Calligrams for a calm like nothing else

by Joni James

I started my journey in calligraphy when I was in my early 20's and living in Alaska. Often asked to make name place cards or inspirational quotes for people, I began taking classes when I returned to the Seattle area in 1984. I was always fascinated with calligrams but never really made any until this year. One of my favorite artists is Picasso, so I was thrilled when I did some searching for calligram information and discovered that Guillaume Apollinaire was a friend of his!

For me, more then any other art form, making these calligrams gives me a calm like nothing else. I can feel the rhythm of the words as I create and the white space tells me what to do next. I'm so thankful to find other calligram artists! It's a beautifully unique form of art and can be used in so many ways!

1932 Ford Coupe Calligram
This was made especially for my uncle and I sent it to him as a surprise recently. He was thrilled!

Motherhood and Pregnancy Calligram
This was a custom order for a client in New Jersey for his expecting wife. Such a great way to document a special time in someone's life.

Electric Guitar Calligram
Being a great Jimi Hendrix fan, I felt inspired to create this calligram in the shape of a Fender Stratocaster. It was also for a gift for a friend.

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(Joni James' signature)

Find more calligrams by Joni James at

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