Description

Creativity and imagination are core aspects of humanity, under continual threat from our technocratic systems. Building our sense of community with others and connection to the nonhuman natural world invokes the creative and imaginative impulses of art and writing combined. The purpose of this workshop is to re-activate the imagination through created word and image, tapping into the natural world for inspiration.

The methodology involves alternating writing prompts, abstract and representational imagery, with time in the natural spaces around Sitka. Working with abstract art, sketch, collage, and written forms such as haiku, lament, story, and personal reflection, participants explore their own creative currents. By highlighting the deep and recent human history of the Cascade Head area, as well as our own experiences and “environmental genealogy,” we connect questions of place-making to the broader environmental challenges confronting our current generation.

Emphasis is on exploration, play, and learning techniques to combine written word and visual imagery. Participants will leave with a partially filled journal to launch future explorations.