The Fine Art of Calligraphy

Two successive sessions with a break

Carolingian forms the basis of lower case alphabets, including the italic hands and printed ‘Roman’ type. These Carolingian forms were developed by a Scriptorium, which was set up at Tours under Alcuin of York. As it became necessary to copy texts, this new style of writing grew ever more useful.

Through the spread of Charlemagne’s empire, its influence was pervasive and it arrived in England late in the tenth century. But, one hundred years ago, it was the decisive forms of the Ramsey Psalter, (c. 980) that provided the inspiration for Edward Johnson’s ‘foundational hand’. This became the main teaching script of calligraphy right up to this day.

In calligraphy, the practices of resting the attention where the tip of the pen meets the writing surface, and being in the present moment are essential. This can be regarded as a spiritual discipline.

This course shows not only the beauty of letters and the spatial relationships, but also the stillness and quiet mind available during practice.

Nine weekly sessions.

Next course starts: 11 May

Times 9.30 am – 10.45 am and 11.15 am to 12.30 pm

Presenter Ulrich Boden

Fees are £45 for one or two courses with concessions for full time students, students currently enrolled in the Philosophy or Economics courses, and non-earners.

Enrol by phone – 020 7034 4000 or on arrival for first session