ANST - The Few, The Proud, The Calligrahpers

[Aslyn Crystyn]

Baroness Philippa Rookhaven beautifully stated many things which
are hereby snipped with the exception of:

> One last thought. It sounds like we need to train more calligraphers. We have
> had a lot of success in training illuminators because we have a relatively
> easy way for people to get their feet wet and then develop skill by painting
> scrolls. Can we come up with a similar way to encourage people to try calligraphy?
> 
: D  I've tried to find an answer to that question for many years
now.  May I share what I have learned?

I think the best way to encourage new calligraphers (and
illuminers) is to consistently show how much fun it really is,
and how beautiful it can be.  

It is my opinion that the main difference between teaching new
illuminers and calligraphers concerns the learning curve. 
Beginning illuminers can understand the basic techniques rather
quickly, and can immediately see the fruits of their labors used
for the good of the Kingdom.  From there, the illuminer can
readily gain mastery over materials and technique.

With beginning calligraphers, the process is more inward and much
longer.  Those beginning calligraphers who are fortunate to enter
into a initial relationship with an existing scribe are gleefully
shown the basics:  we discuss hands, stylus position and strokes,
and we begin to discuss looking at source materials.  And, we try
to find the hand that is best suited for a new scribe (that may
take some time).  However, after that, the new scribe must (on
their own) begin a long, long journey of practice, practice,
practice. He or she must find their own unique hand and style,
and the existing scribe can only assist to an extent....the new
scribe must devour books and practice.  

We do begin to give new calligraphers new projects (invitations,
Charter designs, etc.), and we work with them to achieve that
goal.  And there are those scribes who can magically do a large
scroll in an afternoon, and those (like me), who...well...takes
their time.  : D

But calligraphy is an art that is developed slowly...almost
religiously...and I believe it is an ever evolving process.  I
have heard many a seasoned calligrapher relate stories of how
personal calligraphy becomes;  how personal heartaches are
reflected in a certain piece;  how calligraphy bares your soul. 
I used to laugh that off, but the longer I work, the more it is
true.  Just about every scroll I've done in the last year and a
half or so has a teardrop in it.  

I have also noticed that new calligraphers _really_ like to feel
comfortable and confident about their work.  As a result, they
like to practice and build on their skill levels before diving
into special projects.  Like I said:  it becomes a personal art.

A unique twist to our situation is that, unlike what was done
typically in period, Society scribes are asked to learn multiple
hands.  Imagine the time that it takes to learn (or even master)
one hand, only to start all over again on another.  

I would surmise that calligraphers feel a special bond and a
unique joy in the service they provide, and the journey they have
all made.  

Bn. Philippa, I thank you for your kind words and thoughts.  I,
and I am sure all calligraphers and illuminers, am always open to
new ideas.  If you have any suggestions as to how to better
assist new scribes, I would love to talk with you!  Really!!


HL Aslyn Crystyn
Steppes, Ansteorra
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