Calligraphy - Beginners & Improvers

Course intent

If you are new to calligraphy or want to revisit some forgotten skills, this course will set you on your way. Beautiful calligraphy has developed over centuries, so we will look back at historical examples, learn how to use a broad edged nib to create traditional letters, and then use this writing in different projects – the aim is to bring this traditional art form into the 21st century

What will we cover?

Beginners will learn to use a dip pen with a broad edged nib and will study the way the pen is held to form each letter and so create the alphabet. You will learn how to set out a page of writing, mix and write with ink and paint for colour, and use the script in simple projects.

As experience grows, we will work on more projects and layouts and study the decoration that was used in ancient manuscripts.

Each term we will study a different style of writing and, as a group, we can choose a topic to help us to find quotations, poetry and appropriate decoration. Support is given with your individual goals and calligraphy using a pointed nib can be included where required.

You will need to complete some course documentation to help assess your progress.

Please attend every lesson, where possible, to maximise your progress.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

This is a mixed ability class for beginners and those with some previous calligraphy experience.

If you have any queries, please email the tutor at adultlearning@surreycc.gov.uk

As our courses are taught in English, please contact us if you have any concerns about your level of English.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

Please wear old clothes as it can get messy!

Learners will need to supply their own materials and equipment which for the first lesson includes: A3 layout pad or sketch pad (paper needs to be removed for writing), 2 pencils, sharpener, a ruler or T square, a biro and a rubber. Drawing boards are supplied at the centre although learners may wish to invest in one once they become more experienced. Other equipment will be discussed during the first lesson and a ‘materials list’ supplied

What can I do when I finish the course?

In discussion with your tutor, you may like to progress onto another calligraphy course or workshop and learn different styles of writing through SAL; Japanese Brush Calligraphy is also available. Your tutor can advise you about external providers, for example, membership of the Society of Scribes and Illuminators (SSI) and the Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society (CLAS) will give a wider overview of the calligraphic world and opportunities to enrol on workshops, enter exhibitions and join the CLAS Ladder of Progress.

Local calligraphy societies also organise workshops and talks. Information can be supplied by your tutor

Additional information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class. Surrey Adult Learning values and supports equality and diversity by promoting fairness and respect at all times

How to enrol

You can't currently enrol online for this course, so please call 0300 200 1044 to express your interest or to make an enquiry for further information.

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