Books by Filipina Authors That Spark Creativity
/Creative Calligraphy Made Easy (Calligraphy, Page Street Publishing, published in 2020)
Karla Lim (right) is the author of Creative Calligraphy Made Easy and owner of Written Word Calligraphy and Design (writtenwordcalligraphy.com) that offers courses, tools, and wedding invitations. (Photo courtesy of Karla Lim)
Calligraphy means “beautiful writing,” typically achieved with good quality paper, a pen dipped in ink, and a set of precise rules to form a letter.
While technology has made handwriting a dying art, calligraphy still appeals to many. Research shows that writing by hand can lead to better comprehension and retention compared with typing. Also, handwritten letters lend a personal touch, leaving every recipient impressed.
Make the leap from basic script to romantic lettering through Creative Calligraphy Made Easy by Karla Lim, a modern calligrapher, designer, and teacher based in Vancouver, Canada. She owns Written Word Calligraphy and Design that specializes in custom wedding invitations, a shop selling calligraphy supplies, and online calligraphy courses. Her book includes a list of tools you’ll need and a variety of worksheets to get you started. When you are ready to use what you’ve learned, there are suggested projects like greeting cards, gifts, and decorations for special events.
Calligraphy has made an indelible mark in Karla’s life. She says, “When I discovered modern calligraphy, I felt that I finally found my purpose in life. Modern calligraphy takes the tools and techniques of traditional calligraphy but allows you to take your own spin to it, which I loved because I felt free to create a style that I can call my own. With this skill, I was able to find fulfillment in creative, tactile work, and bless others with it.
“Through the many seasons in my life, calligraphy has also helped me slow down and really discover God's word (that's where our brand name ‘Written Word’ comes from), as it involves writing 10 to 15 minutes slower than usual, so I get to write His message intentionally and meditatively. Calligraphy has changed my life quite significantly. On a personal level, it has brought me much joy to create with my own hands and has helped me heal many wounds especially as I navigate motherhood and being a businessowner. On a business level, it has brought me worldwide and provided me a livelihood that can bless others in their life journeys as well.”
For those curious about calligraphy, she offers this tip: “Everyone can start somewhere! Unlike many other artistic skills, calligraphy is something that practice makes progress, meaning that you don't need to be especially talented to create beautiful words. With proper instruction and time and practice, you'll definitely see yourself improve in calligraphy. Even if your handwriting is bad! Writing in calligraphy is similar to painting or drawing and uses a different part of your brain than handwriting. Calligraphy is a gift that keeps on giving, you can apply it in many ways.”
Modern Calligraphy (Brush Lettering, Walter Foster Publishing, published in 2022)
Maricar Concepcion Ramos is the author of Modern Calligraphy and owner of Seven Brush Strokes (sevenbrushstrokes.com) that offers calligraphy courses. (Photo by Japz Concepcion)
If you prefer a more relaxed approach to beautiful handwriting, then consider brush lettering. The rules are less rigid and it’s almost like designing your own font using colors and adornments. Modern Calligraphy is by Philippines-based Maricar Concepcion Ramos. She used to be an engineer who taught herself calligraphy as a means of relaxation and creative expression.
A brush pen (such as a marker) and paper are the basic tools you’ll need. Modern Calligraphy teaches how to vary your letters, thick or thin, just by the pressure applied to the pen. The practice pages grow your confidence as you make basic strokes, connecting them, adding bounce, and flourishing. Once you’ve got the hang of it, brush lettering can be applied on anything from party invitations to more decorative artwork.
“In 2020, during the pandemic, I made the decision to leave my engineering job,” says Maricar. “Commuting during that time was incredibly challenging, and I realized I no longer felt fulfilled as an engineer. Taking a leap of faith, I resigned to pursue teaching calligraphy full-time. It was a bold and scary decision, but it’s been one of the most rewarding choices I’ve ever made. Of course, it wasn’t easy—but it’s been so worth it,”
She owns Seven Brush Strokes, a teaching resource offering digital workbooks and self-paced courses. She also conducts workshops in person and on Skillshare, an online learning community.
“Seven Brush Strokes came from two things: seven is my favorite number, and brush strokes represent both the strokes of the brush pen and the paintbrush since I knew I wanted to explore not just calligraphy, but also watercolor florals. The name was my husband’s idea! It felt perfect for everything I wanted my brand to represent,” she explains.
“Modern calligraphy has transformed my life in ways I never thought possible. It’s given me the chance to share my art and skills not just locally, but internationally. I discovered a passion for teaching, which has become the most fulfilling part of my creative journey. I’ve had the honor of collaborating with brands I used to admire as a customer. Most importantly, calligraphy helped me realize that I’m capable of more than just my engineering career—it’s allowed me to fully embrace this creative path.
“My biggest tip for beginners? Just do it, even if you’re afraid. That’s how I’ve always approached things in life: do it afraid. You never know how modern calligraphy could transform your life. It doesn’t matter if you’re a total beginner. Calligraphy can be a beautiful way to express yourself and release stress or anxiety. Don’t let fear stop you from exploring something new and meaningful.
“Creativity is for everyone, regardless of age or background. It’s never too late to discover your creative side. When I first discovered calligraphy in 2017, I was at my lowest point, a kind of rock bottom. But that difficult time led me to something beautiful. Calligraphy opened doors to opportunities I never imagined. So, if there’s something you’re drawn to, I encourage you to take that first step and just go for it. You might be surprised at what unfolds,” concludes Maricar.
