Tom Perkins
A letter carver/lettering designer for almost 40 years, Tom
Perkins trained in calligraphy at Reigate School of Art and Design,
then a year as letter carving assistant to Richard Kindersley. He
has taught at The Roehampton Institute and on short courses in the
UK, USA and Japan. His work is in a number of private collections
and at the Crafts Study Centre, Farnham. His book The Art of
Letter carving in Stone was published by the Crowood
Press.
Describe your approach to teaching:
Mainly, I give one to one demonstration and guidance catering for
all levels from beginner to advanced.
During letter carving courses, I provide assistance with drawing
and designing letters if required and try to emphasise the the
importance of this aspect.
What inspires your own work?
The work of Eric Gilt and calligrapher Edward Johnston who stated
that 'within the limits of the craft we cannot have too much
freedom'. Tradition can be refined and changed and that is all part
of a natural evolutionary process.
