Tag Archives: Mosaic Classes Abroad

Wanna Teach? Mosaic Instructor Training in Mexico with Laurel True

18 Jan

Mosaic Instructor Training with Laurel True
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
March 12 – 18, 2017
$2,050

Training for Instructors of Beginning and Intermediate Level Workshops

Workshops with Laurel True“I’m so happy to be returning to Hacienda Mosaico this Spring to teach an exciting new workshop. After training literally thousands of students over the past two and a  half decades, I have decided it’s a great time to offer instruction and  support for current and future mosaic instructors to take out into the  world. Many of my former students have expressed a desire to teach mosaic workshops; others are dipping their toes in and say they would love some guidance and support.

I’ve carefully developed this workshop in order to pass on my knowledge and experience to help educate great teachers.”  ~ Laurel True

Artist Laurel True brings 25 years of experience in mosaic instruction, curriculum development, and business of mosaics to an intensive workshop focusing on teacher training for mosaic artists at Hacienda Mosaico.

This 5-day intensive workshop provides participants with a unique opportunity to learn organization and methodology for running mosaic workshops for beginning and intermediate level students. The curriculum is suitable for both new and experienced educators who would like to refine or add mosaic techniques to their teaching practice.

Laurel will present organizational and marketing strategies, tips on designing workshops for students of various skill levels, and methodology for teaching mosaic techniques effectively using glass, ceramic, and mixed media.

Mosaic Instructor Training with Laurel TrueThe workshop includes hands-on studio time during which workshop participants will be guided in the creation of a set of useful teaching tools to take home, including a set of essential sample boards and visual aids that illustrate materials, techniques, color, pattern, and setting styles (these will be lightweight and easy to pack). Students will also experiment with various sample projects that illustrate how beginning and intermediate skills are developed.

An extensive training manual is included in the workshop fee, as well as sample design patterns and templates for class handouts. Resources will be given for ordering wholesale material, studio supplies, and tools.

Mornings will include discussions around the philosophy of teaching, personal goals and expectations, and group dynamics, as well as addressing joys and fears, aligning one’s teaching practice with core values and how teaching others can greatly contribute to our own well-being.

Students will come away from the workshop with the confidence and knowledge needed to be a great teacher.

Each student will receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the workshop from the Global Mosaic Project.

Additional Topics Covered:

  • Design, timing and structure of mosaic workshops (single and multiple day, ongoing)
  • Organizing information delivery
  • Subject-specific workshops
  • Workshops away from the studio
  • Classroom set-up and safety
  • Syllabi and teaching notes
  • Flow and timing of information delivery
  • Effective demonstration of proper tool use and setting techniques
  • Student relations and keeping workshops on track
  • Tips for pricing and promoting workshops and classes for different markets
  • Budgeting for materials, tools and supplies
  • Formalizing agreements with host venues/teaching spaces
  • Dos and don’ts during the workshop and while teaching
  • Fostering a positive experience for students
  • Images of classroom setups, classes in session, organizations of rooms, and examples of beginner and intermediate student work

Investment Includes:

  • 32 hours over 5 days of seminar-style information presentation and hands-on learning
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Handout templates for beginning and intermediate workshops covering vocabulary, adhesives, materials, tools, substrates, and grouting
  • Extensive resource sheets for wholesale and discount materials
  • Sample syllabuses and organizational structure for 1/2 day, 1 day, 2 day and multi-class ongoing workshops
  • Tools, supplies, and materials checklists needed for teaching and studio set-up
  • Advance copy of Laurel’s upcoming book, Teaching Mosaics: Essential Knowledge for Mosaic Instructors in .pdf format

AND:

  • 6 nights in colorful, inspiring accommodations
  • Healthy and nourishing breakfast and lunch daily

 

Accommodations: Hacienda Mosaico

For More Information or to Reserve Your Space:
Contact Sam @ info@haciendamosaico.com.  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.

About Laurel: Laurel True is an artist, educator and community builder based in New Orleans. She has been creating architectural, public and community-based mosaic art for almost 25 years. Working with ceramic tile, glass, mirror and recycled building materials such as brick, concrete and asphalt, she designs and creates murals and sculptural forms for public, commercial and residential settings, and as street art around the globe. True is the co-founder of the Institute of Mosaic Art in California and has fostered education in the mosaic arts through teaching and lecturing around the world. She has lectured and taught internationally for the past 20 years. True is the Founding Director of The Global Mosaic Project, an organization that creates community-based artwork and provides art education and entrepreneurial training to under-served communities in urban environments and developing areas. She has created and facilitated hundreds of projects over the last two decades, training thousands of project participants, students, apprentices and volunteers in the US, Africa, Europe, Latin America and Haiti. Website: True Mosaics

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!

