Meet our new Artist of the Month... Chaitanya Gokhale! @chaitanya.gokhale. Chaitanya has a doctorate in calligraphy and has always been fascinated by lettering from an early age. Now, he has found success on Youtube where he showcases a wide range of styles and mediums to his audience of over 105k worldwide subscribers. Read on to find out more...
What is your background and when did your passion for Calligraphy and learning begin?
I am a Calligrapher, Design Consultant, Educator and Researcher based in India with a Doctorate in Calligraphy, focusing on the emotional perception of Devanagari calligraphy and its contributing factors. I was always fascinated by letterforms from school days. Be it writing on a blackboard in school, in notebooks or on signages, especially Devanagari. In my first year of graduation, I was formally introduced to calligraphy and since then, it has been very close to my heart. Over time, this interest grew into a deep passion. Over the past two decades of industry practice and academia, I have crafted more than 20 unique styles of calligraphy using both analogue and digital tools, blending traditional writing systems with modern sensibilities. My background has led to an active creative practice, with work that spans from script-based artwork to experimental Devanagari typefaces, and a YouTube channel that democratizes calligraphy education for over 105,000+ subscribers worldwide.
Who / Where do you take your inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from traditional Indian scripts and the different calligraphy traditions worldwide. Influences range from historical manuscripts to contemporary lettering artists who push boundaries. Nature, music, and places also play a role in inspiring the forms and flow in my work, connecting the visual and emotional aspects of writing.
What in your opinion is the hardest and the most rewarding parts of working in a creative industry?
The hardest part is maintaining originality and sustaining creativity amidst commercial pressures and tight deadlines. However, the most rewarding aspect is the opportunity to connect with a range of audience, tell visual stories, and create work that resonates emotionally with people, bridging the gap between art and functionality.
Do you have a favourite style?
While I admire and practice various styles, I have a special connection to gestural and experimental forms of Devanagari calligraphy. These styles allow for dynamic expression and innovation while staying rooted in tradition.
What are the most exciting projects you have worked on and what are you working on at the moment?
It’s difficult to tell, to be honest, because every project is unique and has my heart. I usually take up customized calligraphy projects, covering different Indian scripts, primarily in Devanagari. My projects range from custom Brand identity design, events branding, publications and TV commercials and advertisements (print and video).
A recent project I did for Bisleri India is one of my best projects so far I would say, covering 5 different Indian scripts. The TV commercial features Olympic players from different regions of India and writing the punch line of the campaign in 5 different languages by maintaining the visual aesthetics was very challenging. Since I was new to the scripts like Asamese, Gurumukhi and Kannada, it took me some time to learn and adapt the style. The response to the TVC was excellent, crossing 6M views on YouTube.
Currently I am working on varied projects including developing my own Calligraphy-based typeface. I am also researching the intersection of calligraphy with mindfulness and sustainability, alongside mentoring students on creative approaches to lettering and typography.
How does your work relate to your everyday life?
Calligraphy influences how I perceive the world around me—it sharpens my attention to detail, rhythm, and flow. It also serves as a meditative practice, allowing me to find balance and mindfulness in my daily routine.
What are your favourite tools to use?
I usually prefer working with physical tools over digital tools unless it is the specific need of the project. Long bristle brushes and different broad edge tools excite me a lot, since you cannot predict a definitive output with these tools in expressive calligraphy.
If I have to name a few, I would say Pilot Parallel Pens, Broad edge Devanagari tools are my go to tools. Also, I enjoy working with a variety of tools, including traditional pens, brushes, and markers along with digital tools. Each tool brings unique response and flexibility to the lettering process, enabling experimentation. I love exploring and experimenting with a variety of fountain pen inks, Sumi ink and metallic inks.
What would your advice be to people new to the creative industry and any tips on how to get started?
Start by building a strong foundation in your craft—practice regularly, experiment fearlessly, and learn from both traditional and modern techniques. Stay curious and open to feedback, as growth often comes from collaboration and critique. Most importantly, maintain authenticity in your work and trust your instinct.
To see more of his beautiful work you can follow him Chaitanya Gokhale (@chaitanya.gokhale) and remember to follow @manuscriptpenco on social media where we will be showcasing his work throughout the month
