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.