Midcentury Modern Style, An Approachable Guide to Inspired Rooms (Interior Design, Gibbs Smith, Photography by Christopher Dibble, published in 2023)
Karen Nepacena is the author of Midcentury Modern Style, An Approachable Guide to Inspired Rooms and owner of Destination Eichler (destinationeichler.com), an interior design firm. (Photo courtesy of Karen Nepacena)
Home could be a room, an apartment, or a house, and we make it cozy for ourselves and for all who visit, usually with a do-it-yourself approach. This is how Karen Nepacena, author of Midcentury Modern Style, began her career as an interior designer.
In 2013, she and her husband, John, purchased a house in Northern California. It was an Eichler home, one of the many designed by real estate developer Joseph Eichler between 1949 to 1966, whose trademarks include floor-to-ceiling windows, an open floor plan, and an emphasis on utilizing outdoor spaces. They were on a mission to restore its midcentury modern charm, which they chronicled on the blog, Destination Eichler. It blossomed into an interior design firm with the same name because the aesthetic continues to attract many homeowners.
Midcentury modern (MCM) is an era in design that emerged after World War II. It’s characterized by clean lines, geometric accents, minimal but functional décor, with pops of bold color. If you’ve seen the TV series Mad Men or the animated film The Incredibles, their set designs are inspired by MCM.
Karen, who previously had a career in e-commerce, quickly emerged as an expert in MCM design and she shares her expertise in Midcentury Modern Style. Whether or not your preferences lean toward MCM, the book offers a lot of budget friendly ideas to bring warmth and personality to your home.
“Midcentury Modern Style was created as a ‘cheat sheet’ to midcentury modern design and architecture and how to bring these elements into a home,” Karen explains. “When I was first introduced to midcentury modern homes, I did not know a lot about them and had to purchase a lot of out-of-print books to learn more about the design period and era of architecture. It took me several years to learn about this specific period of design and the elements that encompass midcentury modern design. I created this book as a guidebook on how to bring midcentury modern style into your home, whether in small or big ways.
“I have always been interested in home design. Maybe it started during my childhood, when my mom would sew curtains for our home, changing them out from time to time depending on the style she wanted to bring into the house. My first room design was redecorating my bedroom as a teenager. Laura Ashley furnishings were all the range, so I selected wallpaper and my parents helped build a canopy bed and stenciled the walls in a floral pattern. I love how changing the look and flow of a room can really change one's mood, and in a sense one's life!”
For those currently decorating their space, Karen advises, “It can be overwhelming to try to redesign an entire room from scratch. Start with smaller projects, such as switching out your bedding (ex. sheets and pillows). Or maybe introduce a new color palette into a room with new artwork, then build upon that color palette for the rest of the space (ex. a blanket or chair). Trying out smaller projects at a time can help build confidence to redecorate or renovate larger spaces.”
The Mindfulness Coloring Book Series (Adult Coloring Book, The Experiment Publishing, published in 2015)
Emma Farrarons is the author and illustrator of The Mindfulness Coloring Book Series. She is an illustrator (emmafarrarons.com) of picture books and commercial projects. (Photo courtesy of Emma Farrarons)
When coloring books for adults rose in popularity in 2015, The Mindfulness Coloring Book Series by Cebu-born, Paris-raised, and London-based Emma Farrarons, stood out as an international bestseller, It has been translated into several languages. Among the titles in the series are The Mindfulness Coloring Book Volumes One and Two, Moments of Mindfulness, and Art of Mindfulness. These pocket-sized books, filled with whimsical illustrations like flowers and cute animals, is a way to relieve stress. It’s easy and needs low commitment since we’ve learned coloring as children. However, instead of using crayons, you experiment with watercolors, markers, colored pencils, or a mix of these to bring a page to life.
Emma says, “I want readers to take away a sense of peace and enjoyment from these adult coloring books — a chance to take a break, use their hands, and enjoy the moment through color. Find a cozy spot, make yourself a beverage, grab your coloring pencils, and enjoy being in the moment. These books are for everyone. You don’t need much.”
Emma worked in the publishing industry before she became a full-time illustrator. “Becoming an illustrator was a journey. I spent over 16 years as a book designer in publishing, but in my mid-30s, I realized I wanted to follow a different path,” she relates.
“I reached out to a drawing tutor, who encouraged me to practice observational drawing daily. Observational drawing is the act of drawing what you see in real life, paying close attention to details like shapes, light, and proportions. It trains your eye and hand to capture the world accurately.
“From then on, I carried a sketchbook everywhere, drawing during train commutes, in cafés, at street markets, and even while my children slept. This practice not only strengthened my memory and imagination but also deepened my understanding of art materials, color, and storytelling. This process transformed my life and opened doors for me to become a children’s book illustrator and author.”
Her debut picture book, My Hair is as Long as a River (written by Charlie Castle), was published in May 2024. “It’s a story about a boy with long hair who welcomes readers to his magical imagination,” she describes.
For those curious about calligraphy, she offers this tip: “Everyone can start somewhere!
“Being approached to illustrate this story was the best feeling in the world. It was a dream come true! I felt truly validated, as though all the years of hard work to find my artistic voice had finally paid off. It has been an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience. I get to do what I love every day, and work doesn’t feel like work. Plus, I get paid for it,” she exclaims.
Emma has these words of encouragement: “Have fun and play! Set aside a bit of art or you could try an art class. There’s so much more to explore, like sculpture, ceramics, painting, or collage. Don’t let doubt hold you back, just enjoy the process. I always keep a sketchbook with me, and I fit in observational drawing whenever I can. You only need a pen or pencil to get started, so give it a try!”
Claire Mercado-Obias is a writer, food stylist and pastry chef based in New Jersey.
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