Contemporary Calligraphy - Monday Afternoon

When & Where

22 April 2024 - 1 July 2024 ( 22.5 hours, 9 weeks )
Afternoon, Monday
View course timetable
Waterloo Centre

Quick Facts

Availability Late starts accepted
Tutor Ivo Grantins
Course Code W23PTGC01C
Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

This is an introduction to Calligraphy for beginners and improvers. It is a step-by step course on how to draw calligraphic letterforms by using a variety of writing instruments, from the square edge to pointed nib pens, from brushes to ruling pens. Starting from a basic historical script such as Italic and /or Copperplate. By observing historical models, students will progress to develop a more personal style by exploring the use of each writing implement, and ultimately to complete a portfolio of projects or work in progress. The course will introduce Western calligraphy, provide technical instruction in the use and handling of calligraphic pens or brushes in drawing calligraphic alphabets and provide practical suggestions in using alphabets for personal projects. The course is designed to develop creativity and ideas to initiate your own projects.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

To use the square-cut edge nib or brush at the appropriate angle to construct letterforms of the chosen script such as Italic with ink or gouache
To use the pointed nib or brush (pressure and release) to construct letterforms of the chosen script such as Copperplate
To write out a block of text using appropriate spacing in between letters, words, and lines of text
To use simple lay-out techniques to enhance the visual impact of the written text
To plan for a project from first roughs to the final piece
To explore unusual writing tools such as ruling pens, balsa wood or twigs

Cost

Full fee

£243

Concession fee

£184

Class format and activities

Each session will include: Presentation of historical models and of examples of works representing the traditional as well as the more contemporary expressions by calligraphers worldwide, through power point presentations, books, and examples of my own work Presentation of the day’s topic and aims plus materials. Demonstration of an aspect of calligraphy and the various steps on how to practice it. Group and individual assistance question and answer. Group critique.

Entry requirements

The course is suitable for complete beginners.

What you need to know before you enrol

The course is suitable for beginners or anyone interested in calligraphy or improving their lettering and calligraphy.

What you need

For the first class please bring a notebook and pencil. A detailed equipment and materials list will be provided on the first day of class and all materials are available to use in the class. The tutor will introduce you to tools and materials that you might want to buy later, and advise on the best places to buy them.