Polyrhythmic Calligraphy | Denis Brown

This workshop will help you develop more complex rhythms than possible with even-spaced traditional lettering. Historical western calligraphy does not generally exhibit polyrhythmical qualities, and therefore offers little insight in this respect, although cursive script from arabic and oriental traditions offers a wealth of possibilities. Denis will also suggest influences from other sources: The compressions and rarefactions of any waveform undulate in a natural way that may point to an organic and polyrhythmic feeling for space within writing, that can variously open and contract. Music will also be a reference, where polyrhythms, syncopation, and counter melodies will each be analyzed and appropriated into calligraphic composition and performance.

What students may accomplish/get from this class:
A deepened sense of letter structure, spacing and rhythm in calligraphy.
A better understanding of fluency and performance in writing.
An understanding of Polyrhythms; an aspect of contemporary
calligraphy that is cutting edge.
A sense of excitement to participate in the expansion of
calligraphic form.

Denis' Website

Denis' Newsletter- in which he has included a more detailed article about Polyrhythmic Calligraphy

Not a Day Without a Line | Laurie Doctor

It is possible to develop writing through all of the senses. In this class, we will explore writing visually, by copying texts that we are not familiar with, and using some drawing techniques. We will explore how all the senses can be engaged: sound, smell and touch play a significant part in enlivening the quality of line.
We will listen to poetry and music, and write by touch. This workshop is part of a series that investigates the ways that the universal elements of line, pattern and texture, can be reflected through writing, drawing and painting.

We will make a portfolio of our paintings. All levels of experience are welcome.

Laurie's Website