Have you ever stood in front of a painting and tried to imagine the story the artist is depicting? Writing inspired by visual art dates to Homer’s description of the Shield of Achilles in The Iliad. W. H. Auden, John Keats and Anne Sexton are among many poets who have penned poems about artwork—or what is known as “ekphrastic writing” from the Greek meaning a verbal description of a work of art.

In this six-week course, we will study well-known paintings and the poems they have inspired. We will also visit the Providence Art Club or the RISD Museum for inspiration for our own writing, whether it be a short narrative or a free-verse poem. No experience in art history or creative writing is required!

Format: On the first day, the coordinators will present several examples of paintings and the poems they inspired. Then, either on your own or with a partner, you will lead a brief discussion of a well-known painting and its corresponding poem.

Resources/Expenses: You will have access to a comprehensive website with images of paintings and corresponding poems. No research is required other than a brief bio of the artist and poet. Tech help is available.