Queer Asterisk is Merging Art and Language
Boulder is praised for its progressiveness, something which the facilitator of the Queer Writing Group at Queer Asterisk fully embodies while describing the many hopes and dreams for the future of the group. As we enjoyed a cup of tea at the Ku Cha House in downtown Boulder, Jona Fine remembered the days of a queer tea meet-up which occurred at the previous Ku Cha location, as well as an open mic which used to occur at Ku Cha.
In addition to the queer writing group that already survives and thrives, Fine has plenty of ideas. One is to start a bookbinding workshop. Fine encourages any who are interested to “come make a book, and then keep coming back to fill it up!” A Queer Writing Group publication is also a possibility.
This bumble of inspired ideas and visions fully aligns with the nature of the bimonthly writing group where generating creativity takes priority over building technical skills. Despite having a Master’s degree in poetry and a dual undergrad degree in art and creative writing, Fine sees creativity as fueled by a “beginner mindset” where there is no pressure to produce a piece, and an attendee can freely explore the writing process.
Imagine all the places a prompt starting with “Write inspired by…”, can take a person in the ethereal realm of creative abundance. Now, add in mixed media which merges the literary arts with the fine arts. Fine’s educational background helped shape Asterisk’s philosophy that writing can be inspired by both. In response to a question on past prompts used to guide the group, Fine recalled, “One of my favorite days was when I brought in materials, different textures, fabric, bubble wrap, sandpaper. We played and were inspired based on the varied textures, colors, and patterns. What does writing sound like if it reminds you of popping bubble wrap, or felt gritty like sandpaper?”
After freewriting, time is offered for optional sharing. When reflective feedback is discussed in the group, language is used such as “the character’s or narrator’s experience was powerful” as opposed to “your experience was powerful.” Many who attend the group find this method fosters a safe environment that welcomes exploration due to the separation of person and writing content.
Interested in checking out this stellar space for yourself? Here are a few of the basics. Although Queer Asterisk has several locations on the Front Range, Boulder is the only location currently offering the writing group. The group happens the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Queer Asterisk Therapeutic Services located at 2027 Broadway (Suite E), Boulder 80302. No need to sign up beforehand. There’s a suggested donation of $10 – 15,, but no one is turned away. Everyone is welcome, regardless of writing experience, sexual orientation, gender identity, or age. Check out the facebook page “Queer Writing Group [drop-in]” to be kept up-to-date on future happenings.
