Nicknamed the eternal pictures because of their durability, mosaics are one of the oldest and most beautiful forms of art in the history of mankind.
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Mosaic art discoveries can be dated back to more than 5000 years ago, in the ancient historical region of West Asia.
Today, the techniques and intricate skills are still practised, forming unique and modern art to be admired in and out of the home.
The complexity, the colour, and the shapes can be fascinating, and piece by piece, Shepparton wife, mother and grandmother Gay Flemming’s artistic expression is one to be admired.
Her decorative designs, from birdbaths, flowerpots, wall art, picture frames, candle holders and oil burners, are made by assembling small pieces of coloured glass, stones, ceramic, pebbles, or other materials to form patterns and pictures.
It’s with attention to detail and her unique way of conceptualising each piece that her love for mosaicking continues to grow.
As her home fills with treasured pieces, Gay’s tricks of the trade, insightful knowledge, and passion for everything mosaic are now being shared with the community in art classes held at the Shepparton South Community Centre.
“There are no limits to your own creativity,” Gay said.
“It does take time and patience, and rarely a piece is finished in one day.
“However, the end result is worth it and can leave you feeling a real sense of achievement knowing you have done it all by yourself.”
Gay draws some of her inspiration from local artists and silo art from all over the region.
She also learns a lot from online tutorials and said she was always looking for ways to show the real world and her ideas on life and how she views it in some of her work.
Her favourite piece is her birdbath. A piece that’s admired daily in the comfort of her front yard, but it’s the life that it draws that touches her the most.
“Just watching the little birds come in for a swim and listening to them sing is so beautiful,” she said.
“The crystals sparkle in the light, and the world, for a moment, seems to pause.
“Life can get busy — it’s nice to just stop at times and admire the beauty around you. Then I get back to what also helps me fill in time — mosaicking,” she said, as she smiled.
If you’re wanting to explore the creativity of mosaicking, then Gay’s classes on Thursdays between 10am and noon are a must.
Otherwise, go online, be inspired, and add a touch of beauty and artistry to your life and home.
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