Calligraphy - Beginners & Improvers

Course intent

On this course, you will learn new or revisit skills in calligraphy. Exploring beautiful calligraphy that has developed over centuries, we will explore historical examples, learn how to use a broad edged nib to create traditional letters, and then use this writing in different projects – the aim is to bring this traditional art form into the 21st century.

What will I learn?

Beginners will learn to

use a dip pen with a broad edged nib and will

study the way the pen is held to form each letter and so create the alphabet

set out a page of writing,

mix and write with ink and paint for colour,

and use the script in simple projects.

As experience grows, we will work on more projects and layouts and study the decoration that was used in ancient manuscripts.

Each term we will study a different style of writing and, as a group, we can choose a topic to help us to find quotations, poetry and appropriate decoration. Support is given with your individual goals and calligraphy using a pointed nib can be included where required.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

This is a mixed ability class for beginners and those with some previous calligraphy experience.

If you have any queries, please email the tutor at adultlearning@surreycc.gov.uk

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

Learners will need to supply their own materials and equipment:

• an A3 sketch pad or layout pad,
• 2 pencils - one hard (2H) and one regular HB
• a pencil sharpener
• a ruler
• a biro
• a rubber
• old or dark clothes

Drawing boards are provided at the centre. A materials list will be supplied in the first lesson with information about nibs, pen holders and ink. If you have done some calligraphy before, please bring your equipment with you.

What can I do when I finish the course?

In discussion with your tutor, you may like to progress onto another calligraphy course or workshop and learn different styles of writing through SAL; Japanese Brush Calligraphy is also available and a wide range of art classes. Your tutor can advise you about external providers, and local interest groups which run a range of different workshops.

Additional information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class. Surrey Adult Learning values and supports equality and diversity by promoting fairness and respect at all times.

How to enrol

Our courses are for adult learners aged 19 or over. If you are under 19, please call 0300 200 1044.

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