More than gestures: Artist brings D&D players together through FSL

I learnt the BSL alphabet several decades ago, and it may be one of the few things I remember from those distant days.

That’s the British Sign Language, and I think I remember it still because I’ve used to make friends and turn what could be really awkward situations into great experiences.

It’s not enough, of course; whenever I meet someone who is Deaf, I rely on them to facilitate communication more than I can offer. But I hope knowing these few gestures is more than just a …. gesture. It’s a statement of intent; it’s my capability that’s holding me back from being more inclusive, not a desire to exclude anyone.

I honestly think that’s why my clumsy attempts to sign H.I. at a few gaming conventions have always helped break the ice, turning that potentially awkward gaming experience into a great one.

The alphabet is a start, but signing someone’s character class would be incredibly cool.

D&D character classes in FSL

FSL is the Filipino Sign Language, and Deaf freelance artist and comic writer CJ Reynaldo worked with the FSL Treasure group and others on a set of illustrations to teach you how to sign D&D character classes.

Why? As CJ says, this will help bring hearing and Deaf people together. I can confirm from my own limited experiences, he’s right.

I’m not sure how often I’ll meet anyone who signs in FSL here in Scotland, but I have found it quite fun trying to learn these. For example, the Filipino for “Paladin” is not that far away from the BSL for “H”; the difference is you use only two fingers for Paladin, but your whole hand for H.

Voila! (H)oly Paladin, and I’ve found a way to remember.

CJ Reynaldo, aka Caldatelier, does take commissions but not currently.

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• Illustrator Caldatelier.