Calligraphy Making a Comeback in the Digital Age
In a world dominated by screens and keyboards, the art of calligraphy is experiencing a resurgence. For the first time in many years, people are turning to pen and paper to create elegant, flowing strokes under the guidance of calligraphy teachers like Laura Edralin in London.
The deliberate and steady nature of calligraphy is drawing in both beginners and seasoned artists, offering a break from the fast-paced digital world. With digital fatigue on the rise, the act of writing by hand is becoming a joy for many.
The surge of interest in calligraphy is evident in the numbers. More than 10,000 customers signed up for lettering classes online at Michael’s, the largest arts and crafts chain in North America, between January 2023 and March 2024. This is nearly three times more than the previous year, indicating a growing trend.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are also playing a role in popularizing calligraphy. Posts with #calligraphy have increased significantly, and top calligraphy influencers have millions of followers, showcasing the beauty and skill of this ancient art form to a global audience.
Rajiv Surendra, a calligrapher and actor, has seen the impact of calligraphy firsthand through his popular how-to videos. He believes that in today’s digital age, people are craving the intention and care that comes with writing by hand, allowing them to bring a personal touch to their words.
The accessibility of calligraphy is another factor contributing to its appeal. Anyone with a pen and paper can try their hand at this art form, finding a creative outlet and a sense of calm in the rhythmic strokes of upstrokes and downstrokes.
Studies have shown that working with your hands, whether through writing, knitting, or drawing, can improve cognition and mood. Writing by hand has been found to engage the brain more than typing on a keyboard, leading some states to reintroduce cursive into their curriculums for intellectual development.
As technology advances, the beauty of calligraphy remains unmatched. The love, patience, and time that go into creating something by hand cannot be replicated by computer-generated letters, making each piece unique and cherished.
In a world where a text message can be quickly forgotten, the lasting impact of a handwritten card or note is undeniable. Calligraphy is not just an art form, but a way to connect with others on a deeper level, bringing beauty and meaning to everyday communication.
