Illumination Masterclass

Illumination Masterclass

One day course for beginners and improvers. Saturday 16 November 2024, 10.00 - 17.00. British Library Learning Centre.

Join renowned scribe and illuminator Patricia Lovett MBE on this one-day beginners masterclass and create your own medieval miniature on vellum — inspired gold and colourful manuscripts which can be seen in our upcoming exhibition, Medieval Women: In Their Own Words

Illuminated manuscripts are among the most dazzling and intriguing objects ever created, and our collection is one of the finest in the world. The most luxurious manuscripts were lit up by decorations and pictures in brightly coloured pigments and burnished gold leaf.

Under Patricia's expert guidance you'll choose your own animal from a selection from mediæval bestiaries and learn the skills and techniques to bring it to life with colour and gold.

You’ll develop your design on prepared vellum (calfskin), apply gold leaf and add colour in the medieval painting style. Throughout the day you’ll learn how medieval scribes created their illuminations and go home with your own spectacular example.

Tutor
Patricia Lovett MBE is a world-renowned scribe and illuminator who received a National Honour for calligraphy and heritage crafts. She creates artworks on vellum, using gold, colour and quills. She has written extensively on calligraphy and illumination, including The Art and History of Calligraphy and The Art of the Scribe (Spring 2025), both published by the British Library. Patricia co-curated the Calligraphy Today (2012-13) exhibition at the Fitzwilliam Museum, and teaches at a range of institutions including Harvard University and the University of London.

Previous Skills, Knowledge or Experience
None required. This course is suitable for beginners or those with some artistic experience.

Equipment and Materials
All materials and equipment will be provided.

Facilities and Refreshments
Please note that the Learning Centre will open to participants 15 minutes before the stated start time. Tea and coffee will be served on arrival. Participants should make their own arrangements for lunch.

Accessibility
Please email adultlearning@bl.uk to discuss your accessibility requirements.