The sessions will be held in person on Sunday afternoons, starting from April 12, at The Book Nook, an independent bookstore located at Singel 82. The workshop is designed for anyone interested in exploring queer themes through writing, or simply seeking a creative community of peers.
Structured Creativity and Support
The workshop is co-facilitated by Matthew Curlewis and Meadow Jones PhD, who together bring decades of experience in writing and community building. They will employ the Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) methodology, a well-regarded approach developed to encourage writers of all skill levels.
The AWA method is built on a foundation of confidentiality and focuses on treating all new writing as fiction to maintain privacy. A key principle is its feedback process, which is structured to be purely positive and affirming, highlighting what is strong and effective in a piece of writing. This approach is intended to build trust and confidence, allowing participants to experiment and explore their voices without fear of harsh critique.
Exploring Queer Narratives
According to the organizers, the workshop will serve as a space to explore the nuances of queer experience, both past and present. The sessions will acknowledge the history and struggles of queer ancestors while focusing on creating new narratives. The facilitators note that in times of social polarization, queer artists have often been the ones to highlight complexity and nuance, a tradition they hope to continue.
Inspiration for the workshop's creative direction is drawn from the Rainbow Eucalyptus, a tree known for its vibrant, multi-colored bark. This metaphor reflects the goal of the workshop: to cultivate a diverse and colorful spectrum of stories from within the community.
Participants can expect in-session writing prompts designed to spark creativity, followed by opportunities to share their work in a confidential and encouraging environment. The workshop is open to all, from seasoned writers to those just beginning to explore their creative side.
