NEIL BROMLEY, FSHA
Neil studied art at college for six years, finally graduating with H.N.D. in Calligraphy and Heraldry at Reigate School of Art in 1995. Whilst studying at Reigate he was awarded two bursaries from the Worshipful Company of Scriveners and the Company of Painters/Stainers. Neil returned to Devon, his home county, and established himself in Exeter as an Heraldic Artist and Illuminator. He was given his first commissions from Exeter City Council, producing “Illuminated Address,” and was elected a member of the Devon Guild of Craftsmen, where he still continues to exhibit work. He was elected a Craft Member of the Society of Heraldic Arts.
Neil’s work includes the painting of family crests, shields, and full coats of arms, freedom scrolls, Baronial Assignations, and Grants of Arms, heraldic work for reproduction, calligraphic work, and the reproduction of medieval manuscript pages.
All the work is produced on vellum (calfskin) and ranges from finest manuscript vellum to natural vellum. He uses 23.5K gold leaf and gesso where possible, as well as shell gold, along with other medieval techniques. The durable quality of his materials ensures that the documents will last for a long time and are finished to the best possible standard. Framing can also be arranged and is overseen by Neil to enhance the work. All framing is archival and museum finished.
Exhibitions:
- “Art in Action” at Waterperry House, 1996
- “Words, Words, Words” and “Meet Your Maker!” at the Riverside Mill, 2003
- Solo exhibition at Exeter City Museum, Cathedral, and Glastonbury Abbey
- Attended the 2006 Genealogical and Heraldic Congress in St. Andrews (Scotland) and was awarded the Barden prize for outstanding work whilst there
- Completed a 5-week exhibition of coins and heraldic artwork at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen, May 2018
- Attended the 35th Heraldic Congress (2022) in Cambridge alongside other artists including Quentin Peacock and Tania Crossingham
- Attended the 36th Heraldic Congress (2024) in Boston, USA alongside several other artists
His work can be seen by many throughout the world and he continues to raise the standards of modern and traditional heraldic art.