Tamer Ghoneim did a wonderful job sharing his love of the parallel pen and blackletter with 9 lucky attendees. The 2 days flew by. I thought sitting in front of my screen for that long would have been more exhausting, but we had breaks to stretch and chat and a lunch hour to get away and rejuvenate with lunch and a good walk (at least I walked - I’m assuming others did other things to move about in preparation of the next segment!)

Tamer presented a easy “stripped-down” version of blackletter with his clever guide sheets to help the beginner analyze what makes blackletter - blackletter. I’ve had some experience with blackletter and this analysis has already helped me to break-down and make other more “fancy” versions more approachable.

We worked on a lower case alphabet on Saturday as well as learned a great many ins-and-outs of the parallel pen. On Sunday, we took a look at an entire majuscule alphabet as well. Again, this stripped-down version made other styles of gothic (Fracture, Textura, etc.) more approachable and I’m finding them easier to execute in some follow up investigation.

At the end of the 2 days, Tamer demonstrated how he created works in a circle. I found Tamer’s very basic version “come alive” when written in a circle. Then we were encouraged to try fun methods to “fill in” counter space or add interesting flourishes or areas of color; all with approachable, fun tools like gel pens and iridescent inks. Who doesn’t love a little sparkle?

I think that was the best part - for me anyway - giving myself permission to play. Tamer presented us with very solid ideas based on historical letters, principles of good design and color - but in an approachable, fun, experimental way. If you missed this workshop, I highly recommend taking a class with Tamer!

Offer your own review or ask questions in the comments below.