In the ekphrastic tradition, writers not only describe visual art but also think about where visual art takes them emotionally and artistically. In conjunction with the gallery exhibition Walking, we’ll allow ourselves to write about art and translate art practices to writing practices. A colorful painting can prompt equally vivid writing, even when the written work departs from a simple description of the original. Likewise, an abstract sculpture might prompt more disjunctive writing; a handmade quilt might serve as a reminder of the handmade-ness of writing or of our own memories of traditional arts. There are so many ways the arts speak to and inspire one another. We’ll explore as many ways as possible with sample texts and time to explore the gallery, write, and share.
Skill Level
All
Objective
Skill Development, Creativity Enhancement
Outcome
Creation of Artwork, Inspiration and Creativity
Mary Ann Samyn is the author of seven collections of poetry, including Air, Light, Dust, Shadow, Distance (2018) and The Return from Calvary (forthcoming fall 2025). She teaches in the MFA program at West Virginia University and has also frequently taught workshops in Leelanau County. She writes about her poetry, weaving, cooking, gardening, and all things Michigan on her Substack, Cake & Poetry (
