Northumbrian Scribes: A Love of Letters

I was honoured to receive an invitation from The Society of Northumbrian Scribes to the opening of their exhibition, A Love of Letters, at Bede’s World in Jarrow.

More than 60 pieces of calligraphic work are on display, showcasing a wide variety of skills from members of all ages and abilities. The group’s founder and president, Tom Fleming, is 92 and his work is internationally renowned.

Chairman Susan Moor, who recently staged an exhibition of her own at the museum, told me she started where I am now some 20-odd years ago, which was reassuring. Her work is extremely well-respected and she was artist in residence at St Peter’s Church in Monkwearmouth, Sunderland, when the Lindisfarne Gospels came to the region.

To be in the company of such talent was inspiring and it has certainly got me thinking about where my calligraphy skills could take me in the future. I certainly want to pick up where I left off at school with things like illuminated manuscripts and gold leaf lettering.

A Love of Letters runs until September 28 and Bede’s World is open from 10am (noon on Sunday) to 4.30pm (last admission 4pm). Some of the work is also available to buy – or you can pick up a calligraphic calendar in the gift shop!

For more information on the Northumbrian Scribes, visit the website www.northumbrianscribes.co.uk, e-mail enquiries@northumbrianscribes.co.uk or leave a message at Bede’s World by calling 0191 489 2106.

 

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