Happy Spring!

SpringStudio.JPG

The year started out with a lot of travel and some great projects. In January I worked with the Mirebalais Mosaic Collective in Mirebalais, Haiti to create a series of murals and mosaic enhancements for the newly built Rehabilitation Center at University Hospital, in partnership with Partners In Health.  I also got to visit my students in Jacmel to see what magic they have been creating down there: an epic mosaic staircase and a series of mosaics for the newly constructed Tourism Center.

I had a wonderful experience teaching in Buenos Aires in Feburary at FJ Mosaic Art.  We created a gorgeous mural for the subway with a group of adult students.

My 2015 class schedule is out!.. Check it out. I am happy to be working and  teaching more in New Orleans this year with destination workshops in the South of France in June and October.

This Spring I'm working with Sojourner Truth Neighborhood Center on a project for the Faubourg Lafitte neighborhood in New Orleans. Continuing the mosaic kaleidoscopes on the facade of my studio and looking forward to launching into the creation of the first in a series of murals for the Urban Eyes Project.

More news always developing on my Facebook pages: True Mosaics Studio and The Global Mosaic Project.

For past news, check out my recent Newsletter the News Archive.

Mosaic Workshop and Tour in Provence with Laurel True and Valerie Nicoladze

Art and Inspiration in the South of France
Next workshop: June 2016

Immerse yourself in an educational trip and tour that will leave you inspired and creatively invigorated for the rest of the year! 
Enjoy the lavender in bloom, farm to table food, wine tasting, exploration of local markets and exhibits, and time to create in an inspiring studio environment.


Join professional mosaic artists and educators Laurel True and Valerie Nicoladze at Valerie's Esprit Mosaique Studio in Avignon, France to explore and celebrate color and creativity through mosaics.  Laurel and Valerie are teaming up for the second year in a row to offer a very special, specifically curated and inspiring trip that will combine hands-on studio time, a community project at a local social center, incredible insider sightseeing and experiential learning and amazing food...and wine...and cheese...and shopping in Provincial villages...and more.
 

Esprit Mosaique Studio is full of joyful color and provides a welcoming place to learn, create and spend time in community with other mosaic enthusiasts. This is a wonderful opportunity for cross-cultural exchange with French mosaic artists and the North African community served by the Orel Social Center in Avignon.  Participants will leave Provence feeling like family, having shared food, wine, stories and  
community creation.

Instructors will offer lessons focusing on various techniques including fresco cement as a
background treatment, demonstration of the uses of stacked and layered substrates and precision cutting and setting techniques for glass and ceramic. Each student will work according to their experience level.  All level of students are welcome.

Esprit Mosaique Studio offers a huge array of beautiful materials for students to use in the creation of their mosaic pieces. Drawers and drawers full of colorful and exotic materials from all over the world.  Participants will have the opportunity to work with french materials that are not often seen or used in the US. Students will enjoy a guided exploration of materials and color through the creation of a piece that they will take home.

One day of the week will include the creation of mosaics elements to be installed at Orel Social Center in Avignon. We will combine the elements we make with elements made by mosaic students trained by Valerie from the social center, creating a group mosaic project to be installed at the social center.  We will spend an evening meeting our co-creators and enjoy a delicious couscous dinner together.

In addition to enjoying time in the studio, participants will have the chance to eat delicious meals together, stay in a cute Provincial hotel, tour Avignon and nearby markets including St. Remy and Les Baux de Provence (a medieval village with an incredible view and violet gellato), visit the breathtaking and indescribable exhibition at Les Carrieres des Lumieres, as well as enjoy educational wine tastings and a Provincial backyard BBQ at the home of Valerie and her family.
 
We will end our time together with a picnic in a lavender field and visit to the Village of Salut, where quaint shops offer all things lavender.

Our trip in 2013 was an indescribable experience for everyone. 
We can’t wait to offer this trip again this summer!


Cost of this trip $2600
 
Includes: 

Mosaic workshop instruction
Accommodations for 8 nights (based on double occupancy, we can help coordinate)
Breakfast and lunches
Tuesday night family BBQ 
Thursday night couscous dinner
Transportation from train station or Avignon airport and to and from workshop
All touristic visits to markets and exhibits 
Wine tastings

Cost does not include flight, dinners (except Tuesday and Thursday) and personal expenses.
Both instructors are bi-lingual and workshop and activities will be in English and French.
 

To register for this workshop, please e-mail Valerie Nicoladze at:  espritmosaique@free.fr

Questions? Contact Valerie (above) or Laurel at laurel@TrueMosaics.com


Payment can be made through Pay Pal
50% due at time of registration to hold spot.
We have only 10 spaces and expect this workshop/ tour to fill very quickly. 

True Mosaics Studio has a new studio space in New Orleans!

We are doing some mosaic facade improvement on the building.... Anyone driving past the intersection of Chartres and St. Ferdinand St in the Marigny will get a colorful eye-full.

I taught my inaugural class in the new space, a professional development training class, Facilitating Community Mosaic Projects, during which we created mural elements with recycled materials for the Green Project in New Orleans. Students came from all corners of the US for this 4-day training.

Working on: My spring and summer lineup of classes, a community mosaic mural in Clouet Gardens in Bywater, New Orleans, and planning for a quick trip to Haiti, where I will be visiting an orphanage in Cange run by Partners In Health and doing some training with the Mirebalais Mosaic Collective in Mirebalais.

In the Studio: We've just begun a large mural for private client in Sausalito,

The Global Mosaic Project is ramping up with international project trips to Costa Rica and France and I was awarded an artist's residency at A Studio in the Woods outside New Orleans where I will be creating a new body of work exploring the ebb and flow of natural and urban environments and their impact on human life.

Hope to see you in New Orleans or somewhere in the World!

NewStudio.jpg

On the Street: New Orleans

Six of Disks: Green Project
Recycled ceramic tile and glass

The Green Project

Design and project facilitation by Laurel True. Mosaic murals created during Facilitating Community Mosaic Projects professional development training workshop at True Mosaics Studio.

Mosaic created by Laurel True and students: Susan Buchan, Mamea Bolton, Robin Cannon, Miriam Denis-Harper, Krysia Haag, Maria Ludwig,  Vicky Murphy, Karen O'Brien, Jennifer Neff, Mary Wilson and Marcia Yapp. Installation assistance by Randy Sanders and Frankie Muller.

Materials were donated by The Green Project, True Mosaics Studio and local residents.

The Green Project sells recycled building materials and paint. Their mission is to "develop a culture of creative reuse by building a marketplace for reclaimed materials and cultivating a respect for their value." 

New Mosaic Mural at Institute of Mosaic Art

Institute of Mosaic Art Mural

As part of a six-day Mosaic Mural Making Intensive, Laurel True designed and facilitated a mosaic mural project that her class installed the courtyard of Institute of Mosaic Art in Berkeley, CA. 

Students came from from the US, England, Canada and Finland to receive precision training in creating and installing professional mosaic murals.

2014 Mosaic Mural Making Intensives
April, 2014, New Orleans 
August 2014, Institute of Mosaic Art

Artist's Residency at A Studio in the Woods

I am honored to be one of five international artists to be awarded a residency at A Studio In the Woods, a program of Tulane University.

Studio in the woods

During my residency I will be creating a new series of work that will be exhibited in Spring of 2014. 

"A Studio in the Woods provides a context for the exploration of critical thinking, the development of new ideas and strategies, and using the creative process as a catalyst for social change."

Global Mosaic Project Tours: Community Mosaic Mural in Costa Rica in Spring

Travel the globe with Laurel True and the Global Mosaic Project!

The Global Mosaic Project is partnering with EcoTeach to host a mosaic voluntourism project in the seaside town of Cahuita, Costa Rica in March 2014.

Costa rica

The Costa Rica trip last January was magical and life-changing for many participants. On this trip our group will be working side-by-side with  the Cahuita community to create a rainforest-themed mosaic mural for the National Park. Our group will experience the amazing biodiversity of the Veragua Rainforest Research Park, visit beautiful white sand beaches and enjoy the region’s Afro-Caribbean vibe. A great chance to co-create lasting beauty with local community and fellow participants.

EcoTeach has put together another amazing trip! 

