About
The artist, poet, designer, and publisher, William Morris, was deeply moved by illuminated manuscripts he saw in Canterbury Cathedral as a child. Later, while studying at Oxford, he encountered more manuscripts at the Bodleian Library that inspired him to try his hand at illumination. Morris eventually integrated ideas and designs from these manuscripts, along with other sources, into the books he published through the Kelmscott Press.
During this class, we will delve into the illustrious history of illuminated manuscripts, exploring how these exquisite works inspired William Morris’s Kelmscott Press books. Students will have opportunity to view one such book, “The Story of the Glittering Plain,” during a private visit to The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace. In this journey, we will encounter the captivating beauty and craftsmanship that define these books.
In this immersive course, explore the ancient technique of painting on calfskin vellum. Learn to work with pigments from both botanical sources such as woad as well as colours from mineral deposits, then try your hand at traditional gilding methods to bring light to the page with gold leaf. Conclude the class by painting your own personalised manuscript border and illuminated letter inspired by the magical allure of William Morris’s beautiful book designs.
In collaboration with:
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, 7 – 11 July 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.
There will also be a gallery visit to The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace.
What should I bring to class?
TBC
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
Lucy Morrish is an Iconographer, Illuminator, and Miniature Painter who currently lives in Lincolnshire. She has an affinity for painting icons after studying under Dr Irina Bradley who is a Master Iconographer. Having gained a scholarship from the a.g. Leventis Foundation she studied a masters degree at the King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, London where she graduated with distinction. From studying at the School she developed an affinity for Illuminated Manuscripts. Lucy paints with handmade watercolour mineral and earth pigments on calfskin vellum and egg tempera on gessoed wood panels. she also specialises in traditional gilding techniques using 24-carat gold leaf. Lucy has displayed her work in and around the UK, including the opportunity to exhibit at the Saatchi Gallery in 2020.
