Kettering Arts Council Launches First Ekphrastic Poetry Competition

Ekphrastic poetry, defined as poetry inspired by visual art, allows participants to approach the artwork in various ways. Organizers highlight different angles for consideration: participants can describe visual elements, create a narrative, express feelings or memories, or explore ideas prompted by the artwork.

The competition offers three age categories: Youth (ages 5-11), Teens (ages 12-17), and Adults (ages 18 and older), with awards presented in each division.

To inspire submissions, organizers suggest writers ask themselves several reflective questions, such as what they notice first, what the artwork might say if it could talk, and what memories it evokes.

Shayna McConville, division manager of cultural arts for Kettering, stated, "The Kettering Arts Council is a passionate group of volunteers dedicated to championing the arts in our community. Led by one of our Council members and local writer Brandon North, the Arts Council developed this competition to celebrate the photography of Amanda Bradley and Trent Davis Bailey, whose work explores our connections to place and space. We’re thrilled to bring poetry and visual art together and share these creative responses both in the gallery and online."

Those who wish to participate should visit the Kettering Health Art Gallery at Rosewood Arts Center before Tuesday, Oct. 20, to explore the exhibitions by Bradley and Bailey. Participants must choose an inspiring artwork and write an original poem in response. Submissions are due by 5 p.m. on Oct. 20, either online or at the Arts Center.

For additional information, visit playkettering.org. The Rosewood Arts Center is located at 2655 Olson Dr. in Kettering.