Modern calligraphy is based on the manuscripts written by scribes through the ages, from the 5th century to the end of the Renaissance. Under the guidance of Jilly you will study their letters, learning how to write them and then adapt them for contemporary use.
This workshop will be an introduction to working with the edged pen through the letters written by a 10th century English scribe, but we will have the advantage of good light, heat and, for those who need them, spectacles!
During the workshop you will:
– Learn the skeleton forms of the alphabet in family groups, initially with pencils, and then move on to making them with an edged pen.
– Learn the importance of spacing and how to space your letters in words and texts.
– Begin to build rhythm and fluency in writing.
– Begin to design a bookmark (to be completed at home, depending on time). Card will be provided.
There is a £5 material charge on the day and this will cover the cost of a complete pen to take home and layout paper and exemplars used on the day.
Jilly can also supply ink for sale.
What to expect
Time at ArtisOn is designed to take you away from it all. We provide the environment, the time and the guidance you need to create. You can expect a warm welcome, skilled and friendly tutors and the chance to meet like-minded people keen to share ideas. You can even leave us to clear up the mess! There will usually be two workshops going on and we encourage everyone to mingle and be nosey about what the other workshop is up to.
We encourage you to arrive at 9.30am. This will allow time to meet other participants over a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits before beginning workshops at 10am. There will be a mid-morning break for refreshments and a chance to talk over progress with others. Lunch is usually around 12:45 for about 45 mins – you can expect a delicious homemade 2 course lunch. There will be a further afternoon break with tea or coffee and cake. All food and refreshments are included in the price of your workshop.
The finish time given is a target. There are occasions when the session may overrun so do let us know if you need to be away promptly.
We aim for your day to be a real treat. You could always learn a new skill in a shed or a draughty village hall with a curly sandwich, but we want you to have more fun than that! So we make sure we provide a day where you will be looked after, with good food, good company and great inspiration!
What you’ll need to bring with you
Please bring the following but if you do not have any of the items please let us know as many items can be borrowed from ArtisOn.
Items to bring are:
A board, approx 570mm x 410mm (23 x 16 inches)
Blotting paper or newspaper to cover the board to provide a good surface.
Masking tape
An H and an HB pencil
A ruler, preferably 460mm (18 inches)
An A3 cartridge pad (not a Sketch pad)
A bottle of ink, preferably Higgins Eternal, note that the ink must be non-waterproof and acrylic inks are not suitable. (Ink will also be available to buy on the day)