Copperplate Variations (Pat Blair: 2.5 day)
Level: some pointed pen experience will be helpful.
Copperplate calligraphy is an elegant and expressive hand, and we will be studying in depth what really makes this hand sing. While always respecting the classic form, we will learn that we can achieve many looks by varying weight, height and slant. Learning to control pen pressure, and learning ease of movement will give the lettering a new grace. A look at several font alphabets will give us more inspiration, and an in-depth look at decorative capital forms will round out the class.
Supply List: Oblique pen holder; your favorite pointed pen nibs such as Nikko G or Leonardt Principal (both of these need a holder that will accommodate their larger size), Hunt 22 or 56, or Gillott 303 or 404 or the Tiger Nib, a Marker Layout pad such as Canson Pro Marker or Boris, no larger than 10″ x 14″; Moon Palace or McCaffrey’s Penmans Ink, black; Dr. Martin’s Bleed Proof White; several sheets of good quality paper – one or two light, and one or two dark, pencil, ruler, eraser and t-square.
Supply Fee: $2
About the instructor: Pat Blair has been a professional calligrapher for 26 years, and currently holds the position of Chief Calligrapher at The White House in Washington, DC. Her work has been published in Letter Arts Review, The Calligrapher’s Engagement Calendar, Scripsit, Martha Stewart Weddings, andBound and Lettered. She teaches at the Loudoun Academy of the Arts in Virginia, and has been on the faculty of several International Calligraphy Conferences. Sharing and teaching what she loves is a high priority. Pat has served two years as President of the Washington Calligrapher’s Guild, been Chairperson of The Graceful Envelope Contest, and has been Co-Director of Letterforum, the 26th International Calligraphy Conference. Pat’s love of pointed pen lettering led to her study of Copperplate and Spencerian letterforms. The International Association of Master Penman and Engrossers recently awarded her the honor “Master Penman” for her work in this area.
