If you were in Westwood last April (2023) you may have been fortunate enough to stop in and see our exhibit, “Hands Through Time” at the Westwood Public Library. True to our commitment to nurture learning, a lecture about the history of calligraphy, given by Diane Desautelle, was offered as the educational component that coordinated with the exhibit. Books on the topic of calligraphy and hand lettering were pulled from the library’s collection and put on display for the event. The Masscribes Board later discussed that some of their favorite books were not owned by the library and voted to give them as a gift. The Board chose: Written Letters by Jaclyn Svaren, Foundations of Calligraphy by Sheila Waters and The Art and Craft of Hand Lettering by Annie Cicale. Paula Howard volunteered to create handmade bookplates. In May of 2024, the books and bookplates were delivered to the library for processing. A date was set in August for an official presentation of the books accompanied by a calligraphy demonstration open to Westwood Public Library patrons.
On the day of the Masscribes calligraphy demonstration, Paula Howard, Cathy Lauinger and Diane Desautelle arrived early to set up the Community Meeting Room, excited to share their passion for lettering. The gifted books were put on display along with some Masscribes brochures. As the curious public began to enter, our members took to the four corners of the room to demonstrate various techniques for dip pen lettering with both pointed and broad nibs, as well as modern calligraphy with markers. A station for creating bookmarks was a fun attraction for young and old alike. Visitors came from as far away as New Hampshire to try their hand at calligraphy. (Really!!) Each and every one of them expressed their excitement and gratitude for having a live person help them take the beginning steps toward better lettering and calligraphy. Our event was covered by Hometown Weekly. Check out their article here:
https://hometownweekly.net/westwood/calligraphy-workshop-at-wpl/