Expressive Animal Portrait Workshop

Have you ever wondered how a mosaic portrait can capture personality, emotion, and expression using nothing more than pieces of glass?

In this live online workshop, I'll guide you through my complete process for creating expressive animal portraits using the Glass-on-Glass (GOG) mosaic technique.

Rather than simply following a pattern, you'll learn how to truly see your reference photograph—understanding light, value, texture, fur direction, and colour selection so every piece of glass contributes to bringing your portrait to life.

Throughout the workshop, I'll be creating the same portrait alongside you in real time, sharing every artistic decision as we progress together from the very first piece of glass to the finished mosaic.

Whether your goal is to create treasured portraits of your own pets or simply develop stronger mosaic skills, the techniques you'll learn can be applied to virtually any animal portrait.

Cindy Laneville - Mosaic Artist Workshop Creating Expressive Animal Portraits in Glass-on-Glass Mosaic

Why Everyone Creates the Same Portrait

For this first workshop, every participant will create the same portrait.

Working from a single reference image allows everyone to learn the same techniques together while I demonstrate each stage live.

Rather than trying to troubleshoot several different photographs at once, I can focus on teaching the artistic decisions behind every cut, every piece of glass, and every transition. This creates a far richer learning experience and ensures every student develops the confidence to create their own expressive portraits in the future.

Course Highlights

  • Reading a Photograph

    Learn how to recognize light, shadow, values, and composition before making your first cut.

  • Creating Expression

    Discover techniques for expressive eyes, natural fur direction, texture, and movement.

  • Glass Selection

    Learn how thoughtful colour choices and glass placement create depth, realism, and emotion.

  • Replay & Support

    Review every session at your own pace and enjoy one month of follow-up support after the workshop.

Workshop Format

Workshop includes

✓ Four live Zoom classes (approximately 1½–2 hours each)

✓ Live demonstrations throughout the project

✓ Session recordings if you can't attend live

✓ Private Facebook support group

✓ 30 days of email and Facebook support

✓ Reference image and full-size pattern

✓ Complete materials list after registration

Glass-on-Glass (GOG)

Glass-on-Glass (GOG)

This workshop focuses on the Glass-on-Glass (GOG) mosaic technique.

You'll create your portrait on clear glass, allowing natural light to pass through the finished piece and beautifully illuminate the colours of the glass.

I'll demonstrate the techniques I use specifically for Glass-on-Glass mosaics, including planning, glass selection, layering colour, and achieving depth while maintaining light transmission.

Who Is This Workshop For?

This workshop is ideal for mosaic artists who already have basic glass-cutting experience and would like to expand into more realistic animal portraiture.

If you're comfortable cutting glass and are ready to take your mosaics to the next level, this workshop will provide techniques you can use long after the class has finished.

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Price $395.00 CDN plus tax

Dates & Times

October 6th • 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
October 13th • 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
October 20th • 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
October 27th• 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

All times Eastern Time.

Spaces are intentionally limited to ensure every participant receives individual attention throughout the workshop.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have supplies to take the course?

No. Students are welcome to observe and learn the full process. Those who already have supplies may choose to work along.

Do I need special tools or supplies

Basic mosaic tools are recommended, including a glass cutter, running pliers and mosaic nippers, and long-handle tweezers.
Students will also need stained glass pieces in floral colours, an adhesive suitable for glass-on-glass mosaic, a frame or clear base, and grout for finishing.
A detailed supply list with sizes, recommendations and options will be emailed after registration. Students are welcome to use supplies they already have.

Electronic pattern sized for your project

You will receive an e-mail of the cat design in a pdf format. You will then need to print a copy to apply it to your window.

Will the sessions be recorded?

Yes. All sessions will be recorded. If you cannot attend live or wish to review the lessons, participants will have access to the recordings for 30 days after the final session.

What skill level is this workshop for?

This workshop is ideal for mosaic artists who already have basic glass-cutting experience and would like to expand into more realistic animal portraiture.

If you're comfortable cutting glass and are ready to take your mosaics to the next level, this workshop will provide techniques you can use long after the class has finished.

Will I receive help after the workshop?

Participants receive one month of follow-up support and critiques.

Will supply list be provided?

A supply list will be provided after registration.

How many students are in the class?

Class size is limited to ensure everyone receives personal guidance and support during the workshop.

A Personal Note

One of the things I enjoy most about teaching is watching a portrait come to life—not just my own, but yours as well.

During this workshop, we won't simply be assembling pieces of glass. We'll learn how to observe, interpret, and make artistic decisions that transform a photograph into an expressive mosaic.

I'll be creating every step alongside you, answering questions as we go, and sharing the techniques I've developed through more than twenty years of creating Glass-on-Glass mosaics.

I look forward to creating with you.

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