Lilian Broca — Attuned world awareness in an ancient mosaic craft

3 min readAug 21, 2019

(3 min read) Lilian Broca creates gorgeous large scale mosaics featuring historical figures in the ancient art of smalto glass, her work acts as a commentary on societal issues.

Lilian stands proudly with her entrancing contemporary mosaic wall art depicting strong female figures.

Broca states: “my mythological subjects reflect internationalism, a worldly awareness attuned to significant concerns. I draw attention to political grievances, acts of exclusion, suppression and violence. Legends and fairy tales are all myths that carry powerful messages. Using their symbolism I pose questions about the relevance of allegorical role models for today’s youth. In previous bodies of work, including paintings and drawings, I have exposed the need for gender equality and the ever-changing roles between sexes. My narrative glass mosaics express ideas about the role of women which also extend to more universal statements about the human condition. — Lilian Broca

A subtle sensuality to her colourful mosaic wall art draws the audience in, what thoughts are going on behind those faces?

Her sumptuous use of colour combines with finely animated facial features and gesture, making her ancient craft pulse with life and emotional weight. Hundreds of pieces of glass are meticulously placed, with varying colour and shine to achieve the wonderfully varied pallet of skin tones and fine, creased linen, enveloped in ethereal, pale backgrounds.

A man looks upon this enrobed, jeweled woman with a fond smile; she returns the expression with a Mona Lisa-esque mystery. The deep crimson background brings a scent of passion. Surreptitious Dialogue, Copyright © Lilian Broca.

The opulent brightness of the characters in their fine robes and jewels pops out from their muted backdrops, making them evermore emerging in their mystery and appeal from this contemporary mosaic art. Queen Esther’s Banquet, Copyright © Lilian Broca.

It’s easy to forget that these rolling fabrics and beautiful skin tones are made entirely out of square glass pieces as it carries the smooth elegance of a painting. Queen Esther Seeking Permission to Speak, Copyright © Lilian Broca.

Lilian has the ability to capture such emotion in the large, dark eyes of her subjects, despite them being comprised from only a few glass tiles.

These mysterious figures carry a deep, dark beauty and charm, reminding us that mosaic art is not only for pretty patterns and décor in our homes, but is a fabulous medium for raw, gorgeous artwork that says much more.