Houston Calligraphy Guild

The Houston Calligraphy Guild is a non-profit organization founded in 1979. It operates as a 501(c)(3) entity, dedicated to the advancement and promotion of calligraphy as an art form. The organization fosters a love for the craft and encourages participation across all skill levels.

Mission and Activities

The Guild's mission is to teach and promote calligraphy, offering a variety of educational programs and community outreach initiatives. It is entirely member-run, with active participation from its founding members. Members can engage in committees, teaching programs, and community events, making it an inclusive environment for beginners and skilled calligraphers alike.

Membership and Benefits

Membership is open to anyone interested in calligraphy. The Guild offers different membership categories, including individual, family, student, and supporting memberships. Benefits of membership include access to monthly meeting communications, priority registration for workshops, and use of an extensive calligraphy library with over 700 books. Members also receive the Guild's bi-monthly newsletter, HANDSCRIT.

Meetings and Workshops

Meetings are held on the second Saturday of each month from September to May, featuring an optional early bird class, a business meeting, and a main program. During the summer months of June, July, and August, the Guild conducts focused summer workshops on specific calligraphic scripts or related skills. Additionally, weekend workshops taught by visiting artists and master calligraphers are held throughout the year, providing advanced training opportunities. Every two years, the Guild organizes a weekend retreat offering a diverse range of classes for members of all skill levels.

Community Involvement

The Houston Calligraphy Guild is actively involved in the Houston community. Members participate in demonstrations and interactive sessions at schools, libraries, museums, and other cultural events. They also support active-duty military personnel and first responders through card-making and gift-giving initiatives.

Governance

The organization is governed by a Board of Directors composed of Guild members, who oversee the planning and implementation of all activities. This governance structure ensures that the Guild remains true to its mission and continues to serve its members and the broader community effectively.