ABOUT THE VIRTUAL WORKSHOP
Untrue Blue: An Introduction to Ekphrastic Writing
Ekphrastic writing is often defined as a true-blue description of something, typically artwork. In this workshop, we will explore ekphrasis as a way of writing with rather than about images, including but not limited to visual art. How can ekphrastic writing tell stories that are less evident by contextualizing, interrogating, and elaborating beyond an image? If, as poet Andrea Abi-Karam writes, “Ekphrasis is a way to talk to the dead,” how can we harness it to betray that which haunts us? We will explore these questions through discussion, readings, and generative writing.
ABOUT THE FACILITATOR
Tala Khanmalek, a.k.a. mecca monarch (all pronouns) is a writer, editor, and scholar with a PhD in ethnic studies from University of California, Berkeley. Tala is author of “The Sun Planters” (Asemana Books, 2026) and “An Infinity of Traces” (Blue Cactus Press, 2026) as well as the children’s book “My Name Means Free” (Blue Cactus Press, 2027), among other titles in progress. Khanmalek’s work has been widely published and supported, including by a Creative Capital Award. She was a First Reader for Split this Rock’s “Poem of the Week Series” and is proud to have three poems in The Quarry: A Social Justice Poetry Database.
ACCESSIBILITY
Accessibility is a core value for Split this Rock. We strive to provide programs, materials, and communications that allow people within the disability community to engage fully. Zoom auto-captions will be provided. Written versions of poem prompts and poems used for discussion will be provided via screen share, the chat, or links. Split this Rock does not consent to the use of A.I. notetakers in our workshops. If this is an access barrier for you, please let us know.
Let us know of any accessibility questions or accommodation requests via the workshop registration form or by emailing [email protected] with “ACCESS REQUEST” in the subject line by Tuesday, October 6. Given our ongoing funding challenges, we cannot promise accessibility services, but will do our best to provide accommodations.