A big thanks to Stephanie Smith for sending me this link to a video about Jake Weidmann. This 4 1/2 minute video shows Jake talking about calligraphy, penmanship, and the importance of using pen and ink for personal creativity and memory. He wants people to “fall in love with writing by hand.”
There are currently 12 master penmen in the entire world. Jake Weidmann is the youngest. The biography on his website notes that “Master Penman” is a title given “to those who are of the highest proficiency in multiple disciplines of calligraphy. Through this certification, Weidmann has sworn himself to the traditions of old through the fine art of letter writing.”
It’s an enjoyable, inspiring video – have a look.
You’ll also get to see Michael Sull, a member of IAMPETH – The International Association of Master Penmen, Engrossers, and Teachers of Handwriting. Michael Sull is also a Master Penman and an authority on Spencerian Script and Ornamental Penmanship.
“IAMPATH” is actually IAMPETH. :)
So many of the comments on that video are just sad. There are so many who not only don’t understand what’s amazing about what this man does, but think he’s a pompous ass, bragging about what he can do. I don’t get that at all. Sadly, there are a lot of people under 40 who haven’t a clue about handwriting/cursive, much less calligraphy, and think it’s just dumb old prehistoric nonsense. Sigh.