Calligraphy – Beautiful, Blooming, Bâtarde

Course intent

In this workshop you will explore Bâtarde, one of the later styles of calligraphy that was very widely used when book production became widespread across Europe. It has some characteristics of the Gothic styles and some of Italics and there are many variations. You will learn the lower-case lettering, experiment with the rather elaborate capitals, and then add a little floral decoration with a pointed nib.

Enjoy the well-being benefits gained through working in a friendly, creative learning environment

What will we cover?

• Explore manuscripts written in the Bâtarde script,

• Learn how to write this pretty script, starting with the line height and the angle we hold the square cut pen nib at.
• Write using the lower-case script
• Experiment with the capitals
• Write a short quote inspired by the summer flowers.
• Add some touches of flowers to your calligraphy using a pointed nib to finish off your lovely writing.
• Time permitting, you can add some colour.
• Safeguarding, Prevent and British Values

Learners will be inspired by the contemporary and historical context and will need to keep a sketchbook / notebook to record ideas, processes and progress, and the feedback they receive from the tutor.

There will be demonstrations, instruction, one-to-one tutorial guidance, group discussions and critiques.

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

This course is for beginners and improvers. If you have any queries, please contact the tutor on 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 bring

• a hard pencil (2H or similar),
• an HB pencil,
• a sharpener, a ruler,
• a biro
• an A3 sketch or layout pad.
• Bring reading glasses if you use them.
• If you have any calligraphy materials – please bring them with you.
• Please wear old clothes as ink can get spilt

Paper, inks, paint and pens will be supplied.

What can I do when I finish the course?

You can join longer calligraphy courses to develop your skills and other short workshops with SAL. Your tutor can advise you about further courses of study and about attending local calligraphy groups

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

Our courses are for adult learners aged 19 or over. If you are under 19, please call 0300 200 1044.

Find another course

If this isn't what you're looking for, then we've got plenty more courses to offer!