About me

Hi, I’m Filip Ciślak, a graphic designer, letter artist, and calligrapher from Poland. I first got interested in calligraphy and lettering back in 2012, while I was studying graphic design at the Academy of Fine Arts. What began as a casual experiment soon became a big part of my creative process, and I love mixing hand lettering with modern design. In 2022, I completed my Ph.D., focusing on how calligraphy can improve graphic design education. Now I’m an assistant professor at my Academy, where I research and teach both classic and modern ways of using calligraphy in design.

Today, I teach, exhibit, and utilize calligraphy in my graphic design work. My approach to calligraphy goes beyond simply reviving historical forms. I’m interested in exploring new possibilities and applications both artistically and in contemporary graphic design and typography.

Over the years, I’ve conducted numerous calligraphy workshops both in Poland and internationally, with sessions in cities like Katowice, Krakow, Warsaw, Helsinki, Bratislava, and Zaragoza, and given lectures internationally. Since 2016, I’ve also been leading regular calligraphy workshops for students at the Academy. I’m a member of the Calligraphymasters and Speedball Professional Artist Network collectives.

Alongside calligraphy, poster design holds a special place in my practice. I’ve had the pleasure of presenting my posters at major events—from the Katowice Poster Biennale to Sofia’s Stage Poster Triennial and the Biennale in Mexico. Along the way, I’ve also picked up a few recognitions, like the 2013 FETA Festival poster award, a mention at Kharkiv’s 4th Block Biennale, and a silver medal at the 27th Polish Poster Biennale.