Speaker John Neilson has been carving inscriptions in stone for over thirty years. His work ranges from plaques and memorials to public art, using poetic texts, and large architectural lettering such as the 2ft-high free-standing letters above the entrance to the Queen’s Gallery in Edinburgh. For some twenty years, John has edited the lettering journal Forum; his acclaimed book, The Inscriptions of Ralph Beyer, was published in 2021.

Britain is one of the few places in the world with a living tradition of inscriptional carving. Through his own works, John's illustrated talk will look at that background. He will examine some of the thinking, designing and carving processes involved, and some of the rewards and inevitable setbacks of working as a letter carver.

Wine and light refreshments will be available after the talk. These free events are an opportunity for people to meet and informally discuss contemporary challenges with our distinguished speakers.