1" CALLIGRAPHY BRUSHES-BIG AND BOLD

  The first thing you might notice is the wider format size--6"X18". Notice too, that calligraphy is not a "pansy" letter form--it can exhibit a sense of strength, be compelling and dynamic. Sometimes the word itself commands a certain attitude and we may "read" that into it. Application, however, depends on a proper relationship of form to content.

Now, this one is a challenge. The letters are tall and narrow for a reason---fitting this width brush on a 9"X12" paper. Yes, it looks smaller, but that's because photos are sometimes very deceiving in describing size. So do give this a try, and see for yourself!

  Oh, so many things to love about brush calligraphy!

With all of the above examples, and with those shown on other pages, one of most attractive aspects of Calligraphy is apparent. No, it's not the graceful curves, the sharp edges the last mark makes, the thick and thin variety of line, the slight italic structure, the varied widths of capitals and lower case letters, the exaggerations or flourishes on extenders and descenders or the enjoyment of drawing in certain styles.

Actually, it's the combining of adjacent letters forms with each other. Not only is it related to "handwriting", and an element of design, but it's a neat way of "skootching" wide letters together and saving space! It's so simple, and clever, and worth observing.

And I must thank now and forever, the wonderful teacher who took the time to teach me this ancient art form many years ago. I never knew then how much I would love and treasure calligraphy and it's magnificent forms all my life. I hope you find some joy in it too.