2023 Event Schedule
JAX POETRY FEST | APRIL 1-30, 2023
FOUNDED BY HOPE AT HAND
The 8th Annual Jax Poetry Fest will kick off on Saturday, April 1, 2023 with in-person and virtual events, performances, and exhibits. Check out our full schedule below filled with workshops, poetry performances and more! A big thank you to our partners and sponsors who make this community event possible.
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2023 EVENT SCHEDULE
All workshops are provided free to the public unless stated otherwise below
SATURDAY, APRIL 1: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Linking Voices: Exploring Collaborative Poetry through Renga featuring Ma Bones
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join Ma Bones for a unique poetry workshop on the collaborative form of Renga. Originating from Japan, Renga consists of alternating stanzas of 5-7-5 and 7-7 sound units per line, linked in succession by multiple poets. Ma Bones will introduce the form, begin with the Hokku, and guide participants through the creation of a collaborative poem. The poem will remain open during National Poetry Month, closing on April 30, 2023. Don't miss this opportunity to join in the creation of a collective masterpiece.
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Ma Bones is a local poet and interdisciplinary artist located in Jacksonville Florida. Previous projects include the publication of " A Gathering of Incandescence". She is currently working on an open anthology with DeadLast Press.
SUNDAY, APRIL 2: IN-PERSON POETRY WORKSHOP
First Sundays Poetry Workshop at
Chamblin's Uptown featuring Suni Storm
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join us at Chamblin's Uptown, where every First Sunday we gather for an inspiring poetry workshop led by Suni Storm.
Bring your family and friends to join us for a free and family-friendly poetry workshop that will awaken your creative spirit and leave you feeling inspired. Suni will lead you in a series of writing exercises that will help us explore the depths of our imaginations and hone our poetry writing skills. Whether you're an experienced writer or just starting out, you will be guided through a series of prompts that will challenge you to write from new perspectives and unlock your unique voice.
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Over the course of the workshop, we'll learn to tap into our emotions, experiences, and observations, and translate them into poetry that resonates with others. We'll also explore the different techniques and tools that can help us refine our writing and take our poetry to the next level.
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So come join us for an afternoon of creativity, community, coffee or tea, and inspiration. Bring a notebook and a pen, and be prepared to write, share, and grow. We believe that everyone has a story to tell, and we can't wait to hear yours.
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Suni Storm is a poetess, author, event host, and entrepreneur located in Jacksonville, Florida, by way of Washington, DC. Along with artistic endeavors, Suni considers herself a qualified playlist curator, a cultural enthusiast, and a safe space. You can connect with Suni at a variety of city-wide events, but she is best found minding her business.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5: OPEN MIC NIGHT AT JAX PUBLIC LIBRARY
Open Mic Night at Art Walk Emceed by
LoveReigns (ADULTS)
6:00 pm to 8:30 pm | Jacksonville Public Libray - Main Branch
We welcome all adults (18+) to join us at the Jacksonville Public Library's Main Branch during April's Art Walk for an Open Mic Night emceed by LoveReigns. Come show off your skill or share your latest poetry, while learning about our nonprofit. Then explore the three major hubs: James Weldon Johnson Park, The Jessie (duPont Center), and Vagabond Flea at The Breezeway at Vystar Tower, and all the businesses and public art between.
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Taryn "LoveReigns" Wharwood is a poet, writer, author, emcee, motivational speaker, entrepreneur and curator of Dopeness. LoveReigns captivates audiences by finding power in her truth. Her words, her aura, her spirit all scream love...but not without equal amounts of pain. If you know Love, you know yourself. She creatively uses words to reflect you back to you. The beauty, the pain, the good, the bad, the ugly, the peace, the joy, the love... even if you don't believe it yet!​
TUESDAY, APRIL 4: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
There Is a Life after Life: Flash Memoir in a Southern Gothic Setting featuring Damon Thomas
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join Damon for a unique poetry workshop that encourages you to rethink the role of context in sharing personal stories. Rather than being mere content, context can serve as inspiration for your writing. Damon will guide you in using natural language and song-like qualities to express your story with affection, enthusiasm, and awe, much like the songs of the cypress trees. Through this workshop, you'll discover how your personal story can have a life beyond your own, carrying on through the power of storytelling. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the beauty and significance of context in your poetry with Damon as your guide.
