About
A time-travelling calligraphy workshop, revisiting the feel of writing a letter with a dip pen and ink, as Jane Austen would have done.
Letters and notes are at the core of Jane Austen's novels. They were not only part of everyday life but a tangible reminder of the sender and a treasured object of affection. This exclusive workshop will take inspiration from Jane Austen's letters, be they her own to her family and friends, or letters written by the characters in her novels. Working with expert calligraphy teacher Alejandra Gonaldi, you will take a step back in time and learn to write your own beautiful letters to take home.
Over the course of the workshop you will learn to write in a cursive style, plan the best layout for your message and fold your letter as Jane Austen used to do it. By the end of the session you will have created a charming memento of Jane Austen's House and will have the tools and skills to create more in your own time!
Jane Austen was a wonderful and prolific letter writer, many of which were to her sister Cassandra, whenever they were apart. The letters that survive give us an insight into Jane's daily life, with detailed descriptions of clothes, outings, dances and family events. In her novels, too, letters are very important. Who can forget Mr Darcy's passionate letter to Elizabeth Bennet, or Captain Wentworth's agonised outpouring to Anne Elliot – arguably the greatest love letter in fiction!
Alongside Alejandra's expert tuition, the workshop will include an exclusive session with an expert from Jane Austen's House, introducing you to Jane Austen's letters that are held in the Museum collection, and sharing their favourite quotes and stories. We'll also take a trip into the House to see one of Jane's own letters on display.
As part of this event you will receive an exclusive calligraphy kit, created by Alejandra, providing everything you need for the workshop. It will also contain detailed instructions that we will use in the workshop and that you can refer to in the future.
This event is part of Jane Austen Regency Week.
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