Samantha Humphreys

This year, I’ve expanded my ‘multimedia toolbox’ by reigniting my passion for teaching the art of writing and analysing the works of authors. I’ve begun tutoring English Language and Literature GCSE a few times a week, combining my love for reading and writing with the rewarding experience of engaging in meaningful discussions that arise from these activities. Throughout my art practice I have often combined text with art, not to explain but to add impact. Words are powerful and emotive in all kinds of ways and the interpretation often depends on the viewer/audience.

I have also been asked recently to teach calligraphy practice as a wellbeing activity. This it turned out to be both an engaging and rather satisfying skill to develop. The step away from writing using a keyboard provides a useful barrier between our fingers and device.

The organic feel of a pen to paper to make something beautiful with words serves well as a mindful exercise. It really doesn’t matter what you write, shopping list, lists of animals, friends and family. Random words you like the sound of or that have the most swirly loop opportunities.

It is a good idea to start with some of the known styles but then you can develop your own that suits your handwriting as some of it will flow in a more natural way for you, its a personal response which brings together the parallel beauty of art and text.

My new favourite way to write my name…I’m so happy to have a name beginning with ‘S’ …those loops!!!