saturday, but will break around 4:00 for a “Show and Tell” where workshop participants will show others what they’ve done and share what they’ve learned. For those staying Sunday evening, a dinner excursion is available, as well as extended mosaic time.

Monday, October 2, 2017
We say good-bye to the each other and the House on Koi Pond, but not before a final bike ride or walk on the Cape Cod Bike Trail. On your way home, take a leisurely trip back along scenic route 6A with stops at galleries. In Sandwich, visit the Sandwich Glass Museum and see a live demo of glass making, as well as see samples of glass made from the 1800s to today.

Housing Costs: 2 nights: $110, 3 nights: $160. 
Note: If needed, additional accommodations will be provided at a nearby timeshare if space is available.

Not Included


Food, tours, entrance fees and transportation are not covered. I encourage everyone to bring food so we can pool for breakfasts, lunches and snacks. That way we can enjoy our surroundings and keep costs to a minimum.

Fine Print

If we do not get 4 registrants for the workshop, the workshop will be cancelled and you will get a 100% refund. If you cancel within 30 days of the retreat, you will be charged a $20 administrative fee, which will be taken from your deposit.

About the Instructor: Amy Marks creates textural, mixed media mosaics with a rich color palette. She currently serves as President of the New England Mosaic Society.

For More Information or To Register: Contact Amy @ amyloumarks@gmail.com.

 

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Spring in Todos Santos with Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art

28 Dec

Spring in Todos Santos, Mexico
with Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art
April 2 – 8, 2017 OR
April 9 -15, 2017
$1,699.00, Double Occupancy

Imagine creating art with spectacular ocean views to inspire you, beautiful gardens and pools to relax you, and a personal chef to prepare gourmet meals to sustain you. This is just the beginning of the Todos Santos mosaic art retreat.

Todos Santos with Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art

Todos Santos with Santa Barbara School of Mosaic ArtYou’ll spend one full week creating mosaic art in one of the most creative and peaceful settings on the Baja Peninsula, the pueblo magico of Todos Santos. Accommodations for this retreat will be at the beautiful boutique hotel, Los Colibris Casitas. Los Colibris has 8 wonderfully inviting casitas, each with comfortable beds, great bathrooms and private patios from which you can enjoy the amazing scenery and ocean views. The infinity pool and hot tub are great for star gazing and observing the humpback and grey whales that are often visitors at certain times of year.

These workshops are created with the beginner in mind.  We just ask that you come with a creative spirit and fun positive energy!

At this retreat students will learn how to create a mosaic with Mexican smalti, the vibrant and wonderful glass tiles from Cuernavaca Mexico.  Participants will learn how to create a design or abstract.  We’ll then move on to deciding color choices, how to lay out the design, proper cutting techniques and proper adhesion.

Todos Santos is an artist colony on the Tropic of Cancer, just one hour north of Cabo San Lucas, but an entire world away. Nestled next to 70 miles of pristine, undeveloped beach, Todos Santos is famous for the remarkable quality of its light, which drew the first American artists from Taos in the 1980s. Since then, artists of all stripes and nationalities have populated the town, which is a charming reflection of their passions with wonderful restaurants, art galleries, and shops. The people of Todos Santos are warm and welcoming, and love sharing the pleasures of their hometown with visitors. The beaches of nearby Pescadero and Cerritos are added bonuses.

Retreat Price:  $1,699.00 (based on double occupancy).

Included:

  • Airport transfer on arrival and departure (within time frames)Todos Santos with Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art
  • 6 nights lodging at Los Colibris
  • Sunday evening welcome dinner and reception
  • 5 full breakfasts & 5 lunches  by local Chef Iker
  • Last night cooking class and dinner with Chef Iker
  • Refreshing agua fresca throughout the work day
  • Evening transportation into town
  • Partial materials for mosaic piece

Instruction: 5 days from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.  More work time will be available if desired.

Todos Santos with Santa Barbara School of Mosaic ArtYou’ll have plenty of free time to explore Todos Santos and its surrounding areas. Popular activities include hiking, beach walks, whale watching, gallery strolls, and shopping. There will also be excursion options that can be booked through Todos Santos Eco Adventures if you choose to extend your stay. Massage and yoga are offered at Los Colibris (Los Colibris’ yoga deck sits at the highest point of the property on the tropic of cancer, and has one of the most amazing views of the Pacific). Room selections will be made in order of full payments received. Here are a few websites to check out: Los Colibris Hotel, Todos Santos Eco Adventures, Todos Santos Eco Adventures Facebook, and Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art.

For More Information or to Register: Read more here. Email Tami here or call 805.703.4291.

About Tami:

Mosaics in MexicoI’m a professional mosaic artist and teacher. I’ve been creating art all my life, and mosaic art for almost 20 years. In 2009 I started the Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art based on my love for mosaic art and desire to share my passion with other creative people.

