We’re always writing from somewhere, and in this workshop we shall consider what it means to have a position, whether in relation to a subject, or a person. It is often said to be important to maintain a ‘critical distance’ from a subject, and yet ‘close knowledge’ is also greatly valued. How far from — or how close to — a subject might one be to write best about it?

In advance of the workshop, you are invited to send an image of an artwork which gives you particular joy, even though you can’t particularly say why. This could be something which is generally admired and possesses cultural status — it need not be a ‘guilty pleasure’ — but what is important is that it affects you in ways you would find hard to explain. We will choose some to look at during the workshop; please feel free to attend even if you have not submitted an image in advance.