A Brief Explanation of Marquetry
Personal Mandala - Jan Walker - Not for sale
A mandala can be a representation of things that have meaning in your life. This mandala is based on one from native North Americans. I have taken this "New World" version of the mandala and created it used ancient marquetry techniques from the "Old World."
Marquetry uses thin sheets of wood or other material called veneers to create a picture or design.The various grains, textures and colors of the natural woods are the marquetry artist's palette. I also include brass, copper, small stones, ceramit and "found items" into my pictures. A simple "Exacto" knife and blade, a soft mat to protect the work surface, a roll of masking tape and some white glue are all that is needed to get started cutting veneers.
This ancient art form reached its pinnacle in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. Many of these marquetry creations have survived for hundreds of years and are now priceless heirlooms, passed down through generations.
Marquetry is enjoying its second renaissance. You can do marquetry in a full-blown workshop or at a corner of the kitchen table. A few inexpensive tools and a few hours of practice, and you can create a beautiful piece of marquetry. Renewed interest in this art form has brought it back from the brink of obscurity. Modern themes, glues, finishes and methods add an exciting new dimension to marquetry.