Mosaic art has an ancient and lustrous history dating back to Grecian and Roman times, when floors and walls of temples, homes and baths were decorated with brightly coloured fragments of stone or coloured tile called tessarae. The art form evolved over the centuries and opulent materials such coloured glass, marble, semiprecious stones and even precious metals were used to illustrate a plethora of various scenes, portraits, landscapes, seascapes and biblical settings.
Today, mosaics remain an ever popular means of decorating one’s home and adding interesting features and accents throughout our living spaces. There is obviously something universal and enduring about mosaics that keep this art form forging ahead. Part of the allure may be the combination of their durability and beauty – a combination that is rare in things that can be so decorative.
If properly created and applied, mosaics will last for decades and often even longer. Archeologists have discovered mosaics dating back to around 4000BC. Mosaics have the benefit of not fading with time and the fact that they can withstand the elements far better than almost any other decorative medium. Many Roman era mosaic tile floors for example, are just as brilliant and lovely today, as they were when they were first crafted.
Mosaics can be used almost anywhere, however the most popular applications include:
Flooring
Mosaics are ideal to use on bathroom walls and floors. Mosaics made from natural stone, such as travertine, slate or marble for example; or alternatively porcelain or ceramic mosaics that mimic natural stone, are especially ideal for bathroom floors as they are smooth but not slippery. Other popular organic-inspired mosaics include mosaics made from pebbles or shells, which are especially popular for outdoor showers and other bathroom applications. Generally speaking, mosaics are more expensive than ordinary tiles, so to save on costs, they are often used sparingly for borders, skirting or spread out in mini feature points throughout the room.
Walls
When it comes to choosing materials to create a wall mosaic, your only limitations are your imagination, and of course, issues of practicality regarding the placement of the mosaic. If for example; your wall mosaic is going to line the walls of a shower or act as a basin splash back, it would need to be smooth to facilitate easy cleaning. However, if the mosaic is being created as a decorative feature on a wall, then you can use just about any material – from broken china, glass, mirror, tiles, ceramics, pottery, glass bottles, or various metal mosaics. If the material is porous however, such as stone and clay for example, it will need to be sealed. If the material used is non-porous, such as glass, mirror and metal, and is naturally resistant to bacteria and mould, it will not require any extra treatment.
Countertops
Creating a mosaic on your countertop or table surface makes a durable, practical and spectacular feature out of these surfaces. There are a multitude of combinations that can be explored – a surface made from glass mosaics would be the perfect complement to a translucent glass vessel sink, a plain washbasin made from CeasarStone would be perfectly matched with surfaces made from natural travertine stone mosaics for example. Successfully introducing mosaics into your interiors lies in being able to create contrasts and introduce various harmonious textures within a space. Moroccan crafts are particularly well known for creating beautiful mosaics - setting tiles into wrought iron tabletops to create wonderful geometric patterns that can add color and vibrancy to your patio. Lush, primary colors and jewel tones are perfect for enjoying sunny afternoons and the patterns you can choose from are countless.
Outdoor areas
Mosaics can be used anywhere outdoors – for furniture such as tables, chairs, stools, benches, water features and fountains; additionally on borders for flower beds, pools or walkways, for house numbers; or to create interesting features, artwork or hardscaping outdoor elements. Since mosaics can’t be damaged by heat, sunlight, damp or humidity – they are perfect for almost any outdoor application.
If you are buying mosaic items, there are a few things to take particular note of: ensure that all the pieces are firmly secured in place, the mosaics should be applied so that the surface is smooth and even without the tiles being at odd angles to each other, and lastly, the closer knit the pieces are and the less grouting there is, the better quality the mosaic is. Also, look for mosaic tiles that have depth of color – something that is brilliant, glamorous and bold, something that stands out!
Mosaics can be addictive, as they are unique pieces of art in their own right that can be manipulated to suit any style, they offer hassle-free enjoyment, and easy-maintenance as they are virtually indestructible. Beauty without any hassle – what more could you ask for? - Antonella Dési
Pictures courtesy of: www.bisazzablog.com.
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