Flourish Forum
General Categories => Open Flourish | General Discussion => Topic started by: Erica McPhee on August 20, 2015, 03:37:14 PM
-
Hi Flourish Friends,
I actually blogged today! :o ;D I am putting the contents of the blog post in here for keeps as I think it is an important message for all. As always, I welcome your thoughts!
---------------------
There is an interesting distinction between the senses in the ability to judge quality. Though tastes are vastly different, most people will know a good gourmet meal when they eat one or recognize an out-of-tune song when they hear it. But when it comes to the visual arts, there is a much wider, more subjective range, of what constitutes quality. We can see art but our thought processes and collective experiences combine to interpret the judgment of what we see.
With calligraphy, photography, and many other visual arts, there are two common things which make the business a little more vague: the ease of its accessibility in both producing and offering it as a business, and the seeming inability for many viewers to discern quality work. We can certainly look at some art and know instantly it is “good.” But there are many people who still scratch their head at artwork that hangs in galleries around the world which don't really look like they took much skill but have broad appeal and are often highly valued. This can be seen in a variety of visual arts, including photography and calligraphy.
I have held a camera in my hand for about the same time I have held a calligraphy pen. Through high school and college, I spent hours in the darkroom developing my own prints and spent countless dollars on film and developing. Prior to launching my calligraphy business, I was already earning income as a photographer. I was one of the first calligraphers with a website and one of the first photographers in my area to “go digital.” The invention of the digital camera walked hand-in-hand with the rise of the internet. Thus a whole new group of people who didn't have the desire, time, or money to learn the intricacies of a manual camera, developing film, and/or printing photographs could now become photographers.
What we saw with that was a huge range in the quality of work being produced. Those of us who had already been at it for years and knew the difference between an F-stop, ISO, and shutter speed thought, 'they'll never stay in business because they can't offer the quality we can.'
Two interesting things happened. First, some people who had never picked up a camera before became amazing photographers producing some enviable work virtually over night. But second, and more so, we learned many customers could not or did not discern what made a quality portrait. We watched in earnest as our business dwindled as every mother with a camera opened up shop down the street. Fast forward fifteen years later and many good quality, professional photographers are now out of business. Sure, there is still a market for photographers and always will be, but it is a much smaller one as brides and grooms have friends take wedding photos with their phones, moms can now shoot their own children's portraits with a digital camera, and most other school or major events are overwhelmed with amateur paparazzi.
Following a few years behind, and previously much more unknown, calligraphy is now experiencing a similar internet heyday as more and more enthusiasts pick up a pen. This is great in terms of the love of our craft and sharing that love with others, but perhaps not so good in terms of being able to make a living as a professional calligrapher. Apart from its accessibility, in comparison to other work-from-home trades, the practice of calligraphy takes very little supplies or money to get started. This makes it very appealing to the enormous group of young adults looking for ways to earn income in a challenging job market or while juggling the demands of raising children. And with the creation of “modern” calligraphy, nor is much time necessary in terms of learning the techniques either.
Like with any artist trade, there will always be varying levels of skill, talent, and experience. For the most part — of course there are always exceptions — time, money, and dedication spent on the craft will follow the adage of 'you reap what you sow.' However, as the past few years have shown us, with modern calligraphy, (as it was for photography) this isn't always true. There are some extremely successful modern calligraphers who still make some more traditional scribes sit and scratch their head as they wonder why. (And kudos to them for whatever media, marketing brilliance, or sheer creative genius allowed them to use their skill successfully in a whole new way!)
Additionally, the internet has not only accelerated the spread of calligraphy but also made learning it easier. Over the decades previous to the world wide web, the exposure to calligraphy was few and far between, and instructional books and classes were minimal. Today, eager scribes-to-be can see literally thousands of examples and videos allowing a much swifter learning curve. I've watched in awe as some artists on Instagram have learned and perfected Engrosser’s script in just over a year; something that took me years to learn and two decades later I'm still trying to improve.
As we see the rapidly changing environment, easier-to-use nibs, a plethora of paper choices, and accessibility to learning options, new people are picking up the pen daily. This is both exciting and frightening. It's exciting to finally have people even know what calligraphy is, let alone share your passion for it. It's scary because the market for calligraphy was small to begin with and we all know what happens to trends — they die a quick death after everyone becomes entirely sick of it. History has shown us traditional calligraphy will always stand the test of time. The question is, will modern calligraphy drag the entire art form down with it when (or if) it becomes passé.
It's clear there is a calligraphy trend happening or more definitively, a new calligraphy era driven by modern styles. And with good reason. It's energetic, fresh, and people resonate with its less formal appeal. It makes a once formidable looking craft in terms of learning, more approachable, just as digital cameras did for photography.
Since I love and practice both traditional and modern calligraphy, one of the things I desired to do with Flourish was bridge the gap between modern and traditional calligraphers. I believed us to all be the same in our love and pursuit of lettering. But as time goes forward, one distinction has become very clear. Whether they create more traditional styles like Copperplate, Gothic, or Italic, and/or other contemporary styles of pointed pen, generally traditional calligraphers study the craft, the history, the tools, multiple styles, and moreover, are dedicated students and stewards of the trade. Small industry circles equated to careful, thoughtful action within the community in terms of teaching or business. Many have spent decades learning and practicing before ever considering starting a business or teaching others.
Modern calligraphers are more apt to practice one style of their own pointed pen script, spend minimal time studying letter forms (as modern calligraphy has no one form), and feel ready to start a business or teach others soon after picking up a pen. Overall, I'm painting with a narrow brush and there can be exceptions to both, however, this has been my and others, general observations over the past few years. Not to say there aren't those who are dedicated students or contemplative in regards to business, there definitely are. Thankfully, the craft of fine calligraphy will be carried forward by the growing segment of newcomers who bridged the gap by starting with modern calligraphy and then decided they wanted to go deeper and learn traditional styles.
The distinction though, also means something else; perhaps something more significant than just the sharing of a love of letters. The craft and trade of traditional calligraphy takes years, if not decades to learn, hone, and share. The basics of modern calligraphy can be learned in a couple of hours and in turn is often sold and taught in rapid succession.
So does it matter? Some would say no as we always need to adapt and change with the times, and like it or not, this is how it works in our world today. I would argue it matters a great deal. It isn't about the differences between us, it's about the quality of work we produce and share with others. It's how what we do effects not just us, but an entire industry. As a calligrapher, I have always felt a great responsibility to do my best to help preserve the integrity of both the craft and the trade. I do not wish to drive a wedge between calligraphers and I would never discourage anyone from pursuing their dreams. Nor do I think one must study for years before deciding they want to start a calligraphy business.
However, I hope people will take an honest look at their work, solicit constructive and forthright feedback from other professionals, and ask themselves if they can offer a quality service and product which upholds the value of not just the market, but the trade as well.
I endeavor to continue to be a good steward so the practice and art of calligraphy will withstand the trend, be more about love of letters than love of money, and continue on as a meaningful expression of words. And I hope those who take up this craft, whether as a traditional or modern calligrapher, will do the same. While it may not matter to some, it will matter most to those who have made their living as a modern day scribe, those who have dedicated a lifetime to its study, and those who truly love not just the look of any given script, but the tradition and beauty of the craft itself.
-
Wow, great post.
One thought--high quality modern calligraphy will endure, and, after a time, what is modern today will become part of '"traditional" calligraphy in the future as the art form evolves. Your metaphor of photography's evolution is valid--some poor work will displace good work in the sense many people can't discern good quality and some won't pay for it (or will be satisfied with lower quality at a lower price), the high volume of poor teachers will displace, businesswise, good teachers for a while for the same reasons, and technology (increasingly good fonts and the ease of using them, for example) will compete successfully with calligraphers. What to do? Keep your quality high and educate, as best you can, potential clients as to what quality is.
-
I commented on the blog but also wanted to add my reply here.
I agree. I practice calligraphy for the joy of it and do not have plans to monetize it any time soon. However I get asked all the time if I do want to make money at it or people often comment about how much money they think I could earn from it. And I have even turned down work because I don’t want to put out an inferior product or I don’t want to endure hand cramps from addressing hundreds of envelopes. So I think it is also good to include in the conversation the fact that there is a certain amount of pressure in today’s world to always monetize our talents. I know some people really do think I’m missing out on a good opportunity to make money. That pressure can make those who start out with good intentions to learn and develop skills question themselves. I know I have had to almost fight against it. And I am quite resolute that this is my art form and I do it for no other reason than my own fulfillment. So I can imagine how tempting it is for others to have what can feel like a barrage of urging to make money from our society. They likely think they may as well jump on this bandwagon now before it rolls by.
-
Thank you Nickki and Mike! Excellent points! I appreciate your thoughts. ;D
-
Great point Dori! And so true! :)
-
I have nothing of intellectual matter to add, but I had to reply to this. I found out about your blog entry not through the forum, but on a calligraphy facebook page I follow (can't remember its name offhand). I read the article and only realized at the end that Erica was the author! That was amazing. I smiled big time. You go Erica! You are such an inspiration to us all!
