The IRCC was instigated in 1999 by Dr Manny Ling, Professor Ewan Clayton and Rev. Robert Cooper. It was established at the University of Sunderland, UK with the aims of promoting calligraphy at a nationally and internationally. Over the past 18 years we have organised numerous symposia, exhibitions, publications and various PhD research relating to calligraphy. More recently, we have branched out and have hosted a symposium in Brugges, Belgium and in November this year, in Kyoto, Japan.
Left to right:
Brody Neuenschwander’s demonstration 2003
Kazuaki Tanahashi’s class 2004
Ewan Clayton and Nobuyoshi Matsui (Boku-Undo) 2004
Susan Skarsgard’s class 2005
Over the years, we have developed a team of world class tutors. Some of the tutors we have worked with include: Georgia Deaver, Brody Neuenschwander, Julian Waters, Denis Brown, Susan Skarsgard, Peter Thornton, Sue Hufton, Gottfried pott, Kazuaki Tanahashi, Ann Hechle and Thomas Ingmire. One of the unique feature is the thematic approach that we have for each symposium. For example, in Kyoto this year, the symposium’s theme will be on the use of the ‘brush’ in Western and Eastern contexts. This approach enables the tutors to work together on a given theme to enrich the students’ experience.
Left to right:
Portrait of the tutors (Manny Ling, Susan Skarsgard, Thomas Ingmire. Georgia Deaver, Gottfried Pott) 2005
Ann Hechle’s class 2007
Calligraphy with glass 2011
Ewan Clayton’s demonstration 2013
Over the years, we have attracted delegates from around the world. They enjoy the unique atmosphere and the sense of community that the symposium has established. Coming to the symposium is more than just about learning new techniques—it is more about developing yourself as a calligrapher and making new friends through the process.
Left to right:
Demonstration of quill making by Sue Hufton 2013
Group portrait 2013
Brody Neuenschwander’s class in Bruges, Belgium 2015
Dr Manny Ling
IRCC Director
University of Sunderland, UK
