On Saturday, February 25, Writers & Books will host a
workshop, “Exploring the Healing Power of Personal Writing,” co-sponsored by
the National Association for Poetry Therapy.
For less than 10 bucks, participants can spend an afternoon exploring
how writing can be used for personal growth and healing. The day includes
workshop writing breakout sessions, keynote speakers, a book sale and resource
table, and a closing reading with an open mic. A light lunch will be provided.
The event kicks off at 11 a.m. with a welcome and
introduction by Karen vanMeenen, followed by a presentation by David B. Seaburn
on writing as a powerful tool for making sense of our experience. At noon,
participants will have their choice of four themed breakout writing sessions,
followed by a break to nosh, check out the book sale, and sign up for the open
mic.
The second part of the breakout writing sessions continues at
1:35 p.m., followed by a presentation by Pat Schwartz on her 14 years
facilitating poetry programs for inmates. She’ll read some of their poems and
offer a brief writing exercise. The rest of the afternoon will include a poetry
reading by Charlie Cotรฉ, an
open mic, and book sales.
The workshop costs $5 for W&B or NAPT members and $8 for
the general public, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. You can
register at the door; for more information email karen@wab.org.
This article appears in Feb 22-28, 2017.
