Fanciful Fraktur Bird Workshop

For lo, the winter is gone……the time for the singing of birds has come!

Celebrate spring with a fanciful Fraktur bird drawing.

In this workshop led by Emily Smucker-Beidler, participants will learn what birds were prevalent here in southeastern Pennsylvania in the 1700s and find connections through Fraktur images. Learn where the polka-dot, checkerboard and various striped patterns came from that we now enjoy in Fraktur.

Then, participants will be shown some “tricks” to drawing their own fanciful birds in the Fraktur style, as well as adapting patterns from original, historic works using light boards. They will then complete a small, 5×7 Fraktur bird.  All materials are included, with enough to take home with you and continue creating once the workshop is over.

Ages 13-100 and all ability levels are welcome.  Fraktur is for everyone!

The cost is $60 for members ($65 nonmembers) and includes all materials except watercolors. Students can bring their own watercolors, or buy a set from Emily for $20.

REGISTER HERE

About Fraktur:

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.

About Emily:

Ever since sixth grade, Emily Smucker-Beidler has been creating Fraktur after learning from Roma Ruth, a well respected Fraktur Artist from Montgomery County, PA.  After receiving an Art Education degree and Master’s degree in Art Education, Emily has made her 31 year career in teaching art her passion, while continuing to create custom Fraktur for hundreds of clients.  She brings her experience and enthusiasm for teaching to her Fraktur workshops and welcomes artists of all ages and ability levels.