In March 2026, a group of adult learners from MTÜ Craft Depo in Narva travelled to Italy e to explore the art of mosaic making in a city where its traditions go back thousands of years. The participants were Craft Depo learners who already practise mosaic making and wanted to develop their skills further.

The Erasmus+ group learning mobility was hosted by Associazione culturale Studio Cassio Arte del Mosaico. The programme combined hands-on training, Italian cultural heritage, sustainable creative practices and modern approaches to adult learning.

Participants worked with natural stone and traditional Italian mosaic glass, known as smalti. They developed their own designs and created artworks using Roman stone mosaic techniques.

One particularly interesting aspect was comparing how mosaic materials are produced today with the methods used by craftspeople in ancient times. Exploring modern production techniques alongside historical methods gave participants a deeper appreciation of the precision, patience and craftsmanship involved in mosaic making.

Rome itself became an open-air classroom. At the National Roman Museum, participants studied ancient mosaics and frescoes, observing artistic techniques and fine details. Exploring the city also showed how art, architecture and craft traditions remain part of everyday life.

Sustainability was another important theme. Participants discussed how leftover natural stone and construction tiles could be reused to create new mosaics - an approach particularly relevant to Craft Depo's creative activities.

• Accreditation