The Calligraphy Society of Ottawa

Image of University of Ottawa Golden Book used to record the names of Honorary Degree recipients. Work done by Doris Wiozek.

This two-hour class is designed for beginners and those who wish to try a new script. Uncial is my favourite script. It has no upper or lower case, it is all one size. Usually written at 4 nib widths, with letters close together. In this introductory class, we will keep things simple. The lettering can be embellished, however we won’t explore that.

Supplies needed: a broad edged pen of your choice, ink, ruler, pencil, paper, eraser. The exemplar will be provided.
The cost will be $20 for the class.

Our November 4th, 2022 meeting is an invitational to all newcomers to experience the extensive skills and experience of veteran calligraphers in this unique group presentation.

In our annual Swap Quote each June, CSO members interpret a single text in their very best calligraphic style. It is one of our most popular meetings; all are welcome to participate, including newcomers.

For your swap quote, you can write all or part of the quote, as you see fit. Bring your work to the June meeting and be ready to describe the process in creating your work, after which a random draw will decide which other participant's rendition you take home in exchange.

This year’s quote is:

Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.
-- Ralph Waldo Emerson

We had a Zoom meeting this June and will be mailing our works instead of handing it in person. It was a fun meeting nevertheless!

Our first virtual holiday card swap 2020

While we cannot have regular meetings due to pandemic, we offer you a virtual gallery table showing off the works done by our members while in confinement.

If you wish to show your work(s) here, please send them to membership@ottawacalligraphy.ca along with your name and the title of your work.

A picture of the Annual Exhibit at the Shenkman Art Centre during the months of March and April

Photographs taken from the CSO's "Foundational with a Taste of Romans" course in Spring 2017.

Four CSO Members demonstrated different styles of lettering in pop-up studios at the daytime February 2016 meeting.

The CSO hosted a workshop with guest calligrapher Amity Erwin Parks in March 2016.

A variety of works from throughout the 2015-2016 year, including our swap quote and exhibited pieces at the "4 Guilds 40 Years" exhibit in Toronto, as well as various photos from our monthly meetings.

Dedication pages of the War of 1812 added to the Memorial Chamber this year, done by Shirley Mangione and Debbie McGarvie.