I’ve vacationed in Todos Santos several times in the past four years and have stayed at Los Colibris each trip.  I love the rustic and quaint feeling of Todos Santos, and Los Colibris is the perfect location for the accommodations and creating a wonderful environment for this mosaic retreat.

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Create Your Own Mosaic Workshop in Mexico with Carol Shelkin

9 Oct

Create Your Own Mosaic Workshop in Mexico with Carol Shelkin
February 5 – 11, 2017
February 12 – 18, 2017   FULL
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
$1850 per person, Double Occupancy

This workshop encourages you to experience and use stained glass, tempered glass, smalti, tile, air-dry clay or any material of your choosing to create a realistic or abstract design. All levels are welcome, from Beginner to Advanced students.

Carol Shelkin WorkshopSome Options Include:
Option 1: Mosaic in a painterly fashion and understanding realism in mosaic art with stained glass or tiles.
Option 2: Tempered Glass: Creating an abstract design with the layering technique using mementos and other embellishments like: clay pieces, jewelry, stained glass foil papers, glitter etc.
Option 3: Working with Clay tiles in Mosaic: Work with NEW and exciting air-dry clay to create tiles for embedding in your mosaic design.
Option 4: BRING WHAT YOU WANT!

There will be lessons on shading, color, balance and understanding how to apply these materials and techniques to any mosaic style.

Hacienda MosaicoMosaic is unique to all students and my goal is to help each student ONE-TO-ONE and in an optional collaborative environment develop and find their own techniques, styles and voice. There will be professional artist tricks taught. Other subjects will include: composition, presenting artwork to gallery owners, exhibitions, building a resume, pricing, shipping, framing – or not framing, photographing your mosaic art and much more. During this week: bring questions! We will have time for lots of one-to-one instruction. No questions will go unanswered!

Whether you want to try something new, jump start your creative side, or take your work to the next level, it will be a most inspiring week full of art in the tropics!

All participants will be contacted by Carol in advance to be sure you have a list of supplies.

The beach is within walking distance along with two cafes one block away for mini snacks, dinner options and my favorite: fresh fruit smoothies!

Carol Shelkin WorkshopPlease Bring:
  • Any materials, substrates & tools to work with
  • Sturdy bag to transport mosaic home
  • One of each: pen, pencil, colored pencil (blue, red or green) and 10 toothpicks
  • 2 regular Sharpie markers (black, regular & fine point)
  • Safety Glasses
  • Smart phone or camera – used as a tool
  • Push tool: toothpicks
  • Small tabletop lamp, such as an Ott Lamp

Summary:

  • Retreat Price: $1,850.00 (based on double occupancy).
  • Lodging: 6 nights & 7 days
  • Mosaic Art Instruction: 5 days (unless you come for TWO WEEKS, then 10 DAYS!)
  • Unlimited Open Studio: 24/7
  • Two Optional trips to Sayulita & Art Walk Downtown Puerto Vallarta
  • Meals Included by the Hacienda’s Personal chef: Sunday evening Welcome Carol Shelkin WorkshopReception, 6 full breakfasts & 5 lunches (more like dinner) served poolside in a tropical setting and a Saturday departure breakfast
  • Students must bring their own tools and Supplies. Carol will contact you for a helpful material list, and packing instructions will be provided after registration.
  • Free time: Anytime!

About the Instructor: Carol Shelkin, with studios just outside of Philadelphia, is a Carol Shelkin Workshopprofessional artist with over 25 years teaching experience. She attended PA Academy of the Fine Arts, USA, and Scuola Nazionale del Mosaico Restauro in Ravenna, Italy. She has shown her work both nationally and internationally in juried shows and galleries with her mosaic artwork  found in public installations and private collections. She has been invited to be a Presenter and Instructor at the Mosaic Association of Australia and New Zealand (MAANZ) Summit, the Society of American Mosaic Artists’ yearly conference, and also offers workshops in Costa Rica, Canada, Spain, Morocco, Australia, Italy, Mexico and throughout the USA. Carol is a founding member and President of the Mosaic Society of Philadelphia, a member of the Society of American Mosaic Artists and a juried member of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen.

Visit Carol’s website here. Contact Carol here.

TO REGISTER:

Contact Sam at Hacienda Mosaico. A $500 deposit is required for registration. More about Hacienda Mosaico here.

Trip insurance is strongly advised.

Travel Insurance 101: How to Protect Your Vacation
This “plain language” tutorial will explain travel insurance so you can
easily find the right plan.

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Exterior Installations in Mexico with Bonnie Fitzgerald

1 Aug

Architectural Installations, Exterior Mosaics & Community Projects with Bonnie Hacienda Yucca CropBonnie Fitzgerald
January 15 -20, 2017
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
$1,875 Per Person, Double Occupancy

This is Bonnie Fitzgerald and Maverick Mosaics’ 5th trip to the Hacienda. We’re honored and very excited to be invited back to teach at the amazing educational environment that is Hacienda Mosaico.

