Page 1 - Creative ClassesPage 2 - Lettering ClassesPage 3 - Schedule of Classes

 

 

creativity

 

2 DAYS ALL LEVELS

In each of us, whether we recognize it or not, there is an innate drive to create - be it by decorating our homes, baking the perfect cake or doing calligraphy. We are all born to be creative, but all too often that urge has been stifled by our education system and our early conditioning.

The right side of the brain - the dreamer in all of us has been ignored. We need to reawaken the ability to see as a child - with wonder and eagerness. Art in itself is a way of getting in touch with our real selves. It is an exploration of the self. We can help this process by setting up conditions that allow us to tap in to that creative side of our brain.

A basic understanding of any subject is necessary so that you can be free to totally immerse yourself in the act of discovery. Rules are tools to get you to a place of understanding from which you can begin to transform those same rules.

In this workshop we will explore some of the possible options you might pursue when developing a piece.
Through various exercises we will try to unlock that creative side of the brain and give you tools to help you overcome some of these blocks. We will push beyond the familiar and the comfortable to get you to breakthrough into the realm of possibilities.

  • Borders
  • Celtic Knotwork
  • Color
  • Creative Classes - orig
  • Design and Layout
  • Dimensional Calligraphy
  • Hand Made Books
  • Paste Paper Technique
  • Scheduling

BORDERS  1 to 2 Days All Levels

 

Borders are one of the oldest forms of illumination. To illuminate means to decorate with
design and color. Adding a border to your piece of calligraphy can make it a work of art.

Borders can be as simple or as ornate as you wish, but they should be in harmony with the
text and not overpower it.

Borders can be made using the same tool used to write the text. They can be geometric, naturalistic, based on historical patterns, and inorganic or contemporary.


In this workshop we will study some of the different types of borders, how to decide which one to use, how to incorporate them in your work to create a unified whole, and methods that will help you design them.


As many borders incorporate or spring from initial letters, this workshop works well in conjunction with the ILLUMINATED LETTERS or a VERSALS workshops.

CELTIC KNOTWORK    2 Days All Levels

The designs that appear in the Book of Kells and other great works with the Irish influence, are some of the most beautiful created in the book arts. These designs were used for a long period before being incorporated into the decoration of books in the jewelry, and carvings on stone.

They offer intricate interlacing of knotwork which can stand on its own for its beauty, or they can incorporate fantastic and styalized flora, fauna and drawings of humans.

We will start with some simple step by step techniques to help you understand and create the weaving and meshing of the patterns.

We will then progress to more elaborate forms in which you can develope a myriad of designs.

This is a fun but challenging adventure.

 

traditional irish blessing

irish blessing

COLOR 2 Days All Levels

Color is life - it is everywhere - it evokes emotions - it is a radiant energy that affects us - whether we are aware of it or not. Color is one of the strongest influences in our lives.If you use COLOR in your calligraphic work, understanding the qualities, the psychology and the theory of color will help you to create more cohesive and interesting works.

Using a number of exercises, participants will gain a better understanding of the properties of color and how to control them to create the desired effects.

The first day will be spent learning the theory of color and how to mix them. Working with gouache and watercolor we will address some of the problems in mixing the exact color desired. We will also work on writing with gouache on different papers.

On the second day, participants will explore a number of techniques using watercolor, gouache, and colored pencils to create interesting backgrounds and ways to enhance their calligraphy.

 


Page 1 - Creative ClassesPage 2 - Lettering ClassesPage 3 - Schedule of Classes

 

 

creativity

 

2 DAYS ALL LEVELS

In each of us, whether we recognize it or not, there is an innate drive to create - be it by decorating our homes, baking the perfect cake or doing calligraphy. We are all born to be creative, but all too often that urge has been stifled by our education system and our early conditioning.

The right side of the brain - the dreamer in all of us has been ignored. We need to reawaken the ability to see as a child - with wonder and eagerness. Art in itself is a way of getting in touch with our real selves. It is an exploration of the self. We can help this process by setting up conditions that allow us to tap in to that creative side of our brain.

A basic understanding of any subject is necessary so that you can be free to totally immerse yourself in the act of discovery. Rules are tools to get you to a place of understanding from which you can begin to transform those same rules.

In this workshop we will explore some of the possible options you might pursue when developing a piece.
Through various exercises we will try to unlock that creative side of the brain and give you tools to help you overcome some of these blocks. We will push beyond the familiar and the comfortable to get you to breakthrough into the realm of possibilities.

DESIGN AND LAYOUT 2 Days All Levels

Design is the germ of the idea, the concept that one wishes to express.Layout is the act of putting that idea into real terms on paper.

Creating a piece of calligraphic work that makes a strong statement and visually enhances the text entails unifying the principles and elements of design.

Studying the principles of design and layout will help the artist/calligrapher solve problems in composition.
By establishing harmonious relationships between the many units of the design one can create effective
and dynamic layouts that draw the viewer in. An understanding of these basics can become a springboard
into areas of greater creativity and freedom of expression.

This workshop will explore the fundamental principles and elements which combine to make a good design.
Participants will learn how to utilize and manipulate these principles and elements.

