Kathie Mcilvride: From artist to acclaimed author

Over ten years ago, Kathie Mcilvride and her husband, Brian Kimball, chose to make their home in the charming Rural Municipality of Argyle.

Since arriving, they have become vibrant, essential members of this close-knit community, engaging in a variety of creative endeavours that enrich local culture.

With an impressive passion for art that has flourished over the past forty years, Kathie has devoted herself to the beautiful craft of calligraphy. She has expertly taught numerous styles, including Italic, Copperplate, Modern, and Uncial scripts. Her deep appreciation for the art form shines through in her own words: “Italic script is an art, and turning italic into abstract is a fascinating challenge.”

Her commitment to education extended to her own children, prompting her to introduce calligraphy classes in their schools and help instill a love for the art in the next generation.

Kathie, a gifted artist and former ballet dancer, has much to celebrate with the recent publication of her inspiring book, “Italic Calligraphy: From Learning the Fundamentals to Dancing with Your Pen”.

Kathie’s journey into authorship was not without obstacles. After submitting her manuscripts to numerous Canadian publishers during her daughter’s early years, she faced a series of rejections that tested her resolve. However, two years ago, with encouragement from her sister – a steadfast supporter – Kathie received an invitation from Firefly Books to submit her proposal. The thrill of this opportunity was palpable, and she was overjoyed when the Firefly Books Editorial Board gave the green light to her manuscript.

With her publisher’s approval, Kathie dove headfirst into the rewarding challenge of writing a book that not only teaches traditional italic script step by step but also encourages creative expression by transforming those letters into abstract art. Drawing heavily from her extensive experience as a professional calligrapher, she combined her expertise with the joy she found in teaching workshops across Canada. While she has a dedicated studio on the third floor of her home with Brian, she found solace and inspiration working at their kitchen table – an heirloom piece from her grandmother – surrounded by Brian’s companionship and the delightful presence of their beloved pets. “It just felt right,” she expressed with warmth.

Writing the book reignited Kathie’s sense of purpose. Each morning brought a fresh excitement to her writing routine, establishing a disciplined schedule that, although challenging at times, ultimately became a rewarding endeavour. Yet, the initial joy of acceptance soon morphed into anxiety about meeting expectations. “Panic set in at the thought of letting anyone down,” she candidly shared. Fortunately, unwavering support from her family and friends reassured her and helped her recognize her own potential and capabilities.

Kathie’s dedication to the writing process was nothing short of inspiring; she often spent eight arduous hours at the kitchen table, her furry friends keeping her company. She humbly acknowledges that her success is largely due to Brian’s steadfast support, though he modestly emphasizes, “The book is Kathie’s dream, and its brilliant structure and ideas are all her own.”

Kathie’s trans-formation from a devoted artist to a distinguished author epitomizes her resilience, creativity, and the nurturing community surrounding her. As she continues to share her passion for calligraphy and storytelling, her journey as an author is clearly just beginning.

*Italic Calligraphy: From Learning the Fundamentals to Dancing with Your Pen* was released on September 4th and can be found at major bookstores and online retailers worldwide. In the upcoming weeks, Kathie will embark on a book-signing tour, with events scheduled at Tiger Hills Arts in Holland on October 17 and at the Baldur Museum on October 20.

PHOTO CAPTION: The book is Kathie’s dream, and its brilliant structure and ideas are all her own.  PHOTO BY SUZANNE PADDOCK