Online Class: Western Calligraphy

Western calligraphy is more than writing; it's an artistic voyage weaving history and personal tales into every letter. This course invites participants of any background to embrace the tangible allure of calligraphy, from traditional scripts to modern applications.

Self-Paced, Online Class

Library Subscription

16

Lessons
28

Exams &
Assignments
15

Hours
average time
1.5

CEUs

Course Description

From the ancient scrolls to the elegant wedding invitations of today, the art of Western calligraphy has been an embodiment of beauty, elegance, and profound emotions. More than just a skill, it's a dance of the hand, a meditation, and a way to breathe life into letters. As each stroke unfolds, it tells a story; of traditions, of history, and of personal journeys. Are you ready to embark on this enchanting voyage of crafting words into art?

Delve Deep into the Heart of Western Calligraphy:

In this course, we shall traverse through the intricate alleys of Western calligraphy, which is not merely a hobby but a soulful pursuit. In an era where digital text dominates, calligraphy offers an intimate, tactile experience of words, bringing back the nostalgia of handwritten notes and personal touches.

Unravel the Magic, One Letter at a Time:

From the foundational hand to the Gothic script, from Italic to Copperplate, this course will introduce you to the vast spectrum of Western calligraphy. Each script has its own history, its rhythm, and its spirit. We'll meticulously dissect each letterform, allowing you to understand the flow and finesse behind it.

For Everyone and Anyone:

Artistic background or not, age no bar; calligraphy is universal. Whether you are an artist yearning to add another skill to your portfolio, a retiree seeking a meditative hobby, or a student wanting to create hand-lettered projects, this course has treasures for everyone. Young, old, or somewhere in between, the magic of calligraphy awaits.

Expand Your Canvas:

While paper is the traditional choice, calligraphy is limitless. Imagine crafting elegant script on ceramic plates, delicate glassware, rustic wooden boards, or soft fabric. The potential applications are endless, and by the end of this course, you'll be equipped to turn any surface into a piece of art.

Build and Flourish:

With the skills acquired, you could explore numerous avenues. Personalize gifts, offer custom-made calligraphic services, or launch your own line of hand-lettered products. Whether it's selling at local fairs, collaborating with stationery brands, or starting an online store, the world is your oyster.

Journey with an Expert:

Guided by Nancy, a seasoned calligrapher, you'll be mentored with care, patience, and passion. Her insights, drawn from years of experience, will ensure that every question you have is answered, every challenge you face is surmounted.

Community and Beyond:

As you delve deeper, you'll become a part of a thriving community of calligraphers. Share your work, seek feedback, collaborate on projects, and immerse yourself in the sea of inspiration that surrounds this art form.

Bonuses:

Historical Perspectives: Dive into the fascinating history of calligraphy, understanding its evolution and significance through eras.
Materials Mastery: Navigate the vast array of calligraphy tools, from quills and nibs to a myriad of inks and papers.

Words as Legacy:

In a world fleeting by, calligraphy offers a moment of stillness, a connection to our roots. The letters you craft today could be treasures for generations tomorrow, heirlooms that carry the weight of your emotions and the beauty of your artistry.

So, why wait? Embark on this transformative journey, where words transcend their meanings, where every letter you pen is a reflection of your soul, and where art and language converge to create magic. Dive deep, let the rhythm of calligraphy engulf you, and discover the artist within. Sign up today and let your journey into the world of Western Calligraphy unfold! 🖋📜🎨

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Areas of Study

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:

"Extraordinarily Helpful"

(1,324 votes)

Lesson 1. Calligraphy: History and Traditions

Rooted in Latin script, calligraphy evolved from the stately Roman Imperial capitals to the efficient Gothic style, reflecting historical shifts in literature and societal needs. This progression showcases the interplay between aesthetic beauty and practical necessity as scripts adapted to different cultural and technological landscapes. 21 Total Points

Lesson 1 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-Downloadable-20605.pdf
Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
Complete: Lesson 1 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. From Quills to Steel Nibs: The Evolution of Calligraphy Pens

Understanding the rich evolution of writing tools enhances the creative practice of calligraphy for modern artists. By selecting quality materials and maintaining your tools, you can ensure a rewarding experience filled with creative possibilities. 20 Total Points

