The Present Page: WORKSHOP 1

Workshop 1: From writing into drawing – with Anna Chapman Parker

This first workshop will introduce journalling as a daily creative practice. We will consider five accessible forms of journalling, and explore a series of short writing prompts. We’ll then look at how the physical act of handwriting can lead into drawing, and consider how this might enrich how we view and absorb a piece of text. All materials are provided.

Creative forms of journalling offer an accessible, personal and often genuinely illuminating reflective practice, with the potential to make a quiet but lasting difference to our wellbeing. But how do we make space for these kinds of activity in daily life, and how might we expand them beyond conventional, diary-like narratives?

Beginning with the core idea of journalling and the page, expanding outward to where journalling meetings drawing, movement, storytelling and sound, The Present Page offers a series of 6 practical workshops, each led by experienced artist-practitioners. In each session we will explore a new creative practice together in a friendly and no-pressure environment, also considering how each practice might be folded into busy daily routines.

Thanks to Create Berwick funding, we are delighted to be able to offer The Present Page free of charge to Berwick residents. All materials and refreshments are provided, and no previous experience is needed. Places are limited; please book early to reserve a place.

Other workshops in this series:

Workshop 2: Drawing with mind and body – with Kate Temple

Workshop 3: Storytelling and personal narrative – with Chris Adriaanse

Workshop 4: Journalling and the book – with Lucy Baxandall

Workshop 5: Letting your ears wander – with Martin Parker

Workshop 6: Writing and movement – with Chloë Sayers

Anna Chapman Parker is an artist and writer based in Berwick-upon-Tweed. Her work explores relationships between drawing, writing, body and place, often through projects in drawing, publishing or teaching. Her first book, Understorey was published in 2024 by Duckworth Books. annachapman.co.uk