Explore the bold painted geometric designs of early 19th-century Shenandoah Valley cabinetmaker Johannes Spitler. Working in the late 18th and early 19th centuries in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Spitler drew upon his Swiss and German heritage to ornament local joiners’ work with brilliant, symbol-laden designs. His painted chests and clock cases—adorned with stylized birds, hearts, crescent moons, tulips and compass-drawn flowers—reflect a worldview in which every motif carried meaning: abundance, faith, love, fertility, and spiritual growth. The vines and flowers that entwine his designs speak not only to the natural cycles of an agrarian life but also to the inner flowering of the human spirit.
In this hands-on course, students will study Spitler’s use of striking motifs—hearts, the flower of creation, birds, tulips, and architectural forms—and learn how he used compass, straightedge, and a limited palette to create his distinctive folk art style. Participants will paint these motifs on wood panels using historically informed materials and techniques, including making milk paint from scratch with natural pigments, milk, and slaked lime.
By studying and practicing such traditions, participants can explore how beauty and symbolism were once inseparable from daily life—how even the most humble object could become a vessel of meaning.
This course offers both a technical and contemplative engagement with a craft tradition that celebrates the unity of form, function, and identity.
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?
Mon-Fri, 16 – 20 March 2026, 10:00 – 16:30
What materials do I need?
Students should bring the following to class:
- Brushes, sizes TBC
- A standard compass. We recommend the Mars Staedtler 551 02 Comfort Bow Compass.
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, 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.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Lacey Ferri is an American artist trained in the traditional arts and architectural crafts, with a material practice and research inspired by pattern-driven traditions from the medieval period and a range of folk crafts. Based in North London, she teaches workshops and does design, research, and consulting for an architectural firm while maintaining a studio practice focused on pigments, geometry, and woodcrafts.
