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.

You'll have the opportunity to work from your own animal photograph, whether it's a dog, cat, or another furry friend. I recommend choosing a photograph with enough fur length and texture to really explore the techniques we'll be covering throughout the workshop.

I'll be creating an animal portrait of my own during our live Zoom sessions, demonstrating how I approach the different features, select and cut my glass, establish fur direction, and use colour and value to create depth and realism.

Your role during our sessions is to watch, ask questions, and learn from the demonstrations. You'll then take that information and apply it to your own portrait, working at a pace that's comfortable for you.

All live sessions are recorded, and additional instructional videos and resources will be provided so you can revisit the techniques whenever you need a little extra guidance.

Whether your goal is to create a treasured portrait of your own pet 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

Choosing Your Animal Portrait

One of the nice things about this workshop is that you have the option of creating your own animal portrait or working from the same reference photograph I'll be using during our live demonstrations.

If you'd prefer to follow along with my project, I'm happy to provide you with the reference photograph and pattern.

If you'd rather create a portrait of your own dog, cat, or another furry friend, you're more than welcome to do that too!

I do recommend choosing a clear photograph of an animal with enough fur length and texture to really explore the techniques we'll be covering, particularly fur direction, colour, value, and the different planes of the face.

Regardless of which photograph you choose, the techniques I'll be demonstrating can be applied to your own project, allowing you to create a portrait that's uniquely yours.

From Photograph to Glass Mosaic

Here's a look at the animal portrait I've been creating during my October Zoom workshop!

The glasswork is complete, although I still have the grouting and finishing touches to do.

Throughout the workshop, I demonstrate how I approach the different features of the face, establish fur direction, and use colour and value to create depth, texture and realism.

You'll watch me demonstrate each technique and then apply what you've learned to your own portrait, at your own pace.

Whether you choose to work from the same reference photograph I'm using or select your own furry friend, the goal is to give you the knowledge and confidence to bring your animal portrait to life in glass.

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.

Registration Now Open – Expressive Animal Portrait Workshop!

Join Cindy Laneville for four inspiring live online Zoom sessions as we explore the art of creating expressive animal portraits in glass-on-glass mosaic!

Workshop Dates & Times

  • Tuesday, February 16, 2027 — 7:00–9:00 PM
  • Tuesday, February 23, 2027 — 7:00–9:00 PM
  • Tuesday, March 2, 2027 — 7:00–9:00 PM
  • Tuesday, March 9, 2027 — 7:00–9:00 PM

All times Eastern Time.

Workshop Fee: $395 CAD + HST

Spaces are limited to provide a personal and supportive learning experience.

Registration is now open! Reserve your place and join Cindy for this creative journey.

Register Now

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, mosaic nippers and long-handled tweezers.

Students will also need stained glass in a variety of colours and values suitable for their chosen animal portrait. I recommend having a good selection of light, medium and dark tones to help create depth, texture and realism, particularly when working with fur.

You'll also need an adhesive suitable for glass-on-glass mosaic, a frame with clear glass or another suitable clear glass 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

Yes! I'll provide the reference photograph and pattern for the animal portrait I'll be demonstrating during our Zoom sessions.

If you'd prefer to create a portrait of your own dog, cat or another furry animal, you're more than welcome to do that too!

I recommend choosing a clear, good-quality photograph with enough fur length and texture to explore the techniques we'll be covering throughout the workshop.

Regardless of which photograph you choose, I'll be demonstrating the same techniques for working with values, facial features, fur direction, colour and texture, which you can then apply to your own project at your own pace.

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

Throughout our Zoom sessions, I'll be creating my own animal portrait while demonstrating the techniques and sharing tips along the way. You'll be able to watch, ask questions and then apply what you've learned to your own project at a pace that works for you. All sessions are recorded, and additional instructional videos will be provided so you can revisit the demonstrations whenever you need to.

Register Now