As part of the Solstice 26 exhibition, we are pleased to be offering a workshop delving into ekphrasis – the ancient poetic technique of writing about another work of art (painting, sculpture, etc).

The workshop will be at the Ballarat North Bowling Club, 402 Gregory Street, Soldiers Hill, from 10am to 2pm on Sunday 21 June 2026. The workshop is limted to 15 participants.

Melissa Watts will take writers on their own poetic journey as they learn the elements of ekphrasis, how to emotionally connect with an artwork of their choice and then write and edit at least one poem. Melissa will teach poets how to look deeper into both works to build emotional resonance, to consider tone, pace, point of view, setting, symbolism and a range of other poetic devices that will honour the original artwork but also generate a new poem. Participants will be provided with comprehensive handouts to allow them to continue their poetry journey after the class has concluded.

Melissa’s classes are always designed with three things in mind:

1 – that participants feel safe and supported to learn new skills and push creative boundaries regardless of where they are on their own creative journey

2 – that participants create new work or progress their current work-in-progress

3 – that participants leave feeling empowered.  

Tickets are $15 and are now available – please see the booking site for further details and T&Cs: https://events.humanitix.com/solstice-writing-workshop-ekphrasis-in-the-gallery

Tea and coffee will be available but attendees are advised to bring their own snacks/lunch as there are limited eateries in the vicinity. There is a microwave and fridge.

Queries can be directed to the feedback section of this website, wordsoutloudballarat@gmail.com, or the contact details at the booking page.

The Solstice 26 exhibition involves Central Highlands writers responding to artworks produced by Soldiers Hill Artist Collective, and is supported by a Creative Ballarat Creative Inspiration grant.