Mosaic art is a mix of art and smart use of things. Artists change old objects into bright art. One fun type is Picassiette art. It uses broken plates and dishes in a green way. We show you how to turn parts into neat mosaic art. Artist Bonnie Fitzgerald shows her ways.
The Essence of Picassiette Mosaic Art
Picassiette comes from French. It means "stolen from plates." Raymond Isadora made it known in the 20th century. He put broken dish pieces close to one another on surfaces. He turned old items into strong art. This work gives old things a new role and tells a personal tale. Many use plates from a mother or a grandmother to share their past.
Finding Your Mosaic Materials
Start by getting plates, cups, and small bits. Visit thrift shops and yard sales. Look in your own attic too. Find bits that show bright hues and fun shapes. A good mosaic uses many kinds of pieces, each with its own story.
Breaking and Nipping: The Tools of the Trade
Artists need good tools to work with plates. Some may use a hammer to break a plate. Nippers give more care with each break. Wrap the plate in a towel so bits stay close. Use nippers at the edge to start a crack. Keep working until you get pieces that fit your idea. Try different types of dishware since porcelain may break with ease.
Preparing Your Substrate
Pick a strong base to hold your art. Wood boards or sturdy fiber boards work well. Make sure the surface is ready to hold glue. Scratch the board a bit so the glue gets a good hold.
Adhesives: Selecting the Right One
Glue sticks the pieces onto the board. Thin-set mortar works well in rooms. It sticks firmly to ceramic bits. You might try other types of glue, but thin-set stays strong over time.
Designing Your Mosaic
Before you paste the pieces, jot your plan on paper. This plan lets you see how shapes and hues sit with each other. It helps you fix spots before you set them. When you are ready, paste each piece with care. Leave small gaps between bits for filling later.
Finishing Touches: Grouting
After you paste the mosaic, you may fill the gaps with grout. Grouting fills spaces and gives the work a neat look. Some artists let the gaps show for a free style. If you add grout, work slowly so it does not cover the tile faces.
Conclusion
Making neat mosaic art with broken plates in the Picassiette style is fun and wise. This work turns used items into art that speaks of the past. Each shard tells its own tale, and each bit adds to your story. If you are a seasoned artist or just try art now, have fun and let your ideas show. Life is like a mosaic; you choose each bit!
