Traditional Calligraphy & Illumination Courses

Learn a range of traditional calligraphic styles and illumination with gold leaf.

Nadezhda

Nadezhda earned a BA degree in Calligraphy from Roehampton University in London in 1999. She worked as a professional calligrapher for 20 years, and taught calligraphy extensively throughout the South East of England before moving to the South West. 

Her public works can be viewed at Croft Castle in Herefordshire, and Caerhays Castle in Cornwall. The majority of her commissions are held in private collections.

A 6 week course in Classical Calligraphy

Using traditional metal, broad-edged dip nibs, this course will be focusing on mastering the Foundational Hand.

Commencing 21st April 2pm-4pm

Course Description

This 6 week course offers a thorough introduction to the beautiful art of calligraphy through the study of Foundational Hand. Suitable for beginners and those wishing to refine their skills, the course provides a structured and disciplined approach to learning this classical letterform.

Calligraphy is NOT dependent on ‘good’ handwriting, these disciplines are separate from one another. Calligraphy constructs each letter in separate strokes, so if you have so-called ‘bad’ handwriting, you may dicover that you are an excellent calligrapher!

I have worked as a professional calligrapher for over twenty years, and my teaching begins where all good lettering begins — with sound technique. Students will learn to use a metal, broad-edged nib with ink, developing control, consistency, and confidence from the outset.

Foundational Hand is built upon the geometry of the square. Over the duration of the course, you will learn the underlying principles that govern this script: how each letter is constructed, how it relates proportionally to the others, and how rhythm and harmony emerge from these relationships. We will cover line spacing, nib sizes, and the subtle but crucial spacing between letters and words.

Each week builds progressively, allowing skills to settle and strengthen. The course concludes with a simple, personal project using a text of your own choosing — an opportunity to apply what you have learned in a thoughtful and considered way.

All materials are provided  £120.00

Commencing 21st April and running weekly from 2pm – 4pm at Nancy Potter House, Topsham, Devon.

To register for this course, please fill out the registration below, AND CHECK YOUR SPAM/JUNK FOLDERS for my replies.

Registration form

Please be sure to check your spam/junk folders for my replies and details of how to pay in order to secure your spot.

To read the full Terms & Conditions of Payment, Registration & Cancellation, please click the button below.

© All Rights Reserved 2026 Nadezhda Lisak

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