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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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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Irish at Heart Artisan Tour and Workshop

17 Aug

Irish at Heart Artisan Tour and Workshop
with Jean Cauthen, Laura McRae-Hitchcock, and Pam Goode
Painting, Mosaic, Creative Writing
May 19 – 28, 2017
$2600, Double Occupancy; $3100, Single Occupancy

I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,
And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made;
Nine bean rows will I have there, a hive for the honey bee,
And live alone in the bee loud glade.  ~ William Butler Yeats

Join us for a tour along the wondrously wild Atlantic coast of Ireland as we visit the artisans inspired by this land of rugged natural beauty. We’ll also offer a wide range of classes in painting, mosaic, plein air work, and creative writing, as well as demos by local artists.

Our base will be Listowel in County Kerry, only eight miles from the sea and a thriving town filled with Irish charm, fabulous locally grown food, theatre, art, traditional pubs, scones to die for, parks and a lush riverwalk, castle ruins, and easy access to all parts of a country you can drive across in five hours.

Days will be spent in your choice of a variety of classes, plein air painting sessions, open studio, lecture/demos, and artist visits. Evenings will include a gourmet Irish cooking class, local music, local theatre, pub theatre featuring local writers (and insanely good Guinness), and local cuisine.

Excursions begin with the Cliffs of Moher, a half-day visit to one of the Aran Islands, and a ferry ride for a close-up and personal view of the cliffs and bird life from the water. A mid-week excursion will take us to the atmospheric Dingle Peninsula, with incredible coastline views from Slea Head Drive and visits to several of the local artisans who create here. Along the way we’ll have stops for painting and/or photography and shelling.

Accommodations

Ireland TravelGroup accommodations will be at Listowel Arms Hotel, Town Square. The hotel features double and single rooms with private bath, town or river views, restaurant, bar, sitting areas, and a delightful terrace on the river. The Arms is located one block from our studio space at Olive Stack Gallery; additionally some classes may be held at the hotel. One night may be at the Cliffs on Ballybunion Beach. Lodging for our Ballyvaughan overnight will be at a hotel similar to the Arms.

Workshop Space

In addition to plein air painting in numerous locations around town and beyond, mosaic workshops and Open Studio will be held in the bright and spacious studio at Olive Stack Gallery. Other locations may include the Listowel Arms and personal artist studios. Transportation will be provided if necessary.

Workshop Options by Jean, Laura and Pam

All registrants will be able to participant in any and all workshops of their choosing, time permitting, regardless of medium or instructor. Workshops are still being added, but selections will include:

  • Plein Air Painting (Multiple Options)
  • Studio Painting
  • Building a Pochade Box for Plein Air Painting
  • Photograph Manipulation for Painting or Mosaic
  • Working with Color
  • Mosaic Landscapes
  • Mosaic Techniques
  • Encaustic Demonstration by Olive Stack
  • Painting Demonstration by Jim Dunne
  • Cooking Class
  • Creative/Travel Writing for Journals
  • Quick Sketch
  • Travel Watercolor Journaling
  • Pebble/Sea Glass Jewelry
  • Open Studio

NOTE: Local participants are welcome to register for classes a la carte. Please contact Laura to be added to the mailing list when the schedule is finalized.

Tentative Schedule, Subject to Change

  • Painting in IrelandThursday, May 18: Depart for Ireland, Shannon Airport (SNN)
  • Friday, May 19: Morning Shannon Arrival, group airport pickup at Noon, departure for Cliffs of Moher and overnight in Ballyvaughan
  • Saturday, May 20: Ferry to and morning on Aran Islands, ferry beneath Cliffs of Moher, transfer to Listowel, hotel check-in and dinner (included)
  • Sunday, May 21: Morning and Afternoon workshops of your choice, painting demo and talk by Jim Dunne, local painter and muralist, walking tour of Listowel with local historian, cooking class for half the group, others dinner at Listowel Arms (included)
  • Monday, May 22: Morning and Afternoon workshops or plein air painting, Encaustic demo and talk by Olive Stack, local artist, cooking class for half the group, others dinner at Listowel Arms (included)
  • Tuesday, May 23: Early Departure for Dingle Peninsula, tour, visit artisans, paint, photography, return to Listowel, dinner Listowel Arms (included)
  • Wednesday, May 24: Morning and Afternoon workshops or plein air painting, local discovery excursions, BBQ with Olive Stack (included)
  • Thursday, May 25: Morning and Afternoon workshops or plein air painting, local discovery excursions, dinner on your own, optional event at St. John’s Theatre
  • Friday, May 26: Morning workshop or plein air painting, exhibition set-up, Gallery Exhibition and Reception for group, 6-9:00 Club with locals, Pub Theatre
  • Saturday, May 27: Open Studio and interactive exercises,  farewell lunch catered by Lizzie’s Little Kitchen (included), mid-afternoon departure for Shannon, tour of local ruins and local lore with Damian, dinner on your own, Park Inn Hotel (one-minute walk from Shannon Airport Check-In) (included)
  • Sunday, May 28: Return Flights