DIMENSIONAL CALLIGRAPHY
2 1/2 Days Class limit 15 students All levels

Explore the many unique and exciting techniques that can make your lettering literally pop off the page. Real and implied affects will be utilized to add depth and dimension to your work. Combining techniques opens up even more possibilities.

There are certain considerations which must be taken into account when designing work for either paper cutting or to be used as a stencil. We will study ways to solve these dilemmas.   The same designs can be used as paper cuts, or as stencils to be used for embossing, or for laying color on with pastels.

Embossing and debossing can add real dimension to your pages.
These can be combined on the same page to add greater depth.
There are also tricks to enhance these embossings.

Paper cutting can be used in a single layer or have multiple layers
that are visible and can be combined with some collage techniques
and beautiful papers that create depth in you piece.

We will study proper techniques for cutting paper and board and
ways to make the process easier.

This class will provide many ways to expand your creativity and enhance your calligraphy.

BORDERS 1 to 2 Days All Levels

Borders are one of the oldest forms of illumination. To illuminate means to decorate with
design and color. Adding a border to your piece of calligraphy can make it a work of art.

Borders can be as simple or as ornate as you wish, but they should be in harmony with the
text and not overpower it.

Borders can be made using the same tool used to write the text. They can be geometric, naturalistic, based on historical patterns, and inorganic or contemporary.


In this workshop we will study some of the different types of borders, how to decide which one to use, how to incorporate them in your work to create a unified whole, and methods that will help you design them.
As many borders incorporate or spring from initial letters, this workshop works well in conjunction with the ILLUMINATED LETTERS or a VERSALS workshops.

CELTIC KNOTWORK

2 Days All Levels

The designs that appear in the Book of Kells and other great works with the Irish influence, are some of the most beautiful created in the book arts. These designs were used for a long period before being incorporated into the decoration of books in the jewelry, and carvings on stone.

They offer intricate interlacing of knotwork which can stand on its own for its beauty, or they can incorporate fantastic and styalized flora, fauna and drawings of humans.

We will start with some simple step by step techniques to help you understand and create the weaving and meshing of the patterns.

We will then progress to more elaborate forms in which you can develope a myriad of designs.

This is a fun but challenging adventure.traditional irish blessing

irish blessing

COLOR 2 Days All Levels

Color is life - it is everywhere - it evokes emotions - it is a radiant energy that affects us - whether we are aware of it or not. Color is one of the strongest influences in our lives.If you use COLOR in your calligraphic work, understanding the qualities, the psychology and the theory of color will help you to create more cohesive and interesting works.

Using a number of exercises, participants will gain a better understanding of the properties of color and how to control them to create the desired effects.

The first day will be spent learning the theory of color and how to mix them. Working with gouache and watercolor we will address some of the problems in mixing the exact color desired. We will also work on writing with gouache on different papers.

On the second day, participants will explore a number of techniques using watercolor, gouache, and colored pencils to create interesting backgrounds and ways to enhance their calligraphy.

PASTE PAPER TECHNIQUE1 Day All Levels (Limited to 15)

Paste Paper is an exciting method that can be used to create interesting and unusual backgrounds to be used as broadsides, books, cards, collages, etc. The effects you can create are virtually limitless. You can create your own solid color sheets, create soft blendings, rainbow effects, precise over all patterns, free flowing abstractions, and mono prints. Finished pages have a look of dimensionality, yet are very easy to write on.

A wide variety of tools can be used to create patterns in the paste: plastic forks, pastry wheels, wood graining tools, potters tools, sponges, and pastels, to name a few. Your own tools can be created from plastic bottles and old credit cards cut with exacto knives or fancy scissors. Rolling pins with incised designs and rubber stamps are also effective.

The best results are on watercolor paper, but most papers that will hold up when moistened can be used. The technique can also be applied to canvas and fabric. Slightly dented paper, old calligraphic pieces or watercolor paintings can be used as a support and result in some very unusual pieces.

This workshop is an excellent adjunct to the Hand Made Books Workshop.

HAND MADE BOOKS1 or 2 DaysAll Levels

Making a hand made book requires the application of all the
calligraphers knowledge. Lettering, art work of all kinds, principles of composition and design and choice of material are all involved in creating a book.

Many decisions must be made before the book can be completed: What text if any will be used? Will the layout be formal or informal? What form will the book take - accordion, scroll? What binding - sewn, glued, soft or hard cover, etc.? What materials will be used? These questions and more will be addressed.

In a 1 day workshop, participants will be introduced to books that require no sewing for the bindings, i.e., accordion folded books, oriental bindings and a self bound book.
In a 2 day workshop, the second day will be spent on the construction of sewn binding books and the different covers that can be used, whether on a soft bound book, or a hardbound book.

 

INFORMATION for SCHEDULING

I hope you find some interesting classes. I always enjoy sharing my information with others in the calligraphic world.

Some classes can be combined to make a 2 day workshop. To cover the topics adequately, other workshops could be extended to
2 1/2, 3 days or a week.

