What does it mean to be a Dreamer?

This art has the potential to change your life in a lot of ways if you let it. Through my introduction to this art, I learned about passion, patience, diligence, humility, stewardship, responsibility, and so much more. I can confidently say that I was not the man I wanted to be before I found calligraphy, and as my life has elapsed and I’ve spent it alongside letters and fellow penmen, I have grown in ways that are hard to describe.

It is really important to me that beyond producing the best calligraphers and penmen of any training program we strive to be the kindest, most professional, respectful, and welcoming group of calligraphers around the world.

I put together this Code of Conduct to contain a brief outline of what I expect from you as a member of the Dreaming in Script community, and I hope you’ll take it to heart. I know that if we all uphold this bargain, then our interactions, growth, and reputations will grow to the heights necessary to accomplish really great things. Rest assured I will hold myself by these same standards and expect for you to call me out when I don’t.

DIS Code of Conduct

Honor The Art

Recognize that each of your actions in the pursuit of this art is a direct reflection of the art itself. Dedicate yourself to being a steward of the artform through your behavior behind closed doors and in plain view of the public.

Be Kind

Everyone is here for the same reason: we all want to get better at calligraphy. When you see a fellow Dreamer, reach out and say “hello”. Answer questions when you can. Rely on each other. Always assume the best of each other. Speak kindly and develop your rapport with others over time. Remember people. Build friendships.

Show Respect

It takes guts to share your work. Whether it is a classmate or a stranger on the internet, always start your interactions with fellow calligraphers from a place of respect. We don’t all have to agree on everything. We can have different opinions about what is best in each situation. As long as we maintain our respect for each other, we can have disagreements that don’t undercut our friendships.

Act With Confidence

Take yourself seriously. You're just as capable as anyone else. I don’t care if you’re a beginner or you’ve been writing for twenty years. If you know something, speak about it confidently. We can all learn from you. If you don’t know something, know that isn’t a weakness. Everyone has different strengths, and one of the great things about our community is the perspectives that each Dreamer brings to it.

Cultivate Work-Ethic

Develop your ability to sustain effort without immediate gratification. Don’t expect things to come easily, but appreciate when they do. Not everyone begins calligraphy with the same predispositions. Use common sense and try to solve problems with logic. Work earnestly to employ the feedback given by others. Reap your progress from the sweat of your brow.

Lead with Integrity

Everyone makes mistakes. Own up to them early and often. Accept criticism with humility and learn to thank people for having the courage to share it with you. Think before you speak when emotion is involved. Stand behind your words, but never double-down when you’re wrong. Be the person you’d be proud to call your friend.

Terms of Use

Please take a few minutes to review the Terms of Use for your participation in the Dreaming in Script school. While the above Code of Conduct is something I’d love to see from each of you, acceptance and adherence to the Terms of Use is required for your continued participation in our online programs.

Thanks for helping me to protect the Dreaming in Script community.