-
I wish I had some pearl of wisdom to add. Just wanted to let you know I read your thoughtful post and I am glad to see these points being raised. I must say I am one who does scratch her head a lot at 'modern' calligraphy and how they can possibly teach it in 2.5 hours with wine. Most of my students realize it takes much more practice and understanding than what can be offered in that time frame. However, it is good to get the general public aware of this wonderful art of letters. I am sure I started 'for hire' way too early and regret some of the work I put out there; but in the early days, it came to me once someone saw what I was doing. Now, after 20+ years, I finally feel good about what I can offer clients but I have to work very hard to get my business out there and find work.
I will eagerly watch to see what folks have to say in response to this thread. Thanks Erica!
-
Great article. I love how this is explained. You are a wealth of information. I hope that newbies read this too. As always "Learn the rules before you break them"
And IMO, have http://IAMPETH.com/rarebooks be one of the most frequented website you browse.
And also, why is modern calligraphy so popular? I think Copperplate and Spencerian are so elegant. Sometimes I have a hard time reading modern. Oh well. Probably Pinterest made it popular.
-
It is interesting to hear your thoughts, Erica, as well as the thoughts of other experienced calligraphers. I know I am one of those newcomers, although I have just always loved beautiful writing and really don't feel like I have started this journey as a result of popular culture. (Actually, that would turn me off of something more than anything. I like to think I am unique, haha!) It seems like there would be a fine line among those of you who have been doing this for a long time to be open and welcoming to newcomers and yet discerning about how much of yourself you invest. I have certainly seen that within other disciplines. People come in all excited and you put in time and effort only to see that excitement fizzle out or else you see them quickly move on to doing their own thing since they know just enough to know it all. Meanwhile I am hanging in there with my copperplate practice, trying to make beautiful letters and to not rush ahead into other scripts. (Spencerian and italic, I am coming for you some day!)
-
I read the article and only realized at the end that Erica was the author! That was amazing. I smiled big time. You go Erica! You are such an inspiration to us all!
LOL! Thank you Star! ;D
...how they can possibly teach it in 2.5 hours with wine... I am sure I started 'for hire' way too early and regret some of the work I put out there; but in the early days, it came to me once someone saw what I was doing. Now, after 20+ years, I finally feel good about what I can offer clients but I have to work very hard to get my business out there and find work.
Ha ha! "with wine!" ;D I feel the same Catherine , especially about some of the greeting cards I designed. Wish I could have a do over now! ;D And yes, that is exactly one of the points I am referring to regarding the business out there.
Probably Pinterest made it popular.
I am going to put that on a t-shirt, Amy!!! ;D
...People come in all excited and you put in time and effort only to see that excitement fizzle out or else you see them quickly move on to doing their own thing since they know just enough to know it all...
Yes, this exactly!
Meanwhile I am hanging in there with my copperplate practice, trying to make beautiful letters and to not rush ahead into other scripts. (Spencerian and italic, I am coming for you some day!)
Keep going Jennifer! ;D
-
I'm really glad you wrote this and that I read it. It validated a lot of mixed feelings I was having. Thank you Erica, you have a great way with words and how you express yourself. You are a tremendous positive influence on the community.
-
Erica, this is really good. I'm so glad you made these points. I've been fascinated by what has been happening the last few years in calligraphy. When I first started taking classes in 2000, the majority of people taking classes were retired (mostly women, very few men). And we went week after week, practicing and studying. Many of us also belonged to the local guild as well as people really wanted to be immersed in the calligraphy community.
Within the last few years, I began noticing so many younger women taking an interest (hello modern calligraphy). I really feel this is attributed to the rise of social media (isn't it interesting how social media is changing our lives?!). I began to see so many modern calligraphy classes 2 - 3 hours long and I was so confused at first. Knowing how long it took most people to learn and improve, I couldn't figure out how they could go to one class and come away knowing how to do this. (And more power to those who can, it's just not me!). I recently rejoined my local guild after 10 years and given how the landscape had been changing, I expected to see more younger people now but to my surprise, the demographics don't appear to have changed very much. However, I am equally fascinated by this: When I went to IAMPETH for the first time in 2001, the ages seemed to me to skew older… at least 40's and up. And, I'm guessing there were maybe 125 people attending at most (we were all in one room the entire time; there were no separate classes!). Jump forward to last month when I attended for the second time. 265 attendees and it had sold hour in two hours! Definitely a lot more younger people attending which was exciting to see. I also heard that the membership in IAMPETH went from 400 members one year ago to the current membership of 800! That also points to this huge resurgence in interest in calligraphy. All in all, it's an exciting time to be part of it, and your points are well taken. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
-
A very intersting read especially for someone like me who's been coming to FF to read as a guest for over a year but only recently joined as a member, as I decided that I want to learn calligraphy from the basics. I confess that I was rather scared of joining a community of such experienced calligraphers, (silly me as you are all lovely people), and would like to take the oportunity to say thank you to all of you for all of your time invested in sharing your skills and especially to you Erica for such a great forum.
That said, I totally agree with you point on that "internet has not only accelerated the spread of calligraphy but also made learning it easier", and that it is the main "culprit" of exposing calligraphy to everyone, especially modern calligraphy, which is all the new rage (if you can call it that). I think the same thing has happened in other areas like handmade crafts which has happened also because of the internet and having the option of selling on online shops like Etsy, Dawanda etc. which has made it accessible to everyone.
So is taking a 2 hour modern calligraphy class enough to come out knowing it all? And should you accept a job just for the purpose of paying the bills, or make a commission that you’re not proud of, or even teach a crappy class?
I suppose it comes down to how much you appreciate your own work and how much time you are willing to invest in learning. There will always be "head scratching wondering whys". I've done that quite a bit when looking at other peoples work but also opened my mouth in amazement and, why not admite it, in envy. But I do realise that good quality work is not "learnt" in 2 days and a lot of time has gone into it prior to producing it.
Hopefully, as you say, those who take up this craft, whether as a traditional or modern calligrapher, will love the tradition and beauty of the craft itself and that newbies, like me, will make you feel (in time, in time) that it's all worthwhile.
Elayne
-
Thanks so much Elaina for your kind words! :)
... I recently rejoined my local guild after 10 years and given how the landscape had been changing, I expected to see more younger people now but to my surprise, the demographics don't appear to have changed very much...
That's interesting, isn't it?! The same here with the guilds I belong to. Thus another "divide" if you will between traditional and modern. The modern "guilds" are really Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and maybe even Flourish. I have wondered about starting a "modern calligraphy" guild locally as I know there are some talented designers and artists who live nearby and are interested in calligraphy. Perhaps it is the intimidation factor or they just aren't aware guilds exist. Thanks for your comments!
... I think the same thing has happened in other areas like handmade crafts which has happened also because of the internet and having the option of selling on online shops like Etsy, Dawanda etc. which has made it accessible to everyone.
This is an excellent point Elayne as many new and seasoned calligraphers also sell their work on Etsy. Etsy, and other sites like it, have created an "instant market" for artists and craftspeople. Thank you!
-
---------------------
There is an interesting distinction between the senses in the ability to judge quality....With calligraphy, photography, and many other visual arts, there are two common things which make the business a little more vague: the ease of its accessibility in both producing and offering it as a business, and the seeming inability for many viewers to discern quality work.
....Thus a whole new group of people who didn't have the desire, time, or money to learn the intricacies of a manual camera, developing film, and/or printing photographs could now become photographers.
What we saw with that was a huge range in the quality of work being produced. Those of us who had already been at it for years...thought, 'they'll never stay in business because they can't offer the quality we can.'
Two interesting things happened. First, some people who had never picked up a camera before became amazing photographers producing some enviable work virtually over night. But second, and more so, we learned many customers could not or did not discern what made a quality portrait.
This is a great topic, Erica, I'm glad you started this thread! It reminds me of the discussions scientists have about the public's inability to recognize pseudoscience. I believe the answer to that problem and the one you describe here are the same: education.
I freely admit that I am one of those people who often stand in an art museum, look at a famous painting or sculpture, and think, "Why is this so important?" The more "modern" in style, the more difficult it is for me to figure out why it deserves to be in a gallery. However, in 1999, I went on the quintessential American young adult trip through Europe, riding the trains from country to country, staying in youth hostels, eating as cheaply as possible and going into McDonalds (and once, a Hard Rock Cafe) whenever I felt homesick for the US. And on that trip, I took a book by Rick Steves called Mona Winks which contains self-guided walking tours of many of the great European museums. In it, he describes the history of whatever piece of art you are looking at, why it's considered important, and what, specifically, to look at to understand that importance. It was fabulous. Then, the tour takes you to other pieces of art that have those same characteristics so you can start to identify it in pieces of art that feature it (the one example that sticks out is the S curve seen in the figure of the Venus de Milo and how that curve is seen in later art). When I went to Europe with my husband years later, we took the same book and suddenly, two scientists (who can take four hours to go through one major exhibit at a science museum but go through a place like the Art Institute of Chicago in two hours or less) were spending four hours on one walking tour that encompassed 1/100 of the Louvre's collection. Had we suddenly developed an artist's instinct for grace and beauty and the technical knowledge of brush strokes and color mixing and so on? No. The difference was just the slightest amount of education in the fundamentals of art appreciation and history, something neither one of us ever had in school, despite required art education up to 7th grade.