Mosaics in MexicoThe primary focus of this workshop is exterior and large-scale mosaics and installations. For new students, this is the perfect opportunity to learn all about large-scale installations and community mosaic projects. Our workshop will guide you through the process of designing, fabricating and installing large-scale permanent mosaics for exterior or interior architectural settings. Each student will create several “studies” using various indirect mosaic techniques and a wide variety of materials. These exercise studies are invaluable, offering students’ time to explore materials and techniques that work best for projects they have in mind. Students are welcome to take their studies home for future reference. Additionally, you will gain experience in collaborative design, fabrication, and installation as a group by creating an architectural mosaic as a gift to the Hacienda.

Mosaics in Mexico

Mosaics in MexicoAlternate Focus: All students are welcome to create their own workshop and work on personal projects of any scale. Instructor will work with students one-on-one in advance to ensure you arrive at the Hacienda with appropriate materials. If you wish to create a personal mosaic to take home, you must submit a design concept to instructor in advance so materials can be sourced. Students are responsible for bringing their materials and the appropriate hand tools to cut their selected tesserae (mosaic pieces). Workshop includes a host of valuable hand-out materials and resource information.

All skill levels are welcome. Mosaic experience is helpful but not necessary.

Mosaics in MexicoA comprehensive presentation and lecture will cover creative and technical approaches best suited for community work. When many hands are involved there is magic to the art created, but there are lots of important planning steps to be considered. We will review the process of budgeting and bidding jobs, and share ideas for developing projects, recruiting and managing volunteers, and ways to gain the support of your local community. Students interested in exploring techniques to create a community based project will participate in a series of exercises to help master the appropriate method for their future projects. Materials list & instructions on packing will be sent after registration.

Mosaics in MexicoFor our gift mural to the Hacienda we’ll create a mosaic work in mixed materials and install the piece on Hacienda property using thin-set mortar. Everyone will gain valuable experience by participating in this hands-on exercise. In 2016 we created “Three Amigos” which are installed poolside to serenade you during meals!

Students are invited to a Hacienda welcome reception on Sunday evening, January 15. During our week together there will be tons of learning and lots of free time to explore Puerto Vallarta, shop or relax. After dinner each evening we offer optional instructor-supervised open studio. Students depart Saturday, January 21.

2017 Workshop Fee: $1,875

Included
Welcome Reception
6 Nights Lodging
5 Days of Instruction
5 Breakfasts & Lunches on Workshop Days Served Poolside
Unlimited Studio Use 24/7
Saturday Departure Brunch
Instructor will provide appropriate adhesives and a wide variety of mosaic materials; students are asked to contribute a small amount of materials for exercises and must bring their own mosaic hand tools.

To Register
A $500 deposit is required to reserve your spot. Maverick Mosaics is accepting payment for this workshop, via credit card, bank wire or check. A 3% discount is extended for cash or check payment. Contact instructor for details.

Please consider Trip Insurance

Mosaics in MexicoAbout the Instructor
Bonnie Fitzgerald is an artist, educator and author. As a past Executive Board Member of the Society of American Mosaic Artists (SAMA), Bonnie has long been instrumental in raising awareness of mosaic as an art form throughout the United States. Bonnie teaches workshops throughout North America, including the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC, and leads study tours to destinations in Europe. She is the author of Guide to Mosaic Techniques (2015) and 300+ Mosaic Tips, Techniques, Templates and Trade Secrets (2012), which have been translated into 5 languages. To learn more, visit maverickmosaics.com and bonniefitzgeraldart.com.

Take a Look!
To “see” the Hacienda experience have a look at the video from our 2013 trip.

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Ravenna Workshop in October 2015

5 Aug

Ravenna Mosaic Holiday with SISAM School of Mosaics
October 8 – 22, 2015
£1875.00

Ooh look! A wonderful opportunity to visit Ravenna for the start of the Mosaic Biennale, while also attending the distinguished SISAM School of Mosaics for a 9 day course in Roman-Byzantine mosaics, using the traditional methods. The course will run in the mornings from 9:00 to 1:30.  Afternoons and evenings will be free for you to visit the various activities of the Biennale, or just to have some quiet time at the nature reserve or on the beach nearby. We will also be visiting Faenza for one day, where there is a wonderful ceramics museum and many small ceramic workshops around the town. 

Mosaic Art RetreatsRavenna has played an important role in history. It prospered in Roman times, was the capital of the Ostrogothic Kingdom of Italy, and later the capital of the Byzantine Empire in Italy. During these periods of greatness many monuments were built with lavish mosaic decorations. Of the many churches and mausoleums, eight are World Heritage Sites. During your stay in Ravenna you will have time to explore this vast array of churches and fabulous mosaics. But there will also be many other exhibitions of modern mosaics celebrated in the Mosaic Biennale. This starts on October 10 with a grand opening night – Il Notte d’Oro (the Night of Gold), which will continue into the early hours of the morning!