Cost: $2600 Per Person, Double Occupancy; $3100 Per Person, Single Occupancy. DISCOUNTS: Payments by check or cash may deduct $75 from the final payment. $100 Discount for those not participating in any classes. $100 Discount for repeat students of Jean Cauthen, Laura McRae-Hitchcock, or Pam Goode. Maximum allowed discount is $175 from total price. Discounts do not apply to local à la carte students.

Included

  • Airport Transfer Both Ways on Dates Shown Only
  • 9 Nights Lodging
  • 4 Dinners, 1 Lunch, 9 Breakfasts
  • All Excursions, Transportation, Admissions Listed
  • All Artist Demos Listed

Not Included

  • Airfare
  • Meals Not Listed Above
  • Alcohol
  • Personal Purchases or Excursions
  • Trip Insurance (Recommended)

What They Say

“I would follow you anywhere.” California. “It was truly one of the top adventures of my life.” Michigan. “This trip has been so far beyond anything I expected.” Anon. “Everything was simply wonderful!  From the perfect location, size and comfort of our apartment to the transportation, to your generous spirits. But I most appreciated the pace of the trip as I never felt rushed or pushed and the free time gave me space to explore alone.  All of my needs were met beyond my expectations. I have already recommended you to someone and will gladly do so over and over again.” Montana

To register or for more information, email Pam. The combined information/fine print/registration form includes payment information, travel insurance suggestions, deadlines, etc. Information on flights, accommodations, and a full list of workshops will be emailed to participants. Registrations will be accepted with 50% payment.

Affiliations: This workshop is part of the Ciel Abroad program at Ciel Gallery, and is also affilitated with Olive Stack Gallery in Listowel, County Kerry.

About the Instructors

Ireland Art WorkshopJean Cauthen grew up in Naples, Italy, New Orleans and the Carolinas, completing her education with an MFA  (Painting and Drawing) at James Madison University in Virginia. Her art career has led her to Moscow, Russia as a set designer, and she regularly returns to Italy (sometimes with students). When not working plein air, she creates large scale paintings in her studio near Charlotte, NC. “My concentration is simple. No matter the subject, my focus is color against color. Shape with shape. Mark to mark. From this, and with care, expression and meaning can emerge.” www.jeancauthen.com

Ireland Art WorkshopLaura McRae-Hitchcock has been painting for over 30 years. She is a partner artist and teacher with Ciel Gallery and recent Artist in Residence at Olive Stack Gallery in Listowel, Ireland. Additionally, she is a 2016 participant in the nationally celebrated ArtPop program and grant recipient from the Arts and Science Council. “I try to get to the heart of the matter….my heart, that is. I’ve given up trying to be perfect, and instead I focus on finding that space where my heart speaks with paint. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, but wow, what a ride it is!”   www.lauramcraehitchcock.com

Ireland Art WorkshopPam Goode is a mosaic artist, writer, founding partner at Ciel Gallery, and founder of Mosaic Art Retreats. An avid traveler, Pam is most inspired by being in unfamiliar surrounds 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.” A lifelong writer, Pam has been creating mosaics for sixteen years, working with a wide variety of materials. “My goal is to bring a sense of joy, wonder, or peace to viewers. I need to create a mosaic that sings, that resonates, that helps you remember who you are and where you want to go with vibrating clarity.” www.pamelagoodemosaics.com

 

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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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Winter in Todos Santos, Mexico with Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art

16 Sep

Winter in Todos Santos, Mexico with Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art
February 3 – 9, 2016 (Wednesday-Tuesday)
$1,699.00 Double Occupancy

Imagine creating mosaic 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.

Mosaic Class Mexico

You will 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. The accommodations for this retreat will be at the beautiful boutique hotel, Los Colibris Casitas. Los Colibris has 6 wonderfully inviting casitas, each with comfortable beds, great clean bathrooms, and private patios to 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 often visit at this time of year.

