Words, art and imagination will come together later this month as a Swindon creative hub opens its doors for a special event celebrating storytelling in all its forms.
Podpadstudios at Mulberry Gardens, on Whitworth Road, will host “Words on Whitworth” on Friday 26 June, bringing together artists, writers and performers for an afternoon and evening of free activities.
The event will explore how words inspire creative work, whether through literature, poetry, illustration or visual art. Visitors will have the chance to meet local artists and writers, take part in workshops and enjoy live performances in the gardens.
Among those exhibiting will be artists Helen Savin and Komic, who create handmade and altered books incorporating their own haiku poetry. Their work blends written language with visual art, creating pieces that are as much to be read as viewed.
Joining them in the potting shed will be author and illustrator Zozo Thomas, who will be offering visitors the opportunity to try calligraphy and illuminated lettering.
Podpadstudios will also showcase some of its best-known creations, including its animatronic coach and dragons. Visitors will be invited to discover the story behind dragons Stardust and Steel through a family-friendly creative writing activity.
Author Judith Cranswick will lead two sessions during the afternoon. At 2.30pm she will discuss her journey from writing short stories to becoming a published novelist, while at 3.30pm she will host a workshop titled “Everyone Can Write”, encouraging aspiring writers to put pen to paper and develop their own ideas.
The day will conclude with an open mic session hosted by Peter Pod Poet from 6pm until 7pm. Participants will be able to read poetry or prose, either their own work or that of another writer, with performance slots allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Podpadstudios is a family-run business operated by husband-and-wife team Anna and Mark Enright. Based in Swindon, the company creates props and installations for film, television and exhibitions, while also opening its gardens and studios to the public throughout the year.
Organisers are encouraging visitors to bring family and friends and enjoy an afternoon of creativity in an informal setting. Entry is free, although donations towards the upkeep of the gardens will be welcomed.
Words on Whitworth takes place from 2pm to 7pm on Friday 26 June at Podpadstudios, 225 Whitworth Road, Swindon, SN25 3BX. Booking is recommended.
