The art of lettering. It won’t come as a surprise if plenty, including ourselves, last picked up a pen to merely jot down a quick note on a random scrap of paper. It’s just not so common anymore to rely on our deteriorating handwritings, let alone use them to craft something so awe-inducing, like calligraphies.
But for stationery and art enthusiasts, CforCalligraphy is perhaps a haven for all things related to this dying art. The dainty store nestled in Arteri Pondok Indah, owned by self-taught Chia Tjong, is dedicated to all things necessary to keep the art of lettering alive, even just as a pastime hobby.
Here, beginners would be charmed to see Calligraphy 101 basic tools just as professionals would as they find high-end supplies for perfecting their calligraphy craftsmanship. The dumbfounding collection of pens, inks, papers, brushes, and all the trinkets to personalise your gears are temptations to purchase. It’s likely as well for those who haven’t even delved in this world be lured in to start the hobby.
Which would work out well for new learners. Beyond supplying, the founding of CforCalligraphy simultaneously formed a tight-knit and welcoming community enthused to learn calligraphy. With a physical store on hand, every week the store opens its doors to anyone who wishes to partake in this realm; the workshops aren’t limited to the art of lettering but also water-colouring, all instructed by Chia as well as other talented artists.
Calligraphy may not resonate much with Indonesian culture. Indeed, back in the day it was an artistry exclusively mastered by educated men to write holy manuscripts during the middle ages. Today, modern calligraphy flourishes and is enjoying a different form of appreciation. You see them in weddings, invitations, murals, hand-lettered logo designs and the likes, and they are appealing as ever to the masses.
Needless to say, fret not if you’re uncertain where to start with the multitude of tools and supplies to choose from. The owner herself would gladly walk you through, all the while giving you a tour of some of her personal collections, such as vintage typewriters gracing the store. If you’re thinking of testing your talents for this art form or challenging yourself to expand them in calligraphy, it won’t be such a bad idea to make a stop at CforCalligraphy’s lovable little store.