I enjoy staying in the home of a workshop participant. - nonsmoking please. I have no allergies, and love animals. I am a vegetarian, though I do eat eggs and cheese. Simple fare is preferred - nothing fancy. Travel arrangements can be discussed at time of scheduling.

Once a topic and date have been selected, I would appreciate a letter of agreement listing all the pertinent details as confirmation.
A list of participants would be appreciated. There will probably be handouts that will need to be copied.

Fees: Please contact me for information regarding fees. There is a lab fee charged for some workshops.

Workshop space: For most workshops a large table in the front to demonstrate and teach from is needed. Paper to demonstrate on and/or a chalkboard, plus another table for samples are also requested. Access to water and a sink would help for most classes.

Please feel free to call or email me if you have any further questions.

 

DESIGN AND LAYOUT 2 Days All Levels

Design is the germ of the idea, the concept that one wishes to express.Layout is the act of putting that idea into real terms on paper.

Creating a piece of calligraphic work that makes a strong statement and visually enhances the text entails unifying the principles and elements of design.

Studying the principles of design and layout will help the artist/calligrapher solve problems in composition.
By establishing harmonious relationships between the many units of the design one can create effective
and dynamic layouts that draw the viewer in. An understanding of these basics can become a springboard
into areas of greater creativity and freedom of expression.

This workshop will explore the fundamental principles and elements which combine to make a good design.

Participants will learn how to utilize and manipulate these principles and elements.

DIMENSIONAL CALLIGRAPHY
2 1/2 Days Class limit 15 students All levels

Explore the many unique and exciting techniques that can make your lettering literally pop off the page. Real and implied affects will be utilized to add depth and dimension to your work. Combining techniques opens up even more possibilities.

 

 

There are certain considerations which must be taken into account when designing work for either paper cutting or to be used as a stencil. We will study ways to solve these dilemmas.   The same designs can be used as paper cuts, or as stencils to be used for embossing, or for laying color on with pastels.

Embossing and debossing can add real dimension to your pages.
These can be combined on the same page to add greater depth.
There are also tricks to enhance these embossings.

Paper cutting can be used in a single layer or have multiple layers
that are visible and can be combined with some collage techniques
and beautiful papers that create depth in you piece.

We will study proper techniques for cutting paper and board and
ways to make the process easier.

 

This class will provide many ways to expand your creativity and enhance your calligraphy.

HAND MADE BOOKS - All Levels

Shakespeare

Making a hand made book requires the application of all the
calligraphers knowledge. Lettering, art work of all kinds, principles of composition and design and choice of material are all involved in creating a book.

Many decisions must be made before the book can be completed: What text if any will be used? Will the layout be formal or informal? What form will the book take - accordion, scroll? What binding - sewn, glued, soft or hard cover, etc.? What materials will be used? These questions and more will be addressed.

 

• In a 1 day workshop, participants will be introduced to books that require no sewing for the bindings, i.e., accordion folded books, oriental bindings and a self bound book.

• In a 2 day workshop, the second day will be spent on the construction of sewn binding books and the different covers that can be used, whether on a soft bound book, or a hardbound book.

PASTE PAPER TECHNIQUE1 Day All Levels (Limited to 15)

Paste Paper is an exciting method that can be used to create interesting and unusual backgrounds to be used as broadsides, books, cards, collages, etc. The effects you can create are virtually limitless. You can create your own solid color sheets, create soft blendings, rainbow effects, precise over all patterns, free flowing abstractions, and mono prints. Finished pages have a look of dimensionality, yet are very easy to write on.

A wide variety of tools can be used to create patterns in the paste: plastic forks, pastry wheels, wood graining tools, potters tools, sponges, and pastels, to name a few. Your own tools can be created from plastic bottles and old credit cards cut with exacto knives or fancy scissors. Rolling pins with incised designs and rubber stamps are also effective.

The best results are on watercolor paper, but most papers that will hold up when moistened can be used. The technique can also be applied to canvas and fabric. Slightly dented paper, old calligraphic pieces or watercolor paintings can be used as a support and result in some very unusual pieces.

This workshop is an excellent adjunct to the Hand Made Books Workshop.

INFORMATION for SCHEDULING

I hope you find some interesting classes. I always enjoy sharing my information with others in the calligraphic world.

Some classes can be combined to make a 2 day workshop. To cover the topics adequately, other workshops could be extended to
2 1/2, 3 days or a week.

I enjoy staying in the home of a workshop participant. - nonsmoking please. I have no allergies, and love animals. I am a vegetarian, though I do eat eggs and cheese. Simple fare is preferred - nothing fancy. Travel arrangements can be discussed at time of scheduling.

Once a topic and date have been selected, I would appreciate a letter of agreement listing all the pertinent details as confirmation.
A list of participants would be appreciated. There will probably be handouts that will need to be copied.

Fees: Please contact me for information regarding fees. There is a lab fee charged for some workshops.

Workshop space: For most workshops a large table in the front to demonstrate and teach from is needed. Paper to demonstrate on and/or a chalkboard, plus another table for samples are also requested. Access to water and a sink would help for most classes.

Please feel free to call or email me if you have any further questions.