It is telling, I think, that the book that was so enlightening to us was one put out by a non-artist for a specific purpose. The art museums that I have been to do not seem to feel education for the casual visitor is a high priority. In a science museum or a history museum, you will see a lot of text in an exhibit. It will explain what you are looking at, why it's considered important, etc. In an art museum, there will be the name of the piece, the name of the artist, and, if you are lucky, a few details of the artist's life and/or mention of the artist's other works. It is almost as if they feel if you can't figure out why it's there just by looking at it, you don't deserve to know. And yet, they bemoan the low numbers of visitors, the general public's lack of understanding or enthusiasm about great art.
My point is, you can't automatically assume that people will see what constitutes real artistic skill and what doesn't if nobody ever bothers to teach them to recognize the critical elements of a good piece of art. Moreover, what critical elements to notice may be different depending on the medium in which the art is expressed. And, very few people are going to bother learning about what makes certain art impressive unless they have some particular reason they need to know. For me, that was visiting the great European museums and wanting to know what the hell I was looking at.
This means that, if calligraphers want the general public (from which their clients are drawn) to know what constitutes "good" calligraphy and "bad" calligraphy, they need to find a way to educate that public. Furthermore, they need to present that education in a way that is findable for the people who suddenly want to hire a calligrapher but have never really looked at calligraphy before. And, whatever form the education takes (blogs, articles in magazines, etc.) it needs to explicitly state what to look for when hiring a calligrapher and recognize that this information is different from the information you'd give to a person who is trying to learn calligraphy for themselves. True, the things that a serious budding calligrapher learns will help them spot good calligraphy, but many of these things they learn through practice, mentoring, and reading. A client does not need to know how to hold a pen properly. She does not need to know which nibs are good for beginners, what paper is great for practice, which ink is waterproof or that you should add gum arabic to gouache or what an oblique holder looks like, or how to prepare a nib. And, she doesn't want to wade through all of that in order to find the information they actually need. What they need to know is how to critically analyze a finished piece of calligraphy: are the letterforms consistent--does an "a" look exactly the same in every instance it is used, are all of the lower case letters of the exact same height (except for the ascenders and descenders that should also be exactly the same height), are the letters and words evenly spaced, is the ink coverage uniform (did the calligrapher dip their pen frequently enough or did they let the ink run out and then start up again so that some letters look really dark and some look light), etc.
Educating the public won't stop unskilled people from selling their work, nor will it completely stop people from buying that inferior work. But, it is a concrete way that skilled, professional calligraphers can address the problem and potentially shift the dynamic from acceptance of low-quality work to recognition and appreciate of high-quality work.
-
Probably Pinterest made it popular.
I am going to put that on a t-shirt, Amy!!! ;Dh
I'll take one!
Great article, Erica. Written with thoughtfulness and genuine care!
-
Fascinating post Elisabeth!
I agree educating potential clients on what to look for in terms of hiring a calligrapher is helpful for a certain set of clients. But there is a really large segment who will just choose based on what they like or what they can afford (nothing wrong with either). I'm not sure it is so much about telling which calligraphers are "good" or "bad" either. It may be more about the saturation of the market and then the inability to find the good through all the bad and so you settle.
It's like buying a mattress... there are so many mattress stores around, you pick the first or second one that feels decent, not knowing there is a mattress store right around the corner selling the most comfortable mattress ever made.
You're still relatively happy because you don't know what you're missing and you like that mattress OK. But five mattress stores in a four corner neighborhood means none of them make a good living (or at least not the best they could if there were a couple less) and 3 or 4 out of 5 customers are getting mediocre mattresses. ;D Do the customers suffer for it, maybe. But it's the store selling the awesome mattresses that suffers most.
Then we get into a competitive market and capitalism and ... :)
But maybe instead, people get sick of their not great mattresses and decide they are going to start sleeping on hammocks. ;D
-
Thank you Briana! ;D
(See Amy, you should license that t-shirt...) ;)
-
What a great topic; thank you, Erica, for your post. It helped me understand some of what I have experienced in the pointed pen community.
It's not just photography and calligraphy professionals that have seen a change since the digital age. Recording engineers now have competition from everyone, for example. This is great - people do not have to make it to the big time to share their music with others. But there are fewer professionals able to survive. I think there are similar concerns in that field about quality and quantity, too.
I agree with Dori who posted earlier. My experience making art is that many people see what I do and immediately say, "Oh you could make so much money doing that!" I don't have one money making brain cell. Not one. I don't create to make money. Its for joy and solace and expression and fun. There is pressure to turn all aspects of life into income sources. That's sad to me. Being 'amateur' shouldn't be such a negative. Life is more fun when spent with the truly creative. Whether we make money or not is another matter entirely.
The dictionary defines amateur[/ as:
1. a person who does something (such as a sport or hobby) for pleasure and not as a job
2. a person who does something poorly : a person who is not skillful at a job or other activity
Those two meanings get mushed together and the result is negative. Artist is a better word; an artist can be earning money or not.
Hmm. . . excuse me. Seem to have gone off on a ranty tangent. Ha!
-
Thank you and great points Evan! And you are so right about the definition of amateur. Sometimes I long for the time I just did calligraphy for fun. I miss the time I had to explore other things and just be creative like you said. Those moments are few and far between for me and my work has definitely suffered for it. Not just in the quality but in areas where I could be creating new things, learning new things, or expanding on it. I still try to do that but it is in small bits and pieces.
You made me laugh about the money making brain cell! ;D
-
Fascinating post Elisabeth!
I agree educating potential clients on what to look for in terms of hiring a calligrapher is helpful for a certain set of clients. But there is a really large segment who will just choose based on what they like or what they can afford (nothing wrong with either). I'm not sure it is so much about telling which calligraphers are "good" or "bad" either. It may be more about the saturation of the market and then the inability to find the good through all the bad and so you settle.
......
But maybe instead, people get sick of their not great mattresses and decide they are going to start sleeping on hammocks. ;D
The thing is, I think people do a lot more research before purchasing goods than they used to do before the internet. That research may be as simple as looking at yelp reviews but it may also be looking for local calligraphers and checking their websites. Personally, if I'm looking for a particular (and expensive) item, I will immediately disregard any independent store that doesn't have a website. Furthermore, if it is a service, I will almost always go with the one that has their prices on the website (as long they don't have a lot of negative reviews), probably because I am an introvert and even having a phone conversation with people I don't know and know nothing about is uncomfortable to me. I like to know what I'm getting into before I make first contact, so I don't comparison shop if I have to call and ask for prices. I might email, but I hate getting follow up emails so I'd rather not even do that.
Now, probably most people aren't that loathe to actually speak to a person. I know a lot of people who have no problem calling and emailing businesses and getting lots of quotes and comparison shopping. However, those people also start out with the same research process that I do, they look online for reviews and websites. And, if you have a website for your business, you have a space that can be used for a little education via a blog or a FAQ or a downloadable pdf or whatever. It doesn't cost you anymore unless your website traffic goes up so much you start crashing the server (which means you're getting a lot of exposure at the very least) and once you write the article or post or whatever there's no effort to maintain it as long as you don't allow comments.
Your hammock comment reminds me of a thread Ken Fraser started (http://theflourishforum.com/forum/index.php?topic=3039.msg42647#msg42647) about family trees being a possible new source of clients if the wedding calligraphy business becomes oversaturated. His point, though, was not about the customer pursuing other options, but that calligraphers might consider branching (haha) out into other markets that might need calligraphers, such as family trees. I think that idea has some merit and certainly requires a calligrapher with some real skill in order to plan and execute such a large piece.
-
I believe that so many people being interested in this is actually a good thing because they keep the craft alive and they also make it possible for people to make it their profession. I believe the "hype" helped create a market. And even if this market is flooded, it's still better than there being no market at all, that's what I believe. And I think that the ones who are really into it will prevail in the long run.
Furthermore, if a client can't distinguish between the styles of someone who doesn't have the basics down and someone who put a lot of practice in and is, objectively seen, good at what they do: Do you really WANT that kind of client, with no aesthetic sense whatsoever? ::)
Also, if 200 people start doing calligraphy, modern-style, and 5 of them become members of IAMPETH, and 2 of them really get into historical styles, and 1 of them comes to the convention ... I say it's a win for all hardcore calligranerds because yay, new friend!
-
I subscribe to your blog, Erica your post arrived in my mailbox. It was very powerful, especially on the heels of Iampeth. The contributions to this thread have also been very thoughtful and affirming. I hope my thoughts don't throw a fox in the chicken house.
The one thing nobody has mentioned and the thing that keeps coming to mind is that the established calligraphers of today, the ones doing quality work and being paid for it, all started somewhere. I doubt the quality of their work 'then' was what it is today. Though I can't always do what I know, I'm learning real quality when I see it ;), and feel just a little depressed when I see work for sale that is clearly inferior, or worse yet, used as an example for fee based classes taught by people who mistakenly believe they "have this thing." But again, everyone starts somewhere. Hopefully, those who begin to make money before it is justified, continue to hone their craft and continue to learn. As for teaching, I'm sure we've all heard the adage, 'teach what you want to learn.'
