affiliated groups day
Previously known as CLAS Regional Day, the CLAS Affiliated Groups Day is not confined to a fixed location or annual occurrence.
CLAS endeavors to foster connections with a myriad of groups scattered across the country through the Affiliated Groups Day initiative.
This initiative serves as a platform for members to not only engage in nearby events but also to immerse themselves in the unique cultural and geographical landscapes of different regions.
By participating in these gatherings, members have the opportunity to forge new relationships, exchange ideas, and deepen their appreciation for the rich diversity that defines our collective calligraphic community.
image courtesy of Sue Smith from 2017 Regional Day
2017 in Canterbury
On 23 September 2017, we found ourselves at Westgate Hall, a community and leisure centre in the middle of Canterbury. Cinque Port Scribes put on a splendid show dedicated to Medieval Times and Calligraphy: demonstrations, exhibitions of work, with suppliers, talks and a keynote lecture by Dr Janina Ramirez. To add to the fun all the stewards were dressed in medieval style. Demonstrators included Frances Liddiard (Pigments), Julia Baxter (Sandwich Magna Carta and ‘Illuminated Letters’), Jan Turner and Els Van Den Steen (Dry Brush Lettering), Jenni Burrows (Felting), Life in Medieval Times with The Benedictines (Helena Bryant and Phil Coates) and Medieval Book making with Alex Summers and his wife. The suppliers were Calligraphity (Books), Scribblers (calligraphy equipment) and Friends of Bangladesh (Hand-made paper).
Lingfield Scribes and the Fresh Start Calligraphy group both exhibited examples of their work, and we had a display from the CPS Envelope Exchange. In addition, Canterbury Cathedral Archives loaned a display of the history of Calligraphy. Dr Janina Ramirez’ book ‘Julian of Norwich’ was also on sale (which she was happy to sign).
The afternoon session started with medieval music by Rough Musicke, followed by Alex Summers, who gave an amusing and illuminating talk on the process of creating books in medieval times and demonstrated various items of equipment used in their making. Rough Musicke returned to the stage for another short but enjoyable session, this time with some hilarious audience participation.
The highlight of the day was the keynote address by Dr. Janina Ramirez. Janina is an Oxford academic and Art Historian, a Broadcaster who appears regularly on BBC 4 in art and historical documentaries, and is the author of books such as ‘The Private Life of Saints’ and ‘Julian of Norwich.’ Her talk on medieval manuscripts was absolutely fascinating and delivered in her usual enthusiastic manner. In fact, Janina said that calligraphy and medieval manuscripts were her passions, and she was delighted to have the opportunity to speak to us, fellow converts. The lecture was filmed by our ‘official photographer,’ Dave Trelfer, and broadcast live on Periscope, reaching 6000 people worldwide. A video of the whole lecture is available on the CPS website, www.cinqueportsscribes.org.uk.
At the end of the lecture, Janina received a rapturous ovation and stayed behind for numerous photographs and book signings. Our appreciation and thanks go to Master of Ceremonies Steve Eades and his team: Janet Adkin, Julia Baxter, Meg Chapman, Sue Corbett, Rosie Griggs, Frances Liddiard, Naoko Munro, Els Van Der Steen, Sue Smith, and Jan Turner.
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