Making Art in Dark Times with Mae Diansangu

Reclaim the narrative in dark times with this found poetry and collage workshop.

Create found poetry and collage art in ‘Recover, recycle, reimagine: making art in dark times’ – a workshop led by poet Mae Diansangu.

Participants will explore what it means to make art in times of multiple crises, using materials from mainstream media to critique, reclaim, and reimagine the dominant narratives that shape our society.

This workshop was originally developed as part of ‘Eternal Ecstasy’, an exhibition of the artist Jamie Reid at the worm, Aberdeen.

About the facilitator

Mae Diansangu is a queer poet from Aberdeen who writes in Scots and English. Her practice is rooted in the belief that storytelling is a collaborative act, and she is particularly interested in reframing contemporary issues through the retelling of shared histories and myths. Much of her work explores themes of identity, resilience, power, transformation, and belonging. Her debut collection, Bloodsongs (Tapsalteerie), was longlisted for a 2025 Saltire Book Award.

What to expect

An informal creative workshop in a small-group setting. The workshop lasts for 2 hours with a break in the middle. No experience necessary and no advance preparation needed. We will have material for you to use here.

Booking

Tickets are free - donations are appreciated but optional. Booking in advance is essential, as places are limited. If you are unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else.

Venue & Accessibility

The event is located at the Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive in Edinburgh Palette. There is information on how to get to us on public transport and by car, along with access information, on our location & accessibility page.

Any other questions

Please email us: themenaces@lavendermenace.org.uk