For more information, itinerary and registration info: EcoTeach and Global Mosaic Project:: Community Mosaic Mural Workshop in Costa Rica

Click here for photos from the January 2013 project.

Mosaics in Pediatric Ward at Mirebalais Hospital, in Haiti complete!

Mosaic Mirebalais hosptial

Art and Healthcare in partnership with Partners In Health

Laurel True Mosaics Studio designed and created a series of mosaic installations throughout the new Hôpital Universitaire de Mirebalais in central Haiti, built by Partners In Health. True trained a team of Haitian production assistants in mosaic techniques over the course of a year, and engaged the mosaic community in the US to help with the fundraising effort, and to contribute specific elements to the project.

Along with the mosaics at the hospital's entry and  community waiting areas, the mosaics in the pediatric ward, based on Haitian and American school children's drawings, have received high praise from Partners In Health and the community of Mirebalais.

Summer 2013 Mosaic Classes with Laurel True

Here is my summer class schedule!..Into September actually.  

I will be teaching in New Orleans, Berkeley (at the new IMA!), Seattle and Port au Prince, Provence, France (!) and possibly Asheville, NC.

Register through provided host links and register early.

I have got quite a few professional development classes on the West Coast this summer and I have scheduled them in pairs, so traveling students can benefit by being able to take multiple classes that tie together. 

Hope to see you in class!

- Laurel True

New Orleans:

New Orleans School of Art and Craft

Mosaics for the Garden

June 1-2 , 2013

Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am – 1:00 pm 


(2-DAY WEEKEND WORKSHOP)

Description: Beautify your garden with colorful mosaic art! 

This fun class will cover the basics and beyond for exterior and garden mosaic projects.

Class will cover design considerations, appropriate materials, surfaces and adhesives for exterior applications, mosaic setting techniques, grouting and sealing. 



Instructor will discuss approaching exterior projects for durability and longevity and get students comfortable with working with outdoor materials. The solid technical information presented in class can be applied to future projects.

This class is great for beginners as we will be covering tools, cutting techniques, mosaic design and tricks for setting ceramic tile mosaic. Class is also appropriate for the student who has already experimented with interior or craft mosaics and would like to expand their knowledge to include exterior, garden or permanent installations.   

Students will create a 12" x 12" mosaic stepping stone to take home.



Returning students may bring their own substrate to mosaic for the garden within size parameters with approval from instructor.


Level: Any 
Class price: $195 
Materials fee: Materials provided
Class size: Minimum 6, Maximum 10

Introduction to Smalti Mosaics

June 15-16, 2013

Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am – 1:00 pm 


(2-DAY WEEKEND WORKSHOP)

Longtime professional mosaic artist Laurel True will introduce students to this wonderful, surprisingly easy to use material. As seen in the Vatican Mosaics exhibit  in New Orleans, smalti is a beautiful, rich and reflective materials made from poured glass.

This exciting course will introduce students to the history of this exquisite glass material that has been used since the Byzantine Era and its uses in today's mosaic world.

Class will begin with a slide presentation showing historical applications of smalti in architectural settings as well as how smalti is made in small batches by artisans today in Europe and beyond. Class will explore the unique light catching and reflecting qualities of smalti and how this material can be combined with other mosaic materials for exciting and rich effects.

Class will cover basic design, layout and visual understanding of a smalti piece as well as both ancient and contemporary cutting techniques. Each student will learn how to work with the hammer and hardie to process smalti, as well as gain an understanding of how to use modern tools with this material with as little waste as possible. Students will set smalti directly into a mortar bed for their project and will receive information on how to approach future smalti projects.  

Students will use Italian and Mexican smalti to create an 8 x 8 mosaic wall hanging to take home. Smalti starter pack and custom -made framed substrate provided.  

Level: Any

Cost: $195

Materials fee: $60

Class size: Minimum 6, Maximum 10

Above: Student work from Intro to Smalti class

Beginning and Intermediate Glass Mosaics - Mixed Level Class

July: 13-14

Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am – 1:00 or 2 pm 


(2-DAY WEEKEND WORKSHOP)

In this mixed-level class beginning and continuing students will experience the magic and nuance of working with glass mosaic, with specific instruction appropriate to their level.

Beginning level students will be introduced to the beautiful medium of glass while they design and create their own glass mosaic piece.

Beginning students:

Class will focus on presentation of the qualities and types of glass tesserae used by contemporary mosaic artists today from low end recycled materials to high end specialty materials. Lecture will cover surfaces suitable for glass mosaic projects, the correct adhesives to use for different projects and how to grout and finish a glass mosaic piece. Instructor will demonstrate the proper use of glass cutting tools for mosaic, cutting and shaping techniques, different types of lay patterns and adhesives for glass and their appropriate applications. Students will have plenty of colorful glass to work with for their projects.  Students will create a 12" x 12" glass mosaic to take home for interior display.

No experience necessary. Come and have fun learning and creating!

Returning/ Intermediate students:

A wonderful opportunity for continuing students to expand their knowledge and deepen their mosaic skills.   In this weekend-intensive course instructor Laurel True will delve into intermediate-level glass cutting and setting techniques. Use of cutting and shaping tools for glass mosaics will be reviewed with a focus on precision cutting and new tools will be introduced.

Class will include demonstration that goes beyond the fundamental setting techniques and styles presented in beginning level classes, including more sophisticated lay patterning such as Italian setting styles, the use of andamento, shading and color combining. These lessons will allow students to add more dimension and sophistication to their work. A wide range of glass materials will be presented to introduce students to the varied ways in which materials can be combined into one piece, and how to best deal with different size and thickness of tesserae.

 Students will be guided through a series of short exercises that will highlight specific cutting and setting techniques. Students will then design and create a medium- sized project to take home under guidance of instructor. Substrates will be provided or students may bring their own flat surface to work on (upon approval by instructor).

This class will not include a grouting session, as students will have two class sessions to focus on skill building in cutting, setting and spacing. Some homework may be required depending on complexity of student's chosen project. Students are encouraged to bring their own glass mosaic tools if they have them. This is not required, as tools will be provided in class.

Class Times:

Beginning Level

Saturday 10 - 4, Sunday 10-1

Intermediate Level

Saturday 10- 4, Sunday 10 -2

Level: Beginning or Intermediate

Class Price:

Beginning: $195

Intermediate: $215

Materials: Included  

Class size: Minimum 6, Maximum 10

Facilitating Community Mosaic Projects: Seminar and Hands-On Project

September 19 - 22 , 2013

Thursday- Saturday 9:30 - 4:30

Level: Intermediate*

Cost: $595 (This is for the 4-day combo class)

Materials: $45

Note: This professional development class encompasses the

Community Mosaic Mural Making: Hands-On Class

. Students of any level may sign up for the Mural Making Class separately. Future facilitators will have the chance to experience hands-on training through participation in this portion of the weekend.

September 19 - 22 , 2013

Thursday- Saturday 9:30 - 4:30

Level: Intermediate*

Cost: $595 (This is for the 4-day combo class)

Materials: $45

Note: This professional development class that encompasses the Community Mosaic Mural Making: Hands-On Class. Students of any level may sign up for the Mural Making Class separately. Future facilitators will have the chance to experience hands-on training through participation in this class.

Description: This four-day workshop lead by community and public artist Laure True will focus on methodology and techniques for approaching community-based mosaic projects with participants of all ages and skill levels.

Students will come away from this information-packed workshop with the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead and facilitate successful, permanent projects that engage and inspire community. Workshop will begin with a presentation of successful project models and lecture will include sample pedagogy for including and training community members in the creation of public art. Instructor will cover various approaches to community outreach, design development, sourcing locations and materials and recruiting project participants.

In addition to receiving specific logistical and technical information focusing on leading/ facilitating projects, students will get a chance to experience group mosaic-making processes through the actual creation and installation of an exterior mosaic mural on days 3 and 4.

Lecture will include step-by-step instructions with complementary images describing multiple approaches to project coordination, management and creation with a focus on creating permanent artworks specific to host communities; needs, desires and location.

Class will include lecture, demonstration and instruction in group mosaic-making techniques that can be employed with groups with any level of training. Specific teacher/ facilitator training will focus on best practices for technical construction methods so that outdoor, public projects are durable, safe and long lasting. Technical resources will be included in extensive class binder.

