10% off when Bundling with Hammer & Hardie Bootcamp!
Learn the Ancient Roman Mosaic Technique and Ravenna Method of creating Mosaics
"The Ravenna Method", which also goes by the names of "Direct Method into Temporary Binder" and "The Double-Reverse Method", is still used by many Italian professional mosaicists today.
It is a method that provides maximum flexibility for making changes as you go, as well as subject matter from figurative to abstract. It is also a perfect method to use for highly detailed work.
In the Ravenna method, materials are set into a temporary bed of lime paste or clay where they can be moved and changed until the final effect is achieved. The temporary bed of clay or lime paste remains moist for weeks and months; meaning it can be left it and returned to when you are ready to work again. Once complete the mosaic is transferred to a permanent mortar bed.
Some of the main advantages of the Ravenna Method are:
- Changes are easily made by removing tesserae directly from the moist clay or lime paste
- You are always working on the right side or face of the mosaic and as it will look when finished.
- The mosaic can be worked on while sitting upright, and can be viewed from a distance to see how it is reading to the eye.
This course also includes instruction in the Ancient Roman Technique of laying mosaics and Andamento. Also included are lectures on Substrates, Binders, and Materials and how to use them together effectively.
This course is appropriate for all levels from Beginner to Professional and is challenging rather than simple.
As there is no instruction in cutting materials in this course, if you are new to mosaics and/or do not yet know how to cut materials, you probably will wish to take my Hammer & Hardie Bootcamp before this course.
*If you are new to cutting your materials, I recommend taking my Hammer & Hardie Bootcamp before, which can be Bundled at a 10% discount with the Ravenna Method Plus
*Students will need to acquire their own Tools, Materials, and Supplies found in the "Resources: Materials & Tools" segment of the Curriculums below.
These are available to order here:
https://www.mkmosaics.com/ancient-reproduction-kits-1
10%off when Bundling with Hammer & Hardie Bootcamp!
Course available for 18 months from time of purchase.
I love your questions and your curiosity! I think you’ll find I’ve put the answers to almost all of them in the course materials. Please look for the answers there before emailing me, that way I can be more helpful.
I will respond to email inquiries “within reason”.
If you need additional coaching, I’m happy to help for an additional fee. . I offer single pre-paid coaching sessions here:
https://www.mkmosaics.com/new-page-1
Welcome & Introduction
What Students Say
Great learning experience with Michael in 5 day Ravenna class at his new studio in Hunters Point Shipyard. We covered so much more than just the Ravenna method, which is quite elaborate in itself. We also covered substrates, multiple direct and indirect methods, the history of mosaics, color valuation, andamento, best products to use, etc. I would highly recommend this class.
-Karen Yablonivitch
"Michael Kruzich offers North American artists a rare and adeptly-presented opportunity to learn the Ravenna method without having to go to Italy."
--Jo Braun
"Studying the Ravenna Method was incredibly important to my artistic skill-set. As a mostly-self-taught (mosaic) artist, I've generally preferred non-traditional materials and methods. Though I've always enjoying experiencing and studying classical mosaics, I've never been particularly interested in producing one in an ancient style. However, we don't need to make work that literally mimics classical pieces to have the underlying principals, priorities and disciplines influence our own style. Learning this method made me feel even more connected to the traditions of the mosaic craft, as well as increasing my technical proficiency. Studying abroad isn't always feasible and Michael makes the fundamentals very accessible and relevant to a contemporary practice. I would consider a class like this required for anyone committed to a serious mosaic practice."
--Kate Jessup
Curriculum
- Introduction (10:03)
- Resources-Materials & Tools
- Handout
- Materials: Stone and Smalti (13:43)
- Value & Color (19:51)
- Ancient Roman/Byzantine Technique & Andamento: Parts 1-5 (61:53)
- Backgrounds (11:26)
- The Ravenna Method Process: Intro & Reverse Tracing (16:12)
- Kit & Palette Card Setup (2:51)
- Clay Bed Prep & Print (24:30)
- Lime Paste Prep & Print: Parts 1-2 (25:58)
- Textural Limitations (2:01)
- Laying the Mosaic-Clay: Parts 1-3 (42:34)
- Laying the Mosaic: Lime Paste-Part 1-2 (16:58)
- Break: Overwhelmed?...it's ok! (0:43)
- Gluing the Mosaic Surface: Part 1-2 (28:13)
- Removing the Clay-Parts 1-3 (33:59)
- Removing the Lime Paste (10:05)
- Setting Mosaic in Permanent Binder: Clay-Parts 1-2 (31:19)
- Additional Setting Options: Lime Paste-Parts 1-2 (31:37)
- Removing the Cheesecloth and Glue (18:33)
- Antiquing & Cocciopesto (optional) (27:03)
- Sealing (optional) (3:04)
- Additional Possibilities (4:56)
- MKM Original Works created with The Ravenna Method (16:42)
- Substrates, Binders, and Materials (29:57)
- Closing (1:03)