I have been studying, practicing and going to classes for 2 years and as others have mentioned, the question of money has arisen more than I can remember and from one friend in particular, find it really annoying. Going into business to try and earn a living is definitely not something I want to do. Like EVJO, I don't have much of a penchant for business and the thought of deadlines and demanding mothers-of-the-bride are not something I relish the thought of dealing with. However, at this point, my interest in calligraphy is still keen and since it's a possible option, with trepidation, I'm considering 'selling' minimal services in order to help pay for my classes (even though a pebble or two in the jar is all I'd hope to achieve) , supplies and next year's Iampeth--or any other convention I might like to attend--and all the while, allowing practice with more purpose. Am I wrong to think that many of the professionals of today started this same way?
-
I believe that so many people being interested in this is actually a good thing because they keep the craft alive and they also make it possible for people to make it their profession. I believe the "hype" helped create a market.
This may be true for other countries, but the market has been alive and well in the US for a couple decades. And it's not 200, it's in the thousands. Yes, more the merrier for learning the craft, not more the merrier for those talking about starting a business before they have even learned how to do calligraphy. ;)
-
...
The one thing nobody has mentioned and the thing that keeps coming to mind is that the established calligraphers of today, the ones doing quality work and being paid for it, all started somewhere. I doubt the quality of their work 'then' was what it is today... Am I wrong to think that many of the professionals of today started this same way?
Thank you Debbie! Someone posted something similar as a response on the blog. It's definitely how many established calligraphers started. And there is nothing wrong with that. The intention of the post was entirely about the crowd (and it's a LARGE crowd), flocking to classes in the hopes to start a business before they have even learned how to do calligraphy. Or the ones who just barely learned and are already putting up a website.
THIS exactly...
feel just a little depressed when I see work for sale that is clearly inferior, or worse yet, used as an example for fee based classes taught by people who mistakenly believe they "have this thing."
I'm not saying others shouldn't pursue it, (and I'm pretty sure that came across in the post). This isn't about that at all. If I thought it was, I wouldn't have dedicated the past two years, countless dollars, and more hours to running Flourish for free and creating a magazine to promote other calligraphers' business. ;)
-
What a thoughtful and timely post Erica.
I'm a beginner who started a couple of years ago with an in person copperplate class. Sometimes friends have commented or asked if I am planning on doing it as a business and the answer is definitely not. I don't have anywhere near the skill that I would need to sell calligraphy services but they can't really tell as I don't think they've seen work as good as yours or some of the other pros who post here. Also I'm so slow that doing those hundreds of pieces would kill me.
I hope that the popularity of modern calligraphy means easier access to supplies and an over all greater appreciation for calligraphy. I do cringe when I see photos from classes on instagram or blogs where it looks like people are holding pens in a way that would be hard to not destroy a pointed nib. It's definitely being pitched as a way to make money too. A friend sent me a link to modern calligraphy seminars where part of the early sign up pitch was learn more calligraphy so you can make money / have a career. I don't know if the classes are just on modern calligraphy or if there are sessions about running a business or not but I don't recall seeing other classes advertised this way.
-
While I agree with the thought behind this I can't help but feel that 'good enough to make money off it' is a very subjective concept, and while it may all be well and good to use that in this kind of a post, it isn't really helpful to say that. It communicates nothing in the way of what is good enough, so how can any one person really know whether they've reached that point? And given that typically in artistic endeavors like calligraphy, an artist is trained to always see the bad in their work, causing them to consider their work less worthy than it actually is, a calligrapher could go on forever considering their work not good enough to sell.
And it's generally my opinion that if people are willing to spend money on you, then you should be allowed to sell. That's not to say one might feel they shouldn't anyway, but that doesn't mean that someone else should be telling them they can't sell their calligraphy. I get why it bothers you Erica, from the perspective of someone whose been in the field far before it's current rising trend, and I can appreciate that, I just don't whole-heartedly agree with you.
Teaching is an entirely different matter though. Teacher's are passing on knowledge and practices, so they really should be fairly well-trained, and the idea of people coming out of 2-hour classes and thinking they can turn around and teach it to someone else is cringe-worthy.
-
While I agree with the thought behind this I can't help but feel that 'good enough to make money off it' is a very subjective concept, and while it may all be well and good to use that in this kind of a post, it isn't really helpful to say that. It communicates nothing in the way of what is good enough, so how can any one person really know whether they've reached that point? And given that typically in artistic endeavors like calligraphy, an artist is trained to always see the bad in their work, causing them to consider their work less worthy than it actually is, a calligrapher could go on forever considering their work not good enough to sell.
And it's generally my opinion that if people are willing to spend money on you, then you should be allowed to sell. That's not to say one might feel they shouldn't anyway, but that doesn't mean that someone else should be telling them they can't sell their calligraphy. I get why it bothers you Erica, from the perspective of someone whose been in the field far before it's current rising trend, and I can appreciate that, I just don't whole-heartedly agree with you.
Teaching is an entirely different matter though. Teacher's are passing on knowledge and practices, so they really should be fairly well-trained, and the idea of people coming out of 2-hour classes and thinking they can turn around and teach it to someone else is cringe-worthy.
CRINGE worthy, indeed! I've seen it and it's very upsetting.
-
I am sorry there is so much pain among the professional calligraphers. Loss of business and revenue is a serious matter. But do you know that less experienced calligraphers are getting your customers, vs laser printers, for example?
The internet has given amateur artists a forum to show and sell their work that wasn't there before. Handmade cards that used to be sold at local craft fairs and church bazaars are now being sold on the internet through Etsy and personal websites. I dont know that the customers of these businesses were ever the same customers as the professional calligraphers. If anything, the internet improves the appreciation of fine work because now we can see it and compare. 20 years ago you would have a hard time even finding a professional calligrapher.
I dont think this issue is specific to calligraphy. Probably many crafts and services are seeing the same thing. Do amateur watercolorists ruin the market for the well trained professionals?
-
Ellen, you're right and I think at the heart of the matter is that some people are willing to spend a little extra for something that is crafted by hand and by someone they have had an interaction with. That is one of the reasons I LOVE going to art festivals. The items that I've bought at these events over the years have become the very things that I keep. I've moved a LOT over the years and those things are the first to be preserved and certain to make the move with me. There is something truly precious about something that someone made by hand, especially by the hand of someone you've had a conversation with, regardless of its value in the eyes of critics. And I think there may well be a growing, not diminishing, desire for things that are not mass produced. For you accomplished pro's, maybe we are just in an uncomfortable place in the swing of the pendulum.
-
The concern about beginners who turn around and start teaching is not a new concern. There have always been teachers who know very little, but either want to share the craft or preserve the tradition, so they start teaching. Their hearts are in the right place. They may teach a class or two, but they do not have anything to offer beyond the little bit they have learned. So, they are not a serious threat to the community of truly top notch teachers. The current crop of *faux* teachers on the internet will fall by the wayside because they won't have anything to teach beyond their introductory class. Serious students quickly find out who the quality teachers are. It's a pretty self-regulating system. The internet has made it easier to find the quality teachers.
Several years ago, many of us were approached to contribute to the book Calligraphy for Dummies. Many of us politely declined. The publishers eventually found some people to contribute and the book is silly at best. The online courses that suggest you can take a class and start earning money - or start teaching - are just as silly. They are not a serious threat. Nothing is going to change.
All of the top notch scribes with whom I am acquainted are not concerned with anyone putting them out of business. I have had the good fortune of hosting many of them and while they too would like to see high skill levels in people who are teaching, they are gracious about the topic. If you live in a large metropolitan area, you have access to guilds who bring in top notch teachers. If you live in Smalltown, Midwest, you might have to take a class with someone who is simply trying to share a craft. There is no harm in people practicing an art or craft on a DIY level. Trust me. This is not a new topic. The sky is not falling. Quality classes will always be available to those who want them and are willing to travel to get them. The internet has only made it easier for the quality teachers to offer their services.
The *faux* calligrapher-teachers are not a serious threat, just as Bob Ross was never a serious threat to fine art.
-
I am sorry there is so much pain among the professional calligraphers. Loss of business and revenue is a serious matter. But do you know that less experienced calligraphers are getting your customers, vs laser printers, for example?
The internet has given amateur artists a forum to show and sell their work that wasn't there before. Handmade cards that used to be sold at local craft fairs and church bazaars are now being sold on the internet through Etsy and personal websites. I dont know that the customers of these businesses were ever the same customers as the professional calligraphers. If anything, the internet improves the appreciation of fine work because now we can see it and compare. 20 years ago you would have a hard time even finding a professional calligrapher.
I dont think this issue is specific to calligraphy. Probably many crafts and services are seeing the same thing. Do amateur watercolorists ruin the market for the well trained professionals?
I am not aware of any of my colleagues who have been losing business to the young wannabes. In general, we have been getting more business. I also get some good jobs from panicked brides who hired a wannabes on Etsy and then the wannabes couldn't get the job done, so, I get the job at a rush fee rate. All the better for me.
