Pop-Up Poetics - Free Poetry Writing Workshops in Downtown Van

Hello,

This summer I’m thrilled to be working with DVBIA again to offer a series of free community poetry writing gatherings in Lot 19 on August 11th, 25th, and Sept 11th.

If you’ve never been to Lot 19, it’s a charming park located in the heart of Downtown Van featuring picnic areas and landscaped gardens. There are lots of chairs and tables for us to sit at together and write. Address: 855 W Hastings St, Vancouver.

Here’s some photos from last year’s event:

Here’s the details for the FREE outdoor gatherings happening in August:

Ode to a Lost Hobby
Mon, August 11th from 5:30-7pm in Lot 19

Write a poem about a long-lost or overlooked hobby that once brought you joy. As part of this community writing practice, you’ll explore what this hobby once offered you, what it meant to lose it, and imagine how you might welcome it back into your life.

Writing Through Uncertainty
Mon, August 25th from 5:30-7pm in Lot 19

Write a poem that imagines a new, breathful relationship with uncertainty. In this community writing practice, you’ll unleash your imagination and explore new ways of moving through what is unknown, using metaphor as one of your tools and guides.

These workshops will include:

• A poem or quote to inspire conversation on the above themes.

• A three-part writing practice, including: mindfulness, guided freewriting, and 15 minutes to sit back in the sun and write a poem inspired by your reflections.

• An opportunity to share your creativity with others, although sharing is not necessary.

• LIVE acoustic music to accompany you as you write.

• Lot 19 is a designated Drinking in Public Plazas site. Bring a beverage if you’d like.

Never written a poem before?

No experience is necessary! I like to think of poetry as something you make with the materials of your imagination and way of seeing way of the world. Poetry is an opportunity to be playful with words. It can be a lot of fun.

Last year’s event brought together 30+ people to write together in the sun. If you’re feeling called to write, I hope you’ll join us.

Psssssst: On Thursday, September 11th from 5-7:30pm, I’m offering a THIRD workshop with DVBIA in Lot 19, which will include an opportunity to work with a musician to put your poetry to music. More info coming soon.

Upcoming Workshops at 9 Creative Lives Studio

Are you feeling called to spend more time nurturing your creativity this fall? I have two upcoming poetry writing workshops. One for adults and one for teens.

1. Embodied Poetry: 8-Week Writing Workshop for Adults

Over the next 8 weeks, explore the relationship between poetry and the body through reading, writing, and engaging in the language of poetry.

• Mondays, September 8th -November 3rd from 5:30-7:45pm PT

• Online over Zoom

• 6 spots max (3 spots left)

2. Poetic Disruptions: 8-Week Writing Workshop for Teens (15-18)

In this 8-week series, teens will explore how to write poetry that honestly and creatively expresses their relationship to ambition, change, belonging (and more), while also strengthening their creative writing skills. 

• Fridays, October 17th - December 12th from 3:30-5:30pm PT (no class Oct 31st)

• Online over Zoom

• 8 spots max

with thanks,
Christine Bissonnette

Questions or comments about anything in this email? Send an email to [email protected] . I’d love to hear from you.

P.S — Know someone who would enjoy receiving this email? Pass it along! 9 Creative Lives Studio is a small business run just by me (Christine Bissonnette). Your support and referrals make a big difference.