Last year, I was invited to Convivio Conference, the art summer retreat held in Castello di Postignano in Umbria, Italy. The intention was for me to host a generative writing workshop and read from my latest work. This year, I was invited again to mentor and host workshops on a more formal schedule. I held nine one-to-one mentoring sessions and two workshops. Let me tell you, it was intense and intensely fulfilling. We discussed craft, the blank page, our blocks, and the habits we need to break. We marveled over the power of words, were moved to tears (me too!), and sparked joy in each other as we broke through barriers.
There is so much value in taking yourself to a beautiful place. A view, an espresso, and like-minded people who are open and ready. This was my second time at Convivio. I knew that I could expect a bunch of primed and skilled mentees. I also knew that I absolutely had to be at my best: ready to give as much as I could. And that I did and I got so much in return!
Another massive joy of such a conference is the interaction with other teachers. Can you imagine the wit and banter between lovers of words? 🙂 Suffice it to say, there was never a dull moment.
This year, I’ve also been introducing some paper crafts into my sessions. This new element makes the work more fun and intriguing. It introduces an element of play. But there’s something very important that it does too– it distracts us from our blocks (that little voice that whispers, or yells, ‘Who cares about your writing?’). Opening up possibilities and watching that spark come in my students’ eyes are moments I live for. Here is one of my pieces.
If you’re interested in a paper//poetry workshop, I’ll be working on one soon.
The magic will live on. One of my workshops at Convivio was conducted with the visual artist Geneva Lark Hutchinson, who this year was organizing paper-making and collage workshops. Our combined powers are incredible — watch out for our offerings!
There was much more than I’ve already written -music, art, history, yoga, excursions. Some of the group went on a hot air balloon!
… and then wine & food tastings / appreciation, friendship, and of course, priceless camaraderie. May the beautiful memories nourish and lift us for days to come!
