Classes
Out of Order: Writing Nonlinear Narratives
In this generative workshop, students of multiple creative writing genres will explore nonlinear storytelling and learn how and when to effectively use this more experimental narrative style. Students will read and discuss short texts and media in class to explore storytelling using a nonlinear framework, including short films, poems, essays, and short fiction. These will include works by Li-Young Lee, Carole Maso, Anna Anthropy, and others. Students will write their own nonlinear narratives in response to structured prompts and stories/poems/media viewed in class.
Special Notes
- Please bring pencil/pen and paper or laptop/tablet.
Accessibility notes: Many artmaking processes require the ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time, fine motor skills/finger dexterity, repetitive motions, vision, and some amount of physical strength. VisArts values making classes accessible to everyone, and is always happy to work with students to make accommodations when possible. Please reach out to [email protected] with specific questions related to accessibility or accommodations.
Paid studio access is available through our Studio Access Program. Please visit visarts.org for more information.
Classes are confirmed one week prior to the start date. In order to help us confirm classes, please register as early as possible.
Materials List
See special notes for materials requirements.
About the Instructor
Alexis Stratton
Alexis Stratton has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of South Carolina, and their short stories and essays have appeared in Hayden’s Ferry Review, Matador Review, and Oyez Review, among other publications. In 2024, they coauthored Trans Kids, Our Kids: Stories and Resources from the Frontlines of the Movement for Transgender Youth with Adam Polaski and Jasmine Beach-Ferrara (Ig Publishing), and in 2025, their book of queer and trans travel essays, Eating Turtle, was published with Small Harbor Publishing. They live in Richmond, VA.
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