Scottish Highlands and Islands Poetry Society Online Launch:

10am – 12pm, 18 November

Join us to celebrate the launch of the Scottish Highlands and Islands Poetry Society - a society for poets of every level of experience writing in the Highlands and Islands.

10-11am

We will begin this online event with a short poetry reading, offered by poets who reflect some of the geographical spread of the Society, and in languages and dialects that reflect our cultural diversity across this expanse of Northern Scotland.

We will then be welcomed by SHIPS co-founder, Assynt-based poet Mandy Haggith, who will share some reflections on behalf of the SHIPS steering committee, including who is included in the society, our ethos and aspirations, and our plans for this foundation period.

We will hear from Lydia Harris, a poet at home in Westray, Orkney, who will share about SHIPS online silent writing sessions.

Nairn-based poet, James Andrew will then lead us in a 15-minute poetry writing workshop.

There will also be a chance to meet 'virtually' with others at the launch celebration, including breaking out into smaller groups to share response to a series of 'getting to know us' questions - including finding out about poetry events in our different localities; sharing ideas for future gatherings; and reflecting on bridging gaps and fostering connections between poets throughout the Highlands and Islands.

11am-12pm

Poet at home in Easter Ross, Cáit O'Neill McCullagh will introduce the second part of our gathering and will speak about the planned series of online winter readings and open mics, including how you can get involved in sharing your own work with others in these sessions, followed by another opportunity to meet in smaller groups.

Ardnamurchan and Cévannes based poet Sharon Black will lead us in another short poetry writing workshop.

We would be delighted to see you and hear about your own involvements with poetry in the Highlands and Islands. Please register to receive event updates and the Zoom link for participating on the day.

Some of the details in this schedule may be subject to change.

Registrations are closed

Scottish Highlands and Islands Poetry Society (SHIPS) Online Launch