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Damon Thomas is a sixth-generation Floridian who grew up on the banks of the Suwannee River. Here he experienced a Southernness that included sea monsters, swamp cabbage, and makeshift graves. Damon has released 25 Spoken Word albums & 8 books on how the bookish might pass time in a Southern Gothic setting.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5: OPEN MIC NIGHT AT JAX PUBLIC LIBRARY
Open Night at Art Walk Emceed by
Suni Storm (TEENS)
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm | Jacksonville Public Libray - Main Branch Teen Room
Calling all teens (13 - 17) to join us at the Jacksonville Public Library's Main Branch (Teen Room) during Art Walk for an Open Mic Night! This event will be emceed by the one and only Suni Storm! Come show off your skill or share your latest poetry, while learning about Hope at Hand, Inc. Then explore the three major hubs: James Weldon Johnson Park, The Jessie (duPont Center), and Vagabond Flea at The Breezeway at Vystar Tower, and all the businesses and public art between.
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Suni Storm is a poetess, author, event host, and entrepreneur located in Jacksonville, Florida, by way of Washington, DC. Along with artistic endeavors, Suni considers herself a qualified playlist curator, a cultural enthusiast, and a safe space. You can connect with Suni at a variety of city-wide events, but she is best found minding her business.​
FRIDAY, APRIL 7: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
The Poetry of Justice featuring
Jennifer Wolfe
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
What does "And Justice for All" mean to you? When have you witnessed or experienced injustice? How can we make justice more available to everyone? In this workshop, we'll capture three incidents in your life and turn them into poetry, connecting with each other and learning more about how our personal lives intersect with the larger world. We'll also review a 5-step checklist for strengthening your poetry during the editing process—without losing your voice or your message in the process. Art by Jacksonville artists from the "And Justice for All" Exhibition at Women Writing for (a) Change Jax will inspire our writing.
Jennifer Wolfe is a writer, trained journalist, and publisher of the annual anthology, (a) river writing. She is the founder and executive director of Women Writing for (a) Change Jacksonville, a writing community that offers writing circles, art exhibitions, community events, annual publications, and community collaborations to bring the art of writing and the practices of community together in Jacksonville.
THURSDAY APRIL 6: POETRY IN THE PARK
Featuring AHYNTE & Aaron Woodson
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | James Weldon Johnson Park
Join us every Thursday in April for a lunchtime filled with poetry, connection, and community engagement in downtown Jacksonville, emceed by the one and only LoveReigns!
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Located in a beautiful James Weldon Johnson Park, our open mic event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, connect with others, and express yourself creatively. Whether you're a seasoned poet or a first-time performer, we welcome all voices and perspectives to take the stage and share their unique poetry.
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As you enjoy the performances, you'll also have the opportunity to learn more about the important work that Hope at Hand does in the community, providing poetry therapy workshops for those in need. By attending this event, you'll not only be supporting the arts, but you'll also be making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth.
So grab your lunch and join us for a mid-day break filled with poetry and inspiration. Admission is free, and all are welcome to participate or simply listen and enjoy. Let's come together as a community and celebrate the healing power of poetry!
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A.H.Y.N.T.E., at first sight, may make your tongue quiver due to fear of imminent mispronunciation. Despite the unique arrangement of letters, it is pronounced simply Ant. It's an acronym, meaning 'All Have Yearnings None Truer than Enlightenment'. It's his mantra, and true focus for his life.
WEDNESDAY APRIL 12: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
John Skelton (1460-1529): Rap Poetry's Start featuring Lynn Skapyak Harlin
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join Lynn for a dynamic poetry workshop that explores the exciting world of Skeltonic Verse! In this workshop, you'll discover the unique qualities of this form, which is characterized by short lines of three to six words that tumble down the page with boundless energy. The rhymes continue as long as the poet feels it is working well and it is often called tumbling verse.
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You'll learn about the history and evolution of Skeltonic Verse, and how it has been used by poets throughout the ages to convey humor and energy. Allen Ginsberg used this form in his work titled, "Jumping the Gun on the Sun".
