Are you curious about learning calligraphy but worried that it might be too hard? Of course, the difficulty that comes with learning a new skill is somewhat subjective. The challenges of learning calligraphy depend on factors likeif you have previous experience in other artistic pursuits like drawing or painting, how much patience you possess, and your personal learning style.
No matter your current schedule or comfort level with calligraphy, there are plenty of tools available to help make learning easier than you might think.
What is Calligraphy?
Calligraphy is a gestural art form that practices transforming the written word into visual masterpieces. The word calligraphy is the result of combining two words from the Greek language: ‘kallos’ (beauty) and ‘graphein’ (to write). Believed to have originated in China, early emperors exercised their power by engraving edicts or pronouncements on stone in their own calligraphic script. It also has deep roots in the Arabic language and is a fundamental element of Islamic art.Â
Today’s modern calligraphy has shifted away from ancient scripts and is essentially free-hand pointed-pen cursive. Learning calligraphy has become a popular way to create bespoke pieces of art or one-of-a-kind graphic logos for businesses. At its heart, calligraphy is about infusing visual appeal into written language and can be a great way to encourage your creative side.Â
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Benefits of Learning Calligraphy?
Calligraphy, like any art form, has many benefits. Looking to make new friendships through a shared interest? Taking a calligraphy course would allow you to meet other artists in your area, forming relationships based on a common passion. Plus, with organizations like The Society of Scribes & Illuminators in the UK and the Society for Calligraphy in Southern California, there are endless groups and forums just waiting for you to join!
Did you know calligraphy stimulates neuronal activity? Making each stroke by hand triggers the motor areas of the brain, and practicing calligraphy also simultaneously activates the language center. It’s this combination of activation that helps improve your fine motor skills and sharpen your memory. One study even found that calligraphy therapy can help enhance cognitive function in older people with mild cognitive impairment.
Practicing calligraphy can also encourage calm after a busy day. Art is often utilized in therapy, so it isn’t surprising that the repetitive motions and creative exploration of calligraphy can help relieve stress. Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese monk and one of the most influential living figures in Zen Buddhism, practices calligraphy as a form of mindfulness. If it works for the monks, the odds are that it will work for you, too!
Unlike other hobbies, calligraphy doesn’t require a specific list of expensive tools or a lot of supplies. All you need to get started is ink, paper, a nib, and a pen. And, while your initial costs may be small, your potential profits are anything but. Expert calligraphers can sell handmade greeting cards, framed inspirational quotes, or other personalized gifts. Highly-skilled artisans can even take on large-scale projects or commissions like murals, or pursue logo development for other businesses.
What Are the Hardest Parts of Learning Calligraphy?
While calligraphy is considered a fairly accessible art form, there are a few challenges that you may run into while learning the craft. Those common challenges are listed below, along with a few tips and tricks to help you pass these hurdles.
Having Patience and Writing Slow
As previously mentioned, having patience when learning calligraphy will help to minimize frustration. Practicing patience can also be helpful as a mindfulness tool. Writing too quickly is a common mistake made by novice calligraphers. It’s likely you write quickly in your day-to-day life, but crafting a beautifully written script requires a little more finesse. Slowing down and focusing on each individual stroke will help you perfect your form and become an expert in no time.Â
Mastering Cursive
Did you know that schools stopped teaching cursive in 2010? Modern life rarely requires cursive writing, so you may have never learned to write in cursive or have forgotten what you learned in school. Cursive requires vastly different techniques—from how you grip your pen to the strokes you make—so having a firm foundation in cursive will make learning calligraphy a lot easier. Try journaling in cursive or taking your school or work notes in cursive to practice!
Transitioning from Basic to Advanced
Another common struggle for those new to calligraphy is how to level up. Many practitioners find the beginner levels easy to master but then struggle to advance their skill set. The solution here? Dedication. Being consistent in your practice will help you to become an expert calligrapher faster. Purchase a few calligraphy workbooks and set aside time either a few days per week or every day to fine-tune your skills.Â
Key Takeaways
- Calligraphy is an ancient creative practice that transforms written language into artistic masterpieces.Â
- There are many benefits to learning calligraphy, like improving your fine motor and memory functions, boosting your mental health, making new friends, and even creating new side hustles.Â
- Calligraphy has its challenges. Having patience and learning to write slowly, mastering cursive, and practicing consistently to transition from beginner to expert are all hurdles that you may have to deal with.
Looking for a more intensive learning experience? CourseHorse can provide private lessons and private group classes that can be personalized to fit your needs. Virtual Calligraphy Workshop is ideal for groups of 10 or more and can include all your supplies, at your request. Reach out through the website to find out about options for in-person, online, and private group sessions.