2015 Year in review
This year at CMS was an important year for us as it was our ten year anniversary. A lot has happened in the pastdecade and we have grown to become a respected international center for Mosaic Arts education.
In January British artist Gary Drostle led a sold out workshop in Large Scale Mosaics and helped his students create mosaic signage for our neighbors at Begyle Brewery. In March and April,
Maestro Verdiano Marzi returned to CMS for a 6th consecutive year. He was an artist in residence here for 2 months and also held his first American solo exhibition at Chicago's historic Fourth Presbyterian Church. The opening reception featured musical performances, dance, and it was truly an event for Chicago. In April, Australian artist Pamela Irving came to CMS for Picassiette: Storytelling in Mosaics and had a fantastic exhibition of prints and mosaics at GoCM. In June, Japanese artist Toyoharu Kii returned for a 3rd year of enthusiastic students and Chicago pizza. In July, Dugald MacInnes returned to give his expertise in slate, stone, and art during two wonderful weeks with inspired CMS students. In September Gary Drostle was back in chicago for his popular workshop and created another beautiful work for our community. In November, we celebrated our 10th anniversary during our annual fundraiser "Hammered!" which raised over $6,000 for our CMS Legacy Fund; the event featured live music, an excellent wine tasting, a silent auction and raffle, and many wonderful attendees.
Throughout the year our dedicated faculty, staff, and Board of Directors have contributed enormously to our mission of advancing education in classical an contemporary Mosaic Arts. Our Education Director Matteo Randi and our Certification Director Sue Giannotti have helped to elevate the level of professionalism in hundreds of our students. The number of our Certification students is growing and we are very proud of the commitment made by those artists. Additionally our tremendous faculty and staff at the school continue to inspire a new generation of mosaic artists, and keep things running smoothly in the office and classrooms.
It has been an honor and privilege to be part of this generous community of extraordinary folks. I hope you will join us on this wonderful journey into the New Year.
With Gratitude,
Karen Ami
Founder, Executive Director
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