Performative Calligraphy Workshop

‘Three fingers write, the whole body labours’: A Performative Calligraphy Workshop

Directed by Elizabeth Moody, Kathryn Rudy, and Irene van Renswoude

When: Wednesday 09 July, 14.00-16.00
Where: University House: Great Woodhouse Room
This Event is Free of Charge

Medievalists often study pictures of scribes at work but have little conception of the physical labour involved in scribal practice. This workshop will give an introduction to the posture and discipline of the scribe.

Each participant will receive two golf pencils, a pen, and paper. We will offer a short, illustrated introduction to medieval scribal practice and some informed speculation about training.

Participants will then be invited to adopt a posture that reflects medieval scribal practices, according to images of scribes at work, as well as archaeological evidence from scribes’ burials. Elizabeth, an accomplished calligrapher, will guide them through the production of familiar and unfamiliar scripts, starting with simple strokes and moving toward letterforms. Rather than focusing on creative expression, participants will experience the physical discipline and corporate nature of medieval writing. Participants will learn about ‘corporate scripts’, i.e., those written by multiple people in a style so similar that their resulting forms are indistinguishable. (In short: it’s not about you and your personal style!) Participants will understand how writing not only formed letters but also shaped the body and social dynamics of scribes.

Images of medieval scribes at work will enhance the session by providing context for the physical discipline required by script and material (pen and parchment). This is not a traditional calligraphy class, but an exploration of script as a performance where participants form part of a collective scribal body.

All necessary materials will be provided.

This workshop can only accommodate a limited number of participants. Places will be allocated on a first-come, first served basis.