Teaching at Konstfack University of Arts, Stockholm

Last week on Monday, I landed in Stockholm for the first time. I never thought the first time I went to Sweden would be to teach at a university!

I was so honored to be invited by the Tjeckiska centret Stockholm (české centrum ve Stockholmu) and by KONSTFACK - University of Arts, crafts, and Design in Stockholm, Sweden, to teach calligraphy at the university.

The Czech centre in Stockholm covers all of Scandinavia, hosting a variety of lively events. This includes inviting famous Czech writers and directors to Scandinavia, and recently a run/walkathon to celebrate freedom in the Czech Republic - a run that was in the shape of a Czech flag! So cool.

Konstfack is the largest Swedish university of art, established in 1844, whose alumni are artists such as Karin Mamma Andersson and Lasse Aberg.

Beautiful city and lovely students

The city is a combination of vibrant and historic, with reflections of the sky and buildings in the water everywhere you go.

I had the chance to meet a class of highly talented artists, Bachelor students from the faculty of Graphic Design and Illustration.

I was a little nervous - they must be so talented to get into this university, and what if they already know all of it?

Upon my arrival, everyone at the uni was so friendly, starting with the lady at reception. The space and equipment students can use are fantastic! Such a creative space for any artistic path you choose.

I brought a bouquet of tulips to put on the desk, and some Czech chocolate - studentská pečeť, which translates to “Student’s stamp”. Gabriela and Monika from the Czech centre brought some sandwiches, I got to meet Julie, who participated in organising this event, and together we introduced the class.

What was the calligraphy class like?

Each student had their own set to work with - my new workbook, the best titanium nib, straight holder, and a bottle of black ink.

We went through a lot - history, theory, care, massaging and relaxing techniques, to hands on practice - drills, alphabet, special letters, and I would focus on each student individually. Some are better with pressure, some light-handed; each would get feedback and we would work on it together. We finished the experience with creating an art piece and wax stamping it.

Everyone did so well, and I was happy to learn more about each one. Some are left handed and worried they would not manage, some make comics in free time, some have a great sense of humour!

I believe that we all enjoyed it and I taught them something new. The feedback from students and lecturer was positive! … sigh of relief :)

They do have my contact if they’d like any further advice on calligraphy. Just like any of my students - I am here for you even after the class.

Viking themed evening

It all ended with a fun dinner in a medieval, Viking themed restaurant in the Old town (Gamla Stan) with the director of the Czech centre - thank you for that, Zuzka!

Tack så mycket, Czech Centre and Konstfack, for your warm welcome.