Tutor: Kirsten Burke

Discover the bold, expressive possibilities of the automatic pen in this inspiring online workshop with master calligrapher Kirsten Burke.

Known for her gestural, mark-making aesthetic, Kirsten will guide you through the exciting energy of automatic pen lettering — where movement, speed and pressure combine to create dramatic strokes, delicate hairlines and the lively splashes of ink that make each piece completely unique.

This special workshop explores the fascinating balance between control and happy accidents. With the right amount of force, the automatic pen lifts onto its edge to create a hairline flourish, and when you work quickly, the blade can catch the surface of the paper and send tiny sprays of ink across the page — adding spontaneity and character to your lettering.

Originally developed in the mid-20th century for large-scale poster lettering, the automatic pen was designed to create bold strokes with ease. While it has long been favoured by Blackletter calligraphers, Kirsten will show you how the tool can also be used in a far more expressive and contemporary way.

You’ll explore how to build dynamic compositions using layered colour, energetic mark-making and a small capitals alphabet to bring structure to your expressive forms.

By the end of the session, you’ll have created your own striking artwork and gained the confidence to continue experimenting with this fascinating tool — discovering just how freeing and playful calligraphy can be.

As a special extra, participants will also receive an exclusive 30% discount on a personalised family artwork created by Kirsten.

Your Kit

In advance of your workshop, you will receive:

- A3 traditional white Fabriano Artistico watercolour paper (this is extremely high quality, mould-made, 100% cotton paper that is both chlorine and acid-free. 

-  Size 5 automatic pen

-  Magenta, blue and yellow pigment ink

- A small paintbrush

NO KIT OPTION

You will need all of the items above (or similar to).

Postage

Included within this ticket price is postage to the UK mainland only, no Islands or Highlands. For other UK and international locations, please email Nadine at enquiries@themoderncalligraphyco.com with your name, address and workshop/course title and date you would like to attend and she will be able to let you know the additional postage charge and eta for your kit via Royal Mail.

PLEASE NOTE Once your kit has been posted, workshop tickets are not refundable. This does not affect your statutory rights.

Cancellation/Refund Policy

We are unable to offer refunds for this event. We can however move you to another date should this one no longer be suitable.

System requirements

This workshop will be hosted via Zoom. Your Zoom invite will come with your booking email confirmation, and we'll send it to you in your reminder email 3 days before your workshop. Please check your Spam folder in case the emails end up in there.