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Throughout the workshop, you'll have plenty of opportunities to practice writing your own Skeltonic Verse, experimenting with different techniques and styles. Whether you're an experienced poet or a newcomer to the world of verse, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to explore the limitless potential of Skeltonic Verse and connect with other poetry lovers in a supportive and creative environment.
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Lynn Skapyak Harlin’s first published poem, “War Waste,” appeared in Time, (December 7, 1970). Her poems have appeared in numerous literary Magazines and in three chap books, Press One for More Options, Real Women Drive Trucks (1997), and Age Changes (2017), and in two collections Twists and Turns (2019) and All Shapes and Sizes (2022).
SATURDAY, APRIL 8: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
An Exercise in Lyrical Expression featuring Rawby Writes
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join Rawby, for a poetry workshop that will take your writing and performance skills to the next level! In this workshop, we will explore the power of lyrical expression through slam poetry. You will learn how to infuse your poetry with emotion and deliver it with a dynamic vocal range. We will also delve into the mechanics of slam poetry, including rhyme schemes, metaphors, and storytelling techniques, to help you craft powerful and impactful pieces.
By the end of the workshop, you will gain more than just poetic prowess. Lyrical expression slam poetry will also enable you to tap into your inner confidence and express yourself more authentically. You will leave this workshop with not only heightened writing skills but also an increased sense of self-assuredness. So come join Rawby for an hour of creativity, expression, and growth!
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Rawby Writes (aka The Artist Yung OG Rawby) is a Black on Black Rhyme poet and recording artist. He is a one-man music producer making his own beats, lyrics, and engineering. He is a youth development expert and has worked with OneJax and the Boys and Girls Club of Northeast Florida for years. His work with the youth is extremely important to him.
TUESDAY, APRIL 11: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Exploring the Atmosphere of Night and Morning: A Workshop on Nocturnes and Aubades featuring Shutta Crum
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join award-winning poet Shutta Crum for a poetry workshop that delves into the enchanting world of nocturnes and aubades! In this workshop, you'll learn how to master these two distinct forms of poetry and capture the essence of night and morning.
We'll start by exploring the history and themes of nocturnes and aubades, gaining a deeper understanding of the emotions and atmosphere that they aim to evoke. Then, we'll dive into the key elements that make these forms so unique, such as the use of sensory imagery, metaphors, and tone.
For a successful nocturne, you'll learn how to create a sense of mystery and intrigue using subtle metaphors and vivid sensory imagery. For an aubade, we'll focus on themes of renewal and hope, exploring how to capture the energy and optimism of a new day. Throughout the workshop, you'll have plenty of opportunities to practice writing your own nocturnes and aubades, experimenting with different techniques and styles.
So come join Shutta and fellow poetry lovers for an inspiring and transformative journey into the beauty of night and morning.
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Shutta Crum’s chapbook When You Get Here won a gold Royal Palm Award. The Way to the River is her latest. Her poems appear in numerous journals: Mom Egg, Acumen, West Trade, Calyx, Boulevard. She’s authored sixteen books for young readers (many in verse), including a Smithsonian Magazine and an ALA notable book.
FRIDAY, APRIL 14: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Write Through Your Healing featuring
LoveReigns
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join LoveReigns for a transformative poetry workshop that will guide you through the process of using words, thoughts, and feelings to heal from trauma and recognize your triggers. In this workshop, you'll learn how to use poetry as a tool for self-expression and healing, and how to write poetry that reflects your journey towards acceptance and resilience.
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LoveReigns believes that accepting what is or what has been is essential to moving forward, and will guide you through this process with empathy and compassion. You'll learn techniques for exploring your emotions and experiences through poetry, and how to channel your thoughts and feelings into a powerful and cathartic soliloquy.
Throughout the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to share your work with others and receive feedback and support. You'll connect with fellow poetry lovers and discover the transformative power of poetry in a supportive and welcoming environment. So come join LoveReigns and fellow poetry lovers for a journey into the world of poetry.
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LoveReigns captivates audiences by finding power in her truth. Her words, her aura, her spirit all scream love...but not without equal amounts of pain. If you know Love, you know yourself. She creatively uses words to reflect you back to you. The beauty, the pain, the good, the bad, the ugly, the peace, the joy, the love...even if you don't believe it yet!
