Cherrell Avery
Learning is facilitated through a variety of methods from demonstrations and visual study to discussion and group exercises. Plenty of individual guidance is given and learning through practise is encouraged.
What will students gain if they come on one of your courses?An enjoyment and appreciation of the rewarding art of calligraphy will be gained. By gaining skills and confidence using tools, materials and techniques appropriately, students will be able to create their own finished pieces.
Are there any particular techniques/processes you use in your teaching?Using a broad edged dip pen with ink, students study and reproduce a style of calligraphy based on an historical source. In addition, students explore colour and design.
What inspires your own work?The visual expression of words is my inspiration and the tactile quality of pen on different surfaces - gold, vellum and hand made papers. I draw on many sources such as textile design, pattern in nature and illuminated manuscripts to create my contemporary lettering art.
Where did you gain your training? Experience?
BA Hons, Cardiff, PGCE Bristol, BA Hons Calligraphy, Roehampton, SurreyUniversity, SSI Advanced Training Scheme.
Teaching experience:20 years experience, in schools, adult education, community groups. Workshop facilitator at The British Library, Royal Academy of Art, Bank of England Museum, MODA and CLAS Festival.
Is your work in any public or private collections?Holocaust Memorial book displayed at The London Assembly Commercial work in public arena (logos, design for print : M&S) Commissioned and exhibition work in private collections in UK and abroad.
Books and articles:Recent articles in The Scribe (SSI publication) and The Edge(CLAS)
Professional groups and societies:Fellow of SSI (The Society of Scribes and Illuminators)
Fellow of CLAS (Calligraphy and Lettering Arts society)
Member of Oxford Scribes President and co founder of NLLA (North London Lettering Association)
Member of EFO ( East Finchley Open, art group)