Uncials, Layout and Design (Martin Jackson: 2.5 day)

Skill Level: Beginner and Intermediate

We will begin by learning or reviewing a traditional Uncial alphabet, and then move on to some optional Uncial letterforms. Then, using a series of simple steps we will explore some of the many layout options that will help us to create calligraphy that is visually beautiful and exciting. Colour, space, and the choice of tools and materials will all be discussed, together with many demonstrations, and a project will be completed.

Supply List: Your favorite broad-edge writing tools (Mitchell, Brause, or Speedball, a variety of sizes if possible, Speedball C-0, C-2 and C-3 would be useful); favorite inks, any  gouache you have, layout pad or practice paper 11×17 or larger; tracing paper; 1 or 2 or more sheets of good paper (Arches Text Wove or Arches 90 lb CP, these can be cut into quarters for travel); a sheet of black Canson MiTientes (9×12 or larger); masking tape; palette for mixing color; water container; mixing brushes.If you have a small portable light box and are travelling by car please bring it.

About the instructor: Martin Jackson was born in Sheffield England and emigrated to Canada in 1966. He has 55 years of experience as a designer and calligrapher and for over forty years has run his own design studio in Vancouver, Canada. As one of Canada’s foremost calligraphers he has lectured and taught across Canada, and the United States, and in Australia, Europe and Japan, and has been on the faculty of several international conference. Among his many commissions are pieces for the visit to Vancouver by the Prince and Princess of Wales, Pope John Paul ll, and the calligraphy for the wedding reception of Bill Gates. When not working on his calligraphy Martin collects and rears moths and butterflies and is an avid cross-country skier.