About
The art of the Celtic/Pictish manuscripts has fascinated modern people for a long time with its beauty of form, richness of colour and enigmatic style.
By close study of the Book of Kells and some other artefacts from these times we will look to recreate some of these patterns and gain some understanding and firsthand experience of their form.
We will then go on to create a small pattern page developing your own style within the form through line and colour.
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?
Monday – Friday, 9 – 13 March 2026, 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?
- Sable Synthetic blend watercolour brush from the round series 700 – size 2, 4 and 6 (https://www.jacksonsart.com/jacksons-icon-sable-synthetic-brushes-700-702-777)
- Sable chisel writer series 2112 – size 0 and 1 (and 2 but not essential) (https://www.jacksonsart.com/handover-sable-chisel-writer-brushes)
- Squirrel synthetic brush series 697 one and half inch (https://www.jacksonsart.com/handover-flat-synthetic-squirrel-hair-brush-1-5-in)
- Sketchbook A4 or larger, Seawhite soft cover pad 140gsm 20 sheets, A3 portrait or similar (https://www.cassart.co.uk/seawhite-starter-sketchbook-140gsm-a3–c/)
- Watercolour or gouache paint – Venetian red, English red light, burnt sienna, ultramarine blue, indigo blue, yellow ochre, cadmium yellow, zinc white, permanent white, lamp black (rose dore madder lake optional). Students may ideally bring all of these colours to choose from, but if wishing to economise, please bring one of the reds, burnt sienna, one of the blues, one of the yellows, both whites and black.
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.
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
Naomi Preston gained and MA at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts with a particular interest in Celtic/Pictish Art. Originally coming from a background in Fine Art Printmaking – primarily etching, Naomi’s early interest in light and dark, shape and colour, attracted her to study traditionally painted stained glass in her final MA year with theSchool. This laid the foundation for an apprenticeship in the glass painting workshop of a large stained glass company.
Currently based in Aberdeenshire, she has continued with working primarily in painted stained glass. She has a strong interest in ancient symbolism and the universal language of pattern and geometry and explores these themes in her work.
