Barb Peshkin will be demonstrating the art of Calligraphy, which literally means beautiful writing. Before the invention of the printing press some 500 years ago, it was the way books were made. Each copy was handwritten by a scribe, working in a scriptorium. The handwriting was done with quill and ink onto materials like vellum or parchment. The lettering style applied was one of the period book-hands like rustic, carolingian or blackletter. Today, there are three main types or styles of calligraphy: (1) Western or Roman, (2) Arabic, and (3) Chinese or Oriental.
You may know Barb Peshkin from her many years as the Art Instructor at JBHS. Today, Barb teaches for the Council for the Arts in Chambersburg as well as other sites in the area. She first learned calligraphy in college and has since developed a heightened interest in the craft through a medieval reenactment group that she has become involved with. Mrs. Peshkin received her Art Education degree from Edinboro University and has taken graduate courses from the University of San Diego, and Carnegie Mellon University.
Barb has been practicing Calligraphy for about 15 years. She describes the process, "Learning calligraphy takes much practice. After choosing a calligraphy style, it should be practiced until letterforms and spacing are worked out for what is to be lettered. There are several types of pens available from felt tip, to metal dip pens. Each has it's own characteristics. Lines should be ruled on the good paper in pencil, then the project is ready to be lettered." Barb warns, "There should be no distractions, such as children or pets or food nearby." Finished projects can be framed, or made into cards or many other display items.
Mrs. Peshkin offers lessons as the opportunity arises. Artwork by Barb, including paintings, can be purchased in Chambersburg or with the Cumberland Valley Craftsmen Guild. Join us this Thursday to watch this meticulous artist demonstrate her skill as a Calligrapher at 7:00 p.m. in the St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Basement, located at 8 Linden Avenue, Mercersburg.
The cost is $2.00 per person and free for students. Light refreshments will be served. Parking and entrance are around the back of the church. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated. RSVP to mcfainfo@gmail.com or by calling 328-4777.
Next Art For Thought Demonstration: Thursday, June 17 featuring Swing Dance
No comments:
Post a Comment