Join CYAN for a cozy, reflective poetry workshop and open mic designed to spark creativity, connection, and self-expression. Through conversation, writing, and shared listening, this gathering offers a welcoming space to slow down, warm up,, and explore poetry as a tool for wellbeing and community - especially during the winter months.
Beginner-friendly and open to everyone - whether you’re new to poetry, returning to writing after a break, or already consider yourself an artist. This is a low-pressure, supportive, and social space that encourages creative exploration, personal reflection, and networking.
The workshop will include guided writing prompts, group conversation, and optional open-mic sharing. Prompts will draw from life experiences, gratitude, and inner reflection, with an emphasis on listening to your heart and finding your own creative spark. Participation is flexible - write, share, listen, or simply be present. The facilitation style is encouraging, grounded, and empowering, focusing on ambition, love, and inner strength.
Location/Setting
This event takes place in the back area of Canmore Brewing (slightly separated but still open to the rest of the Brewery). There may be loud humming/background noise from the brewing machinery and the lighting is average for indoor buildings. There will be long tables and chairs.
What’s Included
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks will be available for purchase from Canmore Brewing
The facilitator will be providing a variety of writing utensils, writing surfaces (notebooks, paper), and images for inspiration
What to bring
If preferred, you can bring your own writing utensils and journals/notebooks. You may bring pre-written poems/passages, but this is not required.
Accessibility Considerations
There will be alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Gender-neutral washrooms onsite. The building and seating is wheelchair accessible. Please note, some content shared by the facilitator and other participants may be of a sensitive nature.
About the Facilitator
Shawayne Dunstan is an author, artist and entrepreneur living in Banff, Alberta. He has written 13 books since 2016 and Let This Hold You Over is his latest collection of poetry. His vision is to empower brilliant minds with artistic means.
Questions?
Please reach out to our Programs Manager at
cHJvZ3JhbXNjeWFuIHwgZ21haWwgISBjb20=.
Community & Inclusion
You are always welcome to attend CYAN events on your own - many people do! Our event staff are there to support you, and we often use light icebreakers to help everyone feel comfortable and included.
Also check out other Arts events in Canmore, Literary Art events in Canmore, Workshops in Canmore.
