Meet Chavelli
MY THOUGHTS TO LIVE BY:
Savor the simplicity and splendor of life.
Celebrate the beauty in everything, in every corner of the globe.
Learn from others. Share your knowledge. Be fascinating. Every day.
Revel in the warmth of family and friends, daily celebrations, and moments of inspiration.
Ignite a positive spirit and encourage warmth and compassion.
Opt for optimism.
My Story
It’s crazy to think that my journey into the world of calligraphy began back when I was around 8 years old! I was attending a British primary school in Hong Kong and had the opportunity to learn foundational hand. My teacher Mr. Uphill gave us each a broad nib Sheaffer calligraphy pen and we went over letterforms several times for a week. It was just a tiny taste, but little did I know, I was learning a skill that would shape the rest of my life.
Fast forward to today, and as a graphic designer I can say I’ve worked with global clients, such as Disney, Manchester United and Marriott, as well as neighborhood restaurants and independent creatives. I’ve had the opportunity to work with artists, celebrities and athletes, private patrons and wonderful brides and grooms.
One thing that has stayed consistent throughout my career and life: my passion for paper and letters. Paper isn’t just paper; it’s a timeless avenue for intimate connections. And letters? They can look just as beautiful as the messages they convey. I’m still enamored with letterforms, the history of writing, century-old manuscripts, and the cultural differences that alter them from place to place. It’s a fascinating world that speaks so much to the rest of my interests.
These days, I focus on crafting designs that highlight the beauty of the written word on lush paper and in physical spaces. I incorporate my design background and visual sensitivity into my lettering work, while leveraging my design experience and technical production know-how to create one-of-a-kind services for my clients.
In everything I do, you’ll find me living a life of delight with having the goal of helping others do the same. I like to say I’m creatively driven, people-oriented and internationally-inspired, and I bring those same values to my work. I have an insatiable appetite for travel, believing that experiencing the world and its people can only inspire warmth and understanding.
This quote below is one of my favorites, and eloquently expresses my approach to life.
““Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness…Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth.””
As for my hobbies and other interests: they’re varied, from Mozart's genius and Tetris, to skiing and Jim Henson’s creativity (I named my pup Bunsen Honeydew after a Muppet!). Guilty pleasures? DVR-ing and binge watching Jeopardy, and indulging in an impromptu karaoke session with friends. On the weekends, you can find me enjoying a nice glass of funky wine, hosting dinners at home and throwing killer themed parties! I love love love dogs and have a delightful fluffy Havanese named Bunsen, and a rescue Papillon/Pomeranian mix, Cooper. I also serve on the Board of Directors of the New York City calligraphy guild, Society of Scribes.
Each and every day, I strive to leave my mark on the world through my work and by making an impact on others. I would love to work with you and have the opportunity to bring your dream to life.
xoxo
Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society
Friends of Calligraphy
Alphabettes
The Cooper Union, New York, New York
Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh
Chelsea College of Art and Design, University of the Arts, London, UK