03 September · 13:00 – 17:00

Madlab
36-40 Edge Street
Manchester M4 1HN

WFN is an opportunity for innovative/experimental poets to present their work for feedback in a mutually supportive atmosphere. Ideally, please bring along copies of the work you intend to read for the other group members. Anyone who wants to come along but doesn’t want to read is also very welcome.

This month WFN will be starting slightly earlier at 1pm, this is to make way for a discussion at 3pm about the riots and the role of the artist.

The riots that affected parts of Britain recently have been the occasion for much debate: what were the causes? What would be an appropriate response from government/local council to those involved? What can be done to ensure further riots do not occur?

This discussion is to consider what, if any, obligations/responsibilities in the aftermath of the riots are now incumbent upon people involved in creative work of every kind.

Is it necessary now for artists to concentrate on making work critiquing the ruling elite and/or demonstrating solidarity with the alienated populace?

Is it still even important that art is made?

Can art be a means to enable people to experience greater levels of engagement with their society?

Should art be calling for a complete re-organization of society?

*

We believe that discussion and debate is necessary to analyse the events that took place on our streets this August and to reaffirm the postion of the artist in these times.

Please come to MadLab on september3, 15:00-17:00 to make your views known.

This event is open to artists of all disciplines.