In a world dominated by keyboards and touch screens, the Oceanside Library recently invited residents to slow down and reconnect with the beauty of handwritten art through a special program focused on classic calligraphy.
“The Art of Classic Calligraphy,” led by local artist and Friends of the Oceanside Library President Kathy Schirrmacher, offered participants a hands-on introduction to the traditional craft of artistic lettering. The Jan. 5 program drew strong interest, filling all 25 available spots and leaving a waiting list of would-be attendees eager to learn.
Schirrmacher, who has practiced calligraphy for decades, guided participants through foundational techniques, emphasizing the patience, precision and creativity behind the centuries-old art form. Attendees practiced classic strokes and letter styles that have historically been used in manuscripts, formal invitations and decorative artwork.
“Calligraphy is beautiful,” Schirrmacher said. “It’s the art of drawing letters. I hope people left wanting to continue learning.”
Her own journey with calligraphy began early. Schirrmacher received an award certificate in fifth grade with her name written in elegant script, sparking her curiosity and determination.
“I thought, ‘How cool — I think I can do better’,” she said.
Schirrmacher taught herself by purchasing instructional books, pens and practice paper. She built a lifelong love of art and strong handwriting skills developed during her years in Catholic school.
Before the class, Schirrmacher carefully prepared materials to support different learning styles. She created calligraphy alphabets in both uppercase and lowercase for each participant and personalized large index cards by writing each attendee’s name in calligraphy. During the session, she demonstrated each letter step by step on a whiteboard, explaining the process while showing the finished result.
“By saying each step, showing each step and letting them practice, everyone could learn in the way that works best for them,” she said.
Participants were encouraged to continue practicing beyond the workshop by purchasing their own supplies and starting with something simple — writing their names repeatedly, just as Schirrmacher did when she was learning. The class served as a beginner-friendly overview designed to inspire further exploration rather than mastery in a single session.
Schirrmacher has been doing calligraphy nearly her entire life and uses those skills daily through her home-based business, Lil’ Peanut, where she creates personalized gifts. She added that the positive response from the session has prompted plans for future programming, including a decorative lettering class scheduled for February and potential offerings tailored to tweens.
Library staff praised the enthusiasm shown by attendees and the value of preserving traditional creative skills.
“Oceanside Library is proud to offer programs that preserve and celebrate creative traditions,” library staff said in a statement. “Calligraphy is a wonderful art form that is not as commonly practiced today, and we were thrilled to see patrons engaged and excited to learn something both timeless and meaningful.”
Oceanside Library programs are open to residents with a valid library card and are designed to promote lifelong learning through accessible and enriching experiences for all ages.
