General News
25 August, 2022
Mosaics on show at gallery
Avoca’s Gallery 127 will play host to the work of seven mosaic artists throughout September with the Mosaic Journeys exhibition. Christine Baines is one of the local artists whose work will be displayed at the iconic converted railway station. The...
Avoca’s Gallery 127 will play host to the work of seven mosaic artists throughout September with the Mosaic Journeys exhibition.
Christine Baines is one of the local artists whose work will be displayed at the iconic converted railway station. The retired art teacher became interested in the medium of mosaic 20 years ago.
“A friend of mine was doing mosaics and I loved her work so started getting lessons,” she said.
“Then we moved to Elmhurst in 2007 and a friend told me about mosaic artist Helen Bodycomb, who has a studio in Castlemaine and teaches, runs workshops and hosts studio days.”
Under the mentorship of Ms Bodycomb, what started as an interest for Ms Baines has now become a passion. She has travelled to Italy on a mosaic tour to see ancient work in Naples, Pompeii and Herculaneum and took part in a workshop in a hilltop resort in Sicily.
The earliest known use of mosaic art dates back more than 4000 years to Mesopotamian times. The intricate artform was created by using a variety of material such as stone, glass, ivory and marble, to depict myths and stories. Its popularity continued through the days of the Roman empire, which spread the art of mosaic throughout the world.
The intricacy of the work can still be seen in contemporary pieces, with the work on display at Gallery 127 highlighting the different techniques and styles of the seven artists.
“Some people don’t know much about mosaic, they think it’s just China that has been stuck down — smash and stick,” Ms Baines said
“But we all have very different styles. There will be works that deal with totally reclaimed pieces, others use specially prepared glass. I have a piece made from marble based on the ancient Roman mosaic technique.
“About 30 pieces will be on display and most will be available to buy.”
The official opening of Mosaic Journeys will be held on September 3 from 2.30 pm.
The exhibition will run until September 26.