
Materials Lab Workshop: Celtic Knotwork Design
June 14 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Sponsored by: Harvard Art Museums

Knotwork has long been associated with Celtic art; it has decorated illuminated manuscripts, been tooled into fine metalwork and jewelry, and been carved into wood and stone. The methods of construction—passed down from master to apprentice for over a thousand years—were nearly lost until rediscovered in the late 20th century.
Join Celtic illuminator Michael Carroll for a hands-on knotwork workshop organized in connection with the exhibition Celtic Art Across the Ages (March 6–August 2, 2026). The artist will reveal the ancient secrets of the structure underlying this traditional design and guide participants in various drawing exercises that apply to even the most complex designs. Following the workshop, we’ll visit the special exhibition galleries for a short curatorial tour to observe the application of such patterns.
Pre-registration required.
Fee: $15, paid at registration (materials will be provided)
Image: Michale Carroll, Serpentine, 2009. Detail of an illuminated manuscript. Photo courtesy of the artist.



