From the archives, an early illuminated calligraphy work I did for my husband. He asked me to do this as a decoration for his classroom. The font, or script, is called Fraktur Miniscule, in use from about 1400 onward and very popular for vernacular works at the time. I used a Celtic Knotwork tutorial book to do the border. I used felt-tip pens instead of paint.
Edinburgh Castle on a bright spring morning. I am at the top of the Camera Obscura, 19th century tower which houses the “World of Illusions” and also a device (called the Camera Obscura). This from their website (camera-obscura.co.uk):
‘The Camera Obscura show is a fascinating and highly amusing way to see the city and learn about its history. This unique experience has delighted and intrigued people for over 150 years. It is a ‘must’ on any visit to Edinburgh.
From inside this mysterious Victorian rooftop chamber, you see live moving images of Edinburgh projected onto a viewing table through a giant periscope. Pick people up on your hands, squash them to a pulp and even make the traffic climb over paper bridges.
Our friendly guide will entertain you while telling stories of Edinburgh, past and present, in an engaging and informative way. Our visitors are truly amazed at how, in this age of high technology, a simple array of mirror, lenses and daylight can produce this incredible panorama.’
Yes, I did enjoy the show and it was truly interesting how such an old device could be so clear and comprehensive in the image it produced.
When you walk down the Royal Mile in the old town area of Edinburgh, Scotland, you will often come across a bagpipe player or two playing for spare change. More often than not there will be tourists taking photos of him. I wasn’t much different but I wanted to take a slightly ironic photo of other tourists snapping this quintessentially Scottish scene. Edinburgh is a city well worth visiting, multiple times. Wear practical shoes because it is HILLY. Built on 7 hills, to be exact, Edinburgh’s streets will give you a good workout as well as dazzle you with its sights.
This is a red-spotted purple butterfly. Its scientific name is Limenitis arthemis astyanax, member of the admiral butterfly family, native to the Eastern United States. Painted using Procreate app on iPad Pro.
Letizia Morley - ARTIST 