Writing for Wellness - Creative Writing Workshops
Wiltshire Museum’s Community Curator worked with Re:Think, a local mental health charity to provide 5 creative writing workshops with the aim of improving wellbeing through creative writing practises. This was in response to the Museum’s exhibition, Eric Walrond – a Caribbean writer in Wiltshire.
Participants were invited to attend the workshops via Re:Think’s links within the local community and via Wiltshire Museums website and digital newsletter.Sessions were led by Felicity Tattersall, a creative writer and illustrator, who has worked on several community focussed projects and facilitated creative writing workshops and is currently writing a play.
Felicity designed each of the workshops to be relaxed and friendly, each one stand alone, so that if participants could not attend all the workshops, it would not matter. Each workshop explored writing exercises in response to local Caribbean writer, Eric Walrond’s life and work. Focussing on his fantastic descriptions on nature, responding to place and his wonderful use of language. Positive and constructive feedback was encouraged, and there was no pressure to share work or contribute further to the sessions.
The Community Curator ensured each workshop was a welcoming place, ensuring everyone felt included in the sessions and felt at ease – this was vital to ensure participants got the most out of the sessions and felt comfortable, as for many attending something like this was a huge milestone.
Creative Writing Workshop booklet
Download a booklet celebrating the fantastic work completed by participants in the workshops. Works were inspired by Eric Walrond's fascinating life, work and struggle with his won mental health during his time in Wiltshire, with the aim to get back into or kick start their passion for creative writing.
Completed with the kind permission of the participants in the workshops.
