Nature Inspires Calligraphy
Four or five days.
Level: All levels. Maximum 20 students (however 16 is more comfortable for all).
Illustrated above: detail of a work in glass inspired by Hurricane Patricia. See it all here.
Nature can show us patterns and textures to inspire experimental calligraphic compositions. For example, wind blown grass may evoke a calligraphic dance; laughter lines on an elder’s face may elicit an illumination that needs no gilding.
Take inspiration from images your tutor shows you; or, optionally, bring your own images (nature photographs, drawings, or material samples). You will be challenged to transform nature into calligraphy. Your tutor will help you apply this calligraphy in a dynamic composition with guidance of design principals of harmony and contrast. Skillful calligraphy is less important in this workshop than an open and curious mind.
Student supplies: Pens, brushes and any other mark-making tools you like to use (e.g., ruling pens, pipettes, reeds, sticks, etc.) Ink, ruler, pencils. Gouache paints in a range of colours. Pallets and mixing brushes. A2 size practice paper A good range of large sheets of better quality papers such as hot-pressed and cold-pressed Aquarelle paper, and coloured paper. Gummed paper tape and, if possible, a large board of plywood or MDF for stretching paper. A clean sponge.
Photos such as this may inspire calligraphic responses.
