When Liz Zhang discovered calligraphy on Instagram in 2017, it looked to be a stress-relieving hobby to help her decompress from work.
She was captivated by short videos of artists drawing just one word, “neatly, precisely, and elegantly,” she said. What started as a hobby for Zhang has today turned into engravings and corporate events for big names like Dior and Prada, and workshops for all ages.
While cursive writing is now de-emphasized in many Canadian and U.S. schools — a move that’s sparked plenty of debate — calligraphy, an art involving decorative handwriting with a pen or brush, is emerging as a niche hobby fuelled by bloggers and social media how-to demos.
What is modern calligraphy?
Zhang’s upcoming Sunday, April 16, workshop on Edmonds Street will teach beginner-friendly modern calligraphy. Modern calligraphy is anything that strays from the traditional form, generally incorporating more contemporary lettering. To Zhang, it's about letting participants find a unique approach, "because everyone will have their own style," she said.
Her workshops attract a broad range of people, from 60-year-olds to elementary schoolchildren. According to Zhang, it's a great hobby for moms because they can practice while waiting in the school pick-up line.
“In this day and age, almost everything is communicated digitally by text or email,” she said. "There is still something special about putting pen to paper.”
More information about the Burnaby workshop is available on Zhang’s website, calligraphiewithliz.com.
Introduction to Modern Brush Calligraphy Workshop (in-person)
Introduction, warm-up exercises and lessons will be included.
When: Sunday, April 16, 1–3:30 p.m.
Where: 7380 Edmonds Street, Burnaby
Cost: $102 and 50 cents. Buy tickets online at eventbrite.
