Western calligraphy is the art of writing that originated in Western countries, using mainly the Latin alphabet as its medium. It is the design and execution of letters and words with writing instruments. Today, Western calligraphy finds diverse applications, from functional inscriptions to works of fine art. It is typically used for private purposes, such as wedding invitations, logo designs, and memorial documents.
Calligraphers emphasize the appearance of letters over other factors like ease and speed. Students may spend years learning the craft and the unique loops and flourishes that make up letters. According Đỗ Huy Hoàng, one of Vietnam’s most well-known calligraphers, Western calligraphy attracts Vietnamese young people with its aesthetic value.
Like most other art forms, western calligraphy requires few items to start.
- A calligraphy pen
- Water-based ink
- Paper
With the right tools and instruction, anyone can learn calligraphy. However, constant practice is needed to develop the skill.
Do Huy Hoang, Calligrapher said: Calligraphy is the art of patience. If you are not patient, you can't practice calligraphy. The art of patience is ‘Zen’. When you are patient, you develop peace of mind. Calligraphy helps you to relax and shut off the outside world for a while.
In recent years, the art of western calligraphy has become popular in Vietnam. It attracts those looking to learn new styles of writing. On the weekend, many young people attendHoàng’s workshops to practice western calligraphy. After spending some time with letters and symbols, they have a new way to express their feelings.
There are various styles of Western calligraphy. Lettering styles are distinguished by aesthetic and formal differences: the shapes of letters, the weight of strokes, and the roundness of corners. Students can learn the specific forms of letters and symbols, or add common flourishes to the ends of letters to make a piece of traditional writing more fancy.
"Calligraphy is more than the art of beautiful writing; it is both an art and a science. If you want to master it, you must learn about manner and practice hard. You must think about the purpose of writing, rather than just trying to write beautiful letters. Without a purpose, letters will not reflect the art of calligraphy." Do Huy Hoang added.
Western calligraphy is a great hobby to try. With some basic techniques, you can even study online and practice at home. Calligraphy is not difficult to learn; however, it requires patience and daily practice to master.
