Have you ever wanted to try calligraphy? This is your chance to learn the very basics of the italic hand, a style created in the 14^th century, used ever since, and the basis of the italic fonts we have on our computers. It is one of the most versatile hands calligraphers use and can be tweaked to fit any occasion. This class will introduce you to the tools, skills, exercises, and basic forms of italic calligraphy. There will be lots of visuals and information to inspire you to work beyond the class. Cheryl will contact students prior to class.

Cheryl Jacobsen has been teaching calligraphy for over thirty years. She is Adjunct Professor of Lettering at the University of Iowa Center for the Book where she leads several semester-long calligraphy classes as well as a hands-on history class analyzing medieval manuscripts. Her freelance work varies widely from design and lettering to assemblage & one-of-a kind books both modern and historical. She is the author of “A Modern Scribe Views Scribes of the Past” in Scraped, Stroked, and Bound: Materially Engaged Readings of Medieval Manuscripts, Brepols 2013. Her work has been seen internationally in shows, lectures and publications including Letter Arts Review, Alphabet and Bound & Lettered.

Level: Beginner