September Sculpture Workshop

In September, Piece by Piece participant artists learned how to make a 3D substrate from scratch, using a polystyrene ball, fiberglass mesh, and thinset mortar to create garden spheres. Teaching artist Julie Williams led the group in the fabrication of the spheres, then shared the techniques unique to working on a 3D surface. Participants developed their own designs and then teaching artist Ellen Dinerman led the group in the mosaic fabrication part of the project.

Working on a three-dimensional project has special challenges and rewards. “I learned that on a curved surface, you have to go with smaller pieces,” says artist John V. “That, and managing the adhesive is key.” For artist Kim, the process was a great new experience: “I really enjoyed making the sphere! For some reason, my cutting was better and everything just flowed easily. I liked the process.”

Artist Vicki talked about the differences she saw in working with two-dimensional vs three-dimensional: “When it’s 2D, you can see the whole surface. With a sphere, you can’t see the whole thing, which makes it interesting as you keep turning to see what’s next.”

The themes each month at Piece by Piece help guide our workshops through inspiration and experimentation. Working in three dimensions has brought a whole new perspective to many of the participant artists. Look for some of their mosaic spheres on our website for sale!

Sign up for our newsletter

0 comments

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

Read More Stories

  • Piece by Piece Supports UN Sustainable Development Goals

    Piece by Piece Supports UN Sustainable Development Goals

    At Piece by Piece, we are contributing to several of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
  • Visting Artist: Monica Currie-Johnson

    Visting Artist: Monica Currie-Johnson

    Piece by Piece welcomed back visiting artist Monica Currie-Johnson in September to inspire participants and teach a workshop using stacked glass in thinset.
  • Unleash Your Creativity With Piece by Piece

    Unleash Your Creativity With Piece by Piece

    In a world where art holds the potential to heal, connect, and empower, Piece by Piece is on a mission to transform lives through the simple yet profound act of creation.