Interview with mosaic artist, Brett Campbell, continued.

What would be your favourite part in the process of creating a piece?

I think that would be a toss up between researching & conceiving the design, and final grout cleanup where I get to see the finished work.

Which type of work do you get the most pleasure out of creating: a large mural or something small like a planter?

Definitely the larger works - I think one of my personal strengths is seeing a project through & I get a lot of satisfaction from completing a 2-3 month project. I call it a triumph of patience!

Do you ever teach mosaic art in classes or to groups, schools etc?

I don't teach classes, but teach through our DIY kits. I've also taught primary school children - something that I really enjoy - kids are great!

Is there an active group of mosaic artists on the Sunshine Coast? And if so are you involved in it in any way?

Not that I'm aware of. I do have some involvement with the Mosaic Association of Australia though.

Have you ever collaborated with another artist from a different medium in a work?

Platypus Park - Courtesy of Mosaics.com.au

Not yet, but anticipate I will do someday.

Is there something that you do differently to other people in your craft?

I really don't know. Based on the final product I'd say yes, but I can't tell you what.

Was there anything that you had a particular trouble with when you started?

Weather. We lost a few works through lack of knowledge about the effect of weather.
Now I'm ultra-cautious about how we put our projects together.

Have you got any advice for people that are considering doing this as a hobby?

Mosaic work is much more than making a pretty piece of art. The concentration and patience required, and practical side of creating a mosaic offer much more. Time & time again people comment on how it brought out a different side to themselves - often one they didn't know about.
Go for it!

Is there any particular piece of advice you’ve been given that you would like to share?

By all means fossick around & bargain hunt for your tesserea, but don't cut corners with your adhesives, grouts & backing boards. It's heartbreaking to make a beautiful work, only to have it fall to bits through poor construction with second rate materials.

Canna Lillies - Courtesy of Mosaics.com.au

Mosaic art interview continued on next page
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