Venetian Mosaic Workshop at the Orsoni Glass Foundry

I recently got an email that I definitely think is a sign.

JoAnn Locktov wrote with information on the Orsoni workshop. Well you all know how badly I want to learn how to use smalti (properly that is!) and going to Venice to do this was my next international plan! So it’s a sign from the Mosaic Gods to go!!! Well not this year, but maybe in the next …two… and yes I know, I know. It just happens to be the time of year that they are doing all their marketing, but come on! Serendipity is serendipity 😉

Here’s the lowdown:

Venetian Mosaic Workshop at the Orsoni Glass Foundry – An adventure in Artitourismo
Venice, Italy

Since 1888 Orsoni has been producing glass smalti and 24 k gold mosaic at their foundry in the Cannaregio district of Venice. This historical oasis now offers a 3 day mosaic workshop, teaching the same traditional Byzantine techniques that were used for the Basilica di San Marco. The private mosaic class, with a maximum of 6 students, is an authentic experience into the heart of Venetian artistry and culture. Students participating in the workshop have access to over 2,000 hues of Orsoni mosaic glass. They are taught to use the traditional hammer and hardie for cutting and shaping the individual tessera. On the first day students tour the foundry and color library before beginning their mosaics.

Maestro Lucio Orsoni, the internationally acclaimed mosaic artist and great grandson of founder, Angelo Orsoni has created the series of workshops to “spread the divine art of mosaics” to travelers who are fascinated with this ancient craft.

Completing the adventure in artitourismo, participants stay at Domus Orsoni, the unique bed and breakfast located steps away from the mosaic studio. An Italian architect or artist designed each of the luxurious 5 bedrooms with Orsoni mosaic glass tile and resplendent 24k gold. Workshops are offered throughout the year and the tuition is Euro 480. Five and ten day Master classes are also available. Rooms at Domus Orsoni start at Euro 80. A schedule and more information can be found at www.orsoni.com or by calling +39 041 2440002 and in the US 415.383.1399.

Download the 2008 brochure now.

Looks like smalti heaven!!!