World Calligraphy Day

By FPL_SyraA

While we often conflate cursive writing and calligraphy, the former (while still pretty) is intended to make writing a smoother, quicker process. Meanwhile, the latter is meant to produce decorative lettering. Calligraphy is more than just writing—it’s an art!

It’s also history. Some calligraphy dates back as far as 200 BCE, and the art is practiced all over the world. One of the most famous calligraphy pieces in China, Lantingji Xu (蘭亭集序),is attributed to calligrapher Wang Xizhi (c. 303 – 361).  

Retrieved from: Wikimedia Commons: Lantingji Xu

Calligraphy is also prevalent in Islamic cultures, where it is often used to adorn mosques, like the famous Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque in Turkey pictured below.

Retrieved from: Wikimedia Commons: Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

One of the most renown Western calligraphers is Edward Johnston, who is regarded as a father of modern calligraphy.

Retrieved from: Wikimedia Commons: Edward Johnston

Today, many people use calligraphy to decorate their journals and notebooks, make custom decals and labels, and personalize or improve their writing—and you can, too! If you are interested in learning more about this beautiful art form, the Frisco Public Library has resources to help:

World Calligraphy Day, opens a new window

You can also create your own vinyl stickers in calligraphic font. Check out our Vinyl Cutter resource links to get started:

Frisco Library.com: Vinyl Cutter, opens a new window

Good luck, and happy writing!