The Poetics of Water Creative Writing Workshop and Ritual Performance

The Spelman College Museum of Fine Art invites writers of all genres and skill levels to an afternoon of immersion and expression on Saturday, April 18. Inspired by the evocative exhibition Calida Rawles: Away with the Tides, The Poetics of Water workshop offers a unique intersection of visual art, literature, and performance.

A Multidisciplinary Exploration of Aquatic Imaginings
The event begins with a guided tour of Rawles' work, which explores the historical and spiritual relationships between Black bodies and water. Participants will engage in specialized craft prompts inspired by the "aquatic imaginings" of Black women writers, culminating in an open mic session where attendees can share their new works in the presence of the art.

"Odyssey in Black Utero" Performance
The afternoon concludes with a powerful ritual performance titled Odyssey in Black Utero. This collaborative work is a joint production between the Spelman Theatre Spring 2026 Performance Ensemble and Emory University.

Developed under the visionary guidance of Aku Kadogo, Johanna Montlouis-Gabriel, and Visiting Artist T.I.E., the piece features specialized movement direction by T. Lang and a live score by saxophonist Marquinn Mason. The performance serves as a physical and sonic extension of the themes explored in the workshop, weaving together ritual, rhythm, and the profound symbolism of the womb and water.

Event Schedule: Saturday, April 18
Location: SCMFA | Camille Olivia Hanks Cosby, Ed.D. Academic Center Gallery
1 - 3 p.m.: Exhibition Tour, Writing Workshop, and Open Mic
3:15 p.m. – 4 p.m.: Odyssey in Black Utero Performance