Geometric Patterns from Roman Mosaics: and How to Draw Them

Roman geometric patterns radiate symmetry and order. Drawing the patterns is not just a question of mechanically copying the work of someone else square by square, but of understanding the underlying structure. The patterns are built up from simple elements which seem to ‘grow’ and develop in an almost organic or living way. This book is arranged as a series of drawing exercises. There is no better way of appreciating the skill and imagination of those artists than by drawing their designs yourself. To ‘feel’ how a cross ‘grows’ into a swastika pattern which then ‘grows’ into a complex interlocking design is something which can only be experienced at first hand. This second edition incorporates the same “drawing led” approach to learning about the subject and as such is invaluable in using the designs for contemporary mosaic, or pattern, design. New photographs and updated text strengthen this approach further. Ideal for schools, shops in or near Roman remains, and historical and art/design sections of shops.

Author Biography

Mosaic as a medium for artistic expression has been to the forefront of Robert Field’s creative life for more than a decade. Before taking early retirement from teaching, during which time he had held various Art and Craft posts, he started travelling widely in the Roman world studying and photographing mosaics. This took him to Italy, North Africa and the Near East, Cyprus and Spain and later in search of Norman mosaics in Sicily and to Greece and Turkey to see Byzantine examples. Following this he began to study Victorian and modern mosaics which he has examined and photographed extensively in Britain as well as in Europe and America. In addition to being a founder member of the British Association for Modern Mosaic (BAMM) he also served for a number of years on the committee of the Association for the Study and Preservation of Roman Mosaics (ASPROM) and is a member of L’Association Internationale pour l’etude de la Mosaique Antique (AIEMA) whose conferences he has attended at a variety of venues around the world.A successful author, Robert Field has written six books on geometric patterns which have sold many thousands copies world-wide. These are used by many people as a source of creative design in subjects as diverse as embroidery, patio paving, knitwear and quilt making.