Luciano Petris

Mosaic maker

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Custom made mosaics

Luciano is a skilled and experienced master
His work is internationally renowned
He collaborates with contemporary artists and architects

Born and raised in the heart of the ancient mosaic tradition, Luciano Petris was educated at the internationally well-known Scuola Mosaicisti del Friuli in Spilimbergo. He opened his workshop in 1980 in Codroipo, after ten years working for a specialised company. His experience as a mosaic maker covers more than 50 years. Luciano's mosaics are located all over the world. Using mostly Venetian smalti, Luciano can make any kind of mosaic, from small ones to very large creations for walls, floor, bathrooms and pools. He makes both replicas of ancient and modern masterpieces, as well as original contemporary artworks from his collaborations with artists and architects. “Today my enthusiasm is stronger than ever," he says.

Interview

Do you have a favourite kind of mosaic?
Most of all, I love working on contemporary art projects, collaborating in symbiosis with an artist or architect. Contemporary art has such a freshness and novelty, that requires spontaneity and a strong creative contribution.
Which have been the most significant collaborations?
I had a great experience with Jože Ciuha, a Slovenian painter, the ideal artist for my technique: we made about 30 artworks together. The collaboration with Austrian artist Christian Attersee, I enjoyed his dynamic style. Anton Lehmden called me to work for the Vienna underground, that was very memorable.
Are contemporary mosaics technically different?
It takes a peculiar technique, beginning from the tile making. They have to be cut in order to obtain a special rhythm: in different ways, with different heights and thicknesses, also in various shapes. A contemporary mosaic cannot be flat.
Could this craft be considered in danger?
Definitely, since everything has become faster and this craft is slow. It takes time and care. Also, now anything can be imitated and there is great confusion about what constitutes an authentic handcrafted mosaic.

Luciano Petris is a master artisan: he began his career in 1972 and he started teaching in 1993