CCC Presents! Calligraphy and Miniaturism: Then and Now with Sherri Trial
Explore the world of tiny art, and learn about calligraphy's early roots in the genre of miniaturism, from the 4th century through today.
Date and time
Location
Online
About this event
- Event lasts 2 hours
CCC Presents!
A Free Online Lecture Series Sponsored by the Chicago Calligraphy Collective
THIS EVENT WILL BE RECORDED.
Calligraphy and Miniaturism: Then and Now
Presented by Sherri Trial
Synopsis of talk: Calligraphy has early roots in the genre of miniaturism, beginning in the 4th century, and is still very much alive today. This talk will visit examples throughout the centuries and explore how calligraphic miniatures were not only beautiful, but actually functional: illuminated manuscripts, and prayer books which could be carried in the pocket, being the most common. The non-calligraphic miniatures ranged from portraiture to sculptures. While the functionality of miniatures has been replaced in modern times by the printing press, it is still a lively field, and Sherri will discuss modern calligraphic miniatures. This leads to a wonderful opportunity for today’s scribes to explore the world of tiny art. Sherri will also invite you to learn about the Miniature Art Society of Florida, and their annual international miniature exhibits, which feature a category (with awards!) for calligraphic works.
Sherri's Bio: Sherri started her calligraphic career in 1991, with her first entries into a juried exhibit with the Miniature Art Society of Florida (MASF). Since then, she has continued to exhibit, and has garnered many awards in national and international exhibits; exhibition sites have included the Smithsonian National Gallery of Art, New Zealand, Moscow, and Tokyo, and throughout the US. Most recently she received the Golden Anniversary Award from MASF in 2025.
Sherri primarily works on calfskin or goatskin parchment, a very traditional substrate, along with watercolor and 23k gold leaf. In 2021 she attended a weekend workshop at the Pergamena Factory in NY to learn how parchment is made. The grueling (but fun!) lessons served to emphasize just how much a treasure is well-made parchment.
Publications that have featured her art include Letter Arts Review; Washington DC Guild’s Scripsit; the Alphabet journal from the Friends of Calligraphy guild in San Francisco; and most recently the 25th Anniversary Edition of the Speedball Textbook. She lives, works, and occasionally rescues cats in PA.
www.sherritrial.com
Instagram: @sherritrialscribe
Frequently asked questions
YES! All those who are officially registered will receive information on how to view the recording, typically the day after the presentation.
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After registering, please save your confirmation email! This and subsequent reminder emails will have information and a link for you to join. THE PRESENTATION WILL OPEN TO ALL REGISTRANTS 10 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE START OF THE SESSION.