Modern calligraphy is a calligraphic style that does not follow the strict rules of traditional calligraphy. It is more free-flowing, fluid, and relaxed, with less emphasis on rules and structure. It’s inspired by the script styles of ancient cultures, but it takes those ideas into new territory. Simply put, in this practice of calligraphy, you tend to have more creative freedom than with traditional calligraphy.

How can you tell if the calligraphy is modern?

Modern calligraphy is free-flowing.

Modern calligraphy tends to be free-flowing and more relaxed. The letters give the impression of a soft, fluid motion. Stylistically, there can be less contrast between thick and thin strokes than in traditional calligraphy, which tends to have dramatic contrasts between thick and thin lines.

It is fluid.

This calligraphic style is fluid and free-flowing, with a looser feel. It’s less controlled, more accessible—a little bit like handwriting.

In traditional calligraphy, you have to work hard to achieve results specific to a particular style; but with modern calligraphy, letterforms are more relaxed. You can take rules and techniques from traditional styles and adopt them in your practice or you can simply practice rules of uniformity and consistency in letters and allow yourself the room to explore your style without the restrictions of style rules. For example, you can practice consistency in letter size and spacing only and experiment with baseline manipulations (bounce lettering), the size of ascender and descender loops, etc.

It is more relaxed.

The relaxed nature of modern calligraphy lends to a more personal writing style. It may sound odd to say that modern calligraphy is about creating your own style—but it’s true! There are very few rules for this type of lettering. You can write whatever looks appealing to you as long as your letters are legible and consistent and with practice, your style will evolve into something unique and beautiful!

It is accessible

You don’t need to go back to school to learn modern calligraphy. You can do it from home, and you don’t even have to spend money on classes or materials (unless you want to). You can read books and watch videos online, or take a course through an online class.

Online courses are especially great because they offer personalized feedback and instruction. You’ll be able to try out your skills in real-time with others who are also learning at the same time as you! And if you prefer the comfort of your own home, there are plenty of options for practicing modern calligraphy without having to leave your house. The best part about it? You don’t need much more than some ink and paper! However, if you have an iPad, you can use that as well.

Conclusion

The beauty of modern calligraphy is that it can look very different from one person to the next. Your creative style may call for bigger loops and smaller letters or you may lean toward more chunky playful letters. Whatever you gravitate toward, at the very least, keep your letters consistent for legibility purposes and allow yourself the freedom to explore the rest.

Getting started can be intimidating, but don’t worry, learn the art with my brand new ebook, A Step by Step Guide to Modern Calligraphy.