LEVEL 1 : UNIT 5 - ABSTRACT PATTERNS
UNIT OVERVIEW
In Unit 5 we investigate a selection of other important mosaic patterns that do not rely on andamento or Opus Tessellatum for their core structure.
The primary pattern we investigate is Opus Insertum which is also often referred to as Opus Segmentatum or Opus Palladianum. It is more commonly known as crazy paving for the irregular shapes of the tesserae and the deliberate lack of flow that the pattern creates.
This approach has been referred to as a smash and stick mosaic method, but do not fear, as we will go well beyond this simplified idea, instead learning about the structure of this pattern and how to create it successfully.
We also investigate several other abstract designs that are created by recycling marble offcuts and repurposed terracotta brick.
RESOURCE PACK
Downloadable PDF
EXTENSION PACK
Downloadable PDF
TEMPLATES PDF
Printable Templates
theory lecture
Video Presentation
LESSON 1 : ABSTRACT PATTERNS DRAWING EXERCISE
In Lesson 1 we carefully observe the shapes of selected stones from a wall in Herculaneum and work out how to cut these irregular shapes from square tesserae.
Format: Video Tutorials
Difficulty: Low
LESSON 2 : ABSTRACT PATTERNS CUTTING EXERCISE
In Lesson 2, using our drawings as a reference, we create a cutting sampler, demonstrating how to execute the cuts from square tesserae.
Format: Video Tutorial
Difficulty: Low
LESSON 3 : ABSTRACT PATTERNS MOSAIC DRAWING
In Lesson 3, we use one of the provided templates to create a tesserae drawing using irregular four and five sided shapes.
Format: Video Tutorial
Difficulty: Medium
LESSON 4 : ABSTRACT PATTERNS MOSAIC SAMPLE
In Lesson 4 , using our drawing as a guide, we cut and lay an abstract pattern mosaic in two colours. This is not without its challenges!
Format: Video Tutorial
Difficulty: Medium
EXTENSION OPTIONS
PDF’s are provided for the extension options below.
Extension 1: Opus Scutulatum
Larger coloured pieces of recycled stone set into an Opus Tessellatum background.
Low Difficulty
Extension 2: Opus Figlinum
A Roman Herringbone Pattern.
Low Difficulty
Extension 3: Opus Spicatum
A Roman Basketweave pattern.
Low Difficulty
LEVEL 1: A TASTE OF THE CLASSICS
LEVEL 1
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Unit 1: Linear Patterns
Unit 2: Curves
Unit 3: Circular Patterns
Unit 4: Decorative Knots
Unit 5: Abstract Patterns
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LINEAR PATTERNS
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CURVES
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CIRCULAR PATTERNS
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DECORATIVE KNOTS
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UNIT 5
ABSTRACT PATTERNS
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I have just wrapped up our final unit of Andamento Level 1 and I’ve loved every single minute of the classes as well as the homework exercises!
I am not exaggerating! This class is so full of interesting and unexpected facets. I loved the historical context which you presented and the flow into learning to draw and then cut and layout by those ancient rules. I have made mosaics for many years, and I’ve taken dozens of classes both in person and online but this was the most comprehensive. In this Level 1 course I learned many new things I can’t wait to incorporate into my work.
I love your enthusiasm and your down to earth style. Your honesty. It all works like magic!
I was advised to enroll by Tani Bates, whom I admire greatly. She said that your courses were a game changer for her. I thank God, she pointed me to you because I feel like I’m ready for a game changer too!
Peace to you until the next level!
