CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT
In November 2024, Emma was granted a Developing Your Creative Practice Grant from Arts Council England to explore the themes of queer connection in a way that make it accessible to mainstream audiences, whilst still being relatable for a queer audience.
Over 9 months, Emma developed her writing practice focusing on relationships, situationships, friendships, and family - including chosen family. She explored joy, determination, sadness, loss, and everything in between.
The DYCP increased Emma’s skills and confidence in facilitation through the delivery of four workshops for LGBTQ+ people across the region. Emma will work alongside several literature organisations, including Cheltenham Poetry Festival and Ledbury Poetry Festival to host a showcase event, which will provide an opportunity for peer review.
Emma attended the (sold out) Arvon course Exploring Feminine Creativity with Salena Godden, Nikita Gill & Joelle Taylor in January 2025 – writing about love, grief, fear and hope; and playing with performance style and technique.
With mentoring from an established writer, Rosie Garland, Emma dedicated time to work on her writing to connect with new artists and audiences. Emma penned her second pamphlet and wrote a one-woman show that does just this! She is also using this show as an opportunity to platform emerging poets and under-represented voices.
