Embedded Files
Please join Kim Rickard, Professor of English at Sinclair Community College, for an opportunity to learn about and write an ekphrastic poem!
Please join Kim Rickard, Professor of English at Sinclair Community College, for an opportunity to learn about and write an ekphrastic poem!
Ekphrastic Poetry comes from the word "ekphrasis" which means “description” in Greek. An ekphrastic poem is a vivid description of a scene or, more commonly, a work of art.
Ekphrastic Poetry comes from the word "ekphrasis" which means “description” in Greek. An ekphrastic poem is a vivid description of a scene or, more commonly, a work of art.
How to Write an Ekphrastic Poem
How to Write an Ekphrastic Poem
- Find a painting or sculpture that interests you.
- As you look at the artwork, pay attention to how it makes you feel. Take notes about any sensory impressions it gives you or memories it triggers.
- Ideas for writing your poem:
- Write about the scene you see in the artwork.
- Think about what the subjects did after the painting. Did they move from that spot? Where did they go?
- Write a conversation between the characters in the piece.
- Write about your experience of looking at the artwork.
- Write as a character in the artwork speaking to the viewer.
- Compare the artwork to something else.
- Imagine a story about the creation of the artwork or write in the voice of the artist.
Kim's example:
Kim's example:
Shoes, Vincent van Gogh, 1888
Shoes have been on my mind a lot lately. Looking at this painting made me want to write a poem about a journey I have been on...be it physical, mental, spiritual etc.
Shoes have been on my mind a lot lately. Looking at this painting made me want to write a poem about a journey I have been on...be it physical, mental, spiritual etc.
-Kim Rickard
-Kim Rickard
Kim Rickard
Kim Rickard
Professor of English, Sinclair Community College
Professor of English, Sinclair Community College
Kim has taught college writing for forty years. She has a BFA and MFA in Creative Writing from Bowling Green State University. Kim also went through the master's program at Kansas State University.
For more information visit
Room 220, Building 6, Sinclair Community College 444 West Third Street Dayton OH 45402
http://www.sinclair.edu/academic/ divisions/LCS/ENG/
(937) 512-3078
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse