Members: $120
Non-members: $145
25 student maximum with waiting list
All levels welcome – be comfortable with edged pens and a few alphabets
NEW EXTENDED DEADLINE to register is September 13, 2024
To Register: Online registration available below or send a check payable to Colorado Calligraphers’ Guild, PO Box 102672, Denver, CO 80250-2672. Members have priority registration until August 11, then the workshop is open to the general public.
Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please note that registration is non-refundable unless your spot can be filled from the waiting list or a substitute provided by the enrollee. For a list of workshop policies, go to https://www.
This is an online Zoom class with full interaction with the instructor during class time. The supply list and handouts will be sent later after you sign up. The zoom link will be sent a few days before the start of the workshop. This workshop will be recorded for future access by participants.
Workshop Description
Amongst our lettering art endeavours, we have the opportunity to express words we choose and add multiple dimensions to that expression. Whether it is abstract or a simple design a tiny thread of text can create contrast and visual impact. During this class I will demonstrate how to write in “threads”, a very loose tiny style of text which can tie elements of a piece together. These threads can be a “whisper” in a piece, reflecting the theme or be an added design element.
Session One: We will focus on creating the thread writing working both in pencil and ink. We will focus on the individual elements that are the basis of this style and how to create a rhythmic and expressive line. We will then create some abstract marks with ink. I will show some options for backgrounds on to which text will be added. Students will determine what words they would like to work with.
Session Two: We will begin with creating some backgrounds and/or a single design element around which we will add text. Students will choose text they wish to add to the pages and then determine what kind of background or image will be the inspiration based on the text. I will demonstrate techniques that could be used.
Session Three: We will begin the session by combining the “thread” writing with the chosen text, and then find ways to create visual contrast and interest ensuring that the process enhances the final design. The goal is to have these additional threads of text be the elements that bring an additional “bit” that can bring life to the words.
About Connie
Connie Furgason was raised on a farm in Southern Alberta where her love of nature and the vastness of the prairie is expressed in her work. Her mother was an accomplished artist, gardener and creative soul.
She grew up with the scent of turpentine as her mother painted long into the night after she and her three brothers were asleep. Those influences sent Connie in many artistic directions. She started teaching calligraphy and related arts in 1982. Connie travels across Canada and the US teaching for guilds, private studios and has been part of the faculty at several international lettering arts conferences.
Connie loves the written word and uses her own text in her work expressing it through a variety of different mediums including watercolour, acrylic and mixed media. Her work has been published by art distribution companies and her originals have found many lovely new homes in Canada and the US.
She loves sharing a variety of art techniques with students of all levels and seeing the joy experienced as they discover their own artist within. Connie loves the prairie, the mountains, the ocean and especially the gift of her four children and four grandchildren. Currently, she lives in Lethbridge, Alberta Canada, just 45 minutes from the Rocky Mountains, with her husband Kevin (another creative soul).
“Find joy daily in the simple offerings….in the splendour of nature, cherished moments with family and friends and the enchanted pathways waiting to be discovered as art exploration expands our view of what lies at our feet.” Words by Connie