We live in times where it has become increasingly important to imagine potential futures that creatively balance the needs of present and future generations, and of human and non-human worlds. Poetry can be a way of expanding our imagination through imagery, sonics and paying attention to our senses.
In the tranquil surrounds of the Rippon Lea gardens and Estate, this workshop will take inspiration from the ‘Futures’ art installation in conjunction with the Botanica Festival. Through a series of prompts and exercises, we explore together what it might mean to exercise our imaginations towards a better world for all of us.
Beginners or experienced writers, lovers of poetry and the poetry-curious all welcome!
Attendances also includes an opportunity to perform your poem at a Poetry Open Mic during the Botanica Festival the following weekend.
Note: This workshop will include a half hour lunch break. You are invited to picnic on the grounds and continue in gentle conversation during this time if you’d like to bring along a pack lunch. Light refreshments provided
About the poet
Es Foong is a poet and performer that thinks and writes about the strange geographies of belonging, and the power of the pause to offer alternative ways of being. Their poems have appeared in Rabbit Poetry, Kalliope X, Best of Australian Poems 2022 and long-listed in the University of Canberra Vice Chancellor’s Poetry Prize 2023. They’ve featured on stages including Queensland Poetry Festival 2022 and Canberra Poetic City 2023. Their poetry collection from Recent Work Press is called “Clot and Marrow”. They live online at waffleirongirl.com
Rippon Lea House and Gardens