Mosaic – JSS1 Cultural & Creative Arts Lesson Note (Third Term)

What is mosaic?

Mosaic is an art form where small pieces of coloured materials (called tesserae) are arranged and fixed together to create a picture, pattern, or decorative design. These pieces are usually set in mortar, cement, or adhesive on a surface.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

• define mosaic and explain the term tesserae;
• list the materials used in mosaic art;
• name the types of mosaic;
• describe the steps in creating a simple mosaic;
• state the uses of mosaic art and the safety precautions to follow.

What materials are used in mosaic art?

Traditional tesserae

• Small pieces of glass
• Ceramic tiles
• Stone pieces
• Marble fragments
• Pebbles

Modern and alternative materials

• Broken pottery or dishes
• Coloured paper
• Eggshells
• Seeds and beans
• Bottle caps
• Plastic pieces
• Beads
• Shells

Adhesive materials

• White glue (PVA)
• Cement mortar
• Grout
• Paste (for paper mosaics)

Base and surface materials

• Wood
• Cardboard
• Canvas
• Walls
• Floors
• Vases or pots

What are the types of mosaic?

1. Glass mosaic: Made with coloured glass pieces, often used for decorative purposes.
2. Ceramic mosaic: Created using broken tiles or pottery pieces.
3. Stone mosaic: Uses natural stone pieces, common in ancient architecture.
4. Paper mosaic: Made with torn or cut coloured paper, suitable for beginners.
5. Mixed media mosaic: Combines different materials for creative effects.

What is the historical background of mosaic?

• Mosaic originated over 4,000 years ago in Mesopotamia.
• Ancient Greeks and Romans perfected the technique.
• It was used extensively in Byzantine churches and Islamic architecture.
• It is found in many Nigerian traditional palaces and shrines.
• Modern artists continue to use mosaic for public art and decoration.

How do you create a simple mosaic?

1. Design planning
   • Sketch your design on paper.
   • Choose appropriate colours.
   • Decide on the materials to use.
2. Prepare the base
   • Clean the surface thoroughly.
   • Draw or transfer the design onto the base.
3. Prepare materials
   • Sort materials by colour.
   • Cut or break pieces to the sizes you want.
   • Ensure safety when handling sharp materials.
4. Apply adhesive
   • Spread glue or adhesive on small sections.
   • Work on one area at a time.
5. Place tesserae
   • Start from the centre or one edge.
   • Leave small gaps between pieces.
   • Press firmly to secure.
6. Grouting (for tile and glass mosaics)
   • Fill gaps between pieces with grout.
   • Wipe off excess with a damp cloth.
   • Allow to dry completely.
7. Finishing
   • Clean the surface.
   • Apply sealant if needed.
   • Display or mount the finished work.

What are the uses of mosaic art?

Decorative purposes

• Wall decorations in homes and public buildings
• Floor designs in hotels and palaces
• Swimming pool designs
• Garden pathways

Religious art

• Church windows and walls
• Mosque decorations
• Temple artwork

Public art

• Murals in parks and streets
• Monument decorations
• School and hospital walls

Functional items

• Tabletops
• Mirror frames
• Flower pots
• Serving trays

Why should students learn mosaic art?

• It develops patience and concentration.
• It improves hand-eye coordination.
• It encourages creativity and self-expression.
• It teaches colour theory and design principles.
• It provides an opportunity for recycling materials.
• It can be a source of income through craft sales.

Safety precautions

• Wear protective gloves when handling sharp materials.
• Use safety goggles when breaking tiles or glass.
• Work in well-ventilated areas when using adhesives.
• Keep sharp tools away from younger students.
• Clean up broken pieces immediately.
• Wash hands thoroughly after working.

Simple classroom project ideas

1. Paper mosaic greeting cards
2. Eggshell mosaic on cardboard
3. Seed mosaic pictures
4. Bottle cap mosaic designs
5. Magazine paper geometric patterns

Where is mosaic used in Nigeria?

• Traditional palace decorations
• Modern architectural designs in cities
• Church and mosque decorations
• Public art projects in schools
• Hotel and restaurant decorations
• Cultural centre displays

Evaluation

1. What is mosaic, and what are tesserae?
2. List four materials that can be used as tesserae.
3. Name the five types of mosaic.
4. Describe the steps in creating a simple mosaic.
5. State three safety precautions to follow when making a mosaic.

Assignment

Make a simple paper mosaic using torn or cut coloured paper. Follow the steps in this lesson. Write down two safety precautions you followed while working.