Additional topics covered will include:

Defining project goals and objectives

Approaching stakeholders and creating project proposals

Project planning, funding and budget creation

Project and time management techniques

Working in and outside of a classroom setting

Professional development and entrepreneurial training for participants.

This class will be of particular benefit to mosaic artists who would like to add a community component to their work, teachers, community organizers and anyone interested in community development and entrepreneurial training through the arts.

This class

encompasses the

Community Mosaic Mural Making: Hands-On Class

Photo:

Global Mosaic Project and Art Creation

Foundatipn For Children Community M

o

saic Project, Jacmel, Haiti. March, 2013

Community Mosaic Mural Making: Hands-On Class

September 21-22 , 2013

Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 - 4:30

Level: Any, some experience with mosaics is helpful, but not necessary.

Class Price: $260

Materials fee: $35

Join Laurel True of The Global Mosaic Project in this fun weekend class during which students will learn to work together as a team to create a community mosaic mural for a local non-profit or business.

Description: Come spend a weekend making a mosaic mural! In this hands - on, weekend workshop led by artist Laurel True, students will work as a team to create a community mosaic project. Students will experience group mosaic-making processes through the actual creation and installation of a mosaic mural. These skills can be used for facilitating future projects in their own communities.  

Workshop will begin with an inspiring digital presentation of community mosaic projects around the world. Lecture will cover various approaches to community outreach and design development, sourcing locations and materials and recruiting and teaching project participants. Instructor will present information on multiple approaches to project creation and best practices for technical construction methods so that projects are durable, safe and long lasting. 

The bulk of this upbeat and community-focused class will include hands-on mosaic creation in a group process. Students will work together to create a permanent mosaic mural under the guidance of long-time instructor and community artist.  Class will focus on the use of ceramic tile and mirror mosaic. All tools will be provided for student use.

Students will come away from this fun and informative team building workshop with the knowledge, skills and confidence to create successful permanent projects that engage and inspire community.  

This class will be of particular benefit to artists who would like to explore community-based projects, teachers, community organizers and anyone interested in neighborhood beautification or community development through the arts.

I

nstructor Experience: Laurel True has been facilitating public and community mosaic projects for over 20 years and has helped to provide job training and arts education to underserved communities in urban environments and developing areas. She has created hundreds of projects over the years, working with volunteers, assistants, students, trades people and artists of ages on projects that reflect a sense of community pride and cultural significance in the locations where they are sited. Through her organization, The Global Mosaic Project, True has facilitated community mosaic projects in the Bay Area, New Orleans West and East Africa, Latin America and Haiti.  

Port au Prince:

Gallery El Saieh, Port au Prince, Haiti

This Class is POSTPONED! Please email if you're interested.

Introduction to Contemporary Mosaics

May 11-12, 2013

10 - 4, 10 -1pm

Level: Any

Materials provided

$150

Join mosaic artist Laurel True for this hands-on workshop during which students

will spend an inspiring weekend creating their own unique mosaic piece.

Workshop will meet in the outdoor studio classroom of the renown El-Saieh Gallery, one of Haiti’s most respected contemporary art galleries.

Beginning students as well as artists wanting to expand their repertoire will learn techniques used for the creation of fine art, functional and decorative mosaics using ceramic tile and glass.

Class will begin with a brief presentation of images of contemporary mosaic work in and outside of Haiti. Instructor will introduce and demonstrate the various tools used in mosaic making and discuss the use of adhesives, surfaces and materials for different applications.

Learn how to cut and shape tile and how to arrange pieces to get different effects.  Class will cover both technical and aesthetic aspects of mosaic making, while offering a great community experience in a creative environment.

Students will be provided with a base to mosaic and will have lots of great ceramic, glass and colors to choose from.

El-Saieh Gallery will provide a delicious vegetarian lunch on the veranda, with beautiful views of Port au Prince.

All materials and lunch included in workshop fee.

For registration information please contact:

Laurel True

laurel@truemosaics.com

or 

Sharona El Saieh

El Saieh Gallery, 19 Ave du Chili, Port au Prince

elsaiehgallery@yahoo.com/ Tel:  3481-4736 

Tools and Techniques for Mosaic: Intermediate Mosaic Class with Laurel True

May 18-19, 2013

10- 4 Saturday 10 - 2 Sunday

Level: Intermediate

Materials provided, lunch on Saturday included in workshop fee.

$165

In this class, students will take their mosaic training further with lessons and exercises focusing on specific mosaic setting techniques and tool use.

Students will learn how to work with a variety of materials and with different types of tools to get differing effects with their materials. Lecture and demonstration will cover specialty cutting techniques such as carving and honing, precision cutting and refinement of shapes for varied effects. Students will try their hand at specialty cutting with glass, tile and stone and gain a deeper understanding of how each tool can be used for desired effects.

Class will involve several exercises, including an introduction to Italianate setting styles (opus), use of texture & light and andamento (flow). Students will learn how to build a visual vocabulary of shape that can applied to many styles of mosaic setting.

Additional lessons presented include the use of a tinted mortar bed, ungrouted techniques and using grout as a design element.

Students will create and take home several small exercises and a medium sized final project in which students will utilize the exercises learned in class.

This class is meant for continuing students. Introduction to mosaic class or similar experience suggested. Space is limited to 10 students, early registration is highly recommended.

* Students will have use of tools during class.  A list of tools that will be available for purchase before class will be sent to registered students.

For registration information please contact:

Laurel True

laurel@truemosaics.com

or 

Sharona El Saieh

El Saieh Gallery, 19 Ave du Chili, Port au Prince

elsaiehgallery@yahoo.com/ Tel:  3481-4736 

Provence, South of France

Esprit Mosaique Studio, Avignon

Mosaic Workshop in Provence: 

Art, Beauty and Inspiration in the South of France

Week-long Summer Workshop and Tour

with

Valerie Nicoladze and Laurel True

*June 24-29, 2013*

Immerse yourself in an educational trip and tour that will leave you inspired and creatively invigorated for the rest of the year! Enjoy the lavender in bloom, farm to table food, wine tasting, exploration of local markets and exhibits, and time to create in an inspiring studio environment.

Join professional mosaic artists and educators Laurel True and Valerie Nicoladze at Valerie's Esprit Mosaique Studio in Avignon, France to explore and celebrate color and creativity through mosaics.  Laurel and Valerie have teamed up to offer a totally cool, specifically curated and inspiring trip that will combine hands-on studio time, incredible insider sightseeing and experiential learning.

Esprit Mosaique Studio is full of joyful  color and provides a welcoming place to learn, create and spend time in community with other mosaic enthusiasts. This is a wonderful opportunity for cross-cultural exchange with French mosaic artists- participants will leave Provence feeling like family.

Each instructor will offer lessons focusing on various techniques including fresco cement as a background treatment, demonstration of the uses of stacked and layered substrates, precision cutting techniques for glass and  ceramic, creation of individual mosaics elements to be installed on a public wall in the Village of Avignon and guided exploration of materials and color through the creation of a piece that participants can take home. 

Students will have the opportunity to work on mesh, film and cementicious substrates.*

Students who would like to focus on only one technique or project during the week are

welcome to do this instead, at their own pace, with one-on-one guidance from instructors

In addition to enjoying time in the studio, participants will have the chance to eat delicious meals together, tour nearby Provincial markets including

St. Remy

and

Les Baux de Provence

, visit the breathtaking and indescribable exhibition at

Les Carrieres des Lumieres

, as well as enjoy educational wine tastings and a

Provincial backyard BBQ

at the home of Valerie and her family.

Cost: $1900

Includes: Mosaic workshop instruction, accommodations

(Sunday the 23 - Friday the 28th)

, breakfast and lunches, Thursday night special dinner, transportation from train station or Avignon airport and to and from workshop, and all touristic visits to markets, exhibits and wine tastings.

Cost does not include flight, dinners (except Thursday) and personal expenses.

Both instructors are bi-lingual and workshop and activities will be in English and French.

10 spots

only.. sign up early

For more info and itinerary:

Berkeley, CA:

Institute of Mosaic Art

Mosaic Mural Making Intensive with Laurel True

August 5 - 11, 2013

Monday- Thursday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

Saturday & Sunday 9:30 am - 4 pm

Note: Class does not meet on Friday, August 9th

Level: Intermediate/ Advanced. Students should already have basic setting skills under their belts and have experience working with ceramic tile mosaics. This is a professional development class.

