Workshops for the Louis de Wet Foundation in Much Wenlock

In 2023, I was invited by the Louis de Wet Foundation to run workshops in the small English village of Much Wenlock.

In the Middle Ages, a thriving Benedictine abbey operated on this site. Following its dissolution by Henry VIII, the monastery buildings fell into ruin. Fortunately, the building that served as the prior’s residence and infirmary, as well as part of the guest house, survived, as these were fairly quickly occupied by private owners. In the 18th century, the buildings were abandoned and also began to deteriorate gradually. In the mid-19th century, new owners took over, and it was from them that Louis and Gabrielle de Wet purchased the property in 1983.

Louis de Wet, an artist and philosopher, combined the conservation of the preserved, valuable architectural elements with his own creative work. Together with his wife, they restored the site to its former glory. Following her husband’s death, Gabrielle de Wet continues the effort to maintain such a valuable historic site, also organising various workshops and cultural events on the premises.

The venue is ideal for workshops on medieval calligraphy and illumination. It forms part of a former Benedictine monastery, where scriptoria traditionally operated, and retains much of its authentic medieval structure, meaning that classes take place beneath the original wooden ceiling dating from 1425!!! The whole complex – the house, the garden and the monastery ruins next door – creates the unique atmosphere of this place, combined with the hosts’ extraordinary hospitality.

The following workshops have taken place so far:

4–6 August 2023: Uncial script workshop

3–5 May 2024: Calligraphy workshop: Carolingian minuscule

27–29 September 2024: Illumination workshop: Initials from the Cluny Bible

16–18 May 2025: illumination workshop: portrait of a scribe

This year, the fifth edition of the workshops will take place from 31 July to 3 August. Workshop theme: zodiac signs

You can follow the workshop programme on the foundation’s website: https://www.ldw-foundation.com/courses/

And on Facebook

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