Champaign-Urbana knows how to do National Poetry Month. With so many luminous writers and poets in town, it can be hard to keep up. But this month, I’ll be dropping bits and bobs about readings and events so check back often for the latest updates. As a writer and teacher of poetry, I am always on the lookout for opportunities for students to attend free readings; this month we’ve got them in abundance. From an evening with Janice Harrington this week to former Poet Laureate Joy Harjo’s University of Illinois residency towards the end of the month, there are plenty of opportunities to delight in the poetic imagination.
First up, the Urbana Free Library invites you to an evening with Professor Janice N. Harrington, poet, children’s book author, creative writing teacher, and generous spirit. Harrington will be reading from her book of poems, Primitive, a lyrical and biographical reflection on the life and work of self-taught African American artist Horace H. Pippin. Harrington’s poetry and children’s books draw inspiration from a wide variety of sources, and in Primitive, she explores Pippin’s influence and the importance of perceptions, what we do and do not pay attention to in the world.
The library also invites participants to explore our own creative energies. Inspired by Pippin and Harrington, there will be materials on hand to create original pieces using collage, paints, colored pencils, and more.
Fostering the connections between creative play and poetry is the perfect way to fuel the imagination as we gear up for poetry this month. I’ll be posting more information about writers and upcoming readings. Stay tuned!
Making Art From Your Life: Poems and Creativity
Urbana Free Library’s Lewis Auditorium
210 W Green
Urbana
T Apr 2nd, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Free
