Adventures in Literature

The Lakewood Arts Council’s mission is to increase awareness of the arts and art activities in Lakewood and the surrounding community.  “Arts” not only refers to “visual” arts, it also includes other art forms such as music, theater and of course the literary arts.  In the past, the LAC has included an emphasis on literature by offering poetry contests and space to display creative writings by our members for all to enjoy.  Many of these contributions were also included in past Focus magazines – the LAC’s quarterly publication.

An effort to expand our visibility in the literary arts has resulted in some exciting new events planned for our community gallery and art center and we would love to have our members and their guests participate in many of these selections, most which will be offered at no cost.

First off, one of our newest co-op gallery members, Laurey Patten, we’ve come to find out, is a published author and owner of a small publishing house.  She has edited for many years and also has articles and short stories in print.  Her recent book is called The Talent Sinistral.  In late March she will perform a reading from this fantasy novel and have books available for signing and purchase.

Alan Basting, a retired professor of writing will be conducting a writer’s workshop over a series of days, and his book of poetry will be available in the gallery.

Poetry teacher Curry McMurray (even his name is lyrical) works with special needs adults in crafting the written word.  He and his students have had their poems on display in the gallery in the past and we look forward to the current works his students have penned.  In talking with him, he has indicated that one of his students has a particular interest in reading her poetry to a group and is able to express herself clearly when reading out loud, while having difficulty with normal speech.  Perhaps we can also arrange for a poetry reading from these students.  Look for details to come.

Remember the “One Book, One Denver” program? Well, the Lighthouse Writers Group has been given an NEA grant to promote “The Big Read”, in which the Lakewood Arts Council is happy to become a part of.  The chosen book is Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson; the objective is to promote readership and discussion.  Free books and reader guides will be available early February in the gallery, followed by a Lighthouse Writer Group volunteer-led discussion group in April.  I hope all you prolific readers out there will pick up a free book, tell your friends about the program and join in the lively discussion.

And one for the kids, and kids at heart: a story-telling adventure with the Jeffco Spellbinders group.  Set for August, during our Children’s Art Exhibit, storytellers will engage the audience with tales of dragons and adventures. If our art exhibit is anything like last year with papier mache and painted dragons, we could be in for quite the fantasy!

Escape and lose yourself in a book, in a poem or write your own, and come join the LAC for adventures in literature.  Check your mail, our website or give us a call for further details.