ACCOMMODATIONS
Accommodation with be in La Tavernetta hotel in Marina Romea, set in a nature reserve. Ideally situated, the hotel is an easy two minute walk from SISAM mosaic school, and a five minute walk to the sea and beach. A local bus runs to Ravenna town, which is about 15 minutes away.

WORKSHOP
SISAM has been running courses in Roman-Byzantine mosaics and frescoes since 2001. Mosaic Art RetreatsOur course has been designed for people who have some knowledge of mosaics, to make two small (approx 30×30 cms) mosaic works. The first will be a copy of a fragment of a particular Ravenna mosaic, and the second will be a contemporary mosaic of your choice. Participants are encouraged to bring photos or drawings of their intended design with them.

Students will learn to use a hammer and hardie, along with the traditional methods using lime and paste, as used in the making of the historical mosaics of Ravenna.

Stones such as limestone, marble, brick, etc. are provided free, but students will be asked to pay for the paste used and any coloured smalti as well as all silver and gold pieces.  

INCLUDED (British Sterling Pounds £1875)

  • Half-board accommodation at   La Tavernetta hotel.

  • Nine 4.5 hour workshops at SISAM School of Mosaic, studying Roman-Byzantine traditional methods (some materials included).

  • Guided tour of the monuments in Ravenna.

  • One day excursion to Faenza and the ceramics museum.

  • Final farewell meal in the medieval village of Brisighella.

  • 24 bus tickets for Ravenna

  • Transfers to and from Bologna airport.

 NOT INCLUDED

  • Flights to and from Bologna airport.

  • Glass, silver and gold smalti and mosaic paste.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?
For additional detail, click here. To request more information on this holiday, or to book your space, please phone Linda at 07738707007 or send an email to Linda@ArtHolidaysAbroad.com.

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Flora + Fauna of Costa Rica with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode

28 May

Flora + Fauna in Costa Rica with Carol Shelkin and Pam Goode
January 9 – 17, 2016
San Ramon Area, Costa Rica
$1960 per person, Double Occupancy; $2360 Single Occupancy

Resident Sloth, Carlita
Heliconia
Workshop Visitor
Mosaic Workshop

Farm Trail, © Pam Goode

“Up at 5:45, and I’ve already missed the sunrise. I go to breakfast early to do some writing, and all nine of us are already there, ready to take on the day. We scarf down eggs cooked with tomato, beans and rice, half-dollar-sized cornmeal cakes, rustic bread, buffalo cheese (fabulous), buffalo yogurt, and carambola (starfruit) jam. As soon as I finish, I miss the tastes. By 9:00 we’re gathered for our tour of the organic farm, and before we hit the path, our guide Ishmael has already shown us a tree full of toucans (yesterday a flock of parakeets flew overhead); jackfruit, which can weight up to 75 pounds and often hangs bulbously and pimpled in an unseamly flop between forks in the tree; and the fruit of the Lipstick tree, a beautifully freakish hairy and crimson pod used to color lipsticks, cheddar cheese, fingers (oops) and cheetos. Just beyond, Ishmael moves beneath a large bush, reaches both hands overhead to grasp an oblong yellow fruit, and begins twisting it on the stem until it snaps. About a foot long, this is cacao, the mother of chocolate. Smashed once against a trunk, the pod opens to reveal a white slime, which we’re encouraged to taste, and it is deliciously sweet/tart with the faintest hint of bitter chocolate. Later Ishmael hands us the halves of several nerf-ball-sized green orbs with fleshy spikes, with a thicker white goo-ish interior. This is anonas, or custard apple, also known as ice cream fruit, and the most sublime mouthful I’ve ever tasted. I eat more than my share, scooping out the custard with my fingers and licking it up eagerly.” ~ Pam Goode, Costa Rica Retreat, 2013

Mosaic Workshops

Firing Up the Pizza Oven, © Pam Goode

Mosaic Workshop Costa Rica

Baby Ocelot

Costa Rica, how we’ve missed you! Our 2016 retreat will combine onsite organic farm and rainforest tours, an adventure or two (think water safaris, hot springs, butterfly gardens, lava hikes), and a possible community outreach project in a neighboring village. Accommodations will be at glorious Finca Luna Nueva (New Moon Farm), a sustainable rainforest ecolodge and certified organic biodynamic farm with single or double lodge and cabin accommodations (triples and quads also available), fabulous organic food grown and prepared onsite, panoramic open-air workspace, wifi, ionized pool, jacuzzi, and spa. Optional activities at an extra cost include guided Arenal Volcano Lava Hike, Butterfly Garden or Cloud Forest Tours, Zipline Canopy Tour, Rafting, or Hanging Bridge Canopy Tour. And surprise! There’s a new baby ocelot wandering around 🙂

