News

Engraving
An Introduction to the Literary Illustrations of Gustave Doré (updated August 2024)
We're currently working on a new book dedicated to the literary illustrations of Gustave Doré, and our research has inspired this week's article. Read on to find out how Doré's incredible talent has inspired filmmakers and famous artists alike, plus, we'll take a look at some of his mesmerising illustrations. Let's go!

Art Education
Discover the Origins of the Olympic Rings Design and Compare our Top Five Olympic Logo Designs
We've been enthralled and amazed by the sporting achievements of the athletes competing in the 2024 Olympic games, which has inspired this week's article for The Vault Zine. Read on to learn about the inspiration for the iconic five-ring Olympic symbol and our favourite Olympic logo designs. Let's go!

Albrecht Dürer
Understanding Albrecht Dürer's Masterpieces: The Knight, Death and the Devil, St. Jerome in His Study, and Melencolia I
Albrecht Dürer is renowned for his exceptional engraving and printmaking skills. His works exhibit a mastery of technique and an in-depth understanding of symbolism and human experience. This blog post delves into three of Dürer's most celebrated engravings, known as his Meisterstiche, or master prints: 'Knight, Death and the Devil' (1513), 'Melencolia I' (1514) and 'St. Jerome in His Study' (1514).

Art Symbolism
How Ancient Symbolism Influences Contemporary Graphic Design: Five Examples You Will Definitely Know
Symbolism has been integral to human culture for millennia, serving as a universal language transcending time and geography. Understanding these ancient symbols provides invaluable insights into their influence and relevance in contemporary graphic design.

Art Education
A Complete Guide to Staffage: What It Is and How to Enhance Your Art
Staffage is a term that describes the anonymous human and animal figures in a painting or drawing. They will not be the primary focus of the work, but their inclusion is significant.

Art History
An Introduction to Heraldry: Understanding Coat of Arms and How to Make Your Own
Heraldry started in the Middle Ages as a way of identifying individuals. In this article we'll explain the purpose and structure of a heraldic shield and a coat of arms and give you an overview to help you make your own.

Art Education
Micro Exhibition: How To Create A Limited Edition Art Print
Creating a limited edition print is a meticulous process that combines artistry, craftsmanship, and strategic planning. For artists like you, this endeavour showcases your creative skills, offers significant financial benefits, elevates your market position, and transforms your work into coveted collector's items. Let's explore how you can create a limited edition print and the advantages it brings.

Art History
Harnessing Personification to Enrich Artistic Expression
Personification, the artistic device of attributing human characteristics to non-human entities, has been a powerful tool for artists throughout history. This technique not only adds depth and meaning to the artwork but also engages viewers by allowing them to connect with the subjects on a human level. Read on to find out how to incorporate personification into your work: let's go!

Blackletter
How Mastering Typography will Improve Your Artwork: A Guide for Illustrators, Artists, Designers and Tattoo Artists
The importance of well-crafted imagery in tattoo artistry, graphic design, and illustration is undisputed. However, a critical component that often gets overlooked by even the most skilled artists is typography and lettering. Discover why a lack of focus on typography and lettering might be holding back your work from being the best it could be.
