What Is Medieval Art? Meet the Artist Behind Modern Medieval Press

There’s something about medieval art that pulls you in—the ornate details, the storytelling, the sense of mystery woven through every carved stone and gilded page. Even though it originated over a thousand years ago, medieval art still captures imaginations today. But what exactly is it?

I’ll walk you through what defines medieval art, why it continues to inspire artists (including me), and how my love for all things mythic and sacred eventually led to the creation of Modern Medieval Press. Pour yourself a cup of tea and settle in—we’re going on a journey through time.

What Is Medieval Art?

Medieval art spans roughly from 500 to 1500 AD and was shaped heavily by religious devotion, sacred symbolism, and communal storytelling. From illuminated manuscripts and cathedral stained glass to mosaic tiles and intricate reliquaries, medieval art was about more than beauty—it was a way to express spiritual belief, cultural identity, and cosmic order.

Some of its most iconic features include:

Ornamentation: Decorative flourishes, floral borders, and elaborate patterns.

Symbolism: Every color, gesture, and animal often held deep symbolic meaning.

Sacred Geometry: Art rooted in the harmony of the cosmos—think rose windows and mandalas.

Even today, these motifs live on. You can find echoes of medieval art in everything from contemporary fantasy films to stained glass-inspired fashion.

Want to dive deeper? Here’s a helpful article on medieval art that explores the evolution of its styles and techniques.

Falling in Love With the Medieval Era

From a young age, I was captivated by the medieval era. I remember walking through renaissance fairs wide-eyed, enchanted by the calligraphy booths, wandering bards, and glittering jewelry vendors. But it wasn’t until my study-abroad trip to Ireland that it fully clicked—this was home for my creative heart.

There’s something powerful about standing in a centuries-old cathedral, seeing the light spill through stained glass windows, or running your hand along a moss-covered ruin. These experiences felt like time travel—like the past was whispering stories meant just for me.

The textures, the weight of history, the beauty in every carved stone—I carried it all home.

Curious about how my love for all things medieval led to creating my own press? You can read more of my story here.

Medieval Inspiration

My work is inspired by sacred architecture, medieval manuscripts, and the type of lore you’d overhear in a tavern full of elves.

What does that mean in practice? It means I blend real history with imagined worlds. I draw from the intricate patterning of cathedral windows, the symmetry of sacred geometry, and the strange delight of mythical beasts like the Hodag and the Beast of Bray Road.

Right now, I’m especially inspired by:

Mythical Creatures – Dragons, cryptids, and lore-heavy beasts

Stained Glass – Especially rose windows and gothic tracery

Tales of Magic – Fantasy epics, folklore, and oral traditions

Want to geek out with me? Here’s a post on the mystery of medieval dragons.

Bringing Medieval Art to Life

When the world quiets down, you’ll usually find me in my studio—my sanctuary of ink, paper, and soundtracks from Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones playing softly in the background.

Printmaking is slow magic. I carve most blocks by hand, roll the ink, press the paper—and then hold my breath as the image appears.

I use a vintage printing press and time-honored techniques to keep that sacred, meditative rhythm alive. My tools are humble but mighty: gouges, brayers, ink knives, and centuries of inspiration whispering through each piece.

Why Medieval Art Matters

What I adore most about medieval art is the ability to immerse myself in its intricacy and detail. It’s a bridge between past and present—a way to reconnect with stories that once lit the halls of castles, cathedrals, and taverns.

Through Modern Medieval Press, I hope to offer that same sense of wonder to you. My pieces are meant to be little portals—windows into a world of mystery, magic, and meaning.