The Right of Writing - Give Me back my Mo-Jo

The Right of Writing Workshop (Module 1) The aim of this workshop is to access instinctual creativity, to discuss the concept of thinking  from a critical point of view and then to use writing as a tool, not to communicate as a script, but as a methodology to create visual communication.   Theoretical underpinnings are supported by creative actions in an exciting way which surprises artists and non-artists alike.  This four-session course will involve discussion on various types of writing, poetry and art techniques. An artwork and an artist’s book will be produced, but these are the by-product of the process rather than the goal.   We are cross-pollinating disciplines (The Medici Effect) in order to create new ways of thinking and unlocking creativity by moving from the concrete to the abstract using the rules and imagery of language rather than art. Discussion includes: The Liminal Space (the threshold/the place of all and no intersection) Palimpsests as a conce

I stress, and had to reiterate during the workshop that the point  of these first four sessions was to access creativity via formal and informal writing methodologies, BUT the visual end results were quite spectacular anyway.  I think that's a by-product of complete engagement and willingness to let go. By the fourth session, participants were willing to just 'play' with the course point in mind - I LOVE the results. By the final class, I think they were not even startled by my teaching methods and willingly entered into 'cut-up' mode. The terminology we discussed, such as; the liminal space, palimpsests, ancient and writing forms, and creativity in general had shifted everyone - I also benefited hugely from the course, matching Annmarie, Jackie and Janina stroke for stroke. Asemic writing was one of the keys used to unlock the liminal space - the threshold where there is so much to say, and often no way to say it. Art and writing speak as no other medi

In an innovative way, Jackie used a painting to do her reflections for the final day of the workshop - and I got it as a gift! This telling and thoughtful work was a revaluation of her 'painting' methodology  using her normal ground, a canvas.  The process was multifaceted and the result a gift - both for her and I. Within the making, the thinking and the experimentation, creativity is nudged to that special place - 'What If'? Spray paint, paint,  apposite text, wax and collage creates a work that is meaningful on many levels for both me, as the receiver and Jackie as the giver. Where there is free exchange, whether it be material, or intellectual, a place of creative joy opens.  It's often a hard-won place, the end of one journey, but the beginning of another.  Many thanks Jackie - we have got to know each other well, and I'm privileged to continue this journey with you.