Join ARTFactory in celebrating the literary arts with a dual-session workshop in poetry! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious, this two-part workshop poses the question: what is poetry, really? Together we will read, write, reflect on, & workshop poems as well as discuss how and where to get published. Come ready to read, create & connect!

Lead by Gwen Fletcher, BA in English, Creative Writing from the University of Mary Washington. A former bookseller, Gwen has over a decade of experience in the book industry and has hosted countless poetry book clubs, writing workshops, author talks, open mics, and more.

Session 1 --

Open-ended prompt to start, free write

Reading: Delphiniums in a Window Box, Dean Young

Discussion: The Rules -- form, rhyme, metre, historical context

Group activity: Collaborative haiku (Renku)

Workshop: Read aloud & critique Renkus

Instructor: Gwen Fletcher

Tuition: $38

Join ARTFactory in celebrating the literary arts with a dual-session workshop in poetry! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious, this two-part workshop poses the question: what is poetry, really? Together we will read, write, reflect on, & workshop poems as well as discuss how and where to get published. Come ready to read, create & connect!

Lead by Gwen Fletcher, BA in English, Creative Writing from the University of Mary Washington. A former bookseller, Gwen has over a decade of experience in the book industry and has hosted countless poetry book clubs, writing workshops, author talks, open mics, and more.

Session 2 --

Open-ended prompt to start, free write

Reading: Olio, Tyehimba Jess

Discussion: Breaking the Rules -- free verse, calligrams, prose-poems, return to form

Workshop: In small groups or as a whole, depending on class size, review and critique homework pieces

Group activity: Acts of self publication -- review of publication opportunities, lit mags, zines, Poets & Writers, prizes, etc.

Instructor: Gwen Fletcher

Tuition: $38