Introduction to Hebrew Calligraphy

Allison Barclay is a traditionally-trained Jewish scribe (Soferet), meaning she is authorized to write the bible. She grew up in British Columbia but currently lives in London, England, and has been creative since she was old enough to hold a pencil. Inspired by Fiddler on the Roof, she began teaching herself Hebrew letters from an encyclopedia at just 10 years old and experimenting with calligraphy for fun, before studying at Victoria College of Art and Camosun College.

Allison later trained as a soferet. Since then, she has been commissioned to copy poetry and prayers, write and illustrate Jewish wedding contracts, and create pieces for exhibitions. Allison also teaches Hebrew lettering to others and is the first woman licensed to restore Torah scrolls that had survived the Holocaust for the Memorial Scrolls Trust in London.