by James F. Scott $19.99, DVD Worlds of Bright Glass: The Ravena Mosaic Company documents the crafting and crafters of many famous American mosaics accomplished by this company that was based in St. Louis and New York City. The program takes viewers into St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral and Temple Emanuel in New York, Union Station in Cincinnati, and the Saint Louis Cathedral, which features the world’s largest collection of mosaics. Each building features religious or secular dimensions of American mosaic art. The process of firing, cutting and assembling the mosaic materials is interwoven with the sketching and design work undertaken by various muralists associated with the firm. Guided by several nationally recognized art historians, the program traces styles and themes that changed as mosaics were pulled out of their historical place in church ornament and adapted to the interests of industrial/corporate society. The program displays the full grace of mosaic art. |