|
See Martin’s latest work on his website:
www.martincheek.co.uk
Mosaic Courses FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions)
"How long have you been making mosaics?"
"I've been making mosaics for 25 years now. The first five were as a hobbyist – I turned full time about fifteen years ago. When I started I didn't even know that you could buy the mosaic tesserae so I used to make my own out of clay – a bit like making a chocolate bar – then glazing the underside – and then breaking them off like pieces of chocolate – its a sound method which I still use occasionally when I have the time."
"How many mosaics have you made?"
"I honestly don't know – I've lost count. However just to give you an idea – over 200 appear in the 4 books that I've written."
"How many courses have you run?"
"Again I've lost count – I remember that I have run 80 at Flint House in Broadstairs. I've also held the Candili 2 week course in Greece 10 times and Missenden Abbey 6 times. I've just come back from a 9 week tour of Australia and New Zealand (second time there) which consisted of 7 courses."
"How many people have attended your courses?"
"Well all of the above add up to about 1500 course participants. Many have gone on to take up mosaic as a serious hobby whilst others have become professional mosaic artists - which means I guess that you are in experienced hands!"
"Are your courses suitable for beginners?"
"Yes, don't worry if you haven't made mosaics before. People come from all over the world to attend my courses – over 1500 to date! All of them have enjoyed it. I teach from first principles so it doesn't matter if you are a complete novice, most people are! I start with a lecture which lasts about an hour and you make a mosaic to your own design."
"What if I can't draw?"
"Don't worry if you can't draw. My books "Mosaics In A Weekend" and "Making Mosaics" both include templates for mosaic designs. Also books on stained glass templates will easily translate to mosaic."
"Where are the classes in the UK held?"
"The classes will be held in our studio at Flint House, Broadstairs, Kent. The studio is large, light and airy. This venue is our own private studio which always carries an extensive stock and range of numerous mosaic materials. You are always welcome to bring your own materials."
"How far in advance do we need to book and when do you need the balance by?"
"This depends on how popular the course is. There are only 12 places available on each course. Usually the courses book up about two months in advance. That said I often get late cancellations so it is always worth a last minute phone call to check on availability."
"What do I need to bring with me?"
"If you turn up with absolutely nothing you will be fine. However working clothes, and an apron are recommended. Some people bring their design with them but I still advise everyone to have an open mind until they have heard my first lecture at least! A camera is also a good thing to bring. Don't forget to bring walking boots if you want to go for an early morning stroll on the beach." Please see our What To Bring (WTB) page for more details.
"What's the appeal of mosaics?"
"Anyone who has ever played with pebbles on the beach will recognise the fascination of mosaics. Because a mosaic is so obviously made up of thousands of tiny parts, the work that has gone into it is very apparent. There is no literal translation for the word mosaic but some people, myself included think that it means crazy!"
"What are the different techniques in mosaic?"
"The two basic techniques are Direct and Indirect mosaics. ‘Direct’ means simply gluing the tesserae straight down onto wood and ‘Indirect’ means sticking the tesserae temporarily onto brown paper with water-soluble glue. This method is used for walls and floors, for example a swimming pool where a flat surface is required."
"Is it relaxing?"
"Yes it is, because when you have to focus on a mosaic you are unable to worry about anything else."
See Martin’s latest work on his website:
www.martincheek.co.uk
|
