Did you know Roald Dahl had his pencils shipped in from America? The yellow Dixon Ticonderoga 2HB – dubbed the world’s best pencil by the manufacturer – matched the yellow lined paper he wrote on behind the yellow door of his writing hut. If you’re noticing a bit of pattern here, yellow was his favourite…
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Exploring Roald Dahl country
Writing: Making Your Mark at the British Library
A landmark exhibition exploring 5,000 years of writing opens at the British Library in London this month – with smaller, pop-up exhibitions around the country. From carved stone inscriptions, medieval manuscripts and early printed works to beautiful calligraphy, iconic fonts and emojis, Writing: Making Your Mark will deconstruct the act of writing and consider its…
Wedding Calligraphy: Helen and Alex Tribe
Newlyweds Helen and Alex Tribe sent me a gorgeous thank you card recently after commissioning my calligraphy skills for various aspects of their wedding last summer. I couldn’t resist asking DIY bride Helen why she wanted to incorporate calligraphy into their plans and the difference it made to the day. Here’s what she had to…
CLAS Exhibition on way to Sunderland
The Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society (CLAS) is bringing its 25th anniversary exhibition to the University of Sunderland. A Way With Words features almost 100 pieces of work showcasing the best of contemporary calligraphy and lettering arts. It has been curated by world-renowned calligraphy, Dr Manny Ling, who is also programme leader for MA Design…
The Cultural Spring: Winter 2019
I’m getting my pens out for The Cultural Spring once again. It’s always a thrill to see my workshops listed alongside lots of other amazing workshops led by local artists in Sunderland and South Tyneside. The latest programme features glass fusing, ceramics, textiles, jewellery making, creative writing, photography, upcycling furniture, theatre and performance skills and…
Goal setting for 2019
It’s that time of year again! A fresh page, a clean slate – a full year of possibility stretching out in front of you. I also feel like this in September, when the kids go back to school, but January is traditionally when resolutions are made (and pretty swiftly broken). My business resolutions, on the…