Artica Svalbard will host three writing evenings to creatively navigate the dark season.

The workshops will be co-organised by Clara Arnaud, a writer and former Artica resident, together with members of the community and artists in residence.

Together, participants will explore their experiences of the polar night and look for ways of storytelling that move beyond a human-centred perspective, reflecting our entangled relationships with Arctic life forms and ecosystems.

Through simple writing exercises, shared texts and relaxed conversations over tea and cake, we will experiment with language and narrative to tell stories emerging from the night and the sensations it evokes.

Participants will be invited to create short texts based on their personal experiences in Svalbard and the Arctic environment, while also allowing their imaginations to run wild.

This is not a creative writing course, but rather a space for reflection, experimentation and connection.

Who can join?

The workshops are free, and writers of all levels are welcome. Texts can be written in English or in your native language. You are free to share your writing or keep it private.

While each session stands alone, joining all three will offer the richest experience.

Please bring a laptop or your favourite writing materials. Paper and pens will also be available.

When?

• Thursday, 26 November, 18:00–20:00

• Thursday, 10 December, 18:00–20:00

• Thursday, 14 January, 18:00–20:00

A fourth session may be organised outside Artica in February if the group is interested.

Limited places: 10 participants

To book: Contact workshops@articasvalbard.no and make sure to write which date(s) you’re signing up for.