THURSDAY, APRIL 13: POETRY IN THE PARK
Featuring Simonne
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | James Weldon Johnson Park
Join us every Thursday in April for a lunchtime filled with poetry, connection, and community engagement in downtown Jacksonville, emceed by the one and only LoveReigns!
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Located in a beautiful James Weldon Johnson Park, our open mic event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, connect with others, and express yourself creatively. Whether you're a seasoned poet or a first-time performer, we welcome all voices and perspectives to take the stage and share their unique poetry.
As you enjoy the performances, you'll also have the opportunity to learn more about the important work that Hope at Hand does in the community, providing poetry therapy workshops for those in need. By attending this event, you'll not only be supporting the arts, but you'll also be making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth.
So grab your lunch and join us for a mid-day break filled with poetry and inspiration. Admission is free, and all are welcome to participate or simply listen and enjoy. Let's come together as a community and celebrate the healing power of poetry!
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Born in Providence, Rhode Island but crafted her artistry in Jacksonville, FL., Simonne is a rap artist, that speaks about life and encouragement, growth and pain. Simonne is a songwriter, poet, and host of Poetic Jazzy’s spoken word open mic night.
SATURDAY, APRIL 15: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Haiku Immersion: Discovering the Essence of Japanese Poetry featuring Terri French
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Explore the captivating world of haiku poetry in this immersive presentation with Terri French! Delve into the rich history of this centuries-old genre, tracing its evolution from ancient Japanese court poetry to its contemporary forms in different cultures around the world.
Discover the fundamental elements that make up a haiku including line structure, seasonal imagery, and juxtaposition. You'll also learn how haiku captures a sense of transience and impermanence, inviting readers to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the beauty of the natural world.
This presentation is not only an introduction to the art of haiku, but also a practical guide to writing your own. You'll receive tips and techniques for developing your haiku skills, and have ample time to practice crafting your own poems. From choosing the right images and words to creating a sense of rhythm and flow, you'll gain hands-on experience in the art of haiku poetry.
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Terri French is on the editorial team of the online journal, contemporary haibun online. She is the past southeast regional coordinator of The Haiku Society of America and served as a member-at-large for The Haiku Foundation. Now retired, Terri and her husband Ray enjoy the nomadic lifestyle of full-time RVers, but soon hope to settle back down in Huntsville, Alabama.
SUNDAY, APRIL 16: IN-PERSON POETRY WORKSHOP
Third Sundays Blackout Poetry Workshop at
Chamblin's Uptown featuring Suni Storm
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join us at Chamblin's Uptown, where every Third Sunday we gather for an inspiring blackout poetry workshop led by Suni Storm.
Blackout poetry is a form of found poetry where you take an existing text, such as a newspaper or book page, and black out words to create a new poem. It's a fun and accessible way to experiment with language, imagery, and composition.
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Whether you're an experienced writer or new to poetry, Suni will lead you through a series of writing exercises that will challenge you to think creatively and express yourself in new and exciting ways. You'll learn how to select words and phrases, use line breaks and spacing, and create meaning through the juxtaposition of text.
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Chamblin's Uptown has the perfect atmosphere to try a new writing format, give yourself a challenge, or discover a new hobby! So come join us for an afternoon of creativity, community, coffee or tea, and inspiration. Bring a notebook and a pen, and we'll provide the rest, including a selection of texts to choose from. We believe that everyone has a story to tell, and we can't wait to hear yours through the art of blackout poetry.
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Suni Storm is a poetess, author, event host, and entrepreneur located in Jacksonville, Florida, by way of Washington, DC. Along with artistic endeavors, Suni considers herself a qualified playlist curator, a cultural enthusiast, and a safe space. You can connect with Suni at a variety of city-wide events, but she is best found minding her business.
TUESDAY, APRIL 18: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join poet and creative writing instructor Brooks Decker for an inspiring poetry workshop that will unlock your creativity and challenge your perception of what poetry can be. In this session, we will explore the art of blackout poetry, a unique technique that repurposes forgotten book pages into stunning works of poetic expression.
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As the saying goes, editing is often easier than starting from scratch, and this approach will allow you to work with pre-existing material in an exciting and innovative way. Whether you're a seasoned poet or just starting out, blackout poetry offers a fresh and accessible way to engage with language and create something truly original.
