Calligraphy Layout and Design
2 or 3-day Workshop with Denis Brown
 Beginner to Intermediate level

Join us for a 2 or 3-day workshop led by renowned calligrapher Denis Brown.  Please note that attendees should have prior experience with at least one broad-pen script, including familiarity with capitals and lowercase letters.

During the workshop, you will learn layout techniques essential for creating traditional calligraphy pieces. Explore how to design with sensitivity to the textual meaning, incorporating contrast in styles, weight, and colour.

Through hands-on exercises, discover the art of achieving centred and asymmetric layouts, which can add a unique touch to your designs beyond the typical flush-left and ragged-right margins. You will also gain insights into typographic concepts such as rivers and widows—and how to effectively avoid them in your work. Receive valuable feedback from Denis to help refine your chosen styles of lettering.

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to enhance your skills under the guidance of a master. Don't miss this chance to elevate your design and layout techniques in the world of calligraphy.

Requirements for the classroom include a Digital LCD projector capable of projecting from a laptop (Apple MacBook) at full HD 1920 x 1200 pixel resolution, along with HDMI connection and cable.

For student supplies, please bring:  

A selection of short texts with accreditation information - Broad-edged calligraphy nibs in various sizes (brands such as Brause, Mitchell, Speedball, or Tape) - Pen-holders suitable for your nibs - Any additional calligraphy pens or brushes you like - pencils and  sharpener - A long ruler (circa 60cm) - Eraser - Layout pad or practice paper (A2 size or 11" x 17") - Quality paper for final projects (e.g., Saunders Waterford, Arches Aquarelle, Fabriano Artistico and Coloured papers like Canson Mi-Tientes) - Gouache paints in multiple colours including black, white, and primaries - Palettes and brushes for mixing paints - Finely powdered gum sandarac and a bristle brush to apply it - Water jars or containers - Masking tape - Scalpel or craft knife and a cutting board - Scissors - Glue stick.