Spencerian with Michael Sull
Michael Sull told us he wanted to talk about how he came to enjoy calligraphy, the history of lettering, and where he learned his skill. In the old days, penman were not paid to make their letters pretty, they were paid to write as many words as possible. Flourishing was used only for certain occasions. Michael Sull was taught by Paul O’Hara. He had some peculiar teaching methods: He always started each session with Michael by shadow boxing.
When you write you’re creating magic that will last forever.
Mr. Sull told us about how different penman wrote to each other and all kept scrapbooks of their communications. Really loved that. I remember the days when we used to send cards, letters, invitations, recipes, etc. Using snail mail when I have time to keeps this tradition alive. There are few things as sentimental and personal as a hand written note, imo.
I had never done much Spencerian until about 2 weeks ago. I have always admired Spencerian. Finding a good book on Spencerian was challenging. Learning in person really helps when it comes to calligraphy. This class opportunity came up through the local Calligraphy Guild. I jumped at the chance to be taught by a Master Penman.
When I first started calligraphy I got into the modern style–that I do still like–but my favorites have always been the classics: Copperplate, Black Letter, & and now Spencerian. Mr. Sull asked me what style I preferred… when I told him Copperplate he said: “I’m sorry”. He had one of those sense of humors you like in the elder generation. I do not know if it is just how I was raised, but whenever people older than me talked I have always enjoyed listening to them. They are the windows to a world we will never live and I have always wanted to hear about it.
Writing is like dancing on paper. Spencerian is based on curves and movement.
Advice on Spencerian from Mr. Sull:
- Use your body as the reference. Allow your hand to move the paper. Moving the paper this changes the reference.
- In order to emphasize, use Capitals or embellishments.
- Flourishing is a space filler. Yes, they make your writing prettier, but they also balance your piece.
- Look at the space between the lines you’re making. These open spaces help form the design you’re making.
- Flourishing should not intimidate you. The finished piece looks more complicated than it really is.
- Nothing is more personal than someone’s name. If you need the perfect gift: give someone their name in calligraphy.
The goodies I received from taking this class:
- Michael Sulls’ Spencerian Book (pictured below)
- The best paper for penmanship (he recommended two types of 2lb paper & a cushion sheet. He gave everyone his favorite type samples)
- Book of matches. Really cool tip: burn new nib tips rather than spit/gum arabic (something I was taught in my first class)
- My name in Spencerian (pictured below)
Items I purchased from Michael Sull:
- Oblique nib holder with Nikko G nib $15
- McCaffery’s Ink $8
- Spencerian Practice Set sheets $18
I won’t ever forget this unforgettable experience. Hope you enjoyed!
Warmly,
Lauren