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To participate in this workshop, all you need is a pen or pencil, a marker, and a discarded book page (downloadable pages will be available closer to the event date). We'll provide guidance on how to select the right page and how to approach the editing process to create a piece that speaks to you and reflects your unique perspective.
Through a series of prompts and exercises, Brooks will guide you through the process of transforming a page of text into a visually stunning and emotionally resonant poem. You'll learn how to experiment with different techniques, styles, and approaches to create a piece that truly reflects your voice and vision.
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Join us for this exciting workshop and discover the power and potential of blackout poetry for yourself!
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Brooks Decker is the curriculum coordinator and a poetry facilitator at Hope at Hand, Inc. She often works with youth in rehabilitation centers, jails, and residential foster care. She's an artist, a writer and a student working towards her MA in Licensed Clinical Counseling. You may catch her at the Downtown Jax's Art Walk, every first Wednesday of the month, slinging her paintings, or thrifting from around town.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Exploring Narrative Through Verse featuring Chris Kastle
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join Chris for a unique and engaging poetry workshop that will help you see familiar stories in a whole new light. In this session, we'll explore the art of writing stories in verse, and how the use of rhyming couplets can create a fresh and exciting perspective on traditional narrative structures.
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By exploring the elements of story and experimenting with different poetic techniques and methodologies, you'll learn how to craft compelling and emotionally resonant verse that captures the heart of your characters and brings your stories to life.
This workshop will provide you with the tools and techniques you need to overcome writer's block and create dynamic and engaging verse under a deadline. Through a series of in-class exercises and group discussions, you'll explore the power of poetic language and discover new ways to approach the writing process.
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So if you're looking for a new approach to storytelling and want to explore the rich possibilities of verse, join Chris for this exciting and inspiring workshop!
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Chris Kastle is an award-winning poet, storyteller, singer, songsmith, author, artist, and educator from St. Augustine who has presented workshops for numerous arts and educational organizations. Her latest publication “Nonets in Nine Courses: Recipes in Verse” is a limited edition through Rising Moon Press.
THURSDAY APRIL 20: POETRY IN THE PARK
Featuring Daniel Welch and The Bolles Poetry Group
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | James Weldon Johnson Park
Join us every Thursday in April for a lunchtime filled with poetry, connection, and community engagement in downtown Jacksonville, emceed by the one and only LoveReigns! Located in a beautiful James Weldon Johnson Park, our open mic event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, connect with others, and express yourself creatively. Whether you're a seasoned poet or a first-time performer, we welcome all voices and perspectives to take the stage and share their unique poetry.
​
As you enjoy the performances, you'll also have the opportunity to learn more about the important work that Hope at Hand does in the community, providing poetry therapy workshops for those in need. By attending this event, you'll not only be supporting the arts, but you'll also be making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth.
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So grab your lunch and join us for a mid-day break filled with poetry and inspiration. Admission is free, and all are welcome to participate or simply listen and enjoy. Let's come together as a community and celebrate the healing power of poetry!
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Daniel Welch writes poems and stories in Jacksonville, Florida. His words are flavored by a youth spent straddling the country between California and New Hampshire and spiced by joining and leaving a high-control religion. He is now nourished by the pleasures of nature, music, and family.
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FRIDAY, APRIL 21: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Free Verse: Unleash Your Inner Poet featuring Carrie Voigt Schonhoff
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Carrie will share her expertise on free verse poetry and guide you through the process of becoming a poet. Free verse poetry is a form of poetry that does not follow any specific rhyme or meter, allowing poets to express themselves freely and creatively. In this workshop, we will discuss the different techniques and elements of free verse poetry, such as imagery, metaphor, and repetition.
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We will engage in various writing exercises and prompts that will help you unleash your creativity and express your thoughts and emotions through free verse poetry. Carrie will provide feedback and guidance to help you refine your writing and develop your poetic voice.
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But becoming a poet is not just about writing. It’s also about reading and immersing yourself in the works of other poets. Carrie will share her favorite poets and poems, and discuss the importance of reading poetry for inspiration and growth as a poet.
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Whether you are new to poetry or an experienced writer, this workshop is for you. Come join us and discover the beauty and freedom of free verse poetry with Carrie as your guide!
