As part of the UK-Russia Creative Bridge programme, the forum featured practical creative writing workshops and a lecture for everyone interested in exploring their creativity.
Writing does not begin with pen and paper or a computer keyboard. It is not about staring at an empty page and waiting for ideas to appear. Writing begins with the eyes and ears, with touch and smell; with how our own senses stir the brain and the heart. This applies regardless of language or culture. Professor Britton’s lecture explored the journey from what we observe to what we write and how the imaginative filter which sits between observation and literary presentation allows each aspiring writer to find a unique voice through which to share his or her thoughts.
The lecture on the first day 13 March 2021, ‘See, Feel, Imagine, Show’ began with practical advice on how to start, and then build, a creative writing project. It offered guidance on how to make the most effective use of the English vocabulary, structure, grammar and lyricism within a creative framework. Though the primary form addressed was prose fiction, Professor Britton also discussed poetic and dramatic approaches. The first lecture on the first day was followed by a practical workshop titled ‘Finding an idea’ for eight participants.
On the next day, 14 March 2021, Professor D.J.Britton provided a 120-minute workshop ‘Finding form and words’ for the same two groups of eight like the previous day. Under his guidance, participants built on their overnight writing.
Tutor: D.J. Britton is Head of English and Creative Writing at Swansea University, Wales, UK.\
Schedule:
13 March, 16:00-17:30
Lecture ‘See, Feel, Imagine, Show’
The lecture is free and open to all, but registration is required. Please register here. The lecture will be held in English with simultaneous translation provided.
13 March, 17:30-19:30
Workshop ‘Finding an idea’ for selected participants only
14 March 16:00-20:00
Workshop ‘Finding form and words’ for selected participants only
About the tutor
D.J. Britton is Head of English and Creative Writing and Professor of Dramaturgy at Swansea University.
Britton began his career as a journalist, winning the Australian journalists’ union’s Clarion Award for his services to the media industry. He moved to Wales from Australia, where his stage plays won major awards including Plainsong (Equity Production of the Year) and Cargo (Swan Gold Award).
Professor Britton’s current project is a five-part BBC drama about the composer William Byrd, starring David Suchet. His writing has been widely acclaimed. A deeply experienced teacher and mentor, Professor Britton has run workshops throughout the world, from the Welsh National Writers’ Centre at Ty Newydd Wales, to the Singapore’s Writers’ Laboratory. He teaches and mentors writing skills across all genres, specialising in helping emerging writers to find their own unique voice.