Calligraphy -- class taught by Ian the Green (David Roland) for Niles (MI) District Library (July 2014)

from Website (www.nileslibrary.com): David Roland is a student and teacher of medieval calligraphy. He began his path into historical calligraphy in 2005 in the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA), a worldwide not-for-profit-educational organization. In the SCA he goes by the name Ian the Green. Ian has received awards and placed highly in several competitions, including several first places, not only for his calligraphy but also for his medieval ink making skills. He will be teaching a three-part series: July 10, 2014 @ 10:00 a.m. Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid of Calligraphy - How easy it really can be. The first class is split into two 45-minute sessions. In the first section we will explore the terminology as well as the tools and materials of a calligrapher. In the second 45- minute session we will dip our pens in ink and learn how to use and move our broad tipped pens on paper. If you have a calligraphy set, feel free to bring it. July 17 @ 10:00 a.m. Uncial Script Learn a medieval script of writing known as "Uncial." This script was developed around 300 A.D. and is still in use today. It is simple round script that can be very breathtaking. It is easier to learn than some other scripts because there are no capitals. If you have a calligraphy set, feel free to bring it. July 24 @ 10:00 a.m. Making Iron Gall Ink. Recipes for this ink have been found from 200 B.C., and it was in regular use into the middle of the 20th century. Knowing how to make your own ink was a fundamental skill for the medieval scribe. Bring clothes you don't mind getting stained.