ROMAN HOLIDAY 2024 - Madison Bennett - Gothic Cursive & Medieval Vellum

Gothic Cursive & Medieval Vellum by Madison Bennett (Team-teaching with Cheryl Jacobsen) – Level: (I) Intermediate

This immersive workshop offers hands-on experience turning a raw calfskin into vellum, a chance to handle medieval manuscripts at the University of Iowa’s renowned Special Collections Library, learn the fun and expressive hand of Gothic Cursive, and ultimately create your very own contemporary palimpsest on vellum.

Vellum is often intimidating because of its price, but unlike paper, its tough reusable surface offers you the ability to erase easily and redo your work. When traces of your previous letters can be seen layered behind your new writing—what’s known as a “palimpsest”—it creates unique layered depth in your art.

Cheryl and Madison have spent years experimenting with vellum in both historic and modern forms and will guide you through the process of writing on and working with the material. By combining tradition with innovation, vellum will become more approachable.

Medieval Vellum & Gothic Cursive gives you the opportunity to experiment with a historical material while exploring the beauty and versatility of a new calligraphic hand.

Class Supplies

• (N02, N04, N09) Broad-edge nibs (various sizes but make sure to bring a small nib e.g. 1mm, 3/4mm, or 1/2mm)
• (H105, H113, H129) Nib holder
• (N220, FP67, BR103, BR104) Other favorite writing tools (pointed pens, parallel pens, brushes)
• (P25) Practice paper
• (HG749, WNG1, I70, I28) Writing fluid (e.g. gouache, ink)

The following supplies will be PROVIDED:

• Calfskin vellum
• Sandpaper
• Sandarac
• Sander
• Gold & size
• Walnut ink

Material Costs Per Student explained:

• $150 for 7-square-foot calfskin
• $25 for parchment making demo
• $25 for miscellaneous materials provided by instructor (see above)

Supply Fee: $200*

*This fee may increase slightly in 2024 due to market price for material.*