3/22/2013

What Every Calligraphy Artist Should Know

By Tamika Powell


Calligraphy was derived from two Greek works, kallos and graphe, which means beauty and writing respectively. Indeed, calligraphic practice is a form of art which highlights the beauty of writing. More so, it is also believed to be an art in script writing as it expresses the beauty of what was written. A visual poetry so they say. If you wish to become a respected calligraphy artist then there's actually more to it than just good handwriting.

Calligraphic practice is the design and execution of a lettering using an instrument or brush with a broad tip in, in one stroke. The contemporary definition of calligraphic practice describes it as the art of forming signs in the most harmonious, expressive and skillful manner. This kind of art is completely evolving and is influenced by so many cultures.

In simple words, calligraphic practice is the visual art of writing. Calligraphic practice have ancient roots from the first form of writing, cave paintings. The different types of calligraphic practices can be classified into four Western, Eastern Asian, Southern Asian and Islamic calligraphy. Indeed, this art has developed in several countries and evolved according to each of its influences as well.

Western calligraphic practice is mostly based on the Latin alphabet. Modern gothic designs, came from medieval manuscripts and is usually popular due to its elaborate and bold capital letters. Grafitti, or street art is considered to be the most contemporary type of calligraphic practice. Several artists are in fact are trying to legitimize graffiti as a form of art.

East Asian calligraphic practices includes the calligraphic styles of Japan, Korea and china. Just like the western practice, every Chinese dynasty has its own changes or improvements. Tools used in asian calligraphic practice includes inkstone, paper, chinese ink and ink brushes or considered as the four treasures of study in China, or four friends of study in Korea.

The most valuable tool for every calligrapher is a pen. But this is no ordinary pen, pens used in calligraphic practice are mostly flat balled or round nibbed, brush of course is an important tool as well. High quality paper is recommended to create a more cleaner line, although vellum or parchment is usually used. Choose tools that you are most comfortable with.

Although computers have fonts that could mimic calligraphic letters with much clarity, real calligraphic art will always be here and valued by people. It is not something anyone can do, indeed this art takes a lot of skill, talent, training, patience and determination. Perhaps only real artists will be able to produce a classic work of art.

Every calligrapher should write words, regardless of what language to a new level. Ever letter should be full of life. A great calligrapher should give visual form unto every language writes. A visual poetry as other people. With remarkable skills and a unique presentation a great calligrapher will bring life to every page of the text.

If you want to become a calligraphy artist, make sure that you have the right amount skill, willingness to learn, understanding towards its history and most importantly, passion towards the art. Without the right passion and determination, one can most likely fail to succeed on it.




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