Mosaics in motion
- Vera inherited her love for mosaics from her father
- She experiments with terrazzo, rare materials and artisanal glass
- Her works have been exhibited internationally
Vera Belikova creates hand inlayed mosaic sculptures, including clocks, panels and benches from her studio in Venice. She aims to redefine the role of mosaic in contemporary art and design through her techniques. Born in Russia, Vera was inspired by Saint Petersburg's rich mosaic heritage, and pursued her studies in the craft at the Mosaic School of Friuli in Northern Italy. "For me, mosaics are not static images, but a language in motion, through which I explore themes of time, memory and belonging," she says. Vera has showcased her works internationally, including at Superstudio+ during Milan Design Week, at Révélations fair at the Grand Palais in Paris, and at the Italian Cultural Institute in Almaty in Kazakhstan.
Interview
- What drew you to the world of mosaics?
- I grew up in Russia, surrounded by colourful glass tesserae made by my father. Years later, Saint Petersburg's rich mosaic heritage stirred those early memories and inspired me to enrol at the Mosaic School of Friuli in Northern Italy.
- What does your craft mean to you?
- For many people, mosaic seems archaic and anachronistic, but I slowly realised how much potential it still holds today. Discovering the many possible applications of mosaic in the contemporary world gives me immense joy. It brings me closer to passionate professionals all over the globe.
- Which materials inspire you most today?
- I love experimenting with different materials and machinery, and I try to walk off beaten paths to reinvent contemporary applications. I am particularly drawn to terrazzo and mosaic, which have opened up a world of architectural materials and methods for me.
- Is there a specific moment you enjoy most in your making process?
- After the initial fear of bringing a concept to life fades, there is a magical moment when materials and techniques seem to speak to me, guiding my next steps. I find it deeply emotional once I understand this silent dialogue.
Vera Belikova is a rising star: she began her career in 2019 and she started teaching in 2024
Where
Vera Belikova