INCLUDED

Mosaic Workshops

  • Transfer from Juan Santamaria Airport in San Jose to the Lodge and Return Transfer
  • Eight Nights Accommodation (rooms will be assigned in the order received)
  • Seven Breakfasts, Seven Lunches, Seven Dinners
  • One Guided Farm Tour
  • One Guided Rainforest Tour
  • 5-Day Mosaic Workshop and Open Studio Time
  • Access to the Secondary Rainforest and Primary Rainforest

 

 

Mosaic Workshops

Open Air Work Space

NOT INCLUDED

  • Airfare To and From Costa Rica
  • Optional Tours and Activities
  • Transportation for Optional Tours or Local Transportation (Arrangements Provided)
  • Offsite Meals
  • Trip Insurance (Recommended)
  • Gratuities
  • Departure Tax of $29
  • Alcohol, If Available

Mosaic WorkshopsAVAILABLE OUTINGS

  • Optional activities at an extra cost include guided Arenal Volcano Lava Hike, lunches and dinners in town, Butterfly Garden or Cloud Forest Tours, Zipline Canopy Tour, Rafting, or Hanging Bridge Canopy Tour.
  • One Day will be set aside for on-your-own adventures. We will choose as a group, but additional free time during the week is always an option.
Mosaic Workshops

Birds at Rest, Penas Blancas, CR, © Pam Goode

“The river is magnificent. The banks are almost vertical for twelve feet in many places, and covered with ferns and far too many tree species to taken in, several easily 200 feet. The occasional bamboo stand seems to have been caught in a cyclone, with every trunk twisted counterclockwise from the ground up into one reedy giantess, her broad stride twisting to a skinny waist and then flayed out against the sky again. We see a large family of howler monkeys noisily leaping through the trees, and a pair of white-faced capuchins, a fairly rare sighting here according to our guide. A snowy egret on the bank holds a flash of silvery fish at the tip of his beak, his black legs and bright yellow toes a vibrant contrast to his starkly white curl of a body. I anticipate that, like me, most of the wildlife will choose to shelter deep in the trees until the rains pass, but when we spy flocks of birds, they’re almost always outlined against the clouds on leafless branches, one breed with fabulously outstretched wings at rest, as if ready to take off and soar when they hear the call. I think I have a new animal spirit.” ~ Pamela Goode, Costa Rica Retreat 2013

NEED TO KNOW

  • Retreat has a minimum of 6  and a maximum of 10. Please reserve early, but don’t make flight reservations until notified that we’ve met the minimum.
  • Participants will bring their own materials; details to follow. Packing Tips here.
  • Photos from our 2013 Retreat are here.

GOOD TO KNOW

  • Temperatures  for January average High 73, Low 59, with .4″ of Rain
  • Central Standard Time
  • Mosaic Workshops

    Volcano and Valley View, Observation Tower, Finca Luna Nueva, © Pam Goode

    Latitude: 10° North of the equator, with equal hours of light and darkness

  • Currency: US dollars are accepted pretty much everywhere, including tips
  • Electricity: 110, with standard US plugs
  • Fast Facts: Literacy rate 96.3%; Military abolished in 1948
  • Costa Rica is among the countries with the highest amount of protected land in the world; 25% of the nation is dedicated to park systems, reserves, or natural wildlife areas
  • Bridging the northern and southern most points of the two American contents, Costa Rica is the meeting point for a variety of cultures and a density of plant and animal species said to be unlike any other country in the world
  • Approximately 850 bird species, 9000 plant species, 34,000 insect species, 205 mammalian species, 220 reptilian species, and 160 amphibian species

ABOUT THE LEADERSCarol Shelkin Workshops

  • Read more about Carol Shelkin here. Contact Carol here.
  • Read more about Pam Goode here. Contact Pam here.

ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATIONS

  • Read more about Finca Luna Nueva here.

TO REGISTER

Contact Pam here for a reservation form.

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Postcards Home, Small Mosaics with Pam Goode in Italy

20 May

Postcards Home, Small Mosaics with Pam Goode in Orvieto, Italy
May 22 – 28, 2016
$3,100, Double Occupancy

Mosaic Art Retreat

Morning in Orvieto, © Pam Goode

What’s better than a weeklong mosaic studio session in Italy? (I know, right?!) A week of mosaic sessions interspersed with vineyard visits, wine and olive oil tastings, an archaeological tour of ancient mosaics, Etruscan caves, a visit to the Duomo and her dazzling gold mosaics, and a cooking class? Yes!

In May I’ll be returning to heartbreakingly beautiful Orvieto, a hilltop village in Umbria built atop a warren of caves from the Etruscan era (800 – 400 BC). The pedestrian streets are cobbled and lined with artisans and cafes, iron lanterns and bountiful markets, with valley views never more than a stroll away.

Garden Benches, © Pam Goode
Valley View, © Pam Goode
Convent Garden, © Pam Goode

ACCOMMODATIONS

We’ll stay in the Institute San Ludovico Convent (pictured above), circa 300 – 400BC, which hugs the town wall presenting lovely views. Each room has its own bath. A library and beautiful gardens are available for us, as well as a colonnaded portico for lunches, sketching, or butterfly watching. Single, Double, and Twin rooms are available. Daily breakfast and some lunches are included. Photos of accommodations are here.

