RENGA POETRY WORKSHOP SERIES

Charlene Monahan Spearen, Columbia Museum of Art Poet in Residence

In Renga, the ancient Japanese form of poetry, two or more poets write linked verse together, creating a dialogue full of twists and turns, often incorporating the traditional themes of the Japanese haiku including the four seasons, the moon, and love as well as other forces of nature.

Esteemed poets Charlene Spearen, Raychelle Heath, and Carrie Young will lead a three day workshop on the spiritual art of renga at the Columbia museum of Art. Highlights of the event include a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and the transfer of participants’ poetry to Japanese rice paper banners, which will be displayed in the museum during the Asian Arts Week exhibit.

Friday, March 16th 5:30pm-8:00pm
Learn the ancient poetic form of the haiku while enjoying a traditional tea ceremony and Japanese music.

Saturday, March 17th 10:30am-2:00pm
Walk through the museum's Asian art collection for inspiration and then learn how to RENGA!

Sunday, March 18th 1:30pm-3:30pm
Share your renga before transferring it onto elegant rice paper for display.

To register for the free workshops or for more information contact Charlene Monahan Spearen:
CMSPEARE@gwm.sc.edu
803-777-5492