No, the amateurs are not ruining anything for the trained professionals. I think the people who are having trouble are the ones who have a dream but they forgot to do a reality check. If you have one wave of success and then your business falls off, you have to figure out how to catch the next wave. Success is not a spot on a pedestal. With any creative career, you have to work to keep your business on top. Fresh new talent (or fresh new lunatics) will always be chasing the dream. If the public decides that the lunatic styles are hot, you have to deal with it. You can't just cry in your soup.
Somewhere, online, there is a wonderful article about Herb Lublin and how he has maintained through all the years. If this topic is still going next week, I'll look for it and post a link. Or maybe someone else can find it.
-
Great points Jean. I agree with you and Erica. I know the serious calligraphers take pride in preserving the craft and the work they do I consider myself one of them. But I do teach a introduction class ($65 for 3 hours) and Jean you're right, I'm about to add another class in using your calligraphy for projects birthday cards etc. it's total DYI but I'm cool with that I love it actually. But beyond those two classes I have nothing to offer because I too am still learning.
I do however make sure I load up the students with all the information to further their study.
I think for me I wish some who are teaching took the responsibility more seriously because I busted my ass in making the packet and every detail that went into creating that class so when I see people not doing that - I get angry! but I can't control if they don't. I can only hope!!!!
What I have a BIG problem with is the approach to sell classes like a direct sales company, Mary Kay comes to mind. Fly to Paris, buy a new car etc. real life just isn't that way. Not even in Mary Kay. Any type of sales work is hard. You work all the time! Even a small notary business which I have, took me 2 years to build up. It took sacrifice and continued education. It's the same here. So when I see "be a calligrapher, own your own business, have more free time for your kids, family trips, it's all crap! I hate seeing people jump on the calligraphy teaching bandwagon for financial gain only. I'm a very honest person so deception in any field burns me. How I describe calligraphy to my class is "it will take you 200 times to get a perfect lower case a but the sense of accomplishment of getting that a is AWESOME and you'll find yourself chasing that feeling again and again. Because calligraphy is about us as individuals that's why we do it. So to sell it any other way is flat out wrong!!!!
.
That being said - I do love all the interest in calligraphy and arts in general. I think a lot of people are seeing cursive not being taught in schools and electronics has taken over our lives and time after time I hear people in my classes say "I've always wanted to learn and I need something for myself away from computers, traffic, meetings, kids etc. You see that with a rise in farmers markets and fresh ingredients - people want to take control back. That is a GREAT thing.
Here is something really encouraging - two months ago I changed my class packet. I wanted to see how many would choose Traditional copperplate over Modern. So my lesson plan now has both copperplate and modern side by side. So for example I have A traditional "a" and a modern "a" side by side. And I say to them " it's up to you if you want to try both great, if you only like modern then do that, same with traditional. To my surprise every class is divided in half with my last class being the exception. half want modern and half prefer traditional even though traditional is a little harder. This surprised me because I was almost certain that people where signing up for modern only. My last class everyone preferred traditional Copperplate. That really made me happy. I find that very encouraging in that traditional isn't going anywhere. But modern might not stand the test of time. Just thought I would share
Thanks for listening to me rant 😂
-
I subscribe to your blog, Erica your post arrived in my mailbox. It was very powerful, especially on the heels of Iampeth. The contributions to this thread have also been very thoughtful and affirming. I hope my thoughts don't throw a fox in the chicken house.
The one thing nobody has mentioned and the thing that keeps coming to mind is that the established calligraphers of today, the ones doing quality work and being paid for it, all started somewhere. I doubt the quality of their work 'then' was what it is today. Though I can't always do what I know, I'm learning real quality when I see it ;), and feel just a little depressed when I see work for sale that is clearly inferior, or worse yet, used as an example for fee based classes taught by people who mistakenly believe they "have this thing." But again, everyone starts somewhere. Hopefully, those who begin to make money before it is justified, continue to hone their craft and continue to learn. As for teaching, I'm sure we've all heard the adage, 'teach what you want to learn.'
When I first learned calligraphy, I took classes at a nearby college from a woman (Susie-Melissa Cherry) who's been in the industry since she was young. In her 6-week intermediate class, she teaches *projects* that you can do with your calligraphy, and she teaches you how to run prints and copies and learn about paper and colors, etc. I loved this class, because it took "here's how to write beautifully" to a new stage of "and here's what you can do with it!"
She also talks about pricing, and I loved her approach: "Your time and skill is valuable, and if someone asks you to make something for them, you can charge. Charge based on your skill level. This is how much I charge after almost 30 years of practice, and this is how much I suggest you charge as a beginner. Then increase your prices over time as you become more skilled."
I really believe anyone doing any sort of craft can and should (if they want) make money that way, because you're right...you have to start somewhere. The problem I see is when people at a low-skill level want to make high-skill level money right away without putting in the effort, time, and dedication. OR, when someone with a low-skill level markets themself as something beyond that, which is confusing for a general population with limited knowledge on whatever the subject is. Both of these practices create all the problems people have been mentioning: flooded markets, distorted pricing, lowered expectations, whatever.
All trades and crafts go through something similar I think. Trends come and go, and with them so do the crowds of followers. That being said...anyone excited that bell bottoms are back in fashion?!
-
And it's generally my opinion that if people are willing to spend money on you, then you should be allowed to sell. That's not to say one might feel they shouldn't anyway, but that doesn't mean that someone else should be telling them they can't sell their calligraphy. I get why it bothers you Erica, from the perspective of someone whose been in the field far before it's current rising trend, and I can appreciate that, I just don't whole-heartedly agree with you.
I get that and we just disagree in a way. I definitely agree anyone is allowed to sell or start a business. I never said that. If I wasn't clear in the original post, there is no sense in rehashing my point. But thank you for sharing your perspective. :)
-
The online courses that suggest you can take a class and start earning money - or start teaching - are just as silly. They are not a serious threat. Nothing is going to change.
??? I will enjoy having this conversation again in a year or two after the hundreds of people who sign up for the "silly" classes have all launched their businesses. ;D Or even a small percentage of the thousands on IG decide to start a business. Let's not forget amateurs eventually become skilled (or at least I hope they do.) I hope for everyone's sake the calligraphy market just keeps expanding with them.
I'm not even in the calligraphy market anymore. I think it was pretty clear in my post, I don't want to discourage anyone from learning calligraphy, teaching calligraphy, or starting a business if they want.
If anyone is paying attention, there is a whole new entrepreneurial market, with thousands of women eager to start a business and make a living, especially in the wedding industry. There are women cleaning up teaching others how to do just that. Their workshops are selling out. And even those seminars include calligraphy as a part of that.
I am only suggesting people consider their skill levels and if they can contribute to the market/community in a quality way before they jump on the bandwagon. I think that's a pretty reasonable sentiment.
If the number of personal emails I received from other professional calligraphers is any indication, I'm not the only one concerned. ;)
-
I also get some good jobs from panicked brides who hired a wannabes on Etsy and then the wannabes couldn't get the job done, so, I get the job at a rush fee rate. All the better for me.
No, the amateurs are not ruining anything for the trained professionals.
This is exactly what I am talking about... It may be all the better for you, but it is HORRIBLE for those brides! I can only imagine the stress that creates. And the money wasted. THIS is what I mean about preserving the trade. This exactly!
-
That being said...anyone excited that bell bottoms are back in fashion?!
LOL ... again?! Boy, that must mean I'm really getting old as this is at least the 3rd time around that I've seen! ;D
-
I am only suggesting people consider their skill levels and if they can contribute to the market/community in a quality way before they jump on the bandwagon. I think that's a pretty reasonable sentiment.
If the number of personal emails I received from other professional calligraphers is any indication, I'm not the only one concerned. ;)
It is a reasonable sentiment and I can understand where you are coming from. As a scientist, I feel the same way about the way science is often taught in schools. Kids grow up thinking they hate science because they are being taught by people who can't do much more than have them memorize a bunch of random facts and formulas*. It drives me and other scientists absolutely crazy because children have a natural instinct for scientific investigation (how does this work? what happens if I take it apart? why is the sky blue? why?) that is being crushed with poor teaching.
Unfortunately, though, the conversation often stalls at "x is not being done well and this is a problem for the field." I'm all for identifying a problem and even for debating whether or not there is a problem, but when I say, "So, what are we going to do about it?" people look at me in surprise. "What? Do about it? I'm not the one causing the problem."
So, if there are people out there who are doing really shoddy work or misrepresenting the dedication required to become skilled in calligraphy, what can the professional calligraphy community do to combat that problem? This forum is one example of what can be done--giving less skilled calligraphers a place to interact with people who are very skilled helps maintain a certain level of professionalism and quality in the field. But is there more that could be done? If so, what?
*There are, of course, some amazing teachers out there who do an excellent job of teaching science--I'm absolutely not saying there aren't.
-
All trades and crafts go through something similar I think. Trends come and go, and with them so do the crowds of followers. That being said...anyone excited that bell bottoms are back in fashion?!
I'm in favor of anything that pushes skinny jeans out of stores. I wouldn't have looked good in those back when I was a skinny teenager and those days are long behind me.
