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Art Studio: Jean Beaver
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• Artist: Jean Beaver
• Style: Calligrapher
• Artist statement: “In a world of machine-created communications calligraphy is a lovely, personal way to share beautiful thoughts.”
• Professional affiliations: Art League of Bonita Springs
• Items available for sale: Personalized greeting cards
• How to purchase: Contact artist at 992-2244 or e-mail beav10@comcast.net
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The word “calligraphy” is derived from two Greek words meaning “beautiful writing.” It is most often seen on invitations, academic certificates and announcements. Today, the art form exists in three main types: Western or Roman, Arabic, and Oriental.
In the West, calligraphy is considered less of an art form and more of a craft; however, it is considered one of the highest art forms of the Arab world. In China, Shu (calligraphy) is regarded as a sublime form of art and one that is taught to every schoolchild.
In Southwest Florida, Jean Beaver is the calligrapher of choice, and has been practicing the age-old skill for 30 years.
• Background: Beaver majored in journalism at MacAllister College in St. Paul, Minnesota. A stint as a reporter for a newspaper in Ohio solidified her love of words — especially beautifully written words. A collector of philosophical quotations, Beaver saw calligraphy as a way to illustrate the quotes in an artistic way.
Beaver signed up for a class at an Art League in the Cleveland area and was hooked. Study at the Cleveland Institute of Art followed. After honing her skills, Beaver began teaching others the fine art form. She taught classes at two Cleveland Art Centers, eventually starting a freelance calligraphy business.
• Today: In 1995, Beaver relocated to Bonita Bay and re-established her freelance calligraphy business on a part time basis. Her services include addressing envelopes for wedding announcements and making table cards and menus.
“I also enjoy doing quotations in calligraphy, which I then frame. Customers choose a quotation meaningful to a friend, child or grandchild and that personalizes the gift. I also make and market greeting cards. I use quotations on the first page, such as, ’We can’t all be heroes. Someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by (Will Rogers).’ The inside page: ‘I’m clapping. Congratulations.’ They are a very unique and beautiful card — a keepsake,” said Beaver.
Beaver, conscious of giving back to the community, volunteers her time with pen in hand, as a labor of love.
“I make posters and do other calligraphy work for the Naples Philharmonic, the Art League of Bonita Springs and The Friends of Salvation Army in Bonita Springs,” Beaver said.
“I have taught calligraphy at the Art League of Bonita Springs and at Bentley Village. I enjoy teaching because it’s a way of introducing an artistic expression to many people who haven’t previously enjoyed any art form,” added Beaver.
Classes are slated for the fall at the Art League of Bonita Springs. For information, call 495-8989.
If you would like to be considered for this spotlight, contact Jean Amodea at jean@entertainmentdirect.org
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