Mosaic Master Class in Istanbul, Turkey
June 21-25, 2010      

The class is full! Email if you'd like to be on the list for next year!
For information on the one-day class in Istanbul, click here.

Join Sonia for an intensive mosaic workshop in Istanbul, where Europe meets Asia, a city rich with both Byzantine and Roman mosaics. Our studio, located in a historic 16th century building (now a cultural center), is just steps from Hagia Sophia and the Great Palace Mosaic Museum. This will be a rare opportunity to enhance your mosaic skills in an inspiring and stimulating environment, surrounded by history. 

The class will explore texture, opus and reflectivity working direct in glass, unglazed ceramic, marble, smalti and gold. Technically there will be extensive inquiry into cutting techniques, methods of laying and broadening your skill set. Focus will be given to style development and individual expression. Most importantly, you'll leave the workshop with an elevated sense of what mosaic is about, a new way of thinking about your work and the knowledge to enable you to push to the next level. Some prior mosaic experience is recommended. A variety of materials will be supplied in a palette of rich blues, greens and golden yellows. An exact list of supplied materials will be sent to class participants so they can bring additional materials, or even an alternative palette, if they wish.

Istanbul has a wealth of ancient mosaics and we’ll take full advantage of the opportunity to study and be inspired. We’ll see Byzantine mosaics at the Kariye Camii, Hagia Sophia and the Fethiye Camii and charming Roman mosaics at the Great Palace Mosaic Museum. Plus we’ll have the unique opportunity to see some of the mosaics revealed by recent archaeological activity. And there’ll be optional visits to the dramatic Sunken Palace Cistern (Yerebatan Saray) plus the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market for a little shopping. And on the last night, we’ll celebrate our course while dining on Turkish specialties at a wonderful restaurant.

The course fee includes:
* Individual instruction/coaching by Sonia, structured to meet each participant’s experience level and goals.
* Group discussions on the art of mosaic, cutting techniques, ergonomics, technical issues, the business of art, critical thinking and problem-solving strategies for design/implementation and more.
* Materials, substrate and adhesive (bring your own tools – a recommended list will be sent)
* Visits with Sonia to Kariye Camii, Hagia Sophia, Fethiye Camii and the Great Palace Mosaic Museum.
* Closing night dinner party at a superb restaurant.

Our classroom is located in the Sultanhamet, the historic center of Istanbul, so there are lots of hotel choices in all price ranges within easy walking distance. Class members will be sent a list of possible choices, including where Sonia is staying. Those arriving early may want to meet for dinner on the 20th to get acquainted. On other evenings we’ll chose from the wide variety of good restaurants in the area.

Space is limited so early registration is recommended. Class cost is $1,850 US. (In the event that the US to Euro exchange rate worsens beyond €1 = $1.60, there may be a small surcharge.) Eight participants are required for the class to be held. Maximum class size is twelve – no exceptions. A deposit of $500 is required on booking and the class will fill on a first-come, first-in basis. Balance of the fee is due by March 15th, allowing ample time for everyone to book air tickets.

Please direct inquiries and space availability questions to Sonia.

See images from last year's workshop in Tuniaia!

Click here for a flyer in PDF format for printing

<-- Back to General Class Info <--