Illuminated Lettering
The Course
Enjoy making your own decorated and gilded capital letter. In this busy session, you will learn how to enhance your calligraphy to create a vibrant decorative letter using line, colour and gold (either real or gold gouache). Participants can research an idea and bring their own exciting letter design to the workshop or select from the range of designed resources provided by the tutor. Further letters can be drawn with a pencil or created with a pen and illuminated and painted.
The Tutor
Jan Mehigan first studied calligraphy and Illumination at Art College. She is a Fellow of both the Society of Scribes and Illuminators and The Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society.
She has BA (Hons) in Education and in 2014 gained the Diploma of the Society of Botanical Art (DipSBA). She has taught drawing, watercolour painting and calligraphy in adult education for over 28 years and has written several calligraphy books. Jan’s work has been in many calligraphic exhibitions and has demonstrated at Art in Action.
Participant Information
Course fee covers one sheet of gold foil, if you require extra you will be charged an extra fee of £4 per sheet.
Materials to bring:
· A 2H and HB pencil;
· Ruler;
· A ruling pen (but only if you have one);
· Small set square;
· Eraser;
· A small selection of Watercolour and gouache paints (including permanent white gouache);
· Three brushes with good points – e.g. No. 000, or 00 plus a No. 2 (can include a 4 optional);
· An old tatty paint brush for mixing paint would be useful;
· A small palette or plate for mixing paint;
· A cheap black technical pen such as an Edding, Uni pin (or similar – optional);
· Two water pots (yogurt pots work well) and kitchen towel for wiping brushes;
· A small sheet of good quality hot-pressed paper 140lb (300gsm) for finished work;
· A small notebook will be useful.
The tutor will supply:
· Tracing paper
· Gums and glues
· Glassine paper
· 24ct gold
· The use of tools and burnishers.
Fee & Refreshments
£80 per person, this includes tuition, tea and coffee throughout the day and biscuits and cake. If you have any dietary requirements please let us know in advance. The Museum cafe will be open or you may wish to bring a packed lunch.
Course fee covers one sheet of gold foil, if you require extra you will be charged an extra fee of £4 per sheet.
Please read our Adult Day Courses terms & conditions.
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Courses at our Museum
Lifelong learning has been at the heart of the Museum’s mission since its founding over 50 years ago. We are dedicated to promoting the preservation of historic buildings and architectural heritage, as well as keeping alive the traditional crafts, trades, and industries of the Weald & Downland region.
We offer a rich programme of day schools, longer courses and evening talks that celebrate Historic Building Conservation, Traditional Rural Trades, and Crafts. Each course is led by experienced practitioners who are passionate about their field and generous in sharing both their knowledge and hands-on skills.
Whether you’re seeking a rewarding new hobby, aiming to develop practical expertise, or considering a career change, our courses provide inspiration and opportunity in equal measure. We invite you to explore our programme, discover what excites you, and join us in keeping these valuable traditions alive.
