In this workshop we will address the expressive possibilities of the contemporary calligraphic line starting from the patterns of the Greek lowercase script in a particular form called “bouletée.” In the initial phase of the course, we will engage with the fascinating study of the Greek-Byzantine cursive letters. It will not be necessary to know their alphabet but rather to observe their rhythm, their shapes, and above all their magnificent ligatures.

Next, we will use the Greek forms and rhythms to develop your own Latin alphabet, which will be useful to us in the second phase, and which will involve more creative and experimental aspects to explore the calligraphic line and its continuous fluidity. A line that will also develop through a more automatic writing connected to the flow of one’s own thoughts and body then varying its rhythms and speed related to different emotional states.

At the end of the course the works produced will be assembled into a very simple book structure. Due to its characteristics this workshop is open to everyone and therefore participants are not required to have prior knowledge or experience.

When: 

September 11 – 14, 2026

9 am – 4 pm each day 

Supply List: 

A detailed supply list will be provided closer to the event date.

Workshop Registration Details:

The workshop is now fully subscribed. However, given that it is almost a year away, we expect there may be at least one or two registrants whose plans will change. We are therefore keeping a waiting list and encourage you to sign up for the waiting list if you would like to take this class. If  you are at the top of the list and are unsure whether you can attend the class, we will leave your name as first on the list and go to the second on
the list and so on. If you agree to take a place in the workshop you must prepay your fees.

• Cost: Estimated between $400 (minimum) and $500. A deposit of $500 is required, with a refund payable once all workshop costs are determined (after the workshop). There is a slight possibility further funds (over $500 could be required by each participant.)
• Non‑refundable unless your spot is filled from the wait list.
• Once expenses are finalized, the final participant fee will be determined after the workshop..

Please note:

• By registering and paying for this workshop, you acknowledge that you have read this information and agree with it.

About the Instructor:

Massimo Polello, based in Turin, Italy, is recognized as one of the most prominent Italian calligraphers today. For over fifteen years, he has explored both classical and contemporary approaches to calligraphy, integrating them into art and graphic design. His work has been exhibited worldwide, and he has led workshops across Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. In recent years, he has participated in major international competitions and presented his calligraphy in both solo and collective exhibitions.
 

Important Notes:

When paying by credit card, our software provider Yapla covers the service charge of 3.9%, so that the BVCG receives the full workshop fee. In doing so, they allow members to donate to Yapla, to support their work as a non-profit organization helping other non-profits. Watch for the purple "Modify" link at the bottom of the screen at the Payment step. Click on "Modify" to delete the donation or change the amount. Yapla has been great to work with and is a Canadian company. If you have to cancel and your spot is filled from the wait list, your refund will not include any credit card fees.

Questions?

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