|
Artisan Mosaics
Greater Toronto's Source for
One-of-a-Kind
Mosaic Medallions
(416) 335-8181
| |
Mosaic Medallions: In With The Old
It is said that history repeats itself-A truism from fashion to auto design.
It seems that what was once in vogue will eventually return to popularity. How
many times have you heard someone say "Don't throw that out, it will be in'
again in ten years." Admit it most of you have a few choice items hanging in
your closet, with the faint hope that the Dynasty or Miami Vice look will
meander its way back into the mainstream.
We see the same trends in commercial and residential architecture and decor.
Arched facades, tapestries, pillars and columns, are all reminiscent of styles
that have repeated themselves from times of antiquity.
So what's next? Perhaps we need look no further for inspiration than, say,
the 4th century BC-and the advent of mosaic art. When we hear the word mosaic,
many of us think of small square tiles, often used in bathrooms and typically
installed in monochromatic sheets. True mosaic art couldn't be more different.
Originally ancient artists formed their mosaics from water-smoothed pebbles,
then from non-symmetrical pieces such as broken pottery and other scrap
material. The mosaic would be a picture, perhaps a landscape, or mythological
event. Churches throughout Europe incorporate intricate mosaics in their
ceilings, walls, columns and floors depicting biblical events.
No one can say exactly when or precisely where the art of mosaic was born,
but there is evidence of this form regaining popularity throughout the ages by
various civilizations. The Greeks developed the first school for mosaic
artisans. Originally created to decorate floors, the Romans took the popularity
of the art to new heights using mosaics to decorate their walls. Archaeological
evidence in Pompeii suggests that even common people would have simple mosaics
adorning the walls of their homes. Over the centuries mosaics have experienced
renewed popularity time and time again.
Far from little bathroom tiles, today's incarnation of mosaics are the works
of art so valued in previous ages. Intricate pictures and designs in motifs from
ancient to contemporary genres, the mosaic can make a unique addition to almost
any decor.
Artisan Mosaics For Mosaic Medallions in Toronto
Dean Avey, owner of Artisan Mosaics in Toronto, Canada, points out that
mosaic can find their way into almost every room of your home, as floor or wall
coverings. His gallery displays a wide variety of mosaics, in various sizes and
shapes. "All made meticulously by hand," boasts Avey. Artisan carries a wide
range of mosaic sizes that can be used in small applications such as the
centerpiece of a kitchen back splash on up to mammoth mosaic carpets with the
look and feel of an Oriental rug. Most of Artisan's mosaics are made from tiny,
hand-cut pieces of marble, in a variety of textures. According to Avey, tumbled
marble and slate mosaics are currently in vogue, as well as highly polished
almost seamless patterns that are reminiscent of Italian wood inlay.
The practicality of ceramic tile, and its ever-increasing array of colour and
texture choices, makes it popular with home and business owners. The status of
hardwood flooring, for its warmth and richness, is also at a peak. Setting
mosaic medallions or emblemata' within your tiles or hardwood is certain to set
your choice of floor covering apart.
Mosaic carpets offer the rich beauty of a Persian rug in formal areas and
foyers, with the practicality of stone for durability and ease of cleaning. The
mosaic carpet has the added safety benefit of being set flush with the
floor-particularly valuable in high traffic areas, and in spaces where
accessibility is important.
Beautiful and practical, the mosaic is ideal for walls in kitchens and baths.
No need for rooms that require frequent clean-ups to look clinical or
utilitarian. Mosaics will add warmth and charm to these spaces where typically
little art is found. Outdoors mosaics can be used in swimming pools and
fountains, or as the centerpiece of a porch or patio.
Commercial applications are limitless. Restaurants and hotels, business
foyers, and elegant restrooms; all will welcome the air of distinction mosaic
art can bring to their decor. "Custom insignias will be popular with businesses,
clubs and institutions," says Avey, whose company will custom order a mosaic of
your crest, coat of arms, or business logo.
The revival of mosaics means authentic art will find its way into less
conventional spaces, like floors and patios, bathrooms and kitchens, as well as
in commercial applications; a welcome opportunity for professional decorators,
home and business owners. So once again, it is in with the old, the really,
really old
|
Toronto Mosaic
Medallions by: