I am very interested in calligraphy and wondered if incorporating writing within painting is possible without it becoming too illustrated?

Cathy Gosling replies: "Many top calligraphers do make their calligraphy into a 'work of art' and illustration is often incorporated into fine writing. I think what is important is to decide whether it is the calligraphy that should have prominence, or the painting subject, and not to make them fight too much. There are several good books on calligraphy available through the SAA shop."