Join us for a festive embroidery workshop inspired by medieval manuscripts and winter folklore. Learn all about the curious medieval book of beasts, learn some festive embroidery skills, and make you’re very own Christmas hedgehog decoration to take home!
Popular in medieval Europe, bestiaries (or book of beasts) were beautifully illustrated books filled with real and imaginary creatures, from familiar woodland animals to dragons and unicorns. Combining observations of the natural world with extraordinary tales and moral lessons, these fascinating manuscripts offer a glimpse into how people in the Middle Ages understood and imagined the animal kingdom.
Taking inspiration from a 13th-century illustration in the Rochester Bestiary, we’ll bring one of our favourite creatures to life: a little hedgehog carrying fruit on its spines!
According to medieval tales, hedgehogs would roll over fallen grapes (or apples), collecting them on their spines to carry home to their young. While not entirely accurate natural history, this delightful image became a popular subject in medieval manuscripts.
In this workshop, we’ll give this centuries-old illustration a festive twist! Your finished felt creation will become a playful winter guardian, ready to hang around your home, decorate your Christmas tree or give as a unique handmade gift.
No previous embroidery experience is necessary. All materials will be provided, and you’ll be guided through the process of stitching, decorating and assembling your felt ornament.
This workshop will be led by design historian and maker Florencia Denti.
Getting to us & Access
BPCG is in the middle of Brockwell Park, between the tennis courts and the walled gardens. Follow the signs.
If you are driving to the gig, we recommend parking your car on Dulwich Road or near Dulwich Road.
Entrance and exit from the Park should be via the Park’s Lido Gates on Dulwich Road.
The park will be dark when you leave the gig so everyone must leave in groups with torches.