Recycle and Reuse - Sustainable Art

Fri 20th February 09 | 12:30pm - 6:00pm
Birrarung Marr

hosted by | Purple Dog Leadlighting & Mosaics
Mosaic is an art form that can and does use many materials that would normally be overlooked. From old plates, tiles, pebbles and buttons right through to bottle caps and metal. Debbie Balen has created a detailed design and will set it up along with various recycled materials for all visitors to the Sustainable Living Festival to help create a mosaic. The design will be drawn and shaded to show where materials need to be placed. With Debbie's knowledge as a mosaic teacher she can help people to lay pieces and to see how the finished piece will look. By the end of the festival we will have a mosaic made entirely of recycled materials. This is also a wonderful way to introduce mosaics to large groups of people and to get them involved in a creative activity that involves using recycled materials.

Debbie Balen

Three years ago Debbie set up a small business of leadlight and mosaic creation. Prior to starting her business she completed a 3 year course on all aspects of leadlight and glass art. Debbie was awarded runner up top student for her 3rd year by the Australian Glass and Glazing federation. She was also highly commended for a mosaic piece which she created for the Melbourne Show in 2007.

'I love the idea of being able to re-use materials in an artistic form. I have worked on commissions for private homes and in public spaces. I am currently working on a 6 metre mosaic at Hallam Primary School. Three years ago I set up mosaic classes in the Oakleigh area for adults. These classes have been very successful and have shown me that the art of mosaic is alive and well.'