Oak gall ink-making workshop

This deep dive into the world of historical ink making is designed for all levels and is intended to get you inspired about nature through the creation of botanical art materials, with tutor Lucy Mayes of London Pigment.

In this session, we will explore together the history of ink making traditions in Britain from Roman times up to the present day. This practical workshop will involve making a diverse palette of inks from various botanical sources collected from London such as; oak galls, hawthorn berries, walnuts and a selection of flowers. 

Recipes used by Jane Austen, Sir Isaac Newton and inks employed for illuminating manuscripts will be recreated in the workshop. After processing our raw materials into ink, we will then test them by using them to paint a botanical still life guided by Lucy. 

You will leave the session with some of the inks you made, a pamphlet about the inks covered, a hand-painted colour chart and a unique ink painting.

Please note Garden entry is included in the ticket price.