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Carrie has self-published two books of poems titled, 'The Liminal Space' and 'The End of the Beginning.' This work will pull at the heartstrings of those that continue to face challenges but never stop dreaming. Her books address the importance of healing, moving on, and being ready to face a new beginning. It is a continuation of beliefs that we can heal by connecting and understanding one another on a deeper level through poetry. Carrie has recently completed her first book tour and is excited to continue to share her poetry with the world.
SATURDAY, APRIL 22: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Plunder Poems: Exploring Creativity Through Borrowed Words featuring Sharon Scholl
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Welcome to our poetry workshop on Plunder Poems, led by the talented Sharon! In this workshop, we will explore the creative and exciting world of plunder poems. Plunder poems are created by taking words and phrases from other texts and rearranging them to create a new poem. We will explore different ways of creating plunder poems, such as using found objects, erasure, and collage.
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We will engage in various writing exercises and prompts that will help you discover the creative potential of plunder poems. Sharon will provide feedback and guidance to help you refine your writing and develop your own unique style. Whether you are new to poetry or an experienced writer, this workshop is for you. Come join us and discover the creative possibilities of plunder poems with Sharon as your guide!
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Sharon Scholl is a retired university humanities professor who convenes a poetry critique group, A Gathering of Poets, in Ponte Vedra. She has had over a hundred poems published in national literary journals. Her poetry collections, Timescape, Seasons, Remains, are available via Amazon Books.
TUESDAY, APRIL 25: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Current Events: Processing Through Poetry featuring Anna K. Jacobson
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Anna invites aspiring writers to a poetry workshop that draws inspiration from Auden's timeless insight that there is no news in poems, but every day men are dying for lack of what is found there. Using free verse and found poetry, this workshop aims to encourage writers to reflect on current events, seeking to find ways to process the turmoil and turbulence that surrounds us, as well as the emotions and thoughts that reside within us. By delving into the deeper layers of human experience, participants will discover how poetry can be a transformative tool for expressing and sharing what lies at the heart of our existence.
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Anna K. Jacobson is a teacher, poet, and storyteller. She's a proud member of the local chapter of the national non-profit Women Writing for a Change where Anna helps high school interns develop 'zines and other projects. Anna has performed her poetry and storytelling in a variety of Jacksonville venues including the Florida Theater and the Cummer Museum. She also works with Florida Louder Than a Bomb, the largest youth spoken word festival in the world.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26 VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Free Verse: Removing the Mask featuring
Matthew Cuban Hernandez
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register at Eventbrite
Join us for an exciting workshop led by Matthew Cuban Hernandez where we will explore the power of free verse poetry to help us remove the masks we wear and express our true selves. Often, we wear masks out of self-preservation or fear, hiding our true emotions and experiences behind a facade of pretense. But through free verse poetry, we can find the courage to remove these masks and share our innermost thoughts and feelings with the world.
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Matthew Cuban Hernandez is a renowned poet and spoken word artist who has been featured on NPR, TEDx, and BuzzFeed. His unique style and powerful words have inspired countless poets and performers around the world.
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In this workshop, Matthew will guide us through various writing exercises and prompts that will help us identify and remove the masks we wear. We will explore the themes of identity, self-expression, and vulnerability, and learn how to use free verse poetry to express our true selves. Through group discussions and feedback sessions, we will support and encourage each other on our poetic journeys. Whether you are a seasoned poet or new to the craft, this workshop is for you.
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Come join us and discover the transformative power of free verse poetry with Matthew Cuban Hernandez as your guide!
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Matthew ‘Cuban’ Hernandez is a poet, emcee, speaker, actor, and performance coach from Jacksonville, Florida. He has toured as far as Abu Dhabi and nearly every major city in the United States and Europe, performing, teaching, and coaching poetry. A teaching artist for nearly ten years, Matthew has spent the last 10 years working in youth detention centers across Los Angeles County, currently serving as the Director of Camp Programming for Street Poets, Inc. In addition, he is a current Lead Teacher and Co-Founder of Spoken Literature Art Movement. Cuban has opened for artists such as Wu-Tang, performed for platforms such as BuzzFeed and NPR, and even appeared on the award-winning television show, Better Things. Matthew is also a three time Southern Fried poetry slam champion and an award-winning poetry coach. Cuban’s favorite activity is making people feel great; sometimes he does this through hip-hop and poetry.
