Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society, 2215 Millstream Road, Lancaster, will offer a fraktur workshop. Emily Smucker-Beiler, an accomplished fraktur artist, will present a two-part workshop on Friday, Jan. 31, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fraktur was created by Pennsylvania Germans during the 18th through mid-19th centuries and features calligraphic text decorated with colorful birds, hearts, and flowers. The tradition has its roots in the illuminated manuscripts of medieval Europe but evolved into a distinctive part of the local Pennsylvania German culture.
Participants will create a one-of-a-kind fraktur. Various patterns will be available as well to help students create something of their own, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or design featuring a favorite saying.
The class will focus on the legacy of schoolmaster Christopher Dock who sowed the seeds of imagination for future generations of skilled fraktur artists. Schoolmasters drew much of the fraktur. Some prior fraktur drawing experience is helpful but not essential. Supplies will be provided.
There is a cost for the class and Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society members will receive a discount. To register for the workshop, readers may visit http://bit.ly/Fraktur or call 717-393-9745.
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