Calligraphy; Art of tying two worlds!

How I picked this!

The hardest part was picking a skill to learn. With so many intriguing options to explore, deciding on a single skill to focus on for EDTC 300 ePortfolio felt overwhelming, like standing at a crossroads with endless paths ahead. Have you experienced this before? Oh, sure. Who hasn’t?

The abundance of choices left me torn between practicality and passion, unsure whether to pick a skill for career growth or personal fulfillment. Honestly, I thought of changing tires which would be a real sweat for this weather with a low of minus 30ish.
Finally, I made my mind! I’m starting my journey into the beautiful art of calligraphy. It’s something I’ve always admired—the elegant strokes, the timeless scripts, and the way a single letter can feel like a work of art. After some thought, I’ve decided to dive in and give it a try!

There are so many reasons I’ve been drawn to calligraphy. From personal perspectives, it feels like the perfect way to slow down and bring mindfulness into my busy days. I love the idea of focusing on each letter, letting the rhythm of the pen guide me, and finding a sense of calm in the process.

I’m also excited to explore my creative side. Calligraphy is a blend of art and handwriting, and I can’t wait to experiment with different tools, styles, and techniques. Whether it’s modern lettering or traditional scripts, I’m eager to learn it all!

From career perspectives, by sharing this skill, teachers can inspire students to explore their artistic sides. Calligraphy provides opportunities to teach about the cultural significance of scripts and writing styles from around the world, fostering diversity and cultural appreciation in the classroom.

Ultimately, with everything being done by technology, I hope to use this skill to create meaningful things—personalized cards, decorative quotes, or even just beautifully written notes for loved ones. I think there’s something magical about bringing a personal touch to words, and I’m looking forward to seeing where this journey takes me.
Here’s to new beginnings and beautiful lettering!

Where am I now?

I’m not entirely new to the world of calligraphy—I have a background in Persian calligraphy, an art form steeped in centuries of tradition and beauty. Persian calligraphy emphasizes fluidity, elegance, and precise control over every curve and dot, requiring a steady hand and a deep appreciation for rhythm in writing. While I’ve spent time practicing this intricate style, I’m now venturing into new territory: modern and Western calligraphy.

Transitioning from Persian to modern calligraphy feels like learning a different dialect of the same language. Persian calligraphy thrives on continuity and flowing lines, while modern calligraphy often incorporates playful variations, bold flourishes, and a more casual aesthetic. My challenge lies in unlearning some of the rigidity of Persian script and embracing the freedom and experimentation that modern styles encourage.

Outline

My plan is to build on the skills I’ve developed—control, patience, and attention to detail—while pushing myself to explore new tools, strokes, and creative approaches. The precision of Persian calligraphy has given me a foundation, but this project is all about discovering how I can evolve as a calligrapher by stepping into a different tradition and finding my own unique blend of styles.

• Set Clear Goals:
  • Build on my foundation in Persian calligraphy by mastering the basics of Western styles, including modern calligraphy and perhaps Gothic lettering.
  • Explore the contrast between the fluid, continuous strokes of Persian calligraphy and the structured, often segmented forms in Western styles.
  • Create a final project that combines elements of both traditions, such as a quote blending Persian and Western calligraphic techniques.
• Gather Materials:
  • Transition from the traditional Persian reed pens (qalam) and ink to modern Western tools like brush pens, pointed nibs, and markers.
  • Collect practice guides specific to Western calligraphy, focusing on script styles like Copperplate and Modern.
• Establish a Practice Routine:
  • Dedicate time to warm-ups and drills to get accustomed to the lighter, more varied pressure techniques of Western calligraphy.
  • Alternate practice sessions between Persian and Western calligraphy to observe how one informs and contrasts with the other.
  • Gradually increase complexity, starting with individual letters, moving to words, and then creating complete compositions.
• Track Progress:
  • Document my learning journey weekly by photographing or scanning practice sheets, paying attention to improvements in consistency, spacing, and creativity.
  • Reflect on the differences I notice between Persian and Western calligraphy, such as stroke dynamics, letter shapes, and the creative liberties each style allows.
• Seek Feedback and Inspiration:
  • Share my progress with online communities focused on both Persian and Western calligraphy to gain diverse perspectives.
  • Follow artists who have explored multiple calligraphic traditions to draw inspiration for blending techniques.
• Showcase the Results:
  • Use the skills I develop to create a piece that celebrates the interplay of Persian and Western calligraphy—perhaps a bilingual artwork or a mixed-style decorative quote.
  • Post my progress and reflections on my blog, sharing how each tradition enriches my understanding of the art form.