Inspired by Art: Ekphrastic Poetry and Prose

Overview

This course will explore the versatility of ekphrasis as a poetic mode that draws inspiration from visual art. Each week we will read and discuss ekphrastic texts, reflecting on the relationship between the written text and the artwork to which it responds. We will use writing prompts to inspire new creative work. While the focus of this course will be on poetic ekphrasis, we will also include some discussion of ekphrastic narrative, and short prose forms such as prose poetry and flash fiction. This course is designed for those who already have some previous experience in creative writing, but beginner writers are also very welcome.

Programme

During the course, learners will study the following:

Week 1: Introducing Ekphrasis. We will reflect on the origins of ekphrasis and consider how it has developed over time.

Weeks 2 and 3: The artist’s life and process. We will read and discuss poems that respond to paintings by artists such as Frida Kahlo, Vincent Van Gogh and Gwen John, reflecting on the similarities between the process of painting and the process of writing.

Weeks 4 and 5: Inventing a fictional narrative. We will read and discuss poems and short prose texts that draw out a new narrative from a work of art, inventing new characters and situations.

Weeks 6 and 7: The Ekphrastic Encounter. We will discuss ekphrastic texts that engage with the process of viewing art, reflecting on the difference between viewing art online and viewing art in museums.

Weeks 8 and 9: Ekphrasis as Exploration of Experience. We’ll discuss ekphrastic poems that use visual art as a catalyst for self-reflection, in order to explore, analyse or process personal memories or feelings.

Week 10: will include a final live workshop on Teams to celebrate the work produced on the course, draw our ideas together and reflect on next steps, including preparation for the assignment.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the variety and versatility of ekphrasis as a poetic mode.
2. Produce a portfolio of creative writing (poetry or prose) inspired by visual art, assembled over the course of the module.
3. Engage with, analyse and discuss ekphrastic texts.
4. Reflect on and discuss the development of their own and others’ writing through workshopping and feedback. 

Assessments

1. Portfolio - 100%

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

• Internet access
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.