Big Sky Scribes is a non-profit, Montana statewide organization of amateur and professional calligraphers and artists. Members encourage each other in the study and critical practice of the calligraphic arts. See a showcase of our work here.
- Bridger Mountain Scribes, Bozeman, is again meeting in person, on the 2nd Monday of the month. Check the local guild website for current information.
- Great Falls Scribes, Great Falls
- Missoula Calligraphers Guild, Missoula
- Queen City Scribes, Helena
- Yellowstone Calligraphers’ Guild, Billings
Because of the pandemic, our semi-annual workshops have been suspended, and most local guilds are not meeting. Watch this space for updates.
History — The guild was formed in 1984 at their first Montana calligraphy workshop, taught by Mark Van Stone. The workshop included calligraphers from all across ‘Big Sky Country.’ According to one of the founding members, Mary Jo Vickoren, there was much discussion about the name – Big Sky Scribes, or Writers of the Purple Sage — thus the logo incorporating both. On an interesting note, well-known calligraphy teacher and author, Annie Cicale, was also one of the founding members of BSS as well as the first editor of the guild newsletter.
Administration of the guild is provided by a board of directors composed of members representing the various regions of Montana. Big Sky Scribes is funded by membership dues, various fundraising activites and contributions. Annual membership dues of $30 are collected in April of each year. The BSS Annual Meeting is usually conducted in conjunction with their Spring Workshop.