-
I also get some good jobs from panicked brides who hired a wannabes on Etsy and then the wannabes couldn't get the job done, so, I get the job at a rush fee rate. All the better for me.
No, the amateurs are not ruining anything for the trained professionals.
This is exactly what I am talking about... It may be all the better for you, but it is HORRIBLE for those brides! I can only imagine the stress that creates. And the money wasted. THIS is what I mean about preserving the trade. This exactly!
But the trade was never an oasis of highly skilled professionals. There have always been people who pick up a pen, declare themselves a calligrapher and start their business. If you look at manuscript books from the middle ages, you will see two facing pages in the same book - one will be sublime and the other will look like the work of beginner. The person who commissioned that book could not afford the top notch scribes, so, he settled for a studio that was churning out books that were of mixed quality.
There is always a market for the less polished work and it is not a threat to the people who take pride in a more comprehensive approach. Marketing your higher skill-level work is a marketing issue, not an ethical issue. Shoddy business practices abound. But they don't put anyone out of business. People blame lost business on a lot of things. I'm pretty sure that if Vera Wang had a bad season she wouldn't be blaming it on Davids Bridal Shop. She would go back to her drawing board.
-
I am only suggesting people consider their skill levels and if they can contribute to the market/community in a quality way before they jump on the bandwagon. I think that's a pretty reasonable sentiment.
If the number of personal emails I received from other professional calligraphers is any indication, I'm not the only one concerned. ;)
It is a reasonable sentiment and I can understand where you are coming from. As a scientist, I feel the same way about the way science is often taught in schools. Kids grow up thinking they hate science because they are being taught by people who can't do much more than have them memorize a bunch of random facts and formulas*. It drives me and other scientists absolutely crazy because children have a natural instinct for scientific investigation (how does this work? what happens if I take it apart? why is the sky blue? why?) that is being crushed with poor teaching.
Unfortunately, though, the conversation often stalls at "x is not being done well and this is a problem for the field." I'm all for identifying a problem and even for debating whether or not there is a problem, but when I say, "So, what are we going to do about it?" people look at me in surprise. "What? Do about it? I'm not the one causing the problem."
So, if there are people out there who are doing really shoddy work or misrepresenting the dedication required to become skilled in calligraphy, what can the professional calligraphy community do to combat that problem? This forum is one example of what can be done--giving less skilled calligraphers a place to interact with people who are very skilled helps maintain a certain level of professionalism and quality in the field. But is there more that could be done? If so, what?
*There are, of course, some amazing teachers out there who do an excellent job of teaching science--I'm absolutely not saying there aren't.
IAMPETH (over 60 years old) and the International Conference (35 years old) are the two established groups who are preserving the tradition in the US. They are aware of the "shoddy work and misrepresentation" and what they can do about it is continue to provide quality education. The "shoddy work and misrepresentation" is not a threat to these two groups as well as the many guilds around the US which continue to be a resource for people who want to learn. To try to stamp out shoddiness would be impossible so their energy is focused on quality teaching. Guilds do community outreach on local levels.
Graffiti did not threaten typography. It's just another style. The quirky, naive styles that are popular now are just current styles. Anyone with a genuine interest in traditional calligraphy will find the resources on the internet. Consumers can surf around and find the skill level and price point that suits their project.
I have mentored a number of people over the years and those with the highest skill levels are the ones who stick with it. Those without much skill, move on and hopefully find an artistic outlet that is more suitable. It is a self-regulating business. The current trends are just blips. The bigger picture is not going to suffer from these blips.
-
I love your positive outlook Jean! ;)
-
IAMPETH (over 60 years old) and the International Conference (35 years old) are the two established groups who are preserving the tradition in the US. They are aware of the "shoddy work and misrepresentation" and what they can do about it is continue to provide quality education. The "shoddy work and misrepresentation" is not a threat to these two groups as well as the many guilds around the US which continue to be a resource for people who want to learn. To try to stamp out shoddiness would be impossible so their energy is focused on quality teaching. Guilds do community outreach on local levels.
I was thinking more on an individual level, that is, if an individual* is concerned about these issues, what can they, personally, do? From what you are saying, Jean, it sounds like one good idea might be to support IAMPETH and your local guild and to encourage other calligraphers to join those organizations as well. Teaching a class or two at the local level may also be a good option for those who are concerned about the quality of online "start a business quick" style of classes.
Going back to my science teaching example, what concerns me most about the poor state of affairs in that situation is the unfairness to the "consumers"--the kids--and the impact it will have to the scientific community down the road. The kids deserve better and how is the field to improve and thrive if so many "consumers" (kids) are turned off because of their negative experiences? Unless I miss my guess, I think this is the sentiment Erica is voicing, that consumers are having negative experiences due to inexperienced or poorly trained calligraphers and that she feels badly for those consumers. She's also concerned that this state of affairs will get worse if there are large numbers of people who treat calligraphy as an easy way to make money. And, having seen the impact a similar situation happen in another artistic profession, she's worried about impact on the calligraphy profession as a whole.
Whether or not the problem is new, unique, or systemic may be beside the point. Do you have to be certain that the field is going to hell in a handbasket before you get involved in making it better? In fact, even if you are absolutely certain that it is not, is there any harm in working toward improvements?
*Personally, I haven't been part of the calligraphy community long enough to know if there is a problem. It's not my profession and, aside from this and a couple other forums (fora? fori? I wonder what the correct Latin plural is?), I don't spend much time time chatting with other calligraphy enthusiasts. Therefore, I'm mostly speaking hypothetically.
-
IAMPETH (over 60 years old) and the International Conference (35 years old) are the two established groups who are preserving the tradition in the US. They are aware of the "shoddy work and misrepresentation" and what they can do about it is continue to provide quality education. The "shoddy work and misrepresentation" is not a threat to these two groups as well as the many guilds around the US which continue to be a resource for people who want to learn. To try to stamp out shoddiness would be impossible so their energy is focused on quality teaching. Guilds do community outreach on local levels.
I was thinking more on an individual level, that is, if an individual* is concerned about these issues, what can they, personally, do? From what you are saying, Jean, it sounds like one good idea might be to support IAMPETH and your local guild and to encourage other calligraphers to join those organizations as well. Teaching a class or two at the local level may also be a good option for those who are concerned about the quality of online "start a business quick" style of classes.
Going back to my science teaching example, what concerns me most about the poor state of affairs in that situation is the unfairness to the "consumers"--the kids--and the impact it will have to the scientific community down the road. The kids deserve better and how is the field to improve and thrive if so many "consumers" (kids) are turned off because of their negative experiences? Unless I miss my guess, I think this is the sentiment Erica is voicing, that consumers are having negative experiences due to inexperienced or poorly trained calligraphers and that she feels badly for those consumers. She's also concerned that this state of affairs will get worse if there are large numbers of people who treat calligraphy as an easy way to make money. And, having seen the impact a similar situation happen in another artistic profession, she's worried about impact on the calligraphy profession as a whole.
Whether or not the problem is new, unique, or systemic may be beside the point. Do you have to be certain that the field is going to hell in a handbasket before you get involved in making it better? In fact, even if you are absolutely certain that it is not, is there any harm in working toward improvements?
*Personally, I haven't been part of the calligraphy community long enough to know if there is a problem. It's not my profession and, aside from this and a couple other forums (fora? fori? I wonder what the correct Latin plural is?), I don't spend much time time chatting with other calligraphy enthusiasts. Therefore, I'm mostly speaking hypothetically.
IMHO there is no problem with the current situation. The guilds, IMAPETH and the International Conference are healthy and thriving. All three are welcoming to anyone who has a love of letters. The wannabes will fade away. They have no foundation. They may get a job or two, which they will botch - and then they will quit. To have staying power in any creative field, you have to really love what you do. If money is your motivation, you will fail.
It has been my experience with scribes as well as people in other creative professions - that when we hear about someone wanting a career in a creative field because they want to make a lot of money, we pretty much fall on the floor laughing. The older you are, the harder you laugh.
If the consumers are getting duped - that is unfortunate. But there is no way to police aesthetics. Try to be comforted knowing that there is not a single instance of *bad* art killing *good* art. They co-exist. Yin-yang.
There is always cream - and it always rises to the top.
-
Just wanted to say I have enjoyed reading this thread - thank you to those who have written the thought-filled posts!
-
As a relative newby here I stumbled across this thread - and I know the story-line...
My interest in calligraphy is one purely for personal enjoyment and satisfaction, but I have spent the last few decades running a visual design and training business. I started in the 80's, a few years prior to the introduction of the first useful desktop computers - the days of mountboard, Letraset, Rotring pens and Cow gum...
I think that Jean is on the right track here. There will always be a range of 'suppliers' from the low end to the high end and a range of clients to match. Over time the market will self regulate. It's certainly true that when there's a sudden shift in the market - a new technology, or a rapid increase or decrease in popularity - the ride can be rough. I've experienced it more than a few times myself - the desktop publishing revolution (aka: 'my secretary is now a designer'), the digital photography revolution (aka: Uncle Bob has a camera just like yours - so his photo's will be just as good)... and others. Yes, some of those changes can be big - sometimes destroying or re-framing the whole market. But as Jean says, part of the work of being in business is being adaptable to the changing market. On the more positive side for the professional calligrapher, I think you're less vulnerable to changes in technology than most - I don't see a creative robot calligrapher on the horizon anytime soon : )
Over time those that thought they could do it (the 'secretary designers' and the 'Uncle Bob's) found out they couldn't ('it was harder than I thought') and the rest of us survived...
