Dreaming In New York

Class Description —

Over the past three years, David Grimes has been developing a modular system for the 19th and 20th century American calligraphic hand known as Engrosser’s Script.

Unlike historical systems that one might encounter in textbooks and lettering manuals from the past, David’s system is built around securing techniques through hypothesis and experimentation. This ‘building up’ of logical knowledge removes a lot of the mystery around why Engrosser’s Script is the way it is. It takes the power away from the instructor to say “That’s just how it’s done” and encourages students to draw their own conclusions from the conversations in class.

This three-day intensive course covers everything from understanding the differences between Engrosser’s Script (American Roundhand) and Copperplate (English Roundhand), to learning the 26 minuscule and majuscule forms, to combining letters into words using complex letter-spacing models. There are no prerequisites for this class, but some experience with the oblique penholder will be a valuable asset. Beginners may find the pacing on days two and three to be quite challenging, and more experienced penmen may find day one to be rudimentary. It is encouraged that attendees participate in all three days, as the logical snowball begins on day one.

This class is beginner and intermediate friendly. 🙂

If you cannot attend all three days, please send David an email at david@masgrimes.com about your special circumstance and he will be happy to work with you to secure you a spot in the weekend portion of the class (considering a placement evaluation.)

Concepts covered in class:

• History of Engrosser’s Script
• Identifying Historical Models
• Tool & Material Manipulation
• Foundational Principles
• Letterform Assembly
• Wordform Assembly
• Letterform Permutations
• Rhythm While Writing
• Preparing Guidelines and Layouts

Required Materials —

• Oblique Penholder w/metal flange
• Hunt 101, Leonardt Principal EF, or Gillott 303 or 404 nibs.
• Walnut OR Sumi ink. No iron gall.
• Printed guidelines. Your paper choice.
• Pencil and a metric ruler.
• Water bottle, snacks, etc.

Contact —

If you’re not sure that this class is appropriate for you, send a high-resolution scan of your recent Engrosser’s Script practice to david@masgrimes.com. We’re more than happy to review your work previous to registration.

David’s workshop was inspiring – filled with information and nuance that made me reflect on my own script and what could be changed and improved. Most importantly, it was not daunting. David’s gentle guidance made me want to put into action what we were learning.

I highly highly recommend taking David’s workshops especially for those interested in studying ES!

– Kirby Leung (Hong Kong, March 2018)