Class Detail

Hands shown creating letters with metal nibbed pen.

The Art of Beautiful Writing:

An Introduction to Traditional Calligraphy & Modern Hand-Lettering

Dates: Two workshops available July 16 and 23
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Class designed for: Ages 18 and up
Location: The Jackson Avenue Center Storm Shelter
Instructor: Anna Lauren Heavener
Price: $65 each, $15 discount if you register for both

Have you ever admired beautifully addressed envelopes, heirloom recipe cards, or the eye-catching lettering on greeting cards and event signage — and wondered how it’s done? These beginner-friendly workshops introduce the art of decorative handwriting through two distinct but complementary styles: traditional pointed-pen calligraphy and modern brush lettering.  

Each workshop is a complete, stand-alone experience. Participants may register for one or both. No prior experience — and no prior class attendance — is required. Participants who would like to register for both Workshop I and Workshop II will receive a $15 discount on the registration fee. 

All materials are included, and each participant leaves with both practical skills and tangible work created in class.  

Register

Workshop I

Traditional Calligraphy: Technique & Elegant Script  

This workshop focuses on the fundamentals of classic pointed-pen calligraphy — the style often seen on formal invitations and archival documents.

Participants will:

  • Learn a brief history of traditional calligraphy
  • Become familiar with metal-nib tools and ink flow
  • Practice proper pen grip, posture, and stroke control
  • Understand pressure, contrast, and rhythm
  • Complete foundational stroke drills
  • Construct a lowercase alphabet
  • Practice forming names and short phrases
  • Create a small, finished piece using traditional script

This session emphasizes structure, precision, and the mechanics behind beautiful writing. Participants leave with a strong technical foundation and the tools to continue practicing at home.

Workshop II

Modern Hand-Lettering: Style & Creative Design    

This workshop explores contemporary brush lettering and expressive design — the style commonly seen in modern cards, signage, and social media art.  

Participants will:

  • Learn the key differences between traditional calligraphy and modern hand-lettering  
  • Use a felt-tip brush marker to create thick-and-thin stroke contrast  
  • Practice brush control and faux calligraphy techniques  
  • Experiment with stylistic letterforms  
  • Learn simple layout and composition principles  
  • Design and complete a finished project such as a greeting card, decorative quote, or small sign  

This session emphasizes structure, precision, and the mechanics behind beautiful writing. Participants leave with a strong technical foundation and the tools to continue practicing at home.

Supplies Included in Each Workshop

Every participant receives materials to use in class and keep, including: 

  • Metal-nib calligraphy pen  
  • Felt-tip brush lettering marker  
  • Practice worksheets  
  • Tracing guides  
  • Project materials  

If you need assistance related to a disability, please contact outreachcomm@olemiss.edu or 662-915-3121.