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Interim: Beginning Calligraphy with Sister Nicholas Marie

12/29/2024

St. Cecilia Academy’s Interim program enables each student to explore her talents and interests whether in the classroom, by traveling, or by taking an internship. As Saint Cecilia is the patroness of the school, some of the on campus courses offered are a celebration of various art forms. “Beginning Calligraphy” brings visual art to the written word and allows students to learn the common brushstrokes and styles. We asked Math Department Chair, Sister Nicholas Marie, about the class and how she trained as an artist.

Calligraphy is a visual art related to writing and has been used for centuries to elevate the aesthetic of the written word. The class is designed as an introduction to lettering. Students will be introduced to foundational and gothic hands, work with ink and real nibs, and create a simple one-page calligraphy project.

In some regions of the world, calligraphy is considered a major art form in the same league as painting and sculpture. What Sister likes most is the creative process that combines art and meditation. She says, “Calligraphy and illumination is both an art and form of meditation and is a great example of harmony between faith and beauty.”

She began doing calligraphy and illumination as a novice 19 years ago and continues to practice most weeks. Sister states, “Since for me calligraphy is a form of meditation on the Word of God, I tend to do it on Sundays and holidays.”

Overall, Sister intends for students to learn new skills and use their creativity to produce memorable artwork that has an underlying purpose. “I think active engagement in art is important and fulfilling,” she said. “It also helps in finding harmony between faith and reason.”

Make sure to check the St. Cecilia Academy social media channels the week of January 6 to see some of the students’ completed artwork.

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