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About the
WCG

The Washington Calligraphers Guild is a thriving organization of more than 400 letter lovers of all skill levels, from professional scribes to enthusiastic beginners and even some non-calligraphers who appreciate the lettering and book arts. Founded in 1976 by internationally known calligrapher Sheila Waters and a group of her students, the Guild is a nonprofit 501c3 organization that promotes all aspects of the lettering arts and related crafts. Membership is open to anyone regardless of calligraphic ability. We are recognized as one of the most active groups in the world, as evidenced by our international membership roster, acclaimed journal Scripsit, and sponsorship of the Graceful Envelope Contest, now in its 28th year. 

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abcxyz by Charlie Hughes, © Washington Calligraphers Guild.
WCG logo and Roundel of the Seasons by Sheila Waters.

Graceful Envelope News!

Congratulations to the winners of WCG's 2023 Graceful Envelope Contest! The theme, FAN MAIL, asked entrants to design an envelope that would capture the attention of their favorite public figures, living or dead. 

VIEW WINNING ENVELOPES
 

2024 Contest theme: MAPPING THE WORLD'S CITIES

Upcoming Programs & Workshops

Art:
Michael Sull

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Statement of Purpose

The Washington Calligraphers Guild, Inc., exists to promote the appreciation of calligraphy, its history and applications; to foster a wider understanding of calligraphy as an art and as a science; to conduct studies, to undertake research, and to carry out education programs directed toward these ends.
Writing needs meaning, whereas calligraphy expresses itself above all
through forms and gestures. It elevates the soul and illuminates the feelings.
-Wang Hsi-chih
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