Hello everyone! I’m feeling the spring fever (after a final snowstorm hit here in Maine the first week of April — enough!). So I went searching for calligraphy that captures that lightness we all feel when spring has finally sprung. And I discovered the amazing lettering work of Esther Clark. Her light, organic style of calligraphy feels as welcoming as the warm sunshine. Let’s take a look at her work! – Jen
Esther Clark is based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and her love of design started early. “I majored in art at college, with an emphasis on printmaking — my background in woodcuts still plays a big part in my current work,” says Esther. “Most of my single-color illustrations are influenced by the monochromatic prints I loved making in school.”
Esther shares that her style got started when she drew a floral piece for a tattoo she wanted for herself. “I couldn’t believe how much I enjoyed drawing the delicate blooms and foliage,” she says. “That’s when I really honed in on botanical/floral pieces as my main skill.”
Photo Credit: Alyssa Wilcox Photography
How did Esther turn her interest in the art into a job? First, she studied lots of other artists, and she took Skillshare classes. “No matter what, your own handwriting style always influences your calligraphy and makes the words your own,” says Esther.
Esther’s work has evolved since she drew that first tattoo and dabbled in calligraphy. “The thing that has refined my style the most, though, is definitely practice!” she says.
Photo Credit: Alyssa Wilcox Photography
As Esther has developed her calligraphy work, she’s also developed an interest in styling. “I resolved to learn some styling skills myself, which would give me more control over the photos I had access to (especially for Instagram),” she says. “I always start with a beautiful background (linen, cotton, marble, and painted plaster styling boards by Emma Natter of Pilgrim & Co. are my go-tos), lay out my invitation suites, and then fill in as needed with different props and natural elements. Flowers and greenery are a must, but I also use lots of little treasures that I find antiquing/thrifting or at home goods stores.”
What a pretty way to welcome in spring! Thanks to Esther for sharing her lovely work and a bit about her journey as an artist. See you back here soon!
Images by Esther Clark, except where noted