Meet our new Artist of the Month... Nikkita Kole! @strokart_studio. Nikkita has always been drawn to the elegance of traditional design, and now she infuses that passion into her calligraphy on her ten year creative journey. Those that know her work will easily recognise her signature style of beautiful flourished letters and shimmery inks. Read on to find out more...
What is your background and when did your passion for Calligraphy and learning begin?
I’ve always considered myself a bit of a lost soul, someone who seemed to do everything but also nothing really. Yet there was one constant that always drew me in—literature and the timeless art of the past. The elegance of ancient carvings, royal scripts, and vintage designs captivated me, though I could never quite pinpoint what exactly fascinated me. My journey into calligraphy has an interesting story, but if I had to trace it back to a single moment, it all began with an ice cream stick when I was 11. I’ve now completed 10 years on my calligraphy journey with over 3 years of pursuing it professionally.
Who / Where do you take your inspiration from?
I don’t always have a specific individual or place to reference. Most of the time, my inspiration comes from books. However, in my self-taught journey, there are a few key influences that have shaped my growth.
One of the first sources of inspiration was Michael Ward’s work. Despite not being very active on social platforms at the time, I came across his works and practiced them. without initially realizing they were his. It wasn’t until later that I connected his name with the work. Michael Ward’s work, in particular, has always impressed me. His long dedication to the craft of Penmanship, his innovative ideas, and the meticulous detail in his work have been a major source of motivation for me. I was fortunate enough to attend a few of his classes, even though the time zone difference meant I was often attending sessions at 1 or 2 a.m. His teaching is engaging, fun, and highly effective. What stands out most is his humility and willingness to share his expertise with anyone eager to learn. Alongside this, I found IAMPETH to be an invaluable resource. This site has been an essential part of both my theoretical and practical learning. If IAMPETH were a physical library, I would be there every day. It truly feels like a treasure trove of knowledge, and I continue to use it regularly to refine my skills.
What in your opinion is the hardest and the most rewarding parts of working in a creative industry?
In my opinion, one of the most challenging aspects of working in a creative industry is turning a slow, intricate form of art into a daily profession in today’s fast-paced world. We live in a time where people are accustomed to seeing a finished product or piece which can make it difficult to maintain the patience and focus required for traditional arts. As a Calligrapher, the learning process often takes time, and it can be hard to communicate this to an audience that values immediacy. However, the most rewarding aspect of this work is the beauty and satisfaction of creating something by hand. There’s something incredibly soothing about the act of crafting with precision, and those who miss out on the process of making often miss the deeper joy it brings. Mastering this skill reveals a hidden power— the capability of your hands to create something truly remarkable.
Do you have a favourite style?
Yes, finally I can confidently say that I’ve found my passion in Spencerian and Ornamental Penmanship. These scripts resonate with me in a way that no other style has. They offer a sense of calm and joy every time I engage with these scripts. And just simply they make me happy. I could watch people practice or perform them and even read about these scripts endlessly without growing tired. The fine details and elegant form of these scripts have truly captured my heart, and I’m eager to continue mastering them for years to come.
What are the most exciting projects you have worked on and what are you working on at the moment?
It’s hard for me to pinpoint a single project as the most exciting, as every project I’ve worked on has been a valuable and fulfilling experience. Each one has provided unique challenges and opportunities for growth, and many have exceeded my expectations in ways I never imagined. My work spans a wide range of artistic and custom lettering services, including bespoke brand design, elegant wedding invitations, personalized greeting cards, hot foil stamping, logo creation, and intricate hand engraving— a balance as a commercial and professional Calligrapher.
Currently, I am focused on expanding my work beyond a passion project and reaching a wider audience. My goal is to engage not only those already passionate about art but also those who are curious to explore it. In addition, I am working on a dream project that I hope will mark a significant milestone in my journey, ultimately demonstrating the success and impact of my efforts.
How does your work relate to your everyday life?
For me, calligraphy isn't just a hobby or a career—it’s a way of life. It influences how I see and interact with the world. Every day, I’m noticing details in the simplest things: the way a letter curves, the beauty of a well-written phrase, or even the rhythm in how people express themselves. My creative process blends seamlessly with my daily routine, and every bit of inspiration from the world around me somehow ties back to my craft.
I intentionally maintain a distinction between my online presence and in-person experience. This is my specialty—you can't just give yourself away online. There’s a certain element I keep back. If you're fully exposed, there's nothing left to discover. Those intrigued by your work may question its value, while others will simply pass by without a second glance. It's a strategy I've embraced—like browsing in a store and walking away when the price is too high. Not everything needs to be laid bare. There’s inherent value in preserving exclusivity, allowing your true worth to be experienced in person.
What are your favourite tools to use?
My preferred tools for calligraphy are rooted in tradition and craftsmanship. Spencerian and Ornamental Penmanship hold a special place in my heart, which is why I cannot forget an oblique holder and my go-to nibs, particularly when paired with a Leonard EF Principal or Hunt 101. These tools are essential for achieving the precision and elegance I strive for in my writing.
That being said, I also have a deep affinity for organic wooden tools. There's a certain tactile connection and authenticity that wood provides, enhancing the overall experience of penmanship.
If I had to recommend one must-have for calligraphers that’s both stylish and essential—elevating us in the most professional way—it would be @innerquill’s products. Their craftsmanship is truly unmatched; what they offer isn’t just tools but an extension of creativity.
Lately, I’ve been experimenting with the Musselman Perfection and Zanerian Fine Writer nib—both vintage, rare finds that might become favorites of mine. It's hard to find vintage nibs these days, but I’m good when it comes to hunting them down, except when it comes to finding vintage nib boxes—those elusive little creatures always manage to escape me!
What would your advice be to people new to the creative industry and any tips on how to get started?
My advice is simple: Go for it. Take your time, embrace the learning process, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Experiment freely, but always remember the rules, even if you choose to break them. Observe as much as you can—study the history of your craft, read up on the theories. Whether you’re self-taught or guided, understanding your craft is key, and being open to constructive criticism will help you grow.
When you start, you might not have all the tools you want, but you don’t need much to begin. A pencil and a good resource is all you really need to get going. Everything else will fall into place later. Focus on building skills before acquiring tools. It’s easy to get distracted by the allure of collecting every new tool, but mastering one at a time is the key to truly excelling.
The creative industry isn’t a competition unless you meant make it about business. Everyone has their unique approach. You can turn your craft into a business when you fully understand what you’re doing and have the confidence to handle the inevitable bumps along the way. Jumping into creativity with the sole goal of turning it into a business can lead to burnout and a loss of passion overtime. So, ask yourself if you can still create when you’re exhausted, famished or uninspired. If you can push through those moments, you’re on the right track. Creativity is more of a calling than a casual choice—it requires commitment and patience over time.
To see more of her beautiful work you can follow her Strokart Studio (@strokart_studio) and remember to follow @manuscriptpenco on social media where we will be showcasing her work throughout the month!
