About Illumination Masterclass
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 miniature animal from a medieval bestiary 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.
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Patricia Lovett MBE
Patricia is a world-renowned scribe and illuminator who received a National Honour for calligraphy and heritage crafts.
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Patricia Lovett MBE creates artworks on vellum, using gold, colour and quills. She has written extensively on calligraphy and illumination, including The Art and History of Calligraphy (2017, British Library Publishing) and The Art of the Scribe (2025, British Library Publishing) which are inspired by the Calligraphy and Illuminations of Medieval Manuscripts. 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.
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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.
Concessions
A range of concessions are available including discounts for Members, young people, registered unemployed as well as a number of others. Please press Book Now to see the full range of options.
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