Denise Lach

Calligraphy can be a very personal pathway to explore a multiplicity of design concepts. In this striking and original book, now available in paperback, images of the natural world are turned into a rich source of inspiration for a variety of calligraphy projects. Renowned calligrapher Denise Lach invites us to look closely at details and textures, expanding our powers of observation and finding creative ideas in the world around us. Using a range of writing tools and techniques, she takes a playful approach to written script, encouraging readers to look beyond legibility and use letterforms as building blocks, freely interpreting natural motifs to create beautiful calligraphic images. This is an invaluable sourcebook for both enthusiastic beginners and experienced calligraphers.

Not only do scripts and alphabets form bridges between cultures, but their history and the stories they tell are the perfect springboard for calligraphic experimentation. From India to Ethiopia, Tibet and beyond, Denise Lach has travelled widely in the world of script. Here, she documents complex and simple characters, playful shapes and vibrant colours, which she then translates into her own visual art. She demonstrates the exciting design possibilities offered by script: you can repeat, turn, mirror and rotate letters; you can also experiment with rhythms, contrasts, colours and line widths. In addition to calligraphic techniques, Lach introduces examples from printmaking, fabric printing, collage making and digital techniques. As illustrated by its beautifully photographed works of art on paper, stone, fabric or ceramic material Journeys in Calligraphy will take you to many surprising destinations.

Aimed at anyone wanting to learn more about the increasingly popular art of calligraphy and lettering, this practical introduction showcases many fine examples in the V&A's collection, and will give readers a new understanding and appreciation of letterforms. Fifteen beautiful step-by-step projects each take their cue from a different technique or tradition. Detailed instructions lead readers through the essentials of classic calligraphy styles such as Gothic and Italic lettering, on to vintage-inspired signwriting and chalkboard design and even into the elegant, image-led worlds of illuminated capitals and zoomorphic calligraphy. Designed by leading calligraphy teachers and practitioners, the projects include a handmade booklet, banner, menu, gift tags, a monogram stamp, greetings cards and more. Each project offers tips on how to take steps towards developing one's own designs. This book is packed with inspiration and practical advice to enable anyone to find new creative direction through the timeless arts of calligraphy and hand-lettering.