As the art of handwriting appears to be fading into obscurity, one Germantown artist, Melissa D'Agostino, is reclaiming the joy of cursive writing through a workshop designed for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
D'Agostino said her workshop aims to showcase the "expressive enjoyment innate in the art of cursive." The event is set to take place at Chestnut Hill Library on February 13, starting at 5:30 p.m.
According to the artist, the learning materials have been meticulously prepared by hand, ensuring that individuals at all stages of learning can partake in a welcoming and instructive environment. The workshop is not merely about revisiting an old skill but about embracing the aesthetic and personal expression that cursive writing offers.
Cursive writing, a style of penmanship in which the letters are connected in a fluid, continuous motion, has a long history of being a fundamental part of education. It was once considered essential for personal and professional communication and was believed to enhance literacy skills, fine motor coordination, and cognitive development. However, with the advent of technology and the increasing reliance on keyboards and touchscreens, the practice of teaching cursive writing in schools has seen a significant decline.
This shift has sparked debates among educators, parents, and scholars about the relevance of cursive writing in the 21st century.
Weather permitting, a cursive script of "welcome" will adorn the sidewalk in front of the library on the day of the event, symbolizing the inclusive and open-hearted spirit of the workshop. Attendees will also receive Cursive Writing Workbooks to take home, courtesy of the Friends of the Chestnut Hill Library.
Initially scheduled to coincide with National Handwriting Day but was postponed due to a lack of heating in the building.
