Mosaic Artist
Sculptures, Wall hangings, Pendants, Bracelets, Paired Leggings with Pendant, Cards, Postcards, Gift cards, Book, Mudlarked Ornaments
Mosaic artist Kathryn Portelli, is best known for the Black Saturday mural in Kyneton. A tribute to the fire affected community of 2009.
Likewise, a tall mosaic sculpture welcomes visitors to town. Angel is a steel and pink granite form. It stands in the river walk park near the Piper St bridge.
She has also created many other projects in the local area. For example, in schools, a kindergarten and R M Begg Aged Care. Similarly, at the Kyneton Bushland Resort. Mini golf markers and a walk-on chess board game for guest entertainment.
Kathryn sells a wide range of gallery items, such as jewellery, murals, and little sculptures. Artworks always include unique materials. For instance, hand-made kiln fired glass. Water tumbled and bonfire melted glass. Or hand painted ceramics. Most importantly, Kathryn effectively combines these materials, with others sourced from around the world.
Kathryn sells printed leggings with a matching mosaic pendant. They come in a variety of styles and sizes. Packaged in smart gift boxes, they are, in other words, an appealing wearable-art opportunity.
“I enjoy the gallery venue in Kyneton where I can offer smaller artworks to visitors. In addition to the larger public art projects I am involved with, these pieces are a quicker thrill to create.”
Kathryn obtained formal training at Chisholm Institute in Melbourne in the 1980’s with major subjects being ceramic art and lead lighting, developing a strong love of colour. Three years of employment in two studios in Boston USA followed, creating stained glass and sandblasted artworks. Commercial jobs included shops, restaurant chains and churches. Private projects included door panels, skylights, feature windows and lampshades.
In 1989, after a move to Pipers Creek, the mosaic artform was discovered in 2000 and new styles and materials were tried constantly. Subsequently, professional outcomes grew. Selling in retail outlets. Fulfilling public and private requests. Hosting work shops. Participating in exhibitions and receiving awards.
As the Vic Rep of MAANZ for six years, annual shows were arranged, workshops taught and four walks of Melbourne’s CBD mosaic sites were designed in print and as an app.