I've never participated in forums, or experienced a crunchy moment watching a calligraphy debate-- so ignorance is bliss, I guess! I figured we were all just saying the same thing, but when one thing would be made reference to, it might be (totally and hilariously) misunderstood and then it took a lot of explaining to make that clear! But I knew we'd get there, because seriously, there was no disagreement happening as far as I could see!
This is just backstory-- just a web of back-and-forth influence which has shaped a living, breathing tradition. Like language, always evolving-- and not in a linear fashion! Which is certainly nothing to get tetchy about or take personally. The major wrench in the thing is just what's meant when people say "Copperplate"! I took it for granted in the conversation that it was generally known, that Copperplate is a "new name", first referenced only in the 20th century, and that Roundhand has offshoots in other more recent hands that have been called "copperplate" ever since the advent of the name... (Thanks, Dr. Joe)
Personally, I've learned everything from the amazing people writing and educating for IAMPETH and I don't think there's a nicer, more knowledgable bunch of people anywhere! I don't think ANYONE there has a reputation for being difficult or taciturn about stuff like this. I'm of the impression that calligraphers are lovely, warm and the BEST kind of geeks, even when splitting hairs or talking about dry old history! So yeah, ignorance is bliss-- I've never seen anybody get rude about anything. The only stroppy stuff I've seen is from ooold Penman's Journal archives from the 1800s-- that must have been a crabby time! LOL. Anyway--back to the lovely, warm, family vibe that you notice, Estefa. I second that. AND, here's an idea-- we should try to lure Heather Held onto this board-- she's the current President of IAMPETH, and an absolute angel!
Thanks again Erica for all you do here. You're a peach!