Our History
The Portland Society for Calligraphy was founded by Lloyd Reynolds and a group of his students after a long alliance with the Society for Italic Handwriting in England. We were first known as the Western American Branch of the Society for Italic Handwriting, one of the oldest calligraphy guilds in the United States.
Formed in 1969 and incorporated as a non-profit in 1973, we support Lloyd Reynolds’ vision: “Through study, understanding, and critical practice, let us promote this healthy arts and crafts movement.” PSC holds the following as its Core Values: Education, Inclusivity, Creativity, Integrity of Craft, Humility, Encouragement, Curiosity & Joy.
The year 2019 marked the 50th Anniversary for Portland Society for Calligraphy. This important milestone was celebrated in a beautiful publication with Christine Colasurdo as the editor. She wrote: “This publication chronicles just a few of the stories of the last fifty years, told in several different voices as well as mine. … if we can continue to embrace this peaceful practice of calligraphy, share it with others, and explore the honest depths of our own creativity, perhaps our skills can better the world. Calligraphy is, finally, a hopeful expression of affection. Our lasting mark is a love letter to the future.”
Click here to view a PDF of the 50th Anniversary publication
if we can continue to embrace this peaceful practice of calligraphy, share it with others, and explore the honest depths of our own creativity, perhaps our skills can better the world. Calligraphy is, finally, a hopeful expression of affection. Our lasting mark is a love letter to the future.”
Christine Colasurdo
Mission Statement and Statement of Purpose
The spirit of Lloyd Reynolds is still present as he is quoted in our mission statement: “Through study, understanding and critical practice, let us promote this healthy arts and crafts movement.” – Lloyd Reynolds
Our mission is to encourage, to educate, to learn, to share and to support calligraphy within our community
To encourage the appreciation of calligraphy as an art in the community through exhibits and other means of gaining public exposure.
To educate by offering workshops and classes within the guild and to the community.
To learn from our fellow members and from experts in the art of calligraphy through programs and panel discussions at meetings.
To share information and ideas through open exchange and networking at meetings.
To support each other in our individual endeavors, be they professional, hobby or just the love of letters.
Core Values
Joy
Generosity
Humility
Curiosity
Inclusivity
Integrity of Craft
Creativity
Education
Encouragement