Mosaic Masterpieces
Explore the ancient Greek art form of mosaics. Discover how to make an intricate mosaic to create a beautiful vase or desk accessory.
1. Locate Greece on a world map. Find out about the people and art of ancient Greece and today. Mosaics date back 4000 years or more, when the Greeks pushed terracotta cones into a background for decoration. In the 4th century BCE the Greeks were using precise geometric patterns and detailed scenes of people, animals, or the sea.
2. Today, mosaics are made by grouping small pieces of clay, tile, pebbles, or other materials together to form a pattern or design, very much like those of the ancient Greeks! You can make a colorful paper mosaic in this same tradition to decorate a handy pencil cup or vase.
3. Cover your art area with recycled newspaper. Color an entire sheet of paper using Crayola® Markers. Be creative, making designs, stripes, or blocks of color. Tear your decorated paper into different shapes and sizes.
4. Trim construction paper with Crayola Scissors to fit around a juice can or similar clean, safe recycled container. This is your mosaic background so choose a favorite color! If you want to depict a scene or picture, sketch it with a Crayola Erasable Colored Pencil.
5. Glue the paper pieces on the background with a Crayola Glue Stick. Leave a little space between them so the background shows. Add ribbon on the top for a festive look.
6. Give your mosaic as a gift or put it on your desk. What will you do with your Mosaic Masterpiece?
Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.
Recycled Containers—Must be clean and safe. Do not use containers that contained bleach or other harmful chemicals (for example, household cleaners, dishwasher or laundry detergents). Do not use recycled metal cans that have sharp edges (for example, lids removed by household can openers).
String-Like Materials—Includes string, raffia, lacing, yarn, ribbon, and other similar material. Children 3 years and younger should not be given any string-like material that is longer than 12 inches. Close adult supervision is essential whenever children use string-like material. When crafts are to be worn around the necks of children 8 years and younger, attach the ends of the “string-like material” with clear adhesive tape, which allows easy release of the bond if the craft becomes entangled or caught on equipment. For children older than 8 years, the ends of the “string-like material” may be tied and knotted.
- Research other ancient art forms, or uses of mosaics in other areas of the world.
- Find out about another component of ancient Greek history, such as architecture or government. Write a short essay and illustrate it with your drawings.
- Create a unique gift set! Cut a paper towel roll into four pieces. Using the same mosaic method, cover each roll. Use the rolls as napkin rings for a family dinner, with your vase as a centerpiece.
- Assessment: Check mosaic for completion and accuracy in following directions.
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