Folklore Workshops – The Krampus

Each Tuesday afternoon workshop will centre around the myth or folklore topic of that week. The aim will be to discuss ideas surrounding that belief or narrative and to come up with a finished piece using any of the methods and materials that are available. You will have access to paper/card, printing materials (linocut, block, mono or collagraph), paints, drawing materials, 3D resources (clay, paper mache, wire, wool), paints and other bits and pieces. You will have an experienced artist to help you develop your ideas and produce your artwork.

The name Krampus originates from the German word Krampen, meaning “claw”. Visually, he is depicted as a towering, shaggy beast with twisted horns, cloven hooves, fangs, and a long, lolling red tongue. He traditionally carries rattling chains and a bundle of birch twigs. In regions like Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Italy, locals take part in Krampuslauf (Krampus runs), where people dress in terrifying, handmade wooden masks and fur costumes, parading through the streets to scare both children and adults. Krampus predates Christianity, evolving from ancient, pre-Christian pagan winter solstice rituals meant to ward off evil spirits.