Lessons & Workshops

I have taught countless classes and workshops over the years through local guilds as well as one-on-one private lessons. I taught regularly at Fairchild Tropical Garden in Miami, Florida and was one of the instructors for I.A.M.P.E.T.H. (International Association of Master Penmen and Teachers of Engrossing) in 2013. 

I teach the pure classic scripts as written by the penmen of the late 1800s using the Zanerian Manual.

(Modern calligraphy... not so much. I like it a lot but I'm old school!)

About "Modern" Calligraphy

The whimsical, casual and loose lettering style known as "modern calligraphy" can be seen everywhere these days. This style of calligraphy has been around a long time (brush lettering for example) but this more informal style has catapulted in popularity over the last decade or so. 

To it's credit, it has created a renewed interest in calligraphy among the younger generations. I think this is wonderful! The distinctive look of modern calligraphy is free-spirited and gives the feeling of less “discipline”, although certainly it takes discipline to achieve! The modern calligraphy movement has established a solid and no doubt permanent place in the calligraphic arts.

However, as fun and wonderful as modern calligraphy may be, I worry that the fundamental, disciplined and historically accurate scripts of the Golden Age are in danger of being forgotten. Many new calligraphers pick up a pointed pen and ink and go directly to the modern approach without learning anything about the history and letter forms of the past where the modern style “sprung” from. I hope there will be a resurgence of interest in the “classics“ and I am proud to be a part of that movement! 

Keeping the History of Penmanship Alive

I‘m fascinated by the "Golden Age of Penmanship" which was a period in the United States that lasted roughly from 1850 to 1925. Some of the most stunning specimens of lettering and offhand flourishing, ever made was born in this era from the hands of master penman who worked with hairline producing flexible steel nibs dipped in ink; the very same I use today! 

It is my passion and deepest desire to keep the flame of this beautiful time in our nation's history burning through continued study and teaching to private students and in workshops. Although I will dive right in to writing during your first lesson, I will also emphasize the history as well throughout my teaching, making sure to verbally and visually reference the masterful exemplars of the past, especially in the best Zanerian Manual. There is no better way to learn the pure art of the pointed pen!

Please contact me for more information on lessons and workshops.

Cheers & Flourishes!

Monica

One-on-one lessons

I offer lessons for either Spencerian or Copperplate (Engrossers Script) for an hourly rate of $75 if you come to my home (minimum two hours for first lesson) 

I can also travel to you for an additional fee if it is within my travel zone.

Workshops

I will also be announcing workshops soon, so if interested please email me your information so I may keep you posted on upcoming location and dates.

If you already have or wish to form a group for a workshop, my minimum is 5. We can speak about it and coordinate the date and time that best suits the group and when and where etc... please email me to set up a time to speak and I will give you more information.

Private Parties

Corporate Events

Weddings

Bridal Showers

Baby Showers

Company branding/marketing

If you would  like to hire me for your event as an on-site calligrapher either as performance artist, to entertain your guests or for calligraphy services (or a combination!) I am happy to be of service! I come fully prepared... table and all (unless you have a specific desk or area you need me to be). Minimum is 2 hours at $100 per hour rate. Certain paper products requested may be an additional charge.