Workshop: Writing from the Bottom of the Mind

In this full-day generative writing workshop, Artist-in-Residence Ivy Raff guides participants to learn or hone the Zen approach to writing as instructed by Natalie Goldberg. With the primary objective of clearing mental clutter and writing from “the bottom of the mind,” students will first learn the simple and effective concepts of Zen writing practice. We intersperse guided sitting and walking meditations with timed, prompted writings in pairs. We reconvene the full group to read and listen uncritically to each other’s work.

Open to all levels of writers and aspiring writers. Newly-published or prolific, casual, or committed, those who write only in private journals or carefully-crafted work emails…this workshop is perfect for anyone curious about expressing themself with the written word.

Materials.  Minimal.  Bring a notebook and fast-writing pen. A cushion for sitting meditation is optional and recommended. Select a boxed lunch from Roots as an add-on or bring your own. 

Workshop Schedule:

• 11:00-11:30 AM – Welcome and introductions. How did you come to be here?
• 11:30-11:45 AM – Explanation of Zen writing practice concepts
• 11:45 AM-12:15 PM – Guided seated meditation
• 12:15-1:15 PM – Break into pairs for a series of short timed writings
• 1:15-1:45 PM – Lunch (Add-on available for a box lunch from Roots Zero Waste Market)
• 1:45-2:45 PM – Full group reading/listening to each other’s work
• 2:45-3:00 PM – Remarks and closing

Optional Extension (available in add-ons for $20 after you register)

• 3:00-4:00PM – Guided walking meditation on Boise River Greenbelt
• 4:00-4:45 PM – Break into pairs for short timed writings
• 4:45-5:45 PM – Full group reading/listening to each other’s work
• 5:45-6:00 PM – Closing meditation and remarks

Partial Scholarships available upon request to info@surelsplace.org

REGISTER HERE

This programming is supported in part by Creative West and the National Endowment for the Arts.