James MacKenzie Summers is a freelance manuscript illuminator and artist specialising in authentic Celtic and Celtic influenced Illumination, Calligraphy and Design. A native Scot, he lives and works in the Pictish heartland of North East Scotland and has spent the last thirteen years in intensive study and research of the traditional methods of Celtic Manuscript Illumination and Celtic/ Pictish Design.

An initial interest in what was assumed to be a relatively narrow field revealed a wealth of interest and influence, which gradually drew the artist to explore in depth the methods and effects of this very taxing art form.

The antithesis of modern expressionist art, it relies on complete accuracy and a slow build up of material to achieve it’s result, but it provides a microcosm of interest where no space is unused, and each element skillfully combined and balanced harmoniously to maximum effect.

The work of this artist, however, is by no regard mere copying of existing works; on the contrary, while utilising the techniques and structures of ancient Celtic Art, he employs them in a totally individual style to create his own designs. Respectfully contributing to the continuation and evolution of a cultural heritage which has lain dormant for over a thousand years and has been largely ignored in contemporary art, but which still has much to offer.

It is emphatically not a style which one can instantly adapt; it requires years of patient training, practice and self-discipline to master the extremely complex techniques of this art form, and is a continuous learning process. Shunning all modern design and drawing aids, the finished artworks are the product of hand-eye co-ordination, which combine the amazing complexity of the ancient elements in a uniquely effective way.

The artist has exhibited his works both nationally and internationally, including two highly acclaimed exhibitions in Japan, at the Aziz Ayoma Gallery, Tokyo and at the Tokyo Ryutsu Centre. While in Japan, the artist convened a seminar on Celtic Zoomorphic Art at the Tokyo school of eminent Latin Illuminator and Calligrapher, Professor Muriel Gaggini. In 1998, one of his commissioned works won the Association’s Award at the International Calligraphers Association’s 26^th Annual Exhibition at the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The artist’s work has featured in Celtic Connections magazine and in January 2001 he conducted the Celtic Illumination workshop at the Drachenwald Scriptorium, a symposium convened by the SCA on 6^th – 16^th century Illumination and Calligraphy techniques for advanced illuminators and calligraphers from Europe and North America.
.

Sorry, your browser doesn't support Java.