Calligraphy was widely practised during the middle ages and is currently enjoying a revival. Calligraphy by definition is the art of beautiful writing. Like any other art form calligraphy has a lot to offer and involves many different techniques, specialist equipment and opportunities to meet new people.
Calligraphy throughout the AgesCalligraphy has existed in many different cultures in different forms. In the East calligraphy has been used for religious texts and in Eastern Asia calligraphy is highly encouraged and is viewed as one of the principal art forms. 
Western calligraphy has developed from Latin and Greek origins. As the alphabet adapted from pictures to symbols resembling more traditional characters the discipline of calligraphy emerged as a fusion of the two.
Calligraphy in the west started to emerge at the height of the Roman Empire. Once an agreed alphabet had been established the church started to develop its forms further.
Calligraphy's popularity and usage peaked during the middle ages before the invention of sophisticated printing methods. Books which were published were each individually handwritten with painstaking detail.
Calligraphy now has much less commercial use and is enjoyed as a creative art and for ceremonial purposes. With advances in digital art a new movement of digital calligraphy is also starting to emerge. Some creators of digital calligraphy create impressive works using high speed blades to etch characters and forms into glass.
Similar to ancient more decorative forms of calligraphy digital calligraphy has a much more vibrant feel with more complex patterns and a diverse palette of colours.
Calligraphy and Lettering Arts SocietyThe calligraphy and lettering arts society (or CLAS) is a registered charity established to promote and increase awareness of calligraphy.
The CLAS aim to increase awareness by helping people to study the art of calligraphy. The CLAS state that calligraphy can be practised by any body that is capable of writing, after a little tuition. One of the CLAS primary aims is to preserve the art of calligraphy for future generations to enjoy.
The CLAS is based in London but allows anybody to join from across the world. They are keen to accept new members of any skill level. The CLAS have a progressive approach to calligraphy and appreciate the study of traditional calligraphy whilst encouraging new styles to emerge.
The CLAS host festivals and regular meetings and also showcase exhibitions. They also provide information regarding qualifications and avenues for development. The CLAS can be found online where contact details can be found to contact the society and its affiliates.