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Saimir Strati (Vlora, Albania, April 11, 1966) is an Albanian artist who is regarded as one of the world's most well known modern mosaic artists.

He has done restorations in Albania to several notable mosaics at the archeological sites of Byllis, Amantia and Appolonia and continues to discover secrets from the ancient technique. He is a member of the British Association of Modern Mosaic.

 

On August 8, 2008 the artist began his most recent quest which saw him create the World's largest cork mosaic. The work has a Mediterranean theme, and consists of 229,764 corks over a surface of 12.94m x7.10m, or 91.87m2. The event took place over the course of 27 days at Sheraton Tirana Hotel and Towers and was accompanied by an exhibition of both previous World Records as well as seven other artworks, including 'The Four Seasons', 'Peace' and 'The King'. While in Tirana for a friendly match on August 20, players from the Liechtenstein national football team visited the exhibition. On August 26, Iceland Prime Minister Geir Haarde visited the exhibition with Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha[1]. On September 1, for the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Albanian Royal Family, Prince Leka visited the exhibition. Albanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Lulzim Basha visited the exhibition on several occasions.

 

The mosaic was completed on September 4, 2008 and confirmed as the World's largest by Guinness Adjudicator Carlos Martinez.

Following the completion of the mosaic, players from the Swedish National Football Team visited the exhibition on September 6, and players from the Malta National Football Team visited it on September 10, while in Tirana for FIFA World Cup qualification matches.