Cost: $750

Materials fee: $25

Learn how to create and install permanent ceramic tile mosaic murals from a professional with over 20 years experience in the field of public, community-based and architectural mosaics.

In this exciting, intensive, six-day course students will learn to execute and install a large-scale ceramic tile mosaic mural as part of a professional production team.

Class will cover designing for specific spaces and locations, materials selection and processing, methods of design transfer, color selection, and specific coding and sectioning methods required for large-scale projects as well as planning and project management techniques for successful, professional projects.

Instructor will offer instruction in precision cutting and setting techniques for professional applications and instruction on the correct way to work in the direct method using tile tape. Other off-site, direct creation methods will also be covered in the class, including an overview of the indirect and applique methods and the use of fiberglass mesh.

Students will work as a team to create a mural, setting individual sections and applying these pre-set sections to the wall surface during the installation. Specific instruction on best practices for installation of permanent mosaic murals will be given.

Students will learn all aspects of mosaic mural making and will be part of a team that creates an architectural mosaic mural. Graduates of this class have gone on to create their own murals and large-scale projects for public and commercial spaces, schools, community centers, hospitals and more.

Mural at Kefa Coffee House in Oakland, CA. Design and project facilitation by Laurel True, creation by students of Mosaic Mural Making Intensive 200

8

at Institute of Mosaic Art

The Business of Mosaics: One-Day Intensive

August 9, 2013

Friday, 10 - 5

Level: Intermediate*

Cost:$150

Materials: $25

Join mosaic artist and entrepreneur Laurel True for this informative one-day seminar, which will go beyond the basics of understanding how to launch, grow and sustain a successful mosaic business. Class will focus on business aspects of commissioned work, architectural applications and public art.

Topics covered in lecture will include: identifying business and creative goals, establishing a market identity, building an effective resume and portfolio, presenting work accurately and effectively, client relations, interfacing with other design professionals, effectively dealing with the business aspects of  architectural commissioned work and public projects.

There will be a specific focus on creating project budgets, proposals and design and production contracts. Course materials will include templates for contracts, as well as worksheets for project pricing, ordering materials and calculating business expenses, overhead and profit.

This session would particularly benefit those who are considering going after or starting to receive commissioned projects and or public art.

* This is a professional development seminar and students should have a working knowledge of mosaic making in order to successfully contextualize the information offered.

Architectural Applications for Mosaic: Walls and Floors

August 17-18, 2013

Saturday 10 -4 and Sunday 10 -1

Level: Intermediate

Thinking about making a mosaic for your home or moving into creating commissioned work?

This is the perfect class for you. Instructor Laurel True has over 20 years experience in the field of mosaics and has completed hundreds of permanent installations in homes, businesses, hotels, schools, parks and more across the United States.

 This is a lecture and demonstration format course that focuses on wall and floor applications as well as other permanent installations.

Class will begin with a digital presentation of instructor's architectural work including floors, walls, back splashes, fireplace surrounds, floor and pavement insets, large scale mosaic murals and other site specific work in residential and commercial spaces. 

Using a mock-up of a kitchen backsplash and an example of a mosaic floor installation, students are taken through the steps required to complete a successful and durable mosaic application. 

Class will cover issues involving design development and transfer methods for architectural projects, choosing the proper substrate, dealing with existing substrates, prepping surfaces, work styles and preparing the area to do a project, correct setting materials, choosing the right type of tile or other tesserae, methods of setting, including use of tile tape, fiberglass mesh and other face and back mounted off-site construction methods, mixing thin-set and concrete based adhesives, grouting, caulking and finishing a permanent application. 

Special focus will be given to dealing with architectural issues such as thresholds, trims, pipes, plumbing, fixtures and appliances, baseboards, expansion joints, sub flooring and more. Students should expect to take notes and will receive handouts with technical and resource information.

Additional subjects this class touches on include, calculating surface area  and ordering materials for architectural projects, general coverage for materials and other nuts and bolts issues.

This is an important technical class for those who want to experiment with more permanent mosaic applications and do them right! Students will see the process of creating a permanent mosaic installation with some hands-on opportunity. (Students do not make an individual project in this class).

 *Please note: This is not a setting class. It is expected that students will be able to combine this information with basic setting and mosaic skills they already have.

Introduction to Smalti Mosaics

August 24-25, 2013

Saturday 10 - 4 and Sunday 10 -1

Level: Any

Mosaic artist Laurel True was educated in the art of mosaic in the US and Italy. In this beginner friendly and fun class, Laurel will introduce students to this wonderful material dating back to the Byzantine Era.

Beginners and continuing mosaic students will enjoy learning about this beautiful glass material that is surprisingly accessible .

Smalti is a beautiful, rich and reflective material made from poured glass. This exciting course will introduce students to the history of this exquisite glass material that has been used since the Byzantine Era and its uses in today's mosaic world.

 Class will begin with a digital presentation showing how smalti is made in small batches by artisans today in Europe and beyond. Instructor will go on to introduce students to the unique light catching and reflecting qualities of smalti and how this material can be combined with other mosaic materials for exciting and rich effects. 

Class will cover basic design and layout, as well as both ancient and contemporary cutting techniques. Each student will learn how to work with the hammer and hardie to cut smalti, and gain an understanding of how to use modern tools with as little waste as possible.

Students will learn how to set smalti directly into a mortar bed and will receive information on how to use a variety of materials to best effect with smalti. Class will include a digital presentation of contemporary smalti projects, both as fine art pieces and as integrated into architectural settings.

 Students will use Italian smalti to create an 8 x 8 mosaic wall hanging to take home. Smalti starter pack and custom-made framed substrate provided.

Seattle:

Seattle Mosaic Arts

Lecture/ Presentation: Art and Healing: Mosaics at Mirebalais Hospital in Haiti

Thursday, July 25,  2013

6:30- 8:00 pm

For more information please contact

The Business of Mosaics: One-Day Intensive

July 26, 2013

Join mosaic artist and entrepreneur Laurel True for this informative one-day seminar as she delves into nuts and bolts of how to  launch, grow and sustain a successful mosaic business. Laurel draws from her over 20 years of experience as a highly successful mosaic artist, as well as her business experience as co-founder of the prestigious Institute of Mosaic Arts and now as founder and executive director of the inspiring nonprofit, The Global Mosaic Project.

Laurel's direct and clear teaching style, paired with her hard earned business savvy,  make this class invaluable to anyone interested in doing commissioned mosaic projects and/or public art. Course materials will include templates for contracts, as well as worksheets for project pricing, ordering materials and calculating business expenses, overhead and profit.

This seminar focuses on the business aspects of commissioned work, architectural applications and public art. Laurel is also teaching 2-day weekend workshop on the technical aspects of permanent, architectural installations. The two workshops complement each other extremely well, so if you can, consider taking both. You won't be sorry!

 Class covers:

Identifying business and creative goals

Building an effective resume and portfolio and establishing a market identity

Presenting work accurately and effectively

Client relations and interfacing with other design professionals

Commissions and applying for public projects

Creating project budgets and proposals as well as calculating business expenses, overhead and profit

Creating effective design and production contracts.

Date:    Fri July 26 10-5

Level:   Intermediate/Advanced. This is a professional development seminar and students should have a working knowledge of mosaic making in order to successfully contextualize the information offered.

Cost:    $175 - all Materials included

To see more about Laurel True and her examples of her beautiful, inspiring work please check out her website, True Mosaics.

Architectural Applications for Mosaic

July 27-28 , 2013

Saturday 10 - 4, Sunday 10-1

$265

Mosaic backsplash by True Mosaics Studio for Gregngelo Velocity Circus Museum

Thinking about making a mosaic for your home or moving into creating commissioned work?

This is the perfect class for you. Instructor Laurel True has over 20 years experience in the field of mosaics and has completed hundreds of permanent installations in homes, businesses, hotels, schools, parks and more across the United States.

 This is a lecture and demonstration format course that focuses on wall and floor applications as well as other permanent installations.

Class will begin with a digital presentation of instructor's architectural work including floors, walls, back splashes, fireplace surrounds, floor and pavement insets, large scale mosaic murals and other site specific work in residential and commercial spaces. 

