Manuscript Illumination for Beginners - adult education class

Course overview

Some of the most beautiful objects to survive from the mediæval world in the west are the sumptuous illuminated manuscripts, often made by monks and nuns in the abbeys that filled the medieval landscape. In their scriptoria they would work with some of the most precious materials, like gold leaf and lapis lazuli, to create stunning intricate designs, not only for great statement pieces, like the Book of Kells, but private books of hours and even legal documents.

On the course we will discover how to make an illuminated miniature. This is a highly detailed image embellished with gold leaf and colour that would have been used to decorate ancient and mediæval manuscripts. We will emulate as closely as possible the materials that would have been used by our medieval ancestors such as real gold leaf, vellum and even garlic juice!

The weekly programme will be adapted to suit group dynamics and skill progression. A series of projects will be introduced to allow for practice and development in the techniques of manuscript illumination.

No previous experience is necessary and you do not have to be good at art. All welcome!

The maximum group size for this course is 14 participants.

Special equipment needed

Some art materials will be provided, but you will need to supply some materials and equipment yourself. A list of what you will need will be sent before the first class, and is likely to cost in the region of £40 to £50.

Term dates

•  Spring Term: week beginning 12 January 2026 until week ending 20 March 2026

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact the Programme Manager, Dr Michael Paraskos at m.paraskos@imperial.ac.uk 

For general programme and enrolment questions please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).