Cypress Trees in Orvieto, © Pam Goode
Cypress (After Van Gogh), © Pam Goode
Sunflowers in Italy, © Pam Goode
Workshop with Terrace

WORKSHOP

Our theme will be Postcards Home, small mosaics that will capture a detail of our travels, helping us reconnect to moments of discovery long after we return home. Some tools and materials will be provided, and a materials list will be included upon registration. Subjects and styles are up to you, though I’ll have some samples and designs available for use, as well as a bit of poetic inspiration. Alternately, you’re welcome to use this time as an Open Studio for your own projects; I’ll be available for consultation and/or assistance. Workshops and guided studio time will be morning or afternoon with cultural tours and free time rounding out the day. The studio will be open from early morning until late evening, and you’re welcome to work on your own before or after sessions. All levels, from never-touched-a-piece-of-glass to advanced, are welcome.

Orvieto Winery, © Pam Goode
Cooking Class, © Pam Goode
Christian Era Mosaics, Pam Goode
Wines Caves, © Pam Goode

CULTURAL TOURS

Learn how wine is made and what to look for in olive oils, savor local cheeses, whip yourself up some wild boar alla pappardelle, grab a rare view of a preserved Christian-era mosaic floor set a story beneath the current church, and sample a few of Italy’s finest wines. Now that’s what I call relaxing after a grueling day in the studio!

Medieval Section, © Pam Goode
Over the Walls, © Pam Goode
Orvieto Shop, © Pam Goode
Market Onions, © Pam Goode
Mosaic Columns, © Pam Goode
Orvieto Duomo, © Pam Goode
Bakery Pizzas, © Pam Goode
Dinner Together, © Ashley Hayward
Cafe, © Pam Goode

A WALK AROUND TOWN

There’s nothing quite like rounding a corner and getting that first In-Your-Face view of the Duomo, a 14th century Roman Catholic cathedral lined with gold mosaic (more here). Then again, there’s nothing quite like walking down to the village market early in the morning and ogling the artichokes for taste (and art) possibilities, then settling into the best morning cappuccino. Or sharing a simple and impossibly fresh just-picked/just-cooked meal with friends. Or wandering the narrow streets of the medieval section, where you can feel the life and stories resonating from each stone. Grabbing a handful of fresh flowers for your room and an Orvieto-made pottery pretty to stash them in. Clean, exhaust-free air and a quiet sun-bath on the ancient undulating walls of the town. Take me now! Click on the first photo above for a slideshow.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Mosaic Workshops ItalyPam Goode is a mosaic artist based in Charlotte, North Carolina. As a creator of fine and functional art, installations, and community projects, she works with a variety of materials, including Italian and Mexican handmade glass, stained glass, porcelain, stone, and found objects. Known for her sense of whimsy and color, Pam’s mosaics transcend the subject at hand and go straight for the heart. “My goal is to bring a sense of joy, wonder, or peace to viewers. It isn’t enough for me to create a mosaic; I need to create a mosaic that sings, that resonates.” Her work has been selected for inclusion in Mosaic Arts International four times, and has appeared twice in Mosaic Art Now, a publication featuring mosaic art across the globe. With Lin Schorr as designer, she served as project manager for Unfurled, a collaborative installation featuring the work of 52 international artists.

Immersed in mosaics since 1999, Pam founded Ciel Gallery in 2008 in an effort to provide exhibition opportunities for mosaic artists across the globe. Now an art collective focusing on local artists working in every medium, Ciel continues to present juried exhibitions, classes, and special events.

An avid traveler, Pam is most inspired by being in unfamiliar surroundings where every sight, every thought, is new. “I see everything differently — feel everything differently — and the ability to communicate my own transformation though art thrills me.” In 2012 Pam founded Mosaic Art Retreats, offering international art tours and workshops. Pam has also been selected for an artist’s residency in Ireland for June, 2016.

Website. Contact.

ABOUT ADVENTURES IN ITALY

Adventures in Italy is the labor of love created by Kristin and Bill Steiner. They are Hosts Supreme, sharing joy and knowledge and comfort. You couldn’t be in better hands, and you will love them 🙂  Learn more here.

REGISTRATION

To register or for more information, please look here.

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Make Your Own Workshop in Bermuda with Carol Shelkin

19 May

Make Your Own Workshop in Bermuda with Carol Shelkin
November 1 – 8, 2015
Mosaic Art Classes: Monday – Friday
$2,260.00 Per Person, Double Occupancy

Mosaic Art RetreatsIn the mood to spark and rejuvenate your artistic juices or just enjoy an art vacation with a small like-minded group? This workshop is for the inquisitive beginner AND the advanced professional or anyone wishing to expand their artistic and creative potential in paradise.

