About this Event
On the eve of the British Empire Exhibition's centenary this workshop engages with colonialism, memory and commemoration. The long history of British colonialism has shaped our day to day lives but our individual memories of 'empire', our souvenirs, vary depending on multiple things including age, heritage, education. Dr. Pen Woods of Poetry Vs Colonialism in conjunction with Middlesex University invite you backstage at Brent Museum with curators and staff.
Poet Carinya Sharples shares Souvenir, commissioned especially for the workshop, and we invite workshop participants to bring a real 'souvenir' with them (or find a souvenir from the exhibition). Using individual memories and feelings brought to life by these objects we explore the multiple legacies of empire in discovery, discussion and a led poetry workshop.
This is an inclusive event and participants with no experience of creative writing are welcome, as are seasoned writers. All our lives have been informed by legacies of empire and everyone's experience of this is embraced. We expect participants to be respectful and tolerant of the different views, feelings and souvenirs that participants bring. If you have specific access needs please don't hesitate to get in touch so we can ensure your safe and welcome participation.
All participants will leave with:
- a poem they have crafted
- a signed copy of Sharples's new work
- their hearts and minds expanded
This event is part of Being Human Festival, the UK’s national festival of the humanities, taking place 9–18 November 2023. Led by the School of Advanced Study, University of London, with generous support from Research England, in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the British Academy. For further information please see beinghumanfestival.org
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Brent Museum (The Reading Room, The Library at Willesden Green), 95 High Road, London, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00