THURSDAY APRIL 27: POEM IN YOUR POCKET DAY
Featuring Various Written Poems
9:00 am to 6:00 pm | James Weldon Johnson Park
During our last Poetry in the Park event for Jax Poetry Fest, visit James Weldon Johnson to find a poem to keep in your pocket. Poem in Your Pocket Day serves as a beautiful opportunity to allow the healing power of poetry to spill over into our everyday lives. It allows us to share our favorite poems with people who may otherwise not receive much exposure to poetry. It also reminds us to have a deeper appreciation for the impact that poetry has had on our lives!
Between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm you can join us for our Poetry in the Park event where you can enjoy live poetry readings from local poets, authors, artists, and more, all emceed by the one and only LoveReigns!
THURSDAY APRIL 27: POETRY IN THE PARK
Featuring the Douglas Anderson Poetry Club
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | James Weldon Johnson Park
Join us every Thursday in April for a lunchtime filled with poetry, connection, and community engagement in downtown Jacksonville, emceed by the one and only LoveReigns!
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Located in a beautiful James Weldon Johnson Park, our open mic event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, connect with others, and express yourself creatively. Whether you're a seasoned poet or a first-time performer, we welcome all voices and perspectives to take the stage and share their unique poetry. Participation is not required and you can just the performances of others too!
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As you enjoy the performances, you'll also have the opportunity to learn more about the important work that Hope at Hand does in the community, providing poetry therapy workshops for those in need. By attending this event, you'll not only be supporting the arts, but you'll also be making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth.
So grab your lunch and join us for a mid-day break filled with poetry and inspiration. Admission is free, and all are welcome to participate or simply listen and enjoy. Let's come together as a community and celebrate the healing power of poetry!
FRIDAY, APRIL 28: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Griot Storytelling: Exploring the Art of Narrative Poetry featuring Suni Storm
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register on Eventbrite
Join us for a unique and inspiring poetry workshop led by the talented Suni. In this workshop, we will delve into the captivating world of narrative poetry and explore the art of griot storytelling.
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Suni will share her wealth of knowledge and experience as she discusses the historical significance of this verbal genealogy, explaining how it has been passed down through generations and how it has evolved over time. You will learn about the power of narrative poetry to tell stories and convey meaning, and how it can be used to connect with audiences in a deeply profound way.
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Through a series of engaging exercises and prompts, you will have the opportunity to put your new knowledge into practice, crafting your own unique pieces of narrative poetry. Suni will provide personalized feedback and guidance throughout the workshop, helping you to hone your skills and take your poetry to the next level. Join us for a day of inspiration, creativity, and community as we explore the power of poetry to connect us all.
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Suni Storm is a poetess, author, event host, and entrepreneur located in Jacksonville, Florida, by way of Washington, DC. Along with artistic endeavors, Suni considers herself a qualified playlist curator, a cultural enthusiast, and a safe space. You can connect with Suni at a variety of city-wide events, but she is best found minding her business.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29: VIRTUAL POETRY WORKSHOP
Turning the Page: Finding Inspiration Through Depression featuring FNN
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm | Register with Eventbrite
Join us for an empowering poetry workshop led by the talented FNN. In this workshop, FNN will share his personal journey through the challenges of heavy depression and how he transformed his poetic style as a result.
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Through honest and engaging discussion, FNN will inspire you to tap into your own personal experiences and emotions as a source of creative inspiration. He will share tips and techniques for writing through depression, and show you how to use your new energy to create powerful, authentic poetry that speaks to your own unique voice.
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Through a series of prompts and exercises, you will have the opportunity to explore your own emotions and experiences, and use them as a catalyst for creating poetry that is both healing and inspiring. FNN will provide personalized feedback and guidance throughout the workshop, helping you to develop your skills and find your own unique poetic voice.
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Whether you struggle with depression or simply want to explore the connection between poetry and personal experience, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and discover the transformative power of writing. Join us for an unforgettable hour of inspiration, creativity, and community as we turn the page and find new sources of inspiration through our struggles.
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FNN is a poet, podcaster, and professional wrestler. You may not think that would gel as well as it does but all three mediums are about storytelling. That is what he loves to do, tell a dynamic story to whoever will listen.