Celtic Design and Ornament for Calligraphers

by Jack Mackinder

The marvels of Celtic design depend not only on understanding how to create ornament and pattern but also on how to create a composition--a dazzling design that is even more striking than its individual ornaments. In this new book, Jack Mackinder provides the key to understanding these designs. He explains how the pages of the Book of Kells, the Book of Durrow, and the other great Gospel manuscripts of the seventh to ninth centuries were set out by the ancient scribes, re-creating the precise geometric methods used, and explaining how they can be applied to contemporary work. Next, he shows how to draw step patterns, key patterns, interlace, and spirals to fit into the shapes created in the manuscripts. Step-by-step demonstrations will enable contemporary calligraphers to create their own designs. With clear diagrams, many in two colors, and a detailed explanatory text, this book will inspire craftspeople and designers everywhere.

Genres: Art

96 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1999

Reviews

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please note the absence of the word "easy" from the title of this book. This book really is FOR "calligraphers," those who already know the basics and some advanced techniques. If you are short on patience, I would also recommend that you skip this book, which is a painstaking journey, beginning from the different types of basic rectangles to full layouts inspired by the Book of Kells and other wonderful manuscripts.

If you are dedicated to the idea of doing it RIGHT, this will be an instructive and educational volume. The directions are not difficult to understand, but require a certain amount of dedication to the art form. For those who may simply be interested in the design elements for historical purposes, this book will also be a good read.

[Lizanne Whitlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a book!