Introduction
Calligraphy is the art and technique of writing glyphs, words, or other symbols with a pen in a freehand style. A calligraphic work can be simple or awe-inspiring. Drawing on the past 600 years of history, this fun activity can teach you how to write by hand, gain skills that digital technology cannot provide, and bring your work into the present age, all while also providing opportunities for creativity, self-expression, and an outlet that leaves you feeling fulfilled.
Why is Calligraphy Popular
Calligraphy is a beautiful art form that is gaining popularity to the point where it has become trendy with today's pop culture. Calligraphy is continually evolving and growing into more than just the scribbles on certificates and wedding invitations.
History of Calligraphy and its Evolution
Many different cultures throughout the years have practiced calligraphy. It first appeared about 3000 years ago in Egypt, where priests carved hieroglyphs into stone and papyrus to provide magical or spiritual powers.
The Benefits of Calligraphy
Calligraphy can effectively convey information or even just a greeting, but it is mainly used to make artwork and decorative pieces. There are numerous benefits to practicing calligraphy, and a few common ones include:
- Developing Hand-Eye Coordination: By tracing the letters, you can strengthen your hand-eye coordination while also enhancing your hand skill through practice.
- Strength, Endurance, and Coordination: Calligraphy does not require much fine motor control, making it a good course to start if you have any past or current issues with continuous hand movements.
- Creative Expression: Calligraphy offers an outlet for creative expression as you not only work with the material at hand but also your imagination and vision.
- Presentation of Information: Calligraphy can convey information and ideas uniquely or combine different artistic styles into one work.
- Retain Mental Abilities: Studies show that the ability to write by hand can aid in retaining other mental skills, such as thinking and remembering.
- You can visit our online store to purchase materials for practicing calligraphy, as we provide numerous aiding tools for the practice of calligraphy.
Styles and Types of Calligraphy
There are numerous styles and types of calligraphy, but a few common ones include Swing, Foundational, and Nastaliq.
- Swing: This style is a modern-day variation of the English Roundhand style, which can be traced back to the seventeenth century. It is calligraphic but with a relaxed flow that lends itself well to being written quickly when necessary. It has double strokes for each letter and longer ascenders and descenders than most other calligraphy styles.
- Foundational: This style is a variation of the English Roundhand adapted to the Arabic calligraphic style. It has a more angular script than other styles, which lends itself well to unique designs and beautifully composed works.
- Nastaliq: This style is identical to the Arabic Naskh Script, developed in Egypt and Iraq around the 8th century. It has angular, angular, and vertical strokes, similar to the other calligraphy styles. Variations of Nastaliq include Thuluth, which is extremely ornate and identical to the Initials style but with a more simplified script.
Conclusion
Using repetitive movements and different techniques, you can develop calligraphic skills that may not be possible through digital means. Practicing calligraphy can bring you back to when handwritten notes and messages were the primary forms of communication. It can help you develop a better understanding of the art form and also allow you to get creative with your writing. Visit our online store today.
Baci, Chiara
