Ekphrasis: Of Voices and Vision

The Art Alliance of Monmouth County and poet Nikki Nordquist (Bare Bones Wordsmith) are excited to invite you to Ekphrasis: Of Voices and Vision. This is a special interdisciplinary evening celebrating National Poetry Month; a salon for all variations of writers and visual artists.

This gathering will be held at Art Alliance of Monmouth County’s gallery in Red Bank, New Jersey during their 39th Annual Juried Exhibition on Friday, April 10th from 7 PM to 9 PM. The hope is to bring together writers and visual artists to explore the creative practice of ekphrastic poetry. Ekphrastic poetry is writing that responds to and is inspired by visual art.

The evening is designed in three parts as an inclusive and welcoming space for participants of all backgrounds and experience levels to engage with art in a more reflective, abstract way while hoping to create deeper connections with others across disciplines.

The event will begin with a brief introduction to ekphrastic poetry and its historical roots, followed by a featured talk from interdisciplinary artist Anthea S. Brown, whose work spans from poetry to pottery and painting. The evening’s guided writing exercise will be led in partnership with the non-profit organization Project Write Now and facilitated by member Jenny Morelli, an English teacher and writer, who will invite participants to engage with selected works on view through observation, reflection, and creative response. To follow, an open discussion around artistic process and inspiration will be held. The evening will conclude with time to mingle and network with fellow attendees.

Guests are encouraged to bring a notebook and pen for the writing portion of the evening. Writers of all levels are welcome to bring a piece of their own poetry, or something that speaks to them, to share on display. A communal table will be available for participants to read and reflect. If you’d like to share a piece of writing and prefer to remain anonymous, that option is welcome. Light refreshments and snacks may be provided.

This event is open to writers, visual artists, and anyone curious about the intersection of art and language. No prior experience is necessary! Just a desire to explore and engage. Admission is free. Please note that registration required, and attendance will be capped to maintain an intimate, salon-style atmosphere for participants ages 18 and over.

We hope you’ll join us for an evening of creativity, conversation, and connection!

(Artwork for graphic design by Mike Quon)

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Nikki Nordquist