Ekphrasis is the process of describing visual works of art using the written word. Join us for this five-session workshop (plus a culminating poetry reading) to take on the enjoyable challenge of creating poems inspired by paintings or photographs (including your own candid pics). Examples from well-known poets will start us off. From there, we will dive into the ekphrasis pool, “sketching” our responses to pictures shown in class. The first five sessions will be hands-on learning, and we will culminate with a sixth session that will be a public reading of your work, to which you may invite family and friends.

Each week we will share our poems and pictures for feedback, with the aim of bringing out the best in your poem. Expect opportunities to “grow” your poetry, discover new art and artists, and, most importantly, experience the pleasure of being part of a supportive community of
writers.

Free and open to the public. Space is limited and registration is required. Register below or contact the library for assistance. Register once for the first five workshop sessions. Separate registration for the culminating poetry reading on December 8 is available on our website.

Host Ira Schaeffer is long-time poet and resident of Rhode Island, who has been widely published in a variety of print and e-publications. A former CCRI English Prof., Ira continues to share his love of the written word by leading workshops in local libraries and centers for lifelong learning.