Despite the invention of the printing press and the advent of the personal computer, calligraphy continues to thrive as an art form. The process of hand lettering requires careful attention to detail, and many people find calligraphy to be a therapeutic exercise, similar to yoga and meditation, that forces people to be still and concentrate. Calligraphy: a Comprehensive Course" is a "calligraphy course in a book" that has been created to allow novices to teach themselves the beautiful art form of calligraphy. It was developed with the intention to teach a comprehensive course for beginners who have little or no previous experience in the lettering arts. The book traces the development of the major "hands" or lettering styles that have evolved since its origins in the Middle Ages: Uncial (9th century); Carolingian (11th century); Gothic (15th century); Italic (15th century); and Script (19th century). The first section contains a great deal of information where the basic components of broad-edged lettering - starter supplies, strokes, and pen angles - are clearly explained and illustrated. Following the basics of all the lettering styles, subsequent chapters cover the fundamental style, strokes, and spacing of italic lettering, uncial lettering, Carolingian lettering, gothic lettering, foundational lettering, and copperplate script. The book concludes with chapters on layout and design specific to calligraphers, correcting mistakes, and samples of medieval manuscripts and contemporary calligraphic masterpieces. It is presented in an easy-to-use notebook style package. The author is a noted professional with much hands-on experience teaching novices. It is a timeless, perennial appeal of this classic art form.

About the Author
Maryanne Grebenstein is a professional calligrapher who owns and operates her own calligraphy studio, The Abbey Studio. She has taught introductory calligraphy for more than ten years.


Book Information
ISBN 9780823005536
Author Maryanne Grebenstein
Page Count 144
Imprint Watson-Guptill Publications Inc.,U.S.
Publisher Watson-Guptill Publications
Weight(grams) 699g
Dimensions(mm) 287mm * 236mm * 23mm