|
James has for many years lived and worked in Somerset as
a writer and casual farm worker, which gives his words an
immediacy which relates at once to the land. Over the years
he has given many readings, lectures and poetry workshops.
His aim is to get children and adults to write creatively
and spontaneously about their surroundings and to get them
to look at their environment through fresh eyes. Also he
likes to involve wherever possible, aspects of local history
e.g. The Monmouth Rebellion and the Civil War, as well as
geography and wildlife of the Somerset Levels and Moors,
an approach which fits naturally into the National Curriculum
and gives a greater sense of personal and community identity.
|
|
He is very flexible on how he works but he likes to involve
the children and adults in some basic ideas that underpin
poetry and language. Ideally workshops would combine an
actual walk close to the school or along a riverbank or
to a historical building. Parts of the Parrett Trail and
the new Visitor centre at Langport, are ideal locations
combined with Muchelney Abbey or Ham Hill. Children would
be encouraged to write down their own ideas and observations
then to turn this into poetry and performance within the
same workshop. The most important thing is that everyone
produces something and shares it with the rest of the group.
|
-
Every year James takes part in a five day creative
writing course at Kilve Court for 12 year olds.
-
James has also given school workshops at Oxford called
Walking on Water as part of the Literary Festival and
on Apple Orchards at Brogdale Horticultural Trust in
Kent.
-
James also gives lectures on Ladakh : Winter in the
Himalaya , the History of Cider, the Somerset Levels,
Dorset farm work, as well as very varied poetry readings.
|
|
"Taking the children out of school, out
of normal routine, on a guided walk during Arts Week, not
only released their imagination and their emotions, but through
the creative process of writing, illustration and performance
raised the self esteem of the children enormously."
|
|
Holly
Cole - Community Tutor, Blake School, Bridgwater
|
| "James Crowden's poetry reflects the influences
and landscapes of the Somerset countryside. He has a presence
and a personality which instantly appeal to children of all
ages and he rapidly builds a rapport with them. His poetry
is enjoyable, interesting and stimulating. Book James for
readings or practical poetry workshop sessions and you will
not be disappointed." |
|
Ian
Vardy - Head Teacher at Curry Rivel Primary School
|
| " James has a very good rapport with pupils
of all ages. He relates well and uses his love of language
effectively to engage students in creative work. James is
relaxed and comfortable working with young people, whether
individually or in groups. His talents as a poet, using his
knowledge and experience of life are astute and refreshing.
His recitations and manner with people make poetry an accessible
art form. We would have no hesitation in asking James back
again" |
|
Linda
Green - Head of Art & Design, Huish Episcopi School
|
Prices for lectures
and school workshops vary according to size and location.
Please contact James by phone on 01460
30795
or by email : mail@james-crowden.co.uk
|
|
