The Bristol Art Museum will host a hands-on workshop, Experimental Drawing with artist Pamela Seymour Smith Sharp, on Wed., Jun 10, from 12 to 4 p.m. This class takes a different approach to working with letterforms. It begins with an introduction to single-stroke-written Roman Capital letters, using the “Ideal Letters” developed by Fr. Edward M. Catich as a point of reference. Fr. Catich was a calligrapher, teacher, and scholar whose study of Roman inscriptions shaped modern understanding of how classical Roman Capital letters were originally written. Participants will look closely at how the letters are constructed such as the stroke order, proportions, and subtle geometry that give them their balance and clarity. From there, the session moves into more open territory. Rather than focusing on perfect replication, participants will be encouraged to experiment by developing their own alphabets and working through the movement and rhythm of drawing letters by hand. Each person will leave with a finished piece created during the workshop. “Roman Capitals can look deceptively simple, but they require a trained eye and a steady hand,” Sharp said. “In this class, we start with that structure, then loosen it a bit. The goal isn’t perfection, rather it’s to explore what happens when you really engage with the form.” Sharp studied with Father Catich in the 1970s and brings a long perspective to the work. She recalls the discipline of those early lessons and how they continue to shape her approach today. That balance between structure and freedom is at the heart of this class. The workshop is open to visual artists, designers, and anyone interested in letterforms. No prior experience is required. Organizers note that this is not a traditional calligraphy class, but a drawing-based exploration of written forms. Cost: $55 for members, $65 for non-members Supplies (participants should bring):
Space is limited. For more information or to register, click here.
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The Bristol Art Museum is inviting artists to take a closer look at the familiar moments and scenes that often go unnoticed as part of a new summer exhibition, “Everyday Wonders,” opening June 16 at the Rogers Free Library. The deadline to submit artwork is Mon., May 25, and artists selected for the exhibition will be notified by Fri., Jun. 5. The exhibit, which will remain on display through July 29, invites artists to reflect on the small but meaningful details that shape daily life in Bristol during the summer months, which could include neighborhood gatherings, children playing outside, evening walks, flags lining the streets, sunlight on the harbor, and the traditions surrounding the town’s famed Fourth of July season and the nation’s 250th anniversary. Jen Charleson, a Bristol artist whose work is known for blending layered textures, organic forms, and influences ranging from meditation to sacred geometry, will serve as the juror for the exhibit. Charleson also operates Plumb Gallery in downtown Bristol. “There’s something special about artwork that helps people see familiar things in a new way,” said Jenn Tappero, Bristol Art Museum at the Rogers Free Library Committee member. “So much of summer in Bristol is tied to memory, tradition, and community. We’re hoping artists will capture those moments that feel personal, honest, and connected to everyday experience.” The Bristol Art Museum’s gallery space at Rogers Free Library has become a gathering place for exhibitions that highlight both emerging and established regional artists while making art accessible to the wider community. Submissions are open to artists aged 18 and older. Eligible artwork includes painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, collage, and fiber arts. All entries must be original, ready to hang, and limited to a maximum size of 18 by 24 inches. Three-dimensional work will not be accepted for this exhibition. Artwork may be submitted here. Artists may submit up to two works. Entry fees are $20 for one submission or $30 for two submissions for Bristol Art Museum members. For non-members, the fee is $25 for one submission or $40 for two. |
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