The year 2026 marks two significant milestones: the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Washington Calligraphers Guild and the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence. These anniversaries recognize the importance of courage and creative action to begin a new venture. 

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Entrants were asked to celebrate an event that marked the beginning of something new—such as a collaboration, discovery, invention, or movement—that proved beneficial to society. Entries were judged by the representation of the contest theme, the quality of calligraphy or artistic lettering, and effective use of color and design including the incorporation of postage stamp(s).

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A trio of judges -- Jenny Nicholson, former US Department of State calligrapher; Sammy Little, professional calligrapher with worldwide clientele; and Susan Easton, calligrapher and retired art educator -- selected the following envelopes from more than 200 entrants that Sammy described as "one creative gem after another...made our job challenging but delightful."

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The winning envelopes are displayed below in slideshows, the envelopes advancing every 7 seconds. Hover at bottom of envelope to see the artist's name. Or click on any envelope to enlarge it and clearly read the artist's name; use the arrow to advance to the next.