Illuminated Letters: Art Activity

Art Activity 🎨

When you think of Medieval times, you might picture knights, shining armor (like the full suits on view in The Age of Armor at SAMA through May 12), or illuminated manuscripts—beautifully decorated handwritten books. 

The word “illuminate” comes from the Latin “illumino”  which means to light up, show off, or adorn. In the case of illuminated manuscripts, gold or silver were frequently used to literally “light up” the pages. Passages in illuminated manuscripts began with intricately designed letters. Below you will find instructions on how to make your own at home. Think of symbols and items that remind you of your family or your name as you design your letters. 

Adult supervision recommended. 

Supplies:

•    Heavy duty aluminum foil
•    Scissors
•    Paper
•    Pencil (dull)
•    Sharpie marker
•    Optional: wooden dowels/sculpting tools
 

Steps:

First, cut a piece of paper and piece of aluminum foil down to the size you want your letter to be. 

Take the piece of paper and sketch out your design, then trace over it with a permanent marker to make your sketch more visible. You should be able to see the outline when you flip the piece of paper over to lay on top of the piece of foil.

With the paper placed over the foil, use a dull pencil, the capped end of the Sharpie, or any other sculpting tools you may have to trace your design into the foil.

Now you have your own illuminated letter!