Using a mock-up of a kitchen backsplash and an example of a mosaic floor installation, students are taken through the steps required to complete a successful and durable mosaic application. 

Class will cover issues involving design development and transfer methods for architectural projects, choosing the proper substrate, dealing with existing substrates, prepping surfaces, work styles and preparing the area to do a project, correct setting materials, choosing the right type of tile or other tesserae, methods of setting, including use of tile tape, fiberglass mesh and other face and back mounted off-site construction methods, mixing thin-set and concrete based adhesives, grouting, caulking and finishing a permanent application. 

Special focus will be given to dealing with architectural issues such as thresholds, trims, pipes, plumbing, fixtures and appliances, baseboards, expansion joints, sub flooring and more. Students should expect to take notes and will receive handouts with technical and resource information.

Additional subjects this class touches on include, calculating surface area  and ordering materials for architectural projects, general coverage for materials and other nuts and bolts issues.

This is an important technical class for those who want to experiment with more permanent mosaic applications and do them right! Students will see the process of creating a permanent mosaic installation with some hands-on opportunity. (Students do not make an individual project in this class).

 *Please note: This is not a setting class. It is expected that students will be able to combine this information with basic setting and mosaic skills they already have.

Laurel True is an artist and educator specializing in mixed media, glass and ceramic mosaic and public art. She received her BA in African Art and Cultures and has studied at Studio Arte del Mosaico in Ravenna, Italy, Universite Chiek Anta Diop in Dakar, Senegal, Parsons School of Design and the Art Institute of Chicago. True is the co- founder of the Institute of Mosaic Art in Oakland, CA and has fostered education in the mosaic arts through teaching and lecturing around the world. She founded The Global Mosaic Project, a nonprofit whose mission is to foster positive community engagement through the creation of site-specific works of public mosaic art, leaving a legacy of neighborhood beautification, community cultural development and arts training for all ages.

True's public and commissioned work can be found in private and civic collections as well as in hospitals, in parks and on commercial buildings across the United States and internationally. She has also been known to create work that spontaneously emerges graffiti- like on concrete walls and in unexpected settings and with unexpected materials, many times through spontaneous community participation.

True's work weaves together fine art and craft based techniques, utilizing both natural and man made materials. Projects often juxtapose themes of beauty and despair, bounty and loss, as well as celebration and ritual. Using found detritus such as asphalt, concrete, brick, glass and other collected rubble, True pieces her installations together with the precision of ancient roman mosaics.

Mosaic Workshop in Provence with Laurel True and Valerie Nicoladze


Mosaic Workshop in Provence: 
Art, Beauty and Inspiration in the South of France



Week-long Summer Workshop and Tour
with
Valerie Nicoladze and Laurel True

*June 24-29, 2013*

Immerse yourself in an educational trip and tour that will leave you inspired and creatively invigorated for the rest of the year! Enjoy the lavender in bloom, farm to table food, wine tasting, exploration of local markets and exhibits, and time to create in an inspiring studio environment.

Join professional mosaic artists and educators Laurel True and Valerie Nicoladze at Valerie's Esprit Mosaique Studio in Avignon, France to explore and celebrate color and creativity through mosaics.  Laurel and Valerie have teamed up to offer a totally cool, specifically curated and inspiring trip that will combine hands-on studio time, incredible insider sightseeing and experiential learning.

Esprit Mosaique Studio is full of joyful  color and provides a welcoming place to learn, create and spend time in community with other mosaic enthusiasts. This is a wonderful opportunity for cross-cultural exchange with French mosaic artists- participants will leave Provence feeling like family.

Each instructor will offer lessons focusing on various techniques including fresco cement as a background treatment, demonstration of the uses of stacked and layered substrates, precision cutting techniques for glass and  ceramic, creation of individual mosaics elements to be installed on a public wall in the Village of Avignon and guided exploration of materials and color through the creation of a piece that participants can take home. 

Students will have the opportunity to work on mesh, film and cementicious substrates.*
Students who would like to focus on only one technique or project during the week are
welcome to do this instead, at their own pace, with one-on-one guidance from instructors


In addition to enjoying time in the studio, participants will have the chance to eat delicious meals together, tour nearby Provincial markets including St. Remy and Les Baux de Provence, visit the breathtaking and indescribable exhibition at Les Carrieres des Lumieres, as well as enjoy educational wine tastings and a Provincial backyard BBQ at the home of Valerie and her family.

Cost: $1900

Includes: Mosaic workshop instruction, accommodations
(Sunday the 23 - Friday the 28th), breakfast and lunches, Thursday night special dinner, transportation from train station or Avignon airport and to and from workshop, and all touristic visits to markets, exhibits and wine tastings.

Cost does not include flight, dinners (except Thursday) and personal expenses.
Both instructors are bi-lingual and workshop and activities will be in English and French.

10 spots only.. sign up early~

Itinerary:

Sunday, June 23
Participants arrive and get settled in Hotel de Atelier

Monday, June 24
Morning: Arrive at Esprit Mosaique Studio, introductions and first project
Lunch at Restaurant La Strada
Afternoon: Studio instruction and work time
Evening: Free

Tuesday, June 25
Morning: Studio work time and instruction
Lunch at Restaurant La Strada
Afternoon: Studio time
Evening: Wine tasting at Cave de Tavel

Wednesday, June 26
Morning: Visit Provencal market in village of St Rémy de Provence and to ancient Gallo-Roman mosaic site
Lunch: In Les Baux de Provence
Afternoon: Visit art exhibit at Carrières des Lumières
Evening: Free

Thursday, June 27
Morning: Studio work time and instruction
Lunch at Restaurant La Strada
Afternoon: Studio work time and instruction
Evening: Winery visit and wine tasting at Chateau Neuf du Pape, then a slow food, Provincial family bbq at Valerie’s beautiful home.
Friday, June 28
Morning: Visit the quaint medieval village of Uzes and Ancient Roman site of Le Pont du Gard
Lunch on the riverside
Afternoon: Studio work time
Evening: Visit town of Avignon

Saturday, June 29
Morning/ Lunch:
To conclude our week together we will take a gorgeous walk in a nearby lavender field and enjoy a Provincial picnic. 9 am - 2 pm
Afternoon: Goodbyes and departure!
Hotel:
http://www.hoteldelatelier.com   
Hotel de Atelier is a charming hotel in the lively village of Villeneuve Las Avignon, five minutes from the town of Avignon.



"Valerie hosted me at her beautiful home and studio in Provence last Spring and we decided to put together this workshop experience so that mosaic artists could come and enjoy the atmosphere of this amazing area and the warmth and hospitality of Valerie and her family and community.  I came back from that trip bursting with energy, inspiration and a full heart, and can't wait to share this experience with my students!"

- Laurel True, mosaic artist and co-instructor of workshop

" I welcome you to my studio and town, in the hopes that each participant/ student comes away with a feeling of having spent a wonderful week of creativity,  sharing our mosaic passion and fun, discovering the most beautiful places in Provence, with the desire to come back to explore more !  

 - Valerie Nicoladze, mosaic artist and co-instructor of workshop

Doesn't this sound awesome?
 

To register for this workshop, please e-mail Valerie Nicoladze at:
 contact@espritmosaique.fr

Questions? Contact Valerie (above) or Laurel True


Payment can be made through Pay Pal
50% due at time of registration to hold spot
50% due by April 1st

Students may also make one payment if they wish, at time of registration.

Cancellation policy:

Cancellations made before April 1st will receive a full refund, minus $100 admin fee
Cancellations between April 1and 15th will receive a 50% refund
Cancellations after April 15th are non-refundable, unless space is filled and in that case there will be a refund minus a $100 admin fee.

For all you left brain folks:

 (Order of these events subject to change, depending on timing/ flow/ etc.)
 

 And here are some inspiring images to get you thinking about how much fun this will be...

 
Excellent wine drinking alongside knowledgeable French wine people



 Magical doors


 Ambient scenes like this that look like they were ripped from the pages of AFAR magazine


 Medieval villages


 Pastis and absenthe... super French.


 Neat patterns reminding you of mosaic everywhere


 Castles

 Friends!

