Discover how place can shape stories, characters, and atmosphere in this interactive creative writing workshop inspired by Simon Carter’s immersive landscapes on display at Firstsite gallery.

Explore how memories of real places and imagined worlds can become powerful starting points for creative writing through a series of guided exercises, discussion, and close observation of artworks.

Take inspiration from the exhibition before experimenting with descriptive writing, sensory language, and techniques for creating vivid settings that bring your writing to life.

Work in a supportive and welcoming environment with opportunities to write individually, share ideas with the group, receive constructive feedback, and connect with fellow writers of all experience levels.

You’ll leave with a collection of original writing, practical techniques for writing about place, and fresh inspiration to develop your creative practice.

This workshop is suitable for writers of all abilities, from beginners to experienced writers, and is aimed at ages 18+.

What is ‘place’ in creative writing?

Place is more than simply describing a location. In creative writing, it helps create atmosphere, shape characters, influence emotion, and immerse readers in a story.

By drawing on memories, observations, and the senses, writers can create settings that feel vivid and believable, whether inspired by real landscapes or entirely imagined worlds.

Developing a strong sense of place can add depth, authenticity, and emotional connection to any piece of writing.

About your tutor

Nicola Werenowska is a multi-award-winning neurodivergent playwright and an experienced creative writing tutor from a working-class background, who is committed to exploring underrepresented voices.

Nicola was 16 when she was a runner up in the Royal Court Young People’s playwriting competition but due to the debilitating effects of her undiagnosed disability it took her another 15 years before she wrote professionally, following her life-changing dyspraxia diagnosis.

Her work has been produced widely across the UK and she has been on attachment to Graeae Theatre, the National Theatre studio, High Tide Theatre (Peggy Ramsay/Film 4 residency) and a member of the Royal Court National Writers group.

She is Associate Artist at the Mercury Theatre Colchester.

www.nicolawerenowska.co.uk

About ‘Simon Carter: From the Landscape’ exhibition

Lose yourself inside a giant painting as Simon Carter transforms our gallery into an immersive landscape inspired by the Essex coast.