The Stanford University Calligraphy Collection is a remarkable initiative by Dr Benjamin Albritton in creating a unique collection of the calligraphy and lettering of the best calligraphers in the world. This collection is particularly significant because it is at one of the most prestigious universities already known for its focus on letters and lettering in all forms. This is truly an amazing project and all calligraphers and letterers at the top of their game are invited to take part; details here. One of those who has completely embraced this project is one of the prestigious judges, Gemma Black from Australia.

One of her ambitions since early days has been to write out the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. This was a daunting task, but in her characteristic inspiring manner Gemma produced a series of stunning separate pages, each page devoted to one declaration.

She devised a particular and unique style of letterforms, majuscules, or capital letters, with elements of Uncials, producing a rhythm and flow to the written sections. The text is remarkably legible despite the lines touching with no space between them and with letters nested or sharing strokes.

The illustrations consist of ‘figures’ of differing heights and shapes in various subtle colours placed on a straight line with a delicate wavy shape below. These tie the whole series of separate sheets together into one harmonious whole. Gemma is shown here; behind her the series of individual declarations have been hung creating what must have been a wonderful exhibition.

To see more of this amazing body of work, click here, and here.