This is the most perfect place to start to unravel the secrets of the Book of Kells, probably written on Iona at the end of the 8th century in the scriptorium founded by St Columba. The Bishop’s House is situated close to Iona Abbey and looks out over the tranquil setting of the Sound of Iona. The beautiful St. Columba Chapel is right in the heart of the house and is open every day. www.island-retreats.org/iona.html

Beginners and intermediate calligraphers are welcome, as Nicky will teach the basic script of the Book of Kells as well as taking time to look at the more decorative elements of the manuscript and experimenting with materials, colours and designs. Reference to the surrounding landscape and history will be an inevitable part of this creative week.

This holiday includes:
6 days of calligraphy tuition (approx 5 hours per day)
7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Bishop’s House
Return transport from Oban to Iona (2 ferries, bus)

Laura is a graduate of Edinburgh College of Art and an experienced artist and teacher who offers regular courses in and around Scotland. This will be Laura’s 9th year taking students to Kefalonia. She has lived and travelled widely in Greece. Now, together with her husband Dimitri, she owns a house in the hills above Fiscardo.

Nicky graduated from Gray’s School of Art, Aberdeen and the Slade School of Fine Art, London and has more than 10 years tutoring experience. She lived and worked with her husband Juan in Mexico for several years and is a fluent Spanish speaker, leading our holidays to Andalucia where her family have lived for 4 generations. Nicky is also a qualified Scottish Tourist Guide.