Thanks to Erica for creating an online forum for lettering artists!
Way back in 1981 I thought calligraphy would be a good addition to my graphic design skills. Started at local hobby shop with a fountain pen and not so good exemplars. Really enjoyed the challenge of learning a new skill. Little did I know this would become a total obsession.
A few years later, took another class and learned about a calligraphy guild in Los Angeles; Society for Calligraphy. I paid the dues and have been forever changed by world class instructors, annual retreats in Montecito (spring) and Yosemite in the Ahwahnee (fall). You guessed it, had to ditch the old habits and completely relearn letter forms. I attend as many Conferences as my day job allows.
My favorite script is Copperplate. Studied with Lefty Fontenrose and Mike Kecseg. Then decided to try designing wedding invitations and addressing envelopes in the 90's. That first envelope in gray gouache on Crane paper was pure self inflicted terror. Then I started teaching and really had to study up.
As a beginner to hand lettering, the best moment ever was an opening address for a conference featuring the first hand lettered piece from each of the conference instructors. Calligraphy is a life long journey. With 12 scripts to master, maybe 2 lifetimes. All efforts can be honored no matter where, when or how we start.
Look forward to learning and sharing with other calligraphers, who are the most wonderful people on the planet. San Luis Obispo is a 4 hour drive from LA, making this online forum a good way to get that pen and ink fix.
Mary Lou