Mosaic Art RetreatsCarol Shelkin, Instructor, and Donna Smith, your Host in Bermuda, invite you to this beautiful island located off the coast of North Carolina in the Atlantic. Bermuda is known for its British-influenced traditions, from afternoon tea to cricket matches. Put Bermuda on your radar if you’re looking for a warm weather, arts-focused getaway with time to create in a seaside setting. Donna welcomes you to Bermuda, her island home and to Herchalat, an old Bermudian Cottage carved into the hillside in the historic town of St. George, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll have our workshop nestled in this cottage for the week.

Mosaic Art RetreatsCan you see yourself meandering the streets of old towne after the daily workshop, enjoying ocean breezes and harbor views? Picturesque Tobacco Bay and St. Catherine’s Beach are within walking distance of our location for this weeklong mosaic workshop. After class, kick back and relax on the property or explore the island and its culture.

Breakfasts and lunches are included in this retreat, along with airport transportation and a Welcome Reception. You’ll have five full days of mosaic immersion creating a piece of your choosing, as well as two optional excursions, just for fun! Carol will contact you to chat about what you’d like to work on for the week.

Mosaic Art RetreatsAs you fly into Bermuda, you’ll see the crystal blue waters, and if you explore once landed, you’ll see the coral reef plateau that surrounds the island. Bermuda will captivate your senses and be your muse with its picturesque cliffs, coves, pink-pillowy sand beaches, snorkeling, British charm, Island soul, tea cafés and a laid Mosaic Art Retreatsback culture.

With Bermuda’s intoxicating sunshine, we offer a very distinctive mosaic art retreat that will give you the opportunity to create in paradise. We also invite those with less experience in the arts; you’ll be provided with patient, professional art guidance to kick-start your artistic journey.

Mosaic Art RetreatsWORKSHOP DETAILS: No Materials Fee; bring whatever you’d like to work on or have Carol help you choose. Class is limited to 10 students. Adults (18 years and above) only. No experience necessary.

Included:

  • 8 days, 7 nights double-occupancy lodging (single supplement extra)
  • Airport Transfers
  • Sunday Evening Artists’ Welcome Reception
  • Breakfast and Lunch 6 Days (special dietary needs welcome)
  • Bus and Ferry Pass
  • Five-day Mosaic Workshop: Bring what you like to work on!
  • Open Studio Time
  • Private Tour: Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art
  • NOTE: No refund for skipped activities

Not Included:

  • Optional Add-On Excursions
  • Airfare
  • Additional Meals such as Dinners Not Noted Above
  • Personal Expenses
  • Alcohol
  • Travel Insurance (Advised) (More information here)

Optional Activities at Your Own Cost:

  • Sailing Cruise
  • Gallery Art Tour
  • Island Tour
  • Bike, Paddle Board, Kayak, Jet Ski Rentals available in St. George
  • Snorkel Equipment Rental
  • Crystal and Fantasy Caves
  • Walking Tours of Hamilton, St. George, and Spittal Pond Nature Preserve
  • Bermuda Perfumery Tour

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR:

Mosaic Art RetreatsCarol Shelkin, with studios just outside of Philadelphia, is an artist with over 25 years of teaching experience. She attended Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and Scuola del Mosaico, Italy. She shows her work both nationally and internationally with acceptance into juried shows and galleries, and her artwork is also held in private collections. She has been a presenter at the Mosaic Association of Australia and New Zealand and teaches at the Society of American Mosaics Artists’ annual conference. She is a founding member of the Mosaic Society of Philadelphia and President, as well as being a Juried Member, of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen. For more information about Carol, please visit her website.

TO REGISTER:

  • ALL RESERVATIONS REQUIRE a 50% DEPOSIT. Reservations cannot be held without a deposit.
  • Deposits can be made by US Check, Money Order, PayPal or wire transfer.
  • PayPal to: carol.shelkin@yahoo.com (If paying with PayPal, Please include PayPal fee of $8.75)
  • Checks: Carol Shelkin 830 Morgan Avenue Drexel Hill, PA 19026 USA
  • Balance is due 60 days prior to your arrival date.

CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY:

  • All cancellations are subject to a 20% handling fee.
  • Reservations cancelled prior to 90 days, 50% is refundable, less 20% handling fee. Reservations cancelled prior 60 days, 25% is refundable, less 20% handling fee. Reservations cancelled prior 45 days prior to registration, the registration fee paid is non-refundable.
  • Should any workshop/retreat be cancelled the entire amount paid will be refunded within fourteen days. Once this occurs, Carol Shelkin and Donna Smith have no obligations regarding any additional costs or fees related to the issuance and/or cancellation of airline tickets or other travel reservations.
  • Carol Shelkin and Donna Smith accept no liability for any airline penalty incurred by the cancellation of a non-refundable ticket.
  • Carol Shelkin and Donna Smith accept no liability for any canceled flights.

