Here is my hand on the page doing calligraphic flourishes. You know, all those elegant designs done with your pen that make a word or page stand out. I was lucky enough to recently take a day's workshop with Paul Antonio, a six foot tall Englishman who creates calligraphy for the Queen of England. Their country has a long tradition, and appreciation, of handwritten work. Plus there is all that nobility and honors they give out.
He really starts with the basics: how you are sitting; what is the position of your hand, and the pen you are holding. We used the pointed nib, commonly used in Copperplate styles going back to the 16th century. The rules apply to using a broad nib also. Then there is breathing: Upstroke -inhale; down stroke- exhale. Ever notice we often hold our breath when we are working on fine art details? I know I do. That's a lesson I want to hold onto.
Paul pays lots of attention to the mathematical shapes and angles involved. We began drawing ellipses with a pencil, that later become those same patterns in ink. Teach the hand through repetition.
I like to refresh my calligraphy by taking a course when I can. Living in Sedona always means travel to the teacher. We all get into habits, often not very good ones. An English accent makes that critique a bit easier.
He recommends 20 minutes every other day of practice. I'm on it. Ideas are dancing in my head about how to apply these lessons. Ah hah. The holidays Are coming up...