Mosaics in MexicoDuring this mosaic art retreat each participant will learn the proper techniques for creating a mosaic art mural for vertical surfaces.  These techniques will be achievable and repeatable for anyone that would like to create a backsplash, a shower mosaic or any other vertical mosaic on their own. During this retreat participants will work on mosaic designs that will be installed at the property of the retreat.  Predetermined designs will be selected before leaving for Todos Santos, and each participant Mosaic Workshop Mexicowill have an opportunity to work on different parts of each of the designs.  The group will go through the whole process, including grouting, so that everyone leaves with a complete hands-on experience to repeat on their own if they choose.

We’ll also enjoy some of the most delicious and healthy Mexican food ever — always created with love by Chef Iker.

Mexico Whalewatching

Whale tail from our work tables

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)
6 nights lodging at Los Colibris
Evening welcome reception
5 full breakfasts & 5 lunches pool sideby local chef Iker
Refreshing agua fresca throughout the work day
Evening transportation into town
Last evening cooking class and dinner
Instruction: 5 days from 10a-2p.  More work time will be available if desired.

Baja Peninsula TravelYou will have plenty of free time to explore Todos Santos and its surrounding areas. Popular activities include a mosaic tour and gallery walk, hiking, beach walks, whale watching and shopping. There will also be excursion options that can be booked through Todos Santos Eco Adventures. Massage and yoga are offered at Los Colibris; the 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.

Accommodations

Learn more about Los Los Colibris here. Room selections will be made in order of full payments received.

Baja Peninsula Art WorkshopOther Links

Todos Santos Eco Adventures
Todos Santos Eco Adventures Facebook
Santa Barbara School of Mosaic Art

To Register

Deposit of $850 (1/2) may be made through PayPal (2.5% more will be added to the total using Paypal) or check. Materials, tool list & instructions on packing will be sent after registration. Payment in full must be completed by November 5, 2015.

Cancellation and refund policy:  All cancellations are subject to a 20% handling fee. For reservations canceled less than 90 days before the workshop, 50% is refundable. If canceled less than 60 days before the workshop, 25% is refundable. If canceled less than 45 days before the workshop, fee is non-refundable.  Should the retreat be canceled for any reason the entire amount paid will be refunded within fourteen days after the retreat’s cancellation. Instructors have no obligation regarding any additional costs or fees related to the issuance and/or cancellation of airline tickets or other travel reservations. Instructors and Los Colibris accept no liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable ticket or for canceled flights.  Travel Insurance is recommended.  All workshop participants should consider purchasing Trip Cancellation, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Baggage, Accident and Medical insurance from a reputable insurance company. Travel Insurance Guide is here.

To register, please email Tami with name and contact info.

Instructor: Tami Macala

Mosaics in MexicoI am a professional mosaic artist and teacher. I have 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 wanting share my passion with other creative people.

I have vacationed in Todos Santos several times in the past three 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.

For more information, email Tami here.

Winter Escape! Go BIG in Mexico with Bonnie Fitzgerald

11 Aug

Winter Escape: Exterior Mosaics, Architectural Installations & Community Projects with Bonnie Fitzgerald
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
January 10-16, 2016
$1,725 double occupancy

There’s no better way to ward off the winter chill and get your mosaic mojo on than a trip to the warmth and beauty of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in January. This will be Bonnie’s fourth workshop retreat to Hacienda Mosaico, and she is very excited to be invited back to teach.

Bonnie Fitzgerald Hacienda MosaicoStudents will be guided through the process of designing, fabricating and installing large-scale permanent mosaics for exterior or interior architectural settings. You’ll create a personal mosaic using the appropriate indirect mosaic technique for your materials, and take the artwork home ready for installation. Additionally, you’ll gain experience in collaborative design, fabrication, and installation as a group by creating an architectural mosaic as a gift to the Hacienda.

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

About Hacienda Mosaico
Want to see just how beautiful the Hacienda is? Click here for our 2014 video.

About the Workshop
Bonnie Fitzgerald Hacienda MosaicoStudents are invited to a welcome reception hosted by Hacienda Mosaico owner and famed artist Sandra (Sam) Leonard on Sunday evening, January 10. Formal class time will be held daily from 10:00 AM -2:00 PM. Instructor-supervised open studio is offered each evening after dinner to work on your own personal project. There will be tons of learning and lots of free time to explore Puerto Vallarta, shop or relax. Students depart Saturday, January 16.  Space limited to 12 students. Workshop has already exceeded the minimum and is a “go.” Deposit of 50% required to reserve your spot.