Mike
-
I think it's beneficial for discussions of this nature to be had and all viewpoints have some merit. Thank you for adding to the discussion Mike. :)
Found this interesting article regarding photography, The Death of Photography: Are Camera Phones Destroying an Artform? (http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2013/dec/13/death-of-photography-camera-phones).
From the article: But what does Olmos mean by saying photography is dying? He argues that in the 1850s the rise of photography made many painters, who had previously made nice livings from painting family portraits, redundant. Now it's the turn of professional photographers to join the scrap heap. "Photographers are getting destroyed by the rise of iPhones. The photographers who used to make £1,000 for a weekend taking wedding pictures are the ones facing the squeeze. Increasingly we don't need photographers – we can do just as well ourselves."
Later he states, "Don't get me wrong. I love iPhones and Instagram," says Olmos. "But what I worry about is that Kodak used to employ 40,000 people in good jobs. What have they been replaced by? Twelve people at Instagram."
It's an interesting article with many similar points to what we discussed here. Calligraphy is, of course, a different trade. But we are all in agreement, in any trade these days, it will be important to constantly keep your focus on the changes in the market and how you present yourself within it in order to stay in business. What shouldn't be underestimated, as well, is the drive of the young entrepreneurial creatives and their ability to use social media to their advantage and how this will affect everyone's business.
It used to be the Yellow Pages was *the* place to put your business ad. People no longer even use phone books. People will search for a calligrapher online but most won't go past page one of google results. Can you guarantee you will be on page one or even two? Highly doubtful. (And I don't mean you specifically, I mean that generally.)
I follow many of the event planning and entrepreneurship workshops on IG. They offer weekend workshops in how to run a business, mostly in the wedding and design industry. They are sold out for every workshop. Their workshops also offer calligraphy classes, including "how to run a calligraphy business" segments. Of course not every one of those people will start a calligraphy business. But they may be able to provide calligraphy "on the side." This takes away a job from a FT calligrapher. Sometimes these small jobs are the bread and butter work of a professional calligrapher.
With a few exceptions, I only follow calligraphers on IG and I only follow the ones who post just calligraphy. And this is just IG, which not all calligraphers are even on IG. I follow 1,450 people. And for every one I follow, there are at least 3 more I haven't followed yet. And they are expanding every day. Of course, not all of these people will start a business. As Mike said, to not be aware of the potential change this creates for our market, would, in my opinion, be very naive.
In terms of that creative robot calligrapher - it does exist. They are called calligraphy fonts. Head on over to creativemarket.com and check out some of the amazing calligraphy fonts being sold for next to nothing. Whether we like it or not, those are calligraphy jobs going out of the market. (And yes, there will always be those clients who will want hand done custom over a font. But there will also be those who may have hired a calligrapher who won't now because they can get "just as good" from a font for next to nothing.)
I like what Elisabeth said earlier, you don't have to wait until the change has already happened before you start having the conversation about how to improve it. Thankfully, yes, the conference and IAMPETH are thriving and growing like crazy (because there are more people learning calligraphy ;) ). But our guild still has the same people. Our guild isn't expanding with the younger crowd because their guilds are FB, IG, and Twitter. Sit in on the "business of calligraphy" roundtable at IAMPETH and then tell me professional calligraphers aren't concerned about the changing market.
Flourish has over 5,000 members and receives over 1,000 visitors each week. What a great platform to encourage quality work and mindfulness of the business environment. :)
-
I'm late to this thread, but so glad I found it and read it! Thank you, Erica!
Photography - growing up, my father was an avid (amateur) photographer. We have photographs of literally every single childhood activity we participated in, every mess-at-home we created, every birthday party, etc. So growing up, my younger sister took up photography. She used dad's beautiful vintage cameras, until dad surprised her with her very own Nikon camera and lenses. I gifted her a fully-paid photographer's conference in Las Vegas, and she spent many weekends with professional photographers to learn the ticks of the trade, often volunteering as a second-shooter for weddings, corporate events, etc. All of our family and friends were hiring her. Fast forward a few years, and the introduction of the pocket-sized Nikon digital cameras, iphones, etc - now everyone is a photographer. Her business has dwindled. She's had to fall back on her MBA, lol. ;) She now photographs as a hobby. I hired her for my wedding last year, and she does beautiful portrait photography here-and-there, but it's just not the same as just a couple of years ago. Friends and family will post photos on IG or FB and caption "photography by xxxxx" (with a smartphone!). :-X :o
I have always enjoyed writing, so I became very interested in calligraphy. Granted, I haven't dedicated the necessary time to the practice of it - but I also haven't pushed it as a business. Sure, friends have approached me and I have done a few calligraphy jobs, but I warn them that I still have a lot to learn. They understand that and are ok with it, cause even then it's "nicer" or "prettier" than anything they could write - according to them. But I know that I need to set more time aside for this. I understand what it takes to get to where I want to be. A pet-peeve that I have is when someone says it's "so easy to learn" or "anyone can do it" - no, it takes times, dedication, a concentrated effort. I recently unfollowed "calligraphers" on IG that were saying such things and then "teaching" faux-calligraphy. That irked me. Is it just me?! Sure, anyone can write letters and words and then go back and shade in some lines here and there - but that's not the point of calligraphy.
And your point about guilds - all I can say is, there isn't even one in my area! No where in the county I live in, have I been able to find a guild to join. I recently found this lady in my city that says she offers "hand-made, personalized wedding and event invitations" so I looked her up. I thought we could possibly make a connection. Nope. She wasn't interested. All computer fonts. No calligraphy. No hand-written anything. Not even the envelopes.
-
Thank you for sharing Estrella. It pains my heart to read about your sister's business. I have some friends who were amazing photographers and supported their entire families with their businesses who are now out of business. I realize we have to roll with the times but it doesn't make it hurt any less. :-\
It's part of the process as your love for lettering expands and in the process start doing small jobs for friends and family. It's how you learn and grow. It's a conscientious approach that offers a win-win for everyone. :)
-
In terms of that creative robot calligrapher - it does exist. They are called calligraphy fonts. Head on over to creativemarket.com and check out some of the amazing calligraphy fonts being sold for next to nothing. Whether we like it or not, those are calligraphy jobs going out of the market. (And yes, there will always be those clients who will want hand done custom over a font. But there will also be those who may have hired a calligrapher who won't now because they can get "just as good" from a font for next to nothing.)
With a few exceptions, I only follow calligraphers on IG and I only follow the ones who post just calligraphy. And this is just IG, which not all calligraphers are even on IG. I follow 1,450 people. And for every one I follow, there are at least 3 more I haven't followed yet. And they are expanding every day. Of course, not all of these people will start a business. As Mike said, to not be aware of the potential change this creates for our market, would, in my opinion, be very naive.
This is very true and a real concern. In my own case, at one time I was producing artwork for menus and wine lists on a regular basis for half a dozen large hotels throughout Britain. These were the good old days! As in-house desktop publishing rapidly spread, this work quickly disappeared. However it wasn't all gloom and doom. There was, and still is, an opening for the hand-produced item. I gradually started producing one-off items for the special occasions at the hotels. For example, at small high-powered luncheons a certificate or certificates may be presented. With a bit of creativity, these can be made very individual and virtually impossible to replicate mechanically. As they are obviously produced by hand, they have an intrinsic value of their own. I even sign them from time to time, as one would, a painting.
Once a few hotels were on board for their special events, I had more than enough work in this area, to keep me going - and they are far more interesting to do, than a seven-page wine list!
I'm having a second go at instagram. I abandoned the first one, when I found that the calligraphers I was following, were occasionally inserting photos of plates of food or their children. After a time I realised that I was the loser, and I'm on again at http://instagram.com/fraser.ken. I love looking at the fine calligraphy of others. but I still have to find a way of following only calligraphers!
-
Very interesting Ken!
I'm also glad you are having a second go at Instagram. If you go to my profile: @flourishforum (http://instagram.com/flourishforum), look through those I follow. I follow over 1400 people, almost exclusively calligraphers. The majority only post calligraphy. In fact, with just a few exceptions, if they post anything but calligraphy, I unfollow them (no offense of course!). So you can click on the link for those I'm following and see if you want to follow them, too. ;)
-
Thanks Erica, I'll do that :)
-
Hi All,
As a pen maker I see the same issues in the oblique pen business. When I started making pens it was for me, only when I attended my first ( and only, unfortunately! ) IAMPETH convention I had lots of people asking me would I sell them! It was only then did I decide to make pens to sell and even then I was reluctant as my pens were far from perfect. Only after a huge amount of time and very expensive equipment I was able to turn out proper pens, but I was delighted that I got to that point as there wasn't anyone posting diy tips on making pens, it was all trial and error. Now there are loads of videos and even live feeds on how to make pens and more importantly loads of new pen makers as a result. When I first started to sell my pens on Etsy, there was about ten pen makers on there, now there must be fifty to sixty. It's great for calligraphers that there are lots of pens to choose from, some very good and some not so good. I don't think there is any profession exempt from the world of amateurs armed with knowledge & technology.
