Mindful Calligraphy & Lettering workshops with Mellor & Rose in Lancashire/ Yorkshire/ Merseyside

POST 05 // MINDFULNESS

Mindful Calligraphy with Mellor & Rose

ONE WAY TO SLOW DOWN

by Lucy Mellor

01 / 05 / 2019

Mindful Calligraphy & Lettering workshops with Mellor & Rose in Lancashire/ Yorkshire/ Merseyside

At our workshops we start from the very beginning - covering the basic fundamentals of this modern yet versatile lettering style. We learn the entire upper and lower alphabets then move onto forming words and onto stylised phrases in a variety of design layouts. Which all demonstrate the possibilities with your lettering!

During our relaxed workshops, we have been told people find learning calligraphy relaxing and begin to slow down, clearing their mind of the mundane - calligraphy is a form of practising mindfulness without consciously acknowledging it!

Practising mindfulness comes in a whole variety of forms but with calligraphy, the main areas are naturally encouraged making a pretty good duo. Taking 10, 15 minutes or 2 hours a day here and there - to sit down with a pen in hand lettering up a design or tag can actually be your way of practising mindful calligraphy. Practising needn't be for hours on end seeking this inner peace everyone is after. Take and make time for well-being and see how you can learn something new and actually rather aesthetically pleasing. 

As a general overview, mindfulness focuses on being in the present moment more often, taking it steady and self-appreciation, no need to worry about the laundry - all about the now and what you’re doing in this present moment. 

This works great with calligraphy as learning to letter requires a fair bit of concentration to get the hang of this new skill and if you’ve ever tried your hand at calligraphy you’ll know that you physically have to slow down your pace or the pen will be too scratchy on the paper - so it has a great dual purpose. Also, as this is something new and calligraphy can’t be mastered in afternoon, we take a laid back approach to this art form - nice and easy is a good way to be when we're lettering.

Take pleasure in seeing your development and your own style come through in your designs - no need to be 100% precise with exact repetition and mirroring of each and every letter as that’s what a computer is for! Enjoy your mindful calligraphy and you'll start to unwind. 

Mindful Calligraphy & Lettering workshops with Mellor & Rose in Lancashire/ Yorkshire/ Merseyside

MINDFUL CALLIGRAPHY QUICK TIP

When sitting down and getting your pen and ink out - have something in mind, doesn't have to be drawn out exact in your mind but a glimpse of something you’re keen to get down on the paper - lay out your spacing and then simply have a go. Focus on the pen gliding on the paper (this gives a great indicator of your pace and how you’re angling the pen too).

• get comfortable 

• both feet on the floor

• steady your breathing

• cup of tea nearby 

Posted in Calligraphy, Learn Calligraphy.

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