Valerie Nicoladze, Laure True and French mosaic artist Viviane Wolf in Avignon last year

Professional Development Seminar: Facilitating Community Mosaic Projects - hosted by the Society of American Mosaic Artists


Facilitating Community-Based Mosaic Projects
Professional Development Workshop






Artist and educator Laurel True will be presenting a day-long seminar at the Society of American Mosaic Artists Conference, the American Mosaic Summit, in Tacoma/ Seattle this April.

" SAMA’s Education Committee has designed the American Mosaic Summit Educational Program to address three distinct areas of our member’s development as artists: technical mastery, artistic achievement, and career success. …'

This seminar will be of particular benefit to mosaic artists who would like to add a community component to their work, teachers, community organizers and anyone interested in community development and entrepreneurial training through the arts.


This seminar is part of conference programming and is open only to conference attendees.

Facilitating Community-Based Mosaic Projects 
with Laurel True
Thursday, April 11, 2013


Session 1: Thursday, April 11, 2013, 8:00am – 5:00pm
Hotel Murano: Cavallino
Cost: $270 (includes $25 materials fee)
Level: Intermediate


More information

Register as part of conference


 There are still spaces left in this information packed, professional development workshop.


 


WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION:

This seminar-style workshop will focus on methodology and techniques for approaching community-based mosaic projects with participants of all ages and skill levels.  Students will come away from this information-packed workshop with the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead and facilitate successful, permanent projects that engage and inspire community.

Workshop will begin with a presentation of successful project models and lecture will include sample pedagogy for including and training community members in the creation of public art. Instructor will cover various approaches to community outreach, design development, sourcing locations and materials and recruiting project participants.

Lecture will include step-by-step instructions with complementary images describing multiple approaches to project coordination, management and creation with a focus on creating permanent artworks specific to host communities; needs, desires and location. Instructor will present mosaic-making approaches and techniques that can be employed with groups with any level of training. Class will focus on best practices for technical construction methods so that projects are durable, safe and long lasting.

Technical resources will be included in extensive class binder.

Additional topics covered will include:
  • Defining project goals and objectives
  • Approaching stakeholders and creating project proposals
  • Project planning, funding and budget creation
  • Project and time management techniques 
  • Working in and outside of a classroom setting
  • Professional development and entrepreneurial training for participants

Laurel will also be giving a presentation at the conference:

Community-Based Mosaics: Public Art and Social Practice
  
For early risers: 8:30 am on Friday, April 12
More info

Laurel True
Laurel True is a public artist, educator and community organizer specializing in sculptural and architectural mosaic projects. Her projects are focused mainly in urban and developing areas and she is committed to fostering arts education and entrepreneurship both in and out of the classroom. True is co-founder of the Institute of Mosaic Art in California and has lectured and taught internationally. In addition to maintaining a professional studio practice, True facilitates community-based mosaic projects in the US, Africa and Haiti through her organization, The Global Mosaic Project. Her work has been featured in independent and mainstream media, books and publications. She has created and facilitated hundreds of projects over the last 20 years, training thousands of project participants, students, apprentices and volunteers. She is a member of the Community Built Association, the Society of American Mosaic Artists, Americans for the Arts and the National Art Education Association.www.truemosaics.com www.globalmosaicproject.org








January 2013 Newsletter

Happy New Year!

I wanted to send out an end of year newsletter that would include a short recap of my projects and activities in 2012, and to let you know what is on tap for 2013!

Mirebalais Hospital Projects in Haiti

This past year was largely defined by my partnership with public health organization Partners In Health, and I spent much of the year in Haiti.
Over the last 12 months, I worked with a team of Haitian artists, who I trained in mosaic techniques, to create a wonderful series of architectural mosaics for Partners In Health's newly built Mirebalais Hospital in Mirebalais, Haiti. Phase One of the project included the creation of a large mosaic mural and mosaic pavement inset in the entry of the hospital, and a seating area outside the Community Health waiting area.  Here is a cool story from PIH website about these projects.
Phase Two included an epic project which covers the Pediatric Ward and attached Children's Playroom with colorful mosaics inspired by children's drawings. Over 100 artists contributed to this project by making mosaic stars, birds, butterflies and fish for different areas of the ward and playroom. Almost 80 drawings by Haitian and American schoolchildren were used in the project, which included 12 mosaic murals, two entryway surrounds, two exit surrounds, a hallway connecting two sections of the ward and over 50 mosaic birds and butterflies floating up in between the beds and windows. I am so proud of my Haitian Ekip (Team) and so grateful to all the artists who participated with us!
These projects were funded through community-driven fundraising...Amazing!
A heartfelt THANK YOU to all those who participated in designing, making, funding, promoting, blogging about and otherwise supporting these projects! 

A very special thank you to Seattle Mosaic Arts for their significant contributions to the project, to Heath Ceramics for donating much of the tile and to Ecole de Choix and Sunnyside Schools and art teachers Blondel Joseph and Lois Keller for facilitating the children's drawing sessions.


See more images on the Mosaics for Mirebalais Hospital Facebook page.
One of the legacies of this project was the creation of the Mirebalais Mosaic Collective, made up of the guys I trained during these projects. Through their new collective we have begun to create commissioned projects for clients in the United States and in Haiti!

The Global Mosaic Project

Since much of my public art practice has largely taken on a community-based approach, I decided to continue this work under the auspices of The Global Mosaic Project. The Global Mosaic Project partners with other organizations and businesses for various projects which bring art education, entrepreneurial training and neighborhood beautification to communities around the globe.
My aim is to get public art out into the world, especially in developing and urban areas, and to foster creative expression through cross-cultural, community-based projects and programs. 

 

The Global Mosaic Project has been BUSY this past year! 

 Check out my previous blog post for a visual recap of these cool projects.


In addition to the projects at Mirebalais Hospital, Global Mosaic Projects were also created for the New Orleans Healing Center, Dalton School, Brooklyn Community School, Seattle Mosaic Arts, Timkatec Orphanage in partnership with Sow A Seed in Haiti, multiple projects with Art Creation Foundation For Children in Jacmel and more. 
I have been working with Art Creation Foundation For Children in Haiti on a project called Mosaique Jacmel, an ongoing project which has involves the creation of large-scale mosaic murals throughout the city of Jacmel.  Through my role as lead consultant and project facilitator for Mosaique Jacmel, I have continued to train youth in mosaic techniques, offer professional development training and create new programs for craft development and product design.
New programs in 2013 for The Global Mosaic Project include the development of the Studio Program at ACFFC, focusing on entrepreneurial training for young adults transitioning into the workforce. 

 

2013 Global Mosaic Projects include

Projects in Mirebalais, Jacmel and Port au Prince, Haiti, New Orleans, Central America and India...

We are actively fundraising for many of these projects!

To support the Global Mosaic Project's 2013 programs and projects, please consider an end-of-year donation. 
It is through donations that our projects are subsidized, so we don't have to rely on funding being squeezed out of the already stretched organizations we partner with. Our projects have a major impact in communities we work in.  (You can earmark your donation for a specific project, or donate to our general fund.)
Here is a convenient link to DONATE through our fiscal sponsor, Fractured Altas. 
Check out the Global Mosaic Project Facebook page.

More in 2013

Announcing the launch of Global Mosaic Project Tours

The Global Mosaic Project will be partnering with several sustainable tour companies in the upcoming year to host destination community mosaic projects in locations around the globe.
Combining mosaic making and voluntourism, Global Mosaic Project Tours offer a chance for participants to contribute to the enhancement of the visual landscape of our world through the creation of community-based public art. 

Upcoming Trips:

January 2013: Costa Rica
March and July 2013: Jacmel, Haiti
June 2013: Provence, France
October 2013: Cape Coast, Ghana

Our July Jacmel trip is featured in CNN Travel's "52 Things To Do in 2013"! (#30)

True Mosaics Studio

This past year True Mosaics Studio created commissioned projects for Gregangelo's Velocity Circus in San Francisco, ABC Veterinary Clinic in San Ramon, CA and several private commissions. I am currently working on designs for a mosaic mural at Ochsner Children's Hospital in New Orleans in collaboration with ceramic artist Jan Bear.
I offer educational programming in mosaic techniques and offer professional development seminars both nationally and internationally. 

