Suzanne Askham

Inscribing words that shine

For the longest time, I have been meaning to write about my friend, the lettering artist Caroline Keevil. Caroline has a sensitive understanding of words, and a way of making their highest meaning shine out. Years ago, I asked her to inscribe ‘Dum vivimus vivamus’ – ‘while we live, let us live’ – on a panel, as a gift for my partner Steven. It hangs in our hall today: shining, vibrant, and emboldening. It has become our family motto, an encouraging reminder that even during challenging times, we can choose to live fully in the moment… we can view all of life as an adventure.

A few well chosen words, painted with an intuitive choice of style and colour, can make a tremendous difference in anyone’s life. The power of a valuable affirmation is illuminated in such a way that a deeper light seems to shine through the words.

Then, a year ago, Steven asked Caroline to inscribe a haiku that I had written for him to celebrate our 25 years together. You can read about Caroline’s experience of creating this joyful work if you scroll down here. The beautiful piece brings me gratitude for the love, support and laughter that have sustained us through some pretty major adventures.

Caroline’s work is rich and varied, reflecting the humour, hopes and dreams of her clients. My favourites are full of love and lightness, daring and courage. They have strength and sensitivity in equal measure. For a special present for someone you love,  I can’t think of anything nicer.

Here is one more example from Caroline’s gallery: Love is Enough, by William Morris.