I also work as a calligraphy ( for those who don't know me ) and I often get asked for the 'modern style' of calligraphy. It's something that is all too easy to do and thats why I always turn it down. I sell my style ( copperplate/spencerian ) because it's something I love, I will always practice weather I get paid or not! I say practice because we as calligraphers know we will never be ' not learning'.
I have also noticed that a lot of these new modern calligraphers have web companies or PR companies working to make sure they are top of any google query regarding calligraphy.....oh the world is just so unfair...hey ho!
Edward
-
Good points @Edward ... it's so interesting to revisit this three years later. I saw more than one professional calligrapher saying they had no business this year or it was their slowest year yet. And there are so many pen makers!
I do feel like we are starting to see the trend dying down though. Instagram is coming to a crawl with fewer and fewer people posting. The stores are saturated with janky modern calligraphy on products. I think perhaps the uptick in interest in more traditional calligraphy is also underway.
-
Jean, you are absolutely correct, in the end these people , whom ever the are, eventually fall into a sea of meritocracy and fade away. The underpinning is always the same. Financial gain. I dont enter that arena as i dont do lettering for money. I do teach it infrequently as its good for myself to be as active as i can.
There is however a dark side. There are those who because of there educational lack in the calligraphic arts seem to be to somewhat caustic in the way the do business. The reason is simple: they have no alternative but to attack the messenger. I saw it here is South Fla. where some individuals were using each other as references with only a few lessons in calligraphy and a nasty desire to do envelope work. Offering there services with ads in local art stores, not only advertising themselves as members of the South Fla Calligraphy Guild, but offering the lowest prices in town per envelope, invitations, etc. Considering themselves as experienced calligraphers, with extensive history. No one knows where they came from, who they are, nor are they on any guild roster. Leanings toward a modern calligraphy approach . This is an interesting topic for me. Maybe one day Erica should start a thread on how lettering can become your biggest enemy. I enjoy your post. JERRY
-
Erica, i love the work lanky ! Your so right. I owned in the 80s the largest art supply store in Suffolk county. It was called the Scribes Art Shop. I did allot of business local, guild wise and mail order specializing in gilding materials since the mid 70s. Although not my vocation as my wife ran the operation, we had a robust market. Today of course some 30 years later, i decided to see how many different oblique pen holders were being made and offered for sale on the internet. Close to 200. That was just for the pen holder. from $ 1.99 to $ 300. per holder.
The one thing in common, most if not all were being made and sold by individuals , who feel they have an advantage over their competitor . Regardless of style, balance, ergonomics, or the holder being self propelled, in the end its exhausting and does no good for the community as it corrupts itself through advertising online.
By all means, its not limited to holders, but an ever increasing variety of unique metal nibs for basically freedom of expression art. These cola type ruling pens will now put your name on the handle to insure a better quality writing experience. The lettering, no longer comes into play. Understanding any type of foundation is not a consideration, but fun is.. Learning fun !. i am no longer surprised about anything as the learning scale within the arts has diminished so rapidly these last few years, I find it amazing that people are just finding out that feathers were used to write before marker appeared ! JERRY
-
I know this is old but it was an excellent read for the beginning of 2020. I've been an entirely self-taught pen dabbler since 1981, when a college roommate turned me on to Italic writing. It used to be hard to find information and supplies. I relied on Margaret Shepherd and Dorothy Mahoney books back then and had only a Platignum italic set and a few Speedball pens. I'm stunned by the way calligraphy has taken off, but also skeptical of many who call themselves calligraphers. I hope this is the year I can truly devote more time to improving my skills and absorbing the history and I'm going to use this Forum as my home base. Thanks for all the hard work Erica and the many other posters!
-
Thanks @Mary_M and @JERRY TRESSER for your comments. I am sorry I did not see them earlier.
Ah Mary - the joys of Margaret Shepherd. She was also my first intro to calligraphy (along with Ken Brown). It was true kismet that one of my first clients when I started my business was Margaret's niece as she wanted pointed pen so Margaret referred her to me. You can imagine the joy that brought me.
Your post reminded me of the quandary I think many of us face - when do we consider or call ourselves "artist" or "calligrapher." I think it's a subjective call but one I always did with hesitation. But that is my own personal hang up and don't begrudge or judge anyone who considers themselves as such. It's the blur between "calligrapher" and "professional calligrapher" that is more concerning. ;)
If you have been doing calligraphy off and on since 1981 - you can safely call yourself a calligrapher! ;D
-
Erica! Thank you for building the Flourish forum! Miss participating here because I was building up my brand over the years. Sharing the craft is my why I handletter soothing to watch and the process brought solace and respite! Hoping to teach flourishing soon :)
-
@Wanderful Writs That is GREAT to hear! So happy to know you have been working away at your business and excited for you are you branch into teaching flourishing! Keep up the hard work and enjoying the process. :-*
-
growing segment of newcomers who bridged the gap by starting with modern calligraphy and then decided they wanted to go deeper and learn traditional styles.
So does it matter? Some would say no as we always need to adapt and change with the times, and like it or not, this is how it works in our world today. I would argue it matters a great deal. It isn't about the differences between us, it's about the quality of work we produce and share with others. It's how what we do effects not just us, but an entire industry. As a calligrapher, I have always felt a great responsibility to do my best to help preserve the integrity of both the craft and the trade.
However, I hope people will take an honest look at their work, solicit constructive and forthright feedback from other professionals, and ask themselves if they can offer a quality service and product which upholds the value of not just the market, but the trade as well.
What a profound blog post @Erica McPhee and a joy to read.
My first online six month class was modern. Within two weeks I realized what I wanted was not so I switched to pointed pen (though the course was still modern she instructed with brush and pointed pen) and I pushed through the end knowing I needed to find what I found out was called "copperplate".
I was relieved that my interests were purely self-edification vs. business. It has taken pressure off of me for I know the time it would take me to rise to such a standard I shall probably not live that long being almost 62 now.
So glad FF is a real, thriving entity. Thanks for all that you are doing, Ms. M.
-
Thank you for your kind words! It really does take the pressure off to just learn for your own enjoyment. And then perhaps once you know this is something you are truly vested in, then comes the business side if you so desire. We are very glad you delved into calligraphy deeper and became such a valuable part of our community! :-*
-
Thank you for your kind words! It really does take the pressure off to just learn for your own enjoyment. And then perhaps once you know this is something you are truly vested in, then comes the business side if you so desire. We are very glad you delved into calligraphy deeper and became such a valuable part of our community! :-*
Not sure if you remember, but several months back a friend asked me to address envelopes for her daughter's baby shower. I was SO stressed with the whole proposal. Knowing I was not up to the task was probably the reason why. IG buds commented "She has seen your calligraphy if she did not like it she would not have asked." That made sense, so on I went trying to answer her seemingly simple question, "How much will you charge?" Fast forwarding I was SO relieved when she came back with the message that "her daughter decided against my 'services'. She felt the money could be better spent." Hallelujah!! I was SO relieved. Should that EVER happen again I know how to respond. Off the rip, "No, thank you. But, I can point you in the direction of a wonderful calligrapher."
Amen.
-
@Erica McPhee ..I don't know how I missed this Post!!!! ??? I know this is an old post but you deserve and merits a big thank for pointing us with this heartfelt strong message Erica.
Anyone who has fallen love with the writing of words must know this truth. Like you had transmuted to calligraphy from photography I have the same walk of life as you. I got into art from photography. and I still do photography. It is really true what you witnessed in transforming of the changing in the photo industry.
But I must say there are few like you who are really concern and the rest is as you put into to the content.. they are seeking for selling after they just finished their week end Calligraphy learning courses.
However they do ..just like in photography there's always a demand for quality work in calligraphy. I think it is the truth. Thank you for sharing your concern Erica!!! ;D I am glad I revisited this thread and leave you a " Big thumb-Up." I second you too and I am learning the history of writing and the forms and arts of writing styles and how it forms our humanity around. I know it is a long process to learn how to do it right and I'll be happy if it could be used as a service to the public in some way. Just like my photography did.
Cheers Erica!!! For this long share!!! :)
-
Thank you for this! Wow, so much has changed since this post… it has been so interesting to see the Calligraphy World change and grow in such a short time period. What is also interesting is to see how social media has changed so dramatically in the same period. When Flourish was started, Instagram was just getting popular. Now there are so many ways people are sharing their work and forming communities. I’m so happy to have been a small part of bringing people together “back in the day.”
Wonderful that we share the love and journey of photography. It will also be a passion of mine. Isn’t it interesting how the internet has brought the “doing” of art into so many people’s lives that either never had access to it and/or the opportunity to study it.
Thank you for your lovely comment. :-*
-
What a difference a year makes! Haven’t logged in a while and the web is changing! Appears the world is shifting to in person meetings again! Glad the forum is still active, glad to be here!