Here's what on the schedule so far for 2013:

 

Mosaic Classes with Laurel True

New Orleans School of Art and Craft
January 26-27 Tools and Techniques For Mosaics (Intermediate)
March 2-3 Beginning Glass Mosaics

El Saieh Gallery, Port au Prince
March 15  Introduduction to Traditional Setting Techniques
March 16-17 Introduction to Contemporary Mosaics

Seattle/Tacoma
April 10 Facilitating Community Mosaic Projects Seminar at SAMA Conference
More info 

You can keep up to date on my evolving teaching schedule on my Blog and on the True Mosaic Studio Facebook page.

Other news

Sequin wall hangings made in Haiti by Valentine Valris, designed by Laurel True and cute African fabric aprons made in Ghana by Vickie Dzeklov.



To sign up for my mailing list and receive occasional newsletters, opt-in here.


Copyright © 2013 True Mosaics Studio, All rights reserved.
 

The Global Mosaic Project: A Look at Our 2012 Projects!

Happy New Year from The Global Mosaic Project!

Since the inception of the Global Mosaic Project, we have accomplished so much!
****
At the end of 2011, Laurel True formed the Global Mosaic Project, an organization that grew out of more than 20 years of creating and facilitating community-based and public projects through her company, True Mosaics Studio.

"Global Mosaic Projects have positively impacted many communities this past year, from Seattle to Central Haiti. In the past 14 months, projects and trainings have directly served almost 750 participants of all ages and helped bring dozens of public art pieces to local and international communities. These projects have impacted economic development, offered art education and provided participants with opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration, creative exploration, team building, and collective healing."

- Laurel True, Founder/ Director

Please enjoy a visual recap of some of our recent projects and stay tuned for updates about our 2013 projects!


All project designs by Laurel True, except where noted.

 Mosaic Projects at Mirebalais Hospital in partnership with Partners In Health, Mirebalais, Haiti

Tropical Flowers Mural in entry waiting area 
(14' x 9")


PIH Inset logo at main entrance to hospital
Mirebalais Mosaic Team: (l to r) Mario Jeudi, Denis Bolivard, Laurel True, Osner Jean Louis and Cassius Smith

Mosaic Seat Wall outside Community Health waiting area
(20' x 10')


Multiple Mosaic Projects in Pediatric Ward at Mirebalais Hospital

Entrance to Pediatric Ward (1 of 2)


Tree of Life over nurses' station (1 of 2)
 

Detail


Flower Mural based on children's drawings (1 of 6)
(4' x 8')

Birds and Butterflies made by participating mosaic artists from the US and France (50+) 
Designs based on drawings by schoolchildren from Ecole de Choix in Mirebalais and Sunnyside School, Los Angeles, CA. Thank you to art teachers Blondel Joseph and Lois Keller for facilitating drawing sessions.

Bird and Butterfly Artists participated in a community-based fundraising effort to support the Mosaic Artwork Fund. Thanks to all Artists and those who sponsored them!


 Children's Playroom in Pediatric Ward (all four walls)
Boats, birds and animal designs were based on children's drawings. 
Paintings inside giant flowers by Harold St. Louis, wall backgrounds by Tony Nozero.




Star and Comet Constellation Mural around exit (1 of 2)
Over 40 artists participated in a Make A Star For Haiti Fundraiser, hosted by Seattle Mosaic Arts, by making stars and comets or sponsoring artists. Thank you so much to SMA and Star/ Comet Artists and Donors!



My Amazing Mirebalais MosaicTeam (left to right): 
Johnsky Chrispin, Cassius Smith, Mario Jeudi, (Laurel True), Osner Jean Louis and Denis Bolivard



Carruth Cellars Urban Winery Community Mosaic Project, Solana Beach, CA 
 


Community Mosaic Mural Project at Dalton School, NY, New York
Designs for this mural were based on drawings by students from Dalton School.



Mural done in Facilitating Community Projects Professional Development Workshop in Brooklyn for Brooklyn Community School

Mural done in Mosaic Mural Making Intensive Professional Development Workshop at Seattle Mosaic Arts


 Mural done in Facilitating Community Mosaic Projects Professional Development Workshop at Norma Yuskos Studio in Encinatas, CA for Sunnyside School.
Design by Lois Keller


Timkatec Orphanage Community Mosaic Mural Project in partnership with Sow A Seed,  Petionville/ Port au Prince, Haiti
  
 

 

 Sow A Seed Foundation's Holiday Event for orphaned children, Port au Prince, Haiti 


Mosaic Memorial at Oasis Hotel, Petionville, Haiti
The Mirebalais Mosaic Collective's first project after Mirebalais Hospital!
Created by Johnsky Chrispin, Cassius Smith, Mario Jeudi, Osner Jean Louis and Denis Bolivard with not much help at all from Laurel True ;)
Projects with Art Creation Foundation For Children, 
Jacmel, Haiti

Professional Development Training with ACFFC Mosaic Team

Craft Development: Mosaic Bottles

 Project Proposals and Planning
Bench design by Fedno Lubin

Community Mosaic Projects with ACFFC in Jacmel that were part of
Mosaique Jacmel
Laurel True and The Global Mosaic Project supported design development, training and professional execution on these Mosaique Jacmel Projects with ACFFC youth

BWEN Neighborhood Mural 
Mural design by Bruno Renee

Bassin Bleu Mural
Mural design by Bruno Renee  and ACFFC

A Day at the Beach Mural at Congo Plage
Mural design by ACFFC Youth 


La Belle Haitienne Mural
Mural design by Bruno Renee 
Add caption


The History of Coffee in Jacmel Mural
Mural design by Bruno Renee 



Haitian Flag Mural
Mural design by Papouche 


Art Creation Foundation For Children Building Facade 2012
Mural design by Papouche

We can't wait to do more projects in 2013!
  

 What a great year!


For more information, please visit GlobalMosaicProject.org and be sure to check out our Facebook page!
To make a tax-deductible donation to The Global Mosaic Project, and support our ongoing work, please go to:

If you are interested in partnering with the Global Mosaic Project, please contact GlobalMosaicProject at gmail

 SIGN UP FOR OUR MAILING LIST to receive occasional updates on projects, classes, events and other news from The Global Mosaic Project and True Mosaics Studio.


Upcoming Spring Mosaic Classes with Laurel True




Upcoming Spring Mosaic Classes with Laurel True


New Orleans:
TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES (Intermediate)
Saturday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
January 26 - 27, 2013 (2-DAY WEEKEND WORKSHOP)
Level: Any
Class Price:
Register before January 12: $255,
register December 19 - January 12: $225
Materials: Included  
Class size: Minimum 6, Maximum 10
Description: In this class students will learn how to work with a variety of materials and with different types of tools to get differing effects with their materials.  Lecture and demonstration will cover specialty cutting techniques such as carving and honing, precision cutting and refinement of shapes for varied effects.  Students will try their hand at specialty cutting with glass, tile and stone and gain a deeper understanding of how each tool can be used for desired effects.

BEGINNING GLASS MOSAICS
Saturday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
March 2 - 3, 2013 (2-DAY WEEKEND WORKSHOP)  
Level: Any
Class Price:
Register before February 16: $195,
register February 16 - March 2: $225
Materials: Included  
Class size: Minimum 6, Maximum 10 
Description: A great introduction to glass mosaics! Glass is a beautiful medium for mosaics. In this beginner friendly class, students will design and create their own glass mosaic piece. Class will focus on designing for glass mosaics, introduction to different types of glass tesserae used by contemporary mosaic artists and surfaces suitable for glass mosaic projects. Instructor will demonstrate the proper use of glass cutting tools for mosaic, cutting and shaping techniques, different types of lay patterns and adhesives for glass and their appropriate applications. Instructor will present a literal visual encyclopedia of glass mosaic materials available to mosaic artists today - from low end recycled materials to high end specialty materials. Students will have plenty of colorful glass to work with for their projects. Sample designs will also be offered for student use. Students will create a 12" x 12" glass mosaic to take home for interior display. No experience necessary, beginning and returning students welcome
More info


Port au Prince:
March 15  Introduduction to Traditional Setting Techniques
March 16-17 Introduction to Contemporary Mosaics

Description: Beginning students and experienced artists wanting to expand their repertoire will learn techniques used for the creation of functional and decorative mosaics using ceramic tile and glass.  Experience why one of the oldest art forms in the world has so much appeal today.

