Stories of Our Working Lives: A Poetry Workshop for Seniors

Write about the work that shaped your life—surrounded by an indoor mural that honors it. This half-day workshop invites older adults to explore their own stories of work, purpose, and identity through poetry.

Guided by poets Steve Straight and Elizabeth Thomas, you will reflect on personal experiences, draw inspiration from AMP’s mural, and craft original poems in a relaxed, artistic setting. No prior writing experience is needed.

Adults ages 55+ who are interested in exploring creative writing, whether you’re a longtime journaler or trying poetry for the first time, you'll find resonance with others in a group where every story matters.

• A guided creative poetry writing workshop designed for older adults
• Inspiration drawn from AMP’s 120-foot indoor mural of American workers
• Supportive instruction from two respected poet-educators
• Opportunities to explore, create, share, and connect
• Time to explore AMP’s inspiring mural gallery

Steve Straight is a poet and retired professor of English and director of the poetry program at Manchester Community College. His book Affirmation received the 2023 William Meredith Award for Poetry.

Elizabeth Thomas is a poet, educator, and founder of UpWords Poetry. A Master Teaching Artist for the Connecticut Office of the Arts and The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts, she leads poetry workshops nationwide.

AMP’s spacious mural gallery, set in a renovated historic mill building, combines industrial charm with a distinctive artistic atmosphere. Its centerpiece is the incredible indoor mural—120 feet long and five stories high—that celebrates American workers on a grand scale.

With the mural as the backdrop to the workshop—and three levels for viewing and reflecting—you'll have a rare opportunity to write in a space that honors creativity, work, and the stories that shape us.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

American Mural Project, 90 Whiting Street, Winsted, United States