About
The practice of metal point drawing dates back to antiquity. In Europe from the 14th century to 16th century metalpoint was the popular medium for drawing. Each of the metals or alloys possess different physical characteristics, each metal giving a different type of stroke with subtle difference in hue also. In order for the metalpoint to create an clear flowing line, the paper or parchment requires to be carefully prepared. Ceninno Ceninno in the late 14th century describes preparing the surface with crushed chicken bones, chalk or white lead. As the metal is drawn across the surface, tiny particles of metal are left behind, creating a mark. Often the paper would also be given a pale tint created by mixing earth pigments with a little animal glue, this also gave the possibility of creating highlights with the addition of white. By the 15th century silver became the most popular metal to use for this technique, artists made use of the natural tarnishing qualities of the metal, resulting in the line becoming slightly darker with age. Other metals used were tin, bismuth, lead, gold and copper.
During this workshop students will be taken through a range of exercises using silverpoint. Students will learn how to prepare their own traditional grounds for silverpoint drawing as described by Cennino Cennini using ground bones and chalk. Students will prepare a range of different coloured surfaces onto which they will make studies from old master drawings as well as creating their own subjects, exploring the possibilities of this beautiful technique and their use on coloured grounds.
Key Information
Who is this workshop for?
All levels of ability and experience welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
How many people can attend?
14 people
What days/times do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 22 – 26 September, 2025, 10:00 – 16:30
What materials do I need?
Please bring your own metal-holder.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing baggy clothing (especially sleeves), loose jewellery, high heels or open-toed shoes.
Where will this course take place?
This course will take place at our studios at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Dr David Harvard Cranswick received his MA fine art degree from the Royal Academy of Art. In 1999 he received his PhD from HRH Prince of Wales at St James Palace for practical research into mediaeval and renaissance painting materials and techniques. From 1984 David served as personal apprentice to Cecil Collins until his death in 1989. In 1989 David was invited by Professor Keith Critchlow to run regular workshops to the MA and PhD students, where he continues to teach as senior tutor at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts. He teaches regularly in the UK and internationally. David is personal tutor to several Royalties and prominent figures. He has works in royal collections (including King Charles III) also prominent establishments in the UK and abroad. David is resident artist in Cowdray Castle. David has appeared in BBC television programmes and radio interviews. Articles published include art magazines and newspapers. He has exhibited internationally since 1979 and undertaken portrait commissions. In 2024 David received the Teaching Award from King Charles III for 35 years of dedicated teaching. Dr. Cranswick has written a book on desert pigments of AlUla. He is currently writing a book on traditional painting methods.
