Calligraphy And Good Taste In Web Design

Page from writing guide by Edward Johnston

Good taste is a still bit rare in web design. With the freedom that comes with being able to put pretty much anything desired online, discipline and refinement are often left behind. Too many choices, be they in typefaces, graphics, and layouts often leave a litany of badly designed web sites in their wake. How does one develop good taste in web design?

The principles of good taste, although modified somewhat by changes in fashion, are in themselves timeless. Some of the finest principles of page layout and typography were developed before the advent of the printing press through the craft of Calligraphy. Calligraphy, the art of fine letter-writing, is a craft that teaches a sense of refinement that transfers well to web design. Its rules regarding the use of white space, letter spacing, and beauty of letterform are the foundation of modern disciplines of page layout and typography.

I developed a love for Calligraphy in my early twenties and practiced it rigorously for a number of years. I also later taught Calligraphy. The advent of personal computers has caused a big decline in the popularity of Calligraphy as a hobby in the last decade. However, I am convinced that my training and practice of Calligraphy has made me a much better web designer. Indeed, I consider it a crucial element in my success to date!

Western Calligraphy teaches classic forms of page layout and use of white space. It places great emphasis on making pages both legible and beautiful. It teaches how to create appealing layouts with restraint and proven methods of enhancing the beauty of a page of type. Indeed, good taste is made an art form through Calligraphy.

If you are a web designer who wants to expand creative horizons, consider taking a course in Calligraphy. I personally recommend learning Italic Calligraphy, and studying the work of Edward Johnston and Rudolf Koch, two modern masters of the written art form. You will find that practicing this timeless craft will have be a wonderful way to refine your web design skills!

Donald Peterson