Homo Faber logo
Pietrasanta, Italy

Ursula Corsi

Mosaic maker

A colourful and versatile universe

  • Ursula loves the complexity and uniqueness of mosaic making
  • She was trained in the atelier of master mosaicist Fabiano Favret
  • Her first commission was for a synagogue in New York City

Ursula Corsi lives in Pietrasanta, a charming town on the Tuscan coast, famous for its marble quarries and vibrant artistic life. When she talks about her work, her enthusiasm is palpable and contagious. “I have always been fascinated by the process of creating a mosaic,” she says. “I find it incredibly engaging to examine and pick the diverse materials that, one tile next to the other, will form the final composition, generating a perspective that is always personal and unrepeatable.” The vast array of interpretative options offered by mosaic making drove Ursula to explore this medium in depth: in Pietrasanta, Spilimbergo and Ravenna, three of the major mosaic production centres in the world. Later, in Faenza, she specialised in mosaic restoration and conservation.


Interview

©Alice Ippolito
©Alice Ippolito
When did you first come across mosaic making?
During my high school years at the Art Institute of Pietrasanta, where I studied ornamental decoration. My budding interest for mosaic making turned into a passion during the four years I trained in the historic Favret Artistic Mosaic Studio.
How important is it for you to work in this particular area of Italy?
The marble quarries in the mountains and the many different activities related with this material have influenced my vocation. I often undertake commissions for local wall cladding companies and collaborate with sculptors and artists based in this area.
What is your definition of a mosaic?
A mosaic is a material and eternal painting that appeals to the eye and also to the touch. When the light strikes the tesserae, it gives the image an almost sculptural depth.
Are you satisfied with what you have accomplished so far?
I do not know if I will ever be fully satisfied… probably not! But this challenge is the very reason for which I have chosen to turn this craft into my life, and that makes me continue learning and perfecting my skills.
Ursula Corsi is a master artisan: she began her career in 1990 and she started teaching in 2008

Where


Ursula Corsi

Address: Via Sarzanese 111/F, 55045, Pietrasanta, Italy
Hours: By appointment only
Phone: +39 3939266547
Languages: Italian, English
Homo Faber
Receive inspiring craft discoveries
Presented by
Terms of useCookiesCopyrightsPrivacy policyContact info