Mosaic Magic

This 4-hour private mosaic-making experience takes place in the studio of international muralist, Shannon McEvoy. Under Shannon's guidance, you will design and fabricate a personal mosaic artwork to take home as a memento of your time in Chile. You may choose to create an abstract exploration of shape and color or work from a simple design inspired by common themes in Shannon's art including Chilean flora and fauna. Improvisation is encouraged. All necessary materials and equipment are provided and Shannon will work with you to help you bring your vision to fruition. After the activity concludes, Shannon will grout your mosaic tile and help you to arrange the pick-up from her studio 48+ hours later. During the workshop, you'll hear about the significance of mosaics in Chile – a country famed for its street art and murals. You will also hear about Shannon's role as a mosaic muralist working in Santiago, Puente Alto (the Mosaic Capital of the Southern Hemisphere), and beyond.

This experience invites you into the private studio of an artist in Santiago to create your own Chile-inspired mosaic artwork. This may be of an abstract style or inspired by Chilean flora and fauna. You may choose to collaborate with your travel partner and create one mosaic as a team or create individual masterpieces. Over the course of the workshop, you will learn the fundamentals of mosaic techniques as Shannon helps you assemble your artwork. As an artistic director, Shannon collaborates with Chilean muralists and champions the community aspect of creation and that art is for everyone. During this activity, you'll have the opportunity to quiz Shannon about life as a bilingual expat artist in Chile, her current projects, and how you can bring more creativity into your life. This bilingual mosaic masterclass is the perfect opportunity to practice your Spanish and pick up some essential "Chilenismos" (Chilean slang) for your onward travels.

Shannon is a multimedia artist who loves exploring different languages and cultures, meeting new people, and listening to their stories. Originally from Minnesota, she studied abroad in Viña del Mar in 2010. The country and its people left a lasting impression on her, and she quickly returned after graduation. The street art of Valparaíso influenced her so profoundly that she incorporated Chilean muralism into her undergraduate Honors Thesis and pursued a career as a muralist. Shannon has lived in Chile for over 10 years, where she teaches English and creates murals—but her talents don’t stop there. She also paints, sketches, makes ceramics and jewelry, designs her own clothes, and experiments with photography. Shannon loves sharing her passions for art and language. To her, both are about expressing oneself and building meaningful connections. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she also speaks basic Portuguese.

Participants are advised to wear practical and comfortable clothes. Closed-toed shoes are recommended. No experience is necessary; bring your curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to try something new.