About
Discover how to make your own blackest of inks from nature, using Britain’s oldest ink recipe from oak galls found in the forests of Sussex.
Oak gall ink was commonly used for drawing by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Rembrandt. Much of Britain’s most famous literature was written using oak gall ink including works by William Shakespeare, John Milton, William Wordsworth and Jane Austen; it was common practice for these writers to prepare their own oak gall ink using their own personal recipes.
Having spent the morning making a most exquisite ink, students will then be taught how to cut and prepare their own quills for drawing and writing.
This one day workshop will conclude with students making their own sketches using ink and quill on watercolour paper.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and experience are welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
What days/times do I attend?
Wednesday, 17th September 2025, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
14 people
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.
What should I bring to class?
Please bring with you:
- A small bottle with secure lid (approx. 60 – 100ml)
- A notebook to write recipes
All other materials will be provided.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing: Baggy clothing (especially sleeves); Loose jewellery; Short sleeve t-shirts (when there is a chance of contact with hazardous materials); High heels or open-toed shoes.
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.
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.
