This class is designed for beginners and is almost totally practical, i.e. you will be drawing most of the day, not listening to an academic lecture.  Nick starts off with a relatively simple design and then leads you on to draw more and more complex versions of Celtic art.

On this study day you will learn how to:

• Draw Celtic designs, both freehand and geometrically (interlace, complex spirals, pelta form, triskeles, key-pattern, animal forms, vegetal forms, metal-working motifs, trefoil, use of colour).
• Make your own designs, and copy classical designs.

A selection of books and materials will be on display, and a list of books and website info provided.  Information will be given to help you to:

• Be aware of spatial arrangements, asymmetry, Hallstadt and La Tene styles, Christian and Roman styles, and symbolism
• Find useful sources of ~Celtic artwork, as well as pre-Christian literature, mythology, ritual, history etc
• Be aware of materials such as acrylic, gouache, ink

We can also briefly consider other Celtic-style media e.g. braiding, calligraphy, willow sculpture, corn-dollies, carving, embroidery and tapestry.

Student comments:

• Excellent.  Good pace, v good resources to look at, fantastic food.
• I found the venue, facilities and catering of exceptionally high value - thanks.  I enjoyed the course but struggled!  Thanks for a most enjoyable day and I hope to return.
• This subject is more difficult than I thought.  I have however learnt the basics and realise I shall have to practice and practice.
• A thoroughly enjoyable day.  I've leant a lot and will do more at my leisure at home.  Lovely surroundings.
• Had a great time!
• Lovely day.
• Excellent course and lovely food.
• Excellent - has given me lots to think about.  Jackie
• There is a lot to learn in one day - I don't think we could have done any more.  It was a good introduction.

PS:  Wear sensible shoes and socks!  Although the tractor shed/classroom  is made of strawbales and lovely and warm, the radiant heaters cannot reach the feet and there is a lot of sitting.

Book list (internet key words):

Celtic Art:  British Library turning pages
Drawing Celtic Designs:  ProScribe, Aon  celtic, Fontcraft, Celligraphity, Wiseowl
History & Archaeology:  Flagfen, New age dark age, Kmatthews
Celtic Literature & Poetry:  Taliesin, Trioedd Yn ys Prydein, Triads, Ulster cycle, Cad Goddeu, Preiddu, Canu Heledd, Mabinogion
Celtic Mythology and Belief:  Mythic crossroads, Celtic encyclopedia, Celtic crossroads