$1,725 Retreat Price Includes
6 Nights Lodging (double occupancy)
5 Days Workshop Instruction
24/7 Studio Access
Breakfast and Lunch served poolside daily by the Hacienda’s private chef
Welcome Reception Sunday night
Departure breakfast Saturday

Not Included
Dinners (many inexpensive options in the neighborhood)
Optional Field Trips
Airfare
Travel Insurance

Bonnie Fitzgerald Hacienda MosaicoAbout the Instructor
Bonnie Fitzgerald is an artist, teacher and author. Her passion is designing and creating one-of-a-kind artwork and guiding art enthusiasts, young and old alike, on a journey to discover and develop their own personal artistic voice through the art of mosaics. Bonnie is also founder of Maverick Mosaics, a company specializing in art education and unique learning experiences, including international travel adventures and hosting workshops led by mosaic artists from around the world.

Dedicated to furthering the art of mosaic education, she has authored two books: 300+ Mosaic Tips, Techniques, Templates and Trade Secrets and Bonnie Fitzgerald’s Guide to Mosaic Technique300+ Tips has been translated into Italian, French, German and Dutch. Both titles were published by Trafalgar Square, London and are available on-line, from many book stores, mosaic supply vendors and Maverick Mosaics.

More Information
For additional workshop details, click here. To Register, click here. To contact Bonnie, click here.

Join us for a week filled with learning, laughter, community and sunshine!

Bonnie Fitzgerald Hacienda Mosaico

Mexico! Clay Forms for Abstract Mosaic with Carol Shelkin

8 Jul

Clay Forms in Abstract Mosaic Design with Carol Shelkin
January 31 – February 6, 2016
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
$1800 per person, Double Occupancy

Carol Shelkin WorkshopsIn this NEW weeklong workshop, students will be motivated to create unique clay stamp impressions, small tiles and textures in earthenware clay and Apoxie Sculpt that will be incorporated into their mosaic during the week in Mexico. Spend your first evening with clay and learn how to make original clay pieces that can be transformed into mosaic designs. Carol, with over 25 years of experience as a potter, will lead you through various carving and stamping techniques to make your unique miniature ceramic tiles and forms. Underglazing and firing techniques will be used which can give the surface more visual depth and character.

Carol Shelkin WorkshopsThis informative class covers clay techniques, proper adhesives when using a variety of materials, substrates, design/layout and artist techniques. Explore with both traditional and contemporary methods. Students are encouraged to experiment with color and texture to discover the possibilities of clay merged in their mosaic for indoor display. No questions will go unanswered!

Clay and underglaze will be supplied, and tiles will be fired and returned during the week to incorporate into a mosaic. A list of supplies will be given after registration. No art or mosaic experience necessary.

ITINERARY: (Subject to change)
Carol Shelkin WorkshopsSunday, January 31: Arrival, Welcome, Creation of tiles and forms
Monday, February 1: Creation of tiles with a variety of clays
Tuesday, February 2: We’ll continue to design our mosaic and develop the composition
Wednesday, February 3: This will be a good day to explore the area, take a shopping trip, visit Sayulita or just go to the beach!
Thursday, February 4: Continue working on tiles and painting with acrylic glazing and other brush techniques
Friday, February 5: Our mosaics will have all the components to finally come together. Tiles and earthenware forms will be out of the kiln and we’ll paint the last of the clay pieces that haven’t been glazed
Saturday, February 6: Departure

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: Carol Shelkin, with studios just outside of Philadelphia, is a professional artist with over 25 years teaching experience. She Carol Shelkin Workshopsattended 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.

“Every year I go back to the Hacienda it feels more like my home away from home – full of art, inspiration and friends. January 2016 will be my sixth weeklong workshop! Sam has created a beautiful and relaxing retreat location — I never want to leave! This workshop is intended to prod you out of your artistic comfort zones with the security of our small, fun and sweet gathering of friends for the week. Let’s have fun!”  ~ Carol

Visit Carol’s website here. Contact Carol here.

NEED TO KNOW:
Limit: 12 students
Retreat & Workshop Price: $1,800.00

INCLUDED:
6 Nights Lodging (based on double occupancy)
5 Days or Nights Workshop Instruction
24/7 Open Studio Time
Breakfast and Lunch Daily served poolside in a tropical, poolside setting
Welcome Reception on Sunday
Departure Breakfast on Saturday

NOT INCLUDED:
Dinners
Optional add-on excursions
Airfare
Travel Insurance (Recommended)

TO REGISTER:

Contact: Sam. More about Hacienda Mosaico here.

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

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.