Free Veterans Writing Workshop at Spiva Center for the Arts

JOPLIN, MO – Join Missouri Humanities, in partnership with Spiva Center for the Arts, for a free Veterans Writing Workshop curated for veterans, retired and active military, and military-connected family members. The workshop takes place on June 22nd from 9 am – 1 pm at the Spiva Center for the Arts located at 212 W 7th, Joplin, MO 64801.

The event features Kent Walker, a combat Army veteran, and Stacey Walker, a university lecturer, both of which hold MFAs in writting. Join Walker and Walker as they guide participants through writing exercises and discussions, sparking creativity while refining writing skills. Using ekphrasis—a writing technique that vividly describes a work of art from any medium—as a springboard, participants will uncover new ways to express their unique voices as writers. Participants are not required to write solely on their military experience. They will leave with an appreciation for ekphrasis as a literary tool to continue developing their writing, whatever the preferred genre.

This workshop is sponsored by the Veterans United Foundation. Workshop host and Education Director at Spiva Center for the Arts, Sarah Clements, remarked, “Spiva has always been passionate about engaging the veteran community, creating visual art classes and workshops for veterans and their families, and working with local veteran service groups. We are thrilled to partner with Missouri Humanities to host a creative writing workshop that allows another artistic outlet for expression.”

This workshop is free and provides light refreshments, but registration is required and can be completed here.