A World of Calligraphy

Becoming Artsy considers the art of handwriting

Topics

By Caitlin Shamberg

Nov 15, 2022

Medieval manuscripts are filled with ornate handwritten texts.

These books tell stories and share religious teachings, and the people who wrote them did so with careful precision and artistic flourish.

In this episode of Becoming Artsy, Jessie meets up with Beth Morrison, Getty’s head of manuscripts to examine the pages of some very old books and to better understand the time and effort that goes into making beautiful writing.

Back to Top

Related Articles

  1. Don't Forget Sunblock

    Jessie and scientist Michael Doutre in the laboratory with paint swatches behind them. They smile and point to paper samples on a work bench.

    Jessie goes into the lab to find out how light damages artwork and how to protect it

    Oct 19, 2022

  2. How to Make Ultramarine Blue

    Person in a labcoat and safety glasses about to hit a blue rock with a hammer inside of a science laboratory.

    In this episode of Becoming Artsy, Jessie tries to make a paint color more precious than gold

    Oct 4, 2022

  3. Jousting and Other Knightly Pursuits

    Poster image for Becoming Artsy shows two women on horseback holding lances against a pink background

    In the latest episode of Becoming Artsy, Jessie and manuscripts curator Larisa Grollemond find out what it’s like to be a medieval knight ready for battle

    Aug 23, 2022

Stay Connected

  1. Get Inspired

    A young man and woman chat about a painting they are looking at in a gallery at the J. Paul Getty Museum.

    Enjoy stories about art, and news about Getty exhibitions and events, with our free e-newsletter

  2. For Journalists

    A scientist in a lab coat inspects several clear plastic samples arrayed in front of her on a table.

    Find press contacts, images, and information for the news media