About this Event
Pages from the Underground: Writers’ Cohort is a community-centered creative writing series presented by Art Is Resistance in partnership with Writers’ Grotto. Rooted in the belief that storytelling is an act of cultural preservation and resistance, the series brings together emerging and established creatives to explore the power of the written and spoken word.
Through workshops led by local writers, poets, performers, and cultural practitioners, participants will develop their voices, explore personal and collective narratives, and experiment with different forms of creative expression. From poetry and playwriting to memoir, journalism, and the business of creative writing, each session offers space to challenge dominant narratives, preserve untold stories, and imagine new possibilities for our communities.
The Rooted Renegades are the cohort of writers, storytellers, and cultural workers cultivating ideas, challenging conventions, and using their words to create lasting impact.
All workshops take place from 6:00 PM–8:00 PM.
Brandy Collins is a Bay Area-based writer, journalist, podcast co-host, and educator with two decades of experience in public service, consulting, and communications. An alum of the Maynard Institute for Journalism and board member of Writers’ Grotto, Brandy brings a multidisciplinary approach to storytelling, civic engagement, and professional development.
Rewriting Diversity: Beyond the Narrative Jan. 7th
A guided writing and study exercise examining how race, identity, and diversity are represented in storytelling. Participants will explore language, perspective, and narrative framing while challenging assumptions and developing more intentional, nuanced approaches to writing about difference.
The Art of Q&A: Interviewing for the Story Jan. 21st
Learn the art of asking meaningful questions and capturing compelling stories. This workshop explores interviewing techniques for memoir, documentaries, journalism, and personal creative projects, helping participants transform conversations into authentic narratives.
Papi Grande "PG" is an Oakland-raised spoken word artist and 26-time Berkeley Poetry Slam Champion. With more than 500 stage performances, PG is a celebrated voice in the Bay Area poetry community, using spoken word and creative expression to explore identity, culture, and the power of language.
Words in Form: Poetry & Ceramics Jan. 14th & Jan. 28th
An interdisciplinary creative experience bringing spoken word, poetry, and ceramics together. Participants will explore the relationship between language and physical form, transforming written expression into tangible works of art. Through poetry and hands-on ceramic exploration, this workshop invites participants to create, connect, and express themselves beyond the page.
Aidaa Peerzada is a Black and Pakistani American theatre maker whose work centers radical representation and historically suppressed narratives. Through poetry, music, movement, and experiential performance, she creates theatrical experiences that invite audiences to engage with stories often left unheard.
From Page to Stage: Writing for Performance Jan. 26th & Feb. 2nd
Explore the art of writing for live performance, transforming ideas, personal experiences, and untold histories into compelling theatrical narratives. Participants will experiment with dialogue, character development, poetry, and dramatic storytelling while learning how to bring written work to life through performance.
Totiana White is a Bayview-Hunters Point native, hip-hop artist, songwriter, DJ, and cultural entrepreneur. Through music, storytelling, and community leadership, she explores identity, heritage, resilience, and empowerment while creating opportunities for emerging creatives across the Bay Area.
Unapologetically Written: Write Your Voice Jan 12th & Jan 19th
A creative writing experience centered on self-expression, identity, and the power of personal storytelling. Participants will explore writing as a tool for self-discovery, cultural expression, and empowerment while developing the confidence to tell their stories authentically and unapologetically.
Seats are limited. If you can no longer attend, cancel your ticket so someone else can participate. Participants may enlist to recieve a travel stipend to accomodate travel, to be redeemed at location. We will not ask how you intend to spend these funds.
Event venue & nearby stays
Bayview Opera House, 4705 3rd St, San FRancisco, United States
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