Session 6: Meshing Around: Fabricating Mosaic on Fiberglass Mesh with Jennifer Kuhns
2-Day Session!
Thursday, September 19, 2024, 8:00am – 5:00pm AND Friday, September 20, 2024, 8:00am – 5:00pm
Hands-on
All Levels: Technical Development
Price: $490 (Includes $65 materials fee)
Students will create two 8” x 8” mosaic designs on fiberglass mesh with thinset during the first day of class, with two different approaches. One of the methods is particularly useful when leading community mosaic activities with unskilled participants.
During the second day, students will learn to “pre-grout” their mosaic sections so that they can be installed onto a substrate (a tile board or a permanent structure, i.e. a wall, backsplash or floor.)
A slideshow will be presented with descriptions of various installations, including challenges and solutions. The instructor will demonstrate more installation techniques and will explain the pros and cons of each approach.
Working on mesh allows mosaic artists to fabricate over the top of a pattern, and to create large projects on a horizontal surface within the studio that can then be transferred to the permanent location, rather than having to work on location. The instructor has worked hard to develop methods of installing mosaic that eliminate the use of plastics, such as contact paper and tile tape, resulting in a virtually no-waste process that is easier, more efficient, and extremely durable for both interior and exterior architectural applications.
Students will leave with two mosaic sections that are ready to install onto a substrate, whether that is a section of tile board or their own retaining wall.
I discovered mosaic in 2001 and began creating corporate and public art in 2005. I now have mosaic work installed throughout the U.S. in locations like the Dallas Fort Worth Airport, Philadelphia Airport, the Prudential Center, and Time Warner Center. Also, I lead participatory projects where communities create artwork as a group, and I teach workshops to aspiring mosaic artists.
My artistic style ranges from naturalistic and photorealistic to wildly colorful and stylized. It is characterized by precision cutting of materials and careful placement resulting in smooth lines and strategic use of texture and reflectivity. My goal when creating art is to bring life and joy to living spaces. Art increases quality of life, and art that is luminous, beautiful, and joyful lifts people’s spirits. I create works of art that have function and integrity, and that convey a sense of serenity, happiness, and optimism for public spaces.
