Explore the possibilities of creative writing and develop new connections between visual art and the written word! Led by published poet and scholar Star Black, this 3-session literary workshop will focus on the idea of Ekphrasis, an ancient Greek term meaning “the use of detailed description of a work of visual art as a literary device.”
Inspired by the works featured in Return to a Place By the Sea, participants will generate a series of creative texts detailing their unique experiences of selected works in the exhibition. Poets, writers, and anyone fascinated by the interweaving of art and literature is welcome to attend, no prior writing experience is needed!

Each session will begin in the Library at The Church, meeting from 11:00am – 1:00pm on Thursday, April 6th, 13th, and 20th. During the first session, participants will be guided through an exclusive tour of Return to a Place By the Sea, led by April Gornik, co-founder of The Church and co-curator of the exhibition! All sessions will conclude with a group reading of written texts, sharing thoughts and ideas. As Black says: “Writing from art invites you to look closely at a work of art that you are drawn to and create your own work out of that experience. Much like sketching in front of a painting at The Met, the painting remains there but the sketch is yours.”

Due to the intimate nature of this workshop, the total capacity will be limited to 12 participants. A notebook and pen or pencil are the only required materials for this workshop – these will not be provided.