Cosmati Mosaics: Recycled Art

In the 12th and the 13th century, an Italian family business elevated recycling to an art form. Named for Cosmas, the founding father of the enterprise, they are collectively known as the Cosmati. Using ancient art buried in the rubble of Rome, they created outstanding works of art. 

Graffiti in the Church

When a relatively new church built in 1961 fell into disrepair, the diocese of Freiburg in Germany decided to sell it for profane uses in 2005. But the parishioners had other ideas and collected enough money for a thorough renovation. All that was missing was some artwork to embellish the nave.