Meet the latest Artist of the Month... Ladylen! Read on to find out more...
What is your background and when did your passion for Calligraphy and learning begin?
As a small kid, I already love Arts and writing. I am someone who writes a lot, as a class secretary, I think I inherited my Mom’s beautiful penmanship. That's why the teacher always ask me to write on the blackboard. I remember… my passion in Calligraphy started when my teacher from Grade school wrote on the blackboard and when I saw it, I was really amazed, the cursive is perfect, I said, “I want to be like her, I also want to write like that. “I was inspired by her, as I grow older, I do different letterings on my notebook, get creative and fall in love with Arts and lettering so much.
Even when I graduated and started working, there’s always inside of me that I want to learn different scripts, seeing signage in the street, the alphabet and everything, I notice every letter. I told one of my friends that I want to learn Calligraphy, I saw the elegant strokes of every artist online. That feeling of admiration and inspired by their works. I started asking how much if I studied a calligraphy course but it’s a little expensive for me. Then the pandemic came, I had anxiety, I really want to learn Calligraphy, that eagerness, the determination. I think this is the time I started watching videos online and doing self-taught, I almost gave up because I really want to learn immediately but I knew I had to take it slow and be patient. I do it step by step, practicing every day. I can see that I improve little by little and what matters is, it also helps me on my healing journey, the calm and mindfulness it gives. Seeing improvement is very rewarding.
Who / Where do you take your inspiration from?
I take my inspiration from everyday life, Bible verses, quiet moments, nature, I am especially inspired by words that carry emotions and have beautiful meaning. I am also inspired by other Calligraphers online, some of them were also my friends.
What in your opinion is the hardest and the most rewarding parts of working in a creative industry?
For me, the hardest part is that creativity doesn’t always follow a schedule, but deadlines remain constant. The most rewarding part is I can express myself, my ideas come to life, inspire other people and share the talent God gave me.
Do you have a favourite style?
To be honest, I don’t limit myself to one style. I value growth, flexibility and experimentation in creative work.I’m the type of person who really wants to explore and learn new things. So I practice with different styles. And I love them.
What are the most exciting projects you have worked on and what are you working on at the moment?
The most exciting project I have worked on is making some envelope invitations, it was my dream to do an envelope addressing. It's really elegant, and for me it was memorable too because it was my brother’s wedding. I’m making personalized stuff like mugs etc. it is special because they reflect care and creativity, making it meaningful. I also crochet and paint.
What is your best calligraphy tip, trick, or tutorial?
My Calligraphy tip is to Breathe, Relax and Enjoy. Don’t pressure yourself when writing, Lift the pen between strokes
How does your work relate to your everyday life?
I write and draw inspiration from my daily experiences and nature, and creating helps me appreciate life, myself and other people more deeply.
What are your favourite tools to use?
I enjoy using tools that allow me to express my emotions through each stroke such as Calligraphy pens, nibs and watercolour as well.
What would your advice be to people new to the creative industry and any tips on how to get started?
I would say everything takes time, it’s about being devoted to the craft until your hand finally catches up with your vision. Have the commitment to keep on practicing even when the progress feels slow.
To see more of her beautiful work you can follow her Ladylen (@artsssylady) and remember to follow @manuscriptpenco on social media where we will be showcasing her work throughout the month!
