Volunteers

We practise Mosaic as a uniquely social art form, allowing fine artists to work alongside artisans and beginners.

Southbank Mosaics has a regular group of volunteers who have been working with the project over several years. Our volunteers come for a variety of reasons: to gift their time and talent, to learn new skills, to support their return to work, to meet new friends and many other reasons.

We accept volunteers who are willing to work with us and if you are interested in mosaic craft then you should come to the studios on Thursdays 16.00 - 21.00 (during school term-times, but not school holidays) where you will register and receive training. You will make a small mosaic for yourself. This is free of charge, but we do not provide any other expenses.

STOP PRESS - new sessions for volunteers from 10th July 2010 on SATURDAYS 10am - 4pm. After September these sessions will continue and include people working and learning with us, who are on Community Service Orders.

Our aim is to make you self-sufficient as a mosaic artist. We expect people to work to the highest standards. Once you feel confident, you can work on our public realm projects. After your initial training and as you feel confident using our studios, you will be able to work with us during the week, generally in between 10.00 - 16.00 Mondays - Fridays. Those who wish to use our studios to make their own private mosaic pieces must make a contribution (£10 per day) towards use of the studio outside of the Thursday evening session which is always free. Also for any private work materials have to be paid for ((@ £3 for 10cm2).

KEY GUIDELINES: To keep a safe and secure environment you must follow safety rules and always tidy up after yourself. As a workplace you must treat colleagues with mutual respect and support. As a social enterprise you must understand that Southbank Mosaics has to earn income and be productive.

Southbank Mosaics started as a voluntary project – managed and run by volunteers. It remains a largely voluntary project, with artisans and local residents designing and making intricate mosaics, ceramics and sculptures for the public realm. The emphasis of the project is on quality, rather than quantity. Each person has an unique contribution to make and you will see your work installed on the streets of London. The process of installing work is complicated, so you will also learn negotiation, diplomacy and patience, along with technical expertise.

Southbank Mosaics offers volunteers the opportunity to:

• Train in useful artisan skills
• Work with experienced artisans
• Contribute to public-realm works of art
• Make London more legible and beautiful
• Add character, interest and detail to our streets and parks
• Join an international team that draws inspiration from many cultures, local and over the horizon
• Celebrate our shared history

What we expect from our volunteers:

• Enthusiasm and a positive attitude
• Willingness to learn

Fees and expenses for volunteers:

In general, all our in-house training is free for volunteers.

However, if a volunteer wants to make their own work (rather than work on one of our commissions) then they must make a contribution towards use of the studio and use of materials.

Mosaic charges for private work are at the rate of £10 for each visit (outside of Thursday evenings) and £3.00 for 10cm2. (Ceramics & sculpture charges to be agreed.) Any piece of private work that is more than 40cm2 (£48 in value), must be negotiated and paid for in advance.

We do not pay expenses.