Thabani Tshuma

Join a cross-continental in-conversation reflecting on the evolving role of storytelling in a global context. Witness this exchange of ideas and dreams, as each writer enquires into the other’s diverse creative practice.

Start the morning with an intuitive walk around Melbourne followed by a writing session. Walking can allow the mind to process information and shake new ideas loose. Likewise, exploration and observation of built and natural environments can inspire thought and help us create new connections for our writing.

BLINDSIDE & EWF present the Ekphrastic Writing Program. This initiative invites four emerging writers to produce an ekphrastic response to an exhibition from Blindside ARI’s 20-year exhibition archive, culminating in a night of celebratory readings, where writers will share the works created, in front of the very artworks they have responded to.

Combining case studies of fanfiction writers turned best-selling authors, publishing ecosystems across the world, and what fanfiction means to fans, these writers discuss how these thriving communities of writers and readers provide a space for emerging writers to practice and gain feedback.