Pat Blair

I have been fascinated by letters forever. I spent a fair amount of time in high school writing out posters and flyers.

Lucky for me, this has led me into a rewarding and very surprising career. I spent the first 10 years free-lancing in my NY studio, before moving to the DC area in 1995. That move turned my life around, and I dove head first into projects, establishing a clientele, joining and becoming President of the Washington Calligraphers Guild, teaching at the Loudoun Academy of the Arts and 12 International conferences, and finally becoming the Director of the Int’l conference when it was held here in DC.

But for sure, the highlight of my career was being asked to be the Director of the Calligraphy Office at The White House in Washington, DC. I worked there for 12 years, serving 3 Presidents. What an honor to represent the country, having my work handed out to guests in the form of menus, invitations, placards, all becoming keepsakes of a treasured event.

Along with my calligraphy, I am an avid watercolor artist, and have been combining my painting with calligraphy for many years. My paintings have been in gallery shows, faculty exhibits, and shown as part of my classes taught online and in person. Since retiring from the White House, I have had the time to really explore this favorite medium and have been teaching Zoom classes in watercolor for many years. I has learned a lot from my 35 years as a calligraphic and watercolor artist, and so enjoy being part of a community of artists such as Artists’ Undertaking Gallery. I am excited to further encourage others and support the community.