In this episode, Laura Edralin speaks with Catherine Yvard, curator at the National Art Library at the Victoria and Albert Museum, about the rich history and significance of manuscript illumination and Gothic sculpture. They explore the vast collections of the library, the role of a curator, the tools and materials used in manuscript creation, and the fascinating world of manuscript cuttings. Catherine busts mysths and shares insights into the evolution of manuscripts, their artistic value, and how they can inspire contemporary artists and calligraphers. The conversation also highlights the accessibility of these historical artifacts and the importance of community in sharing knowledge about manuscripts.

To find out more about the National Art Library at the V&A please visit: https://www.vam.ac.uk/info/national-art-library

On manuscript cuttings, see here: About the Fragmented Illuminations display | V&A. May also be of interest: ASMR at the museum | Turning the pages of a medieval choirbook | V&A

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If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, or share it - it really helps others discover the podcast - thank you!

Connect with Laura on Instagram @thelifeofletterspodcast to continue the conversation, share your own lettering journey or suggest topics you'd love to hear about in future episodes.

To discover more about Laura's calligraphy workshops and more, visit lauralletterslife.com or say hi on Instagram @lauraletterslife.

• (00:00:00) - Introduction to the National Art Library
• (00:01:47) - Exploring the Collections of the National Art Library
• (00:02:31) - The Role of a Curator in Manuscript Collections
• (00:03:19) - Handling Manuscripts: Myths and Best Practices
• (00:05:02) - Illuminated Manuscripts: History and Techniques
• (00:07:18) - The Evolution of Manuscript Production
• (00:09:38) - Tools and Materials Used in Manuscript Creation
• (00:12:45) - Understanding Manuscript Navigation and Decoration
• (00:15:44) - The Functionality of Manuscripts in Historical Context
• (00:21:01) - The Art of Parchment Making
• (00:23:32) - Ink and Pigments: The Colors of Manuscripts
• (00:26:45) - Fragmented Illuminations: The Value of Manuscript Cuttings
• (00:34:22) - Accessing Medieval Manuscripts: Resources and Collections
• (00:40:47) - The Community Aspect of Manuscript Culture

In this episode of the Life of Letters podcast, host Laura Edralin speaks with Marie Coleman-Johns, a calligrapher and live event artist. They discuss Marie's journey into calligraphy, the evolution of her style, and her experiences with live events. Marie shares insights into the challenges of engraving and the importance of community and diversity within the calligraphy world. They touch on the mindful benefits of calligraphy as a way of reducing overwhelm, and discuss how the art form helps ease challenges with ADHD. Additionally, she introduces her new course, Beyond the Nib, aimed at helping calligraphers and live event artists grow their businesses through effective marketing strategies.

To find out more about Marie: Find here @MaidenSeptember on Instagram, visit www.maidenseptember.com, or connect on linkedin.com/in/mariecoleman.

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, or share it - it really helps others discover the podcast - thank you!

Connect with Laura on Instagram @thelifeofletterspodcast to continue the conversation, share your own lettering journey or suggest topics you'd love to hear about in future episodes.

To discover more about Laura's calligraphy workshops and more, visit lauralletterslife.com or say hi on Instagram @lauraletterslife.

• (00:00:00) - Introduction to Calligraphy and Maiden September
• (00:09:38) - Creating Calligraphy at Live Events
• (00:17:47) - Engraving Techniques and Challenges
• (00:19:30) - The Calligraphers of Color Community
• (00:32:07) - Launching Beyond the Nib Course

In this episode, Laura Edralin speaks with Robert Bree, a lettering artist and graphic designer based in Munich, Germany. They discuss the Flourish Club, a community for those passionate about flourishing in lettering and calligraphy. Robert shares his creative journey, the importance of learning foundational skills in lettering, and the various tools and techniques he uses. The conversation also highlights the significance of community and collaboration in the creative arts, as well as the courses and workshops offered by the Flourish Club.

To find out more about Robert:

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, or share it - it really helps others discover the podcast - thank you!

Connect with me on Instagram @thelifeofletterspodcast to continue the conversation, share your own lettering journey or suggest topics you'd love to hear about in future episodes.

To discover more about my calligraphy workshops and more, visit lauralletterslife.com or say hi on Instagram @lauraletterslife.

• (00:00:00) - Introduction to the Flourish Club
• (00:02:07) - Robert's Creative Journey and Background
• (00:08:54) - Exploring Flourishing in Lettering
• (00:15:04) - The Importance of Structure in Creativity
• (00:21:59) - Building a Community through Workshops
• (00:25:58) - Courses and Resources for Flourishing
• (00:28:02) - Exploring Lettering Techniques and Styles