Lesson 2 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-Activity-20609.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Foundational Strokes: Perfecting Your Approach

Embracing calligraphy involves understanding specialized terms and techniques, including adjusting pen angles for stroke variety and contouring serifs for aesthetic balance. Whether right- or left-handed, personalizing the art form ensures elegance and precision in every letter and line. 20 Total Points

Lesson 3 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-StudyGuide-20613.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Mastering Uncial: A Calligrapher's Guide

Calligraphy, an ancient art form, is a bridge between the present and history, requiring patience and practice to master nuanced tools and techniques. Uncial, one of the earliest scripts, showcases the evolution of writing with its iconic broad strokes and historical prominence. 20 Total Points

Lesson 4 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-4-Downloadable-20618.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. The Timeless Craft of Calligraphy: Foundational Hand Essentials

Calligraphy, an ancient art, enhances personal connections and creative projects, adding elegance and depth to written expressions. From wedding invites to brand logos, its timeless charm continues to beautify various aspects of life and business. 21 Total Points

Lesson 5 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-HomeWork-20622.pdf
Assessment: Exam 5
Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Roman Rustic Calligraphy: Design Meets History

Roman Rustic script evolved from the rigid Roman Square Capitals to provide a more flexible style for writing on softer materials like papyrus. Its compact yet grand design not only conserved space but has left a lasting influence on contemporary typeface development. 30 Total Points

Lesson 6 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-Activity-20629.pdf
Complete: Lesson 6 Activity
Assessment: Exam 6
Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Mastering the Flow: A Comprehensive Guide to Versals Calligraphy

A broad-edged nib is essential for capturing the striking contrast of thick and thin lines that define Versal letters. By experimenting with ink color and enhanced by high-quality paper, you can elevate the decorative appeal of your calligraphy. 20 Total Points

Lesson 7 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-Activity-20634.pdf
Complete: Lesson 7 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Batarde Calligraphy: A Blend of History and Art

Originating in the 14th century, Batarde script blended Gothic sophistication with a more casual flow, becoming the script of choice for court documents and personal writings in France and the Burgundian Netherlands. Though its popularity waned after the 16th century, modern adaptations by designers like Jonathan Barnbrook continue to keep its legacy alive in the digital era. 15 Total Points

Lesson 8 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-Activity-20639.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Elegance in Slant: Discovering Italic Calligraphy

Niccolo de' Niccoli's Renaissance italic calligraphy, noted for its graceful and fluid design, evolved into an enduring script used in both artistic and practical projects. Alfred Fairbank's advocacy established its educational prominence in the 20th century, and today, italic calligraphy remains a staple of artistic handwriting and modern typography. 21 Total Points

Lesson 9 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-9-Activity-20646.pdf
Complete: Lesson 9 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. The Art of Copperplate

Emerging in the 16th century, Copperplate became synonymous with formal elegance, thanks to its distinct thick and thin strokes achieved with a pointed nib pen. This lesson delves into its rich history, showcases influential works by George Bickham, and provides guidance for overcoming common challenges in calligraphy. 20 Total Points

Lesson 10 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-10-HomeWork-20650.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. Gothic Calligraphy Made Simple

Originating in the Middle Ages, Gothic calligraphy emerged to economize space on parchment, leading to ornate styles like Textura, Schwabacher, Fraktur, and Cursive Gothic. Today, its dramatic flair elevates formal documents, personal art, and offers both a technical challenge and a journey into history. 21 Total Points

Lesson 11 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-11-Activity-20654.pdf
Complete: Lesson 11 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

Lesson 12. Mastering Modern Calligraphy: A Guide to Stylish Self-Expression

The evolution of ink underscores its vital role in preserving human expression, evolving from ancient Chinese mixtures to sustainable modern alternatives. This lesson delves into its composition, history, and environmental impact while guiding you through crafting intricate calligraphic work. 21 Total Points

Lesson 12 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-12-WorkSheet-20656.pdf
Complete: Lesson 12 Activity
Assessment: Lesson 12 Review Exam

Lesson 13. Expanding the Canvas: Chinese Calligraphy Beyond Letters

Chinese calligraphy, with its historical roots in ritual inscriptions, has shaped language and culture over millennia, evolving through styles like Bronze and Running Script. Distinct from Western calligraphy, it is not only a method of writing but a practice reflecting the artist's spirit and energy. 25 Total Points

