"Roman Mosaics Across the Empire" is on exhibit at The Getty Villa in Malibu. Although most of the mosaics are from the Getty's permanent collection, it is a comprehensive display accompanied by videos showing some mosaics in-situ.
The exhibit focuses on three geographic areas: Italy, Gaul (modern day France) and North Africa. During the late 2nd century BC, Italy was influenced by the Hellenistic Greek pictorial tradition - emblemata - or picture panels. By the 1st century BC, mosaic production became wide spread throughout Italy. Gallia Narbonensis in Gaul was one of the earliest regions of the Roman Empire to be affected by Greek and Roman culture. Examples of mosaics and other decorated floors dating to the 1st century BC are found in this region. North Africa was under Roman rule from 146 BC. By the 2nd century AD, North Africa had become a primary source of wealth for aristocratic Romans, who brought the art of the mosaic to their public and private spaces. Early Roman mosaics in this region display elaborate black and white patterns and geometric designs.
Diana and Callisto surrounded by a Hunt
Gallo-Roman, from Villelaure, France
AD 175 - 200
Corner panel from Bear Hunt
Roman, from Baiae, Italy
AD 300 - 400
Let me know if you find the mosaic exhibit as interesting as I do. The exhibit runs through September 12th. Reservations are required for parking at a cost of $15 per car.
Below are up-coming art shows I'm participating in. I hope you'll stop by:
Pasadena Society of Artists 91st Annual Exhibit
Opening reception Saturday, June 11th 5:30 - 8:30 PM
San Fernando Valley Art & Cultural Center
18312 Oxnard St., Tarzana 91356
818 697-5525
Art on Palm
Saturday June 18th - 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
in the storied Wildwood Park at 1421 E. Palm St., Altadena 91001
626 827-787