Fraktur Drawing Workshop

This workshop is FULL.

The Mennonite Heritage Center announces a Fraktur Drawing Workshop scheduled for Saturday, May 12, 2018 from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. Accomplished fraktur artist Louise Hutchings will lead the class. Fraktur was created by Pennsylvania Germans during the eighteenth through the mid nineteenth centuries and features calligraphic text decorated with colorful birds, hearts and flowers. The tradition has its roots in the illuminated manuscripts of medieval Europe but evolved into a distinctive part of the local Pennsylvania German culture. Today, those who appreciate this colorful folk art enjoy drawing their own fraktur designs based on the work of the early fraktur artists.

This workshop will focus on the fraktur of Susanna Heebner, an extraordinary eighteenth century fraktur artist. Participants will learn about Susanna’s life as a member of the Schwenkfelder community and her influence on future generations of fraktur artists. You will create an 11 x 14 size fraktur using verses and design elements from her original artwork. A list of materials needed for the class will be provided upon registration. Previous fraktur class experience is helpful but not necessary.

Preregistration is required as class size is limited. The class fee is $60 ($55 members) plus a booklet fee of $10 in addition to the class fee. No refunds are given unless workshop is cancelled for insufficient enrollment.