Meet our new Artist of the Month... Tanya Hughes. Based in California, USA @happyletteringtanya has a passion for lettering and calligraphy. Read on to find out more about our Artist of the Month!
What is your background and when did your passion for Calligraphy and Lettering begin?
I have collected pens and markers since I was kid, always loved drawing, painting, practicing my hand writing and collecting favourite quotes. This passion involves all of my favourite things into one art and it was in 2019 that I began to seriously dedicate myself to the practice. The great thing about art is the more you practice the better you get, it can be so rewarding to see progress throughout the years and styles develop as you mature.
Who / Where do you take your inspiration from?
I find inspiration everywhere, it could be a colour palette from a flower, the way a shadow looks on a wall, or even a quote that resonates with me. Sometimes I start an art piece with a quote in mind and choose the rest accordingly. Other times I'll start with a colour palette and create a background before I decide what quote fits best for that particular piece. The lettering community on Instagram is also very supportive and a wonderful source of inspiration.
What in your opinion is the hardest and the most rewarding parts of working in a creative industry?
Lettering and calligraphy are a passion for me, no matter what is going on in my life I can take a break and just try to focus on the curves and lines and find a sort of direction. However when a creative block hits, it can be a real struggle. It can feel like you've ran out of ideas, or nothing you create is good enough. That's when I go back to the basics, practice the alphabet, or practice the basic strokes or flourishes. Pick a word and letter it several different ways. Once you break through the block and start flowing the creative process again it just feels so liberating.
Do you have a favourite style?
I enjoy so many styles of lettering and calligraphy, I think it depends upon my mood while creating. Sometimes I like modern calligraphy, other times I prefer something more bold like bevel letters. Variety is also what keeps me motivated and challenges me to keep growing as an artist.
What are the most exciting projects you have worked on and what are you working on at the moment?
I just love to create, any opportunity to create something new is exciting in my opinion. Designing something from nothing is fulfilling and restorative. I'm always trying to improve and still enjoy the process, it can be a difficult balance.
How does your work relate to your everyday life?
I use lettering and calligraphy as a form of therapy, it helps my focus and creativity, and although it can be frustrating at points it is mostly about the process and expressing myself. Sometimes just practicing over and over can help me clear my mind. It can also be so satisfying to watch a piece come together, and see your vision come to life.
What are your favourite tools to use?
Definitely favour brush pens, inks, watercolours and a fine liner pen or dip pen. I also love using my light board and rulers to help me get my drafts ready for finalizing.
What would your advice be to people new to the creative industry and any tips on how to get started?
Start now and practice, practice, practice. Learn the fundamentals, and use them. Practicing the basics is good for anyone at any level, building that muscle memory is extremely important. Once you feel more confident with the basics then branch out and find your style. If it's something your passionate about then don't give up and work through the creative blocks. It is worth it.
To see more of Tanya's work you can follow her on Instagram Remember to follow @manuscriptpenco on Social Media where we will be showcasing her work throughout the month.