More info   


Seattle:
April 10 Facilitating Community Mosaic Projects Seminar
(This is part of the programming at the Society of American Mosaic Artists  2013 Conference in Tacoma/ Seattle)
Session 1: Thursday, April 11, 2013, 8:00am – 5:00pm
Hotel Murano: Cavallino
Cost : $270 (includes $25 materials fee)
Level : Intermediate
Description: This seminar will focus on methodology and techniques for approaching community-based mosaic projects with participants of all ages and skill levels.  Students will come away from this information-packed workshop with the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead and facilitate successful, permanent projects that engage and inspire community. Technical resources will be included in extensive class binder. Additional topics covered will include: Defining project goals and objectives Approaching stakeholders and creating project proposals Project planning, funding and budget creation Project and time management techniques Working in and outside of a classroom setting Professional development and entrepreneurial training for participants This class will be of particular benefit to mosaic artists who would like to add a community component to their work, teachers, community organizers and anyone interested in community development and entrepreneurial training through the arts.
More info

Contemporary Mosaics Class with Laurel True in Port au Prince

El Saieh Gallery Presents:

Contemporary Mosaics with Laurel True
An Introduction to Mosaic Art

Contemporary Mosaics student Fabienne Theodore

 
Hands-On Workshop
March16- 17, 2013
Saturday 10 - 4 pm and Sunday 10 - 1pm

Spend an inspiring weekend with mosaic artist Laurel True learning the art of mosaic making.

Workshop will meet in the studio classroom of El Saieh Gallery in Port au Prince, one of Haiti’s most respected contemporary art galleries.

Beginning students and experienced artists wanting to expand their repertoire will learn techniques used for the creation of functional and decorative mosaics using ceramic tile and glass.  Experience why one of the oldest art forms in the world has so much appeal today.

Class will begin with a presentation of images of contemporary mosaic work from around the world. Instructor will introduce and demonstrate the various tools and techniques used in mosaic making, and discuss the use of adhesives, surfaces and materials for different applications.

Students will learn how to cut and shape tile, and how to arrange pieces to get different effects. Class will cover both the technical and aesthetic aspects of mosaic making, while offering a great community experience in a creative environment.

Students will be provided with a base to mosaic and have lots of great materials to choose from. El Saieh Gallery will provide a delicious vegetarian lunch on the veranda with beautiful views of Port au Prince.

Workshop fee: $150, materials and lunch included.




For registration information please contact Sharona El Saieh
El Saieh Gallery, 19 Ave du Chili, Port au Prince
elsaiehgallery@yahoo.com/ Tel:  3481-4736

Laurel True is based in New Orleans and Haiti and has maintained a professional studio practice in architectural, public and fine art mosaics for over 20 years through her company, True Mosaics Studio. Her vibrant mosaics can be found in hospitals, parks, hotels, restaurants and in commercial and residential settings around the world.
Laurel teaches and lectures internationally and facilitates community-based mosaic projects through her organization the Global Mosaic Project. She partners with organizations and businesses to create iconic, site-specific works of public art. Laurel began working in Haiti with Art Creation Foundation for Children, where she has an ongoing role as Lead Consultant for the Mosaique Jacmel Project.  Laurel is the co-founder of the Institute of Mosaic Art in California and has been teaching mosaic techniques for over 18 years. For more information please visit www.TrueMosaics.com




Global Mosaic Project: Jacmel, Haiti in March and July 2013



I am really excited to announce this Global Mosaic Project Tour to Haiti! 
Looking forward to getting a great group together to experience Haiti through a cross-cultural community project.
- Laurel True

 

We have added an additional July date for this trip! 
Dates: July 22 - July 28, 2013


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

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

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

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


     Jacmel Memorial Mosaic Mural, Congo Beach, Jacmel 2010

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


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

 Laurel True with ACFFC youth mosaic artists in front of BWEN neighborhood mural, Jacmel
Itinerary

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

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

An afternoon will be set aside to relax on one of Jacmel's beautiful beachs, and enjoy tropical juices or rum drinks. Our last evening in Jacmel will include a project dedication and evening of traditional Haitian music.

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

 
Wait til you see how beautiful Haiti is.


Accommodation &  Reservation Details

$1,795  based on double occupancy in a fine hotel in Port au Prince and Jacmel, Haitian-English speaking tour guide,  lux ground transportation, delicious Haitian meals/day. **Price does not include your US to Haiti airfare. 
***Please note that $200 will be tax deductible, and a direct contribution to Art Creation Foundation For Children.
To reserve your space and for more information, please contact Global Adventures Tour Director Lisa Rueff.  Leading international yoga and service trips abroad, she looks forward to sharing this rewarding experience in Haiti with you.

Lisa’s Rueff Email:  globaladventures@me.com

Here is a downloadable pdf with tour/ trip information:
http://www.truemosaics.com/JacmelMosaicTripMarch2013.pdf

This is not our bus, but it's a cool one ;)

View on the drive to Jacmel!

 Haitian sunset.

Little house

 Beach in Jacmel

 
Troubador musician on the beach

Seafood

Rum punch toast in Jacmel

Haitian coffee is amazing

Painted mural by ACFFC youth (below).
 Laurel working with ACFFC youth on a mosaic by the sea in Jacmel


 
Mosaic artist and project participant Erin Rogers working with ACFFC youth.


 
Tap Tap in Port au Prince 
Laurel True in front of mosaic mural at Mirebalais Hospital. 
Completed by True and her team in 2011.
 Laurel True is based in New Orleans has maintained a professional studio practice in architectural, public and fine art mosaics for over 20 years through her company, True Mosaics Studio. Her vibrant mosaics can be found in hospitals, parks, hotels, and in public, commercial and residential settings worldwide. Laurel teaches and lectures internationally and facilitates community-based mosaic projects through her organization the Global Mosaic Project. Laurel began working in Haiti in 2010, with Art Creation Foundation for Children, where she has an ongoing role as Lead Consultant for the Mosaique Jacmel Project. Laurel is the co-founder of the Institute of Mosaic Art in California and has been teaching mosaic techniques for over almost 20 years. For more information please visit www.TrueMosaics.com.

El Saieh Gallery Presents:

Contemporary Mosaics with Laurel True
An Introduction to Mosaic Art


 
Hands-On Workshop
November 10 -11, 2012
Saturday 10 - 4 pm and Sunday 10 - 1pm

Spend an inspiring weekend with mosaic artist Laurel True learning the art of mosaic making.

Workshop will meet in the studio classroom of El Saieh Gallery in Port au Prince, one of Haiti’s most respected contemporary art galleries.

Beginning students and experienced artists wanting to expand their repertoire will learn techniques used for the creation of functional and decorative mosaics using ceramic tile and glass.  Experience why one of the oldest art forms in the world has so much appeal today.

Class will begin with a presentation of images of contemporary mosaic work from around the world. Instructor will introduce and demonstrate the various tools and techniques used in mosaic making, and discuss the use of adhesives, surfaces and materials for different applications.

Students will learn how to cut and shape tile, and how to arrange pieces to get different effects. Class will cover both the technical and aesthetic aspects of mosaic making, while offering a great community experience in a creative environment.

Students will be provided with a base to mosaic and have lots of great materials to choose from. El Saieh Gallery will provide a delicious vegetarian lunch on the veranda with beautiful views of Port au Prince.

Workshop fee: $150, materials and lunch included.




For registration information please contact Sharona El Saieh
El Saieh Gallery, 19 Ave du Chili, Port au Prince
elsaiehgallery@yahoo.com/ Tel:  3481-4736

Laurel True is based in New Orleans and Haiti and has maintained a professional studio practice in architectural, public and fine art mosaics for over 20 years through her company, True Mosaics Studio. Her vibrant mosaics can be found in hospitals, parks, hotels, restaurants and in commercial and residential settings around the world.
Laurel teaches and lectures internationally and facilitates community-based mosaic projects through her organization the Global Mosaic Project. She partners with organizations and businesses to create iconic, site-specific works of public art. Laurel began working in Haiti with Art Creation Foundation for Children, where she has an ongoing role as Lead Consultant for the Mosaique Jacmel Project.  Laurel is the co-founder of the Institute of Mosaic Art in California and has been teaching mosaic techniques for over 18 years. For more information please visit www.TrueMosaics.com