Aha Calligraphy With Fran Strom: Pointed Brush Writing

Fran Strom introduces viewers to the ancient Chinese art of "aha" calligraphy in this step-by-step overview and guide to general techniques and specific character sets. After a brief discussion of the history of calligraphy, Strom talks about the necessary supplies (namely brushes, paint, and paper), and demonstrates the seven basic Chinese brush strokes (dot, horizontal, vertical, upward, downward, etc.). Guest calligrapher Allen Wong shows many ways of writing the character for "eternity," which highlights the basic strokes. After talking about the Roman letter forms, Strom gives a letter by letter demonstration of the basic strokes adapted to the A-Z Roman alphabet, and concludes with examples of other "typefaces," such as uncial and italic. In addition to the excellent, close-up instruction, Strom shows examples of many practical modern projects viewers can do with calligraphy, such as poems, greeting cards, stationery and envelopes, advertisements, logos, or even whole books. A companion 45-page workbook is referred to during the tape, and can be purchased for an additional $9.95 (we did not see the workbook). Highly recommended. (Available from: Video Textbooks, 341 Mowetza Dr., Ashland, OR 97520; 1-800-6284541.)