Lesson 13 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-13-WorkSheet-20658.pdf
Complete: Lesson 13 Activity
Assessment: Exam 13
Assessment: Lesson 13 Review Exam

Lesson 14. Flourishes in Calligraphy

Explore how flourishes add aesthetic appeal to calligraphy, a tradition enriched by innovators like Platt Rogers Spencer. Through practice and creativity, you can create ornate and personalized letters that speak volumes beyond digital communication. 17 Total Points

Lesson 14 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-14-Activity-20660.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 14 Review Exam

Lesson 15. Calligraphy's Global Journey

In this lesson, students explore the art of calligraphy beyond Western traditions by delving into diverse global styles such as Arabic, Indian, Georgian, Tibetan, and Korean. Each style reveals unique cultural approaches, from the spiritual significance of Arabic calligraphy to the artistic fusion found in modern Korean techniques. 20 Total Points

Lesson 15 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-15-HomeWork-20662.pdf
Assessment: Lesson 15 Review Exam

Lesson 16. The Calligraphy Career Blueprint: Steps to Turn Passion into Profession

Your newfound calligraphy skills open endless creative possibilities. From jazzing up recipe cards to dabbling in professional services like wedding invites, the opportunities are vast. 60 Total Points

Lesson 16 Video
Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-16-StudyGuide-20664.pdf
Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments; Course Comments
Assessment: Exam 16
Assessment: The Final Exam
Assessment: Lesson 16 Review Exam

372

Total Course Points

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:

Demonstrate the ability to create basic letterforms using various calligraphy styles, utilizing appropriate tools and techniques learned during the lesson.#
Identify and compare the historical development of different calligraphy styles in Western and Eastern traditions, recognizing their cultural significance and evolution.
Demonstrate the proper care and use of calligraphy tools, including cleaning nibs and selecting suitable paper for different types of scripts.
Identify the evolution of writing tools from ancient stone carvings to modern steel nibs and explain their impact on communication.
Demonstrate the application of calligraphy terminology by accurately describing the roles of ascenders, descenders, and serifs in enhancing letter aesthetics and composition.
Identify the impact of pen angle adjustments on line thickness and stroke appearance, demonstrating the ability to create specific calligraphy styles accordingly.
Demonstrate proficiency in creating uncial calligraphy by accurately forming at least 10 different letters with consistent stroke pressure and spacing.
Explain the historical significance and evolution of uncial calligraphy by identifying at least three key developments from the 3rd to 9th century AD.
Demonstrate the ability to create proportional and fluid letterforms in the Foundational Hand style using appropriate calligraphy techniques.
Identify key historical influences and principles of the Foundational Hand font as articulated by Edward Johnston.
Demonstrate the ability to write Roman Rustic calligraphy using accurate proportions and angles to achieve balanced letterforms.
Identify prominent historical uses and figures associated with Roman Rustic script, illustrating its significance between the 4th and 6th centuries AD.
Describe the historical significance and evolution of Versal calligraphy, including its origin, uses in various scripts, and decorative features.
Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.

Additional Course Information

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Course Title: Western Calligraphy

Course Number: 9770438

Lessons Rating: 4.74 / 5 Stars (1,324 votes)

Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries

Availability: You can take this course online in every U.S. state including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. International availability includes English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and South Africa.

Last Updated: February 2024

CEU Value: 1.5 CEUs (Continuing Education Units)

Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher for successful completion.

Course Type: Self-Paced

Assessment Method: Lesson review exams

Instructional Team: Cathleen Chouinard

Student Testimonials

"It was a great class. I did learn a lot. Everything I write now is calligraphy. Thank you for the great course." -- Sonia M.
"I really didn't have an expectation of the material, I only had previously associated calligraphy with beautiful writing. But the course opened my eyes to the history and it was very interesting and presented very clearly." -- Meiissa P.
"Its been amazing. The exams are quite intense but have enjoyed the practical elements most." -- Billie-rose D.
"It was fun! The homework was hard." -- Dh H.
"Enjoyed the class and feel I learned a lot!" -- Theresa S.