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African Beadwork Mosaics in Cape Town with Karla Duterloo

18 May

African Beadwork Reinvented in Mosaic, with Karla Duterloo
Cape Town, South Africa
November 1 – 7, 2015
€1350

Mosaic Art Retreats

Enjoy a mosaic holiday in Cape Town, South Africa combining a week full of mosaic and some sightseeing in one of the most beautiful cities of the world.

Mosaic Art RetreatsCOURSEWORK:
Our project will be a disk using traditional mosaic and incorporating African beadwork, which gives the work a very local African touch with a strong sense of timelessness. I will show you how to find inspiration for your design, as well as for your choice of mosaic colours. Lots of examples of how to develop a design will be supplied. I’ll teach you all there is to know about cutting and laying of the tiles, the grouting process, incorporating local beads and much more. Handouts are also provided and pictures of your work in process will be taken which we can analyze later on. Disks and all basic mosaic materials will be provided.

LODGING:
Mosaic Art RetreatsParticipants will stay at the Lodge in the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate. Beautiful rooms, continental breakfast included, with a view over the golf course and 50 meter from the Golf Clubhouse which includes a restaurant. The Lodge is very close to the studio.

The estate is about a 10 min walk from a stunning beach and some great restaurants; after a hard day’s work you can enjoy sundowners at the beach and fine dinning in these restaurants.

Mosaic Art RetreatsThere is a beautiful 18 hole golf course at the Estate — the only golf course in the world where the springboks are freely roaming around while you play. There is also a leisure centre, pool, driving range, gym, 2 floodlit tennis courts , and a 5 km walking/running track. A shopping centre is located just outside the Estate.

EXCURSIONS:
Included in the course are two and a half days of excursions: a Stellenbosch Town and Wine lands tour, a Cape Peninsula Scenic tour and a half a day Greenmarket/Watershed Market at the Waterfront tour.

  • In the Cape Peninsula Scenic tour, which will take approximately 10 hours, we visit some of the most stunning places in and around Cape Town: we’ll drive along the beautiful beaches of Clifton, Bantry Bay, Camps Bay to Hout Bay and then drive over the impressive Chapman’s Peak to Cape Point National Park, where you can walk to the most southern part of Africa. On the way back we go to Kalk Bay and have sundowners at the famous 12 Apostle Hotel overlooking the ocean.
  • On the Stelllenbosch Town and Wine lands tour we will see (and taste) beautiful wine farms and visit the quaint town of Stellenbosch, South Africa’s second oldest town.
  • On the Greenmarket and Watershed market at the Waterfront front, we’ll go to local art markets where you can buy additional African beadwork to personalise your mosaic artwork even more. At the Waterfront, South Africa’s most visited venue, you can also do additional shopping in the many beautiful shops and boutiques.

During the course we will offer coffee/tea, biscuits at the break and a very nice lunch for all course-participants.

We promise a creative week with lots of entertainment!

Mosaic Art Retreats

COST: 1350 Euro per participant

INCLUDED:

  • 6 nights accommodation at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate Lodge including breakfast
  • Welcome drinks and tapas on Sunday afternoon (Nov 1) at 4:00 PM
  • 2-1/2 half days mosaic course including all basic materials and the disk
  • 2-1/2 half days excursions
  • Lunches on all mosaic days at the studio
  • Transport to and from nearby restaurants for evening dinners

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Airfare tickets to and from Cape Town
  • Transport to/from Cape Town International Airport to the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate (we can arrange pick up for your own cost)
  • Dinners in the evening
  • Beverages and lunches on excursion days

DETAILS:

  • To run the course we need a minimum of 5 participants
  • To guarantee optimal personal attention the course can have max. 6 participants
  • To confirm your initial place on the course we need to have 50% (675 EURO) of your payment received by August 1
  • If by August 1 we have not received initial payments of the required minimum of 5 participants, the course will be cancelled and your payment will be refunded minus any bank transfer charges
  • Your 2nd payment of respectively: 675 Euro needs to be received by September 1 to ensure your final confirmation as a participant on the course
  • Banking details will be supplied to you via email
  • If we have to cancel the course before September 1 due to insufficient enrollment, payment will be refunded minus any bank charges
  • If you cancel the course after September 1 but before October 1, we will refund 50% of your initial payment minus any bank transfer charges
  • If you cancel your participation after October 1, no refund can be given

ABOUT KARLA:
Mosaic Art RetreatsI am a Dutch award winning mosaic artist and making mosaic on all kind of surfaces : garden sculptures, functional and decorative mosaics, 2D/ 3D mosaics, fine art and bathroom floors. I work with all sorts of different materials which gives my work a unique design and colour application. My work is held in more than 15 different countries around the world, and exhibitions of my work have taken place in various countries, included UK, Europe and South Africa. Read more about Karla here. See more of Karla’s work here.

TO REGISTER:
Read more about the retreat here. For more information and a detailed course program, for you (and your partner) please email Karla here or here.

 

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