around the fire
(Page under development)
wythenshawe gatherings
Free creative gatherings inspired by the idea of coming together around the fire in community. These are spaces to share, support and explore. No fixing; just connecting in a welcoming neuro-friendly environment.
We all have a story. Our story matters.
women's circle - NEW!
Once a month at the Creative Space, Wythenshawe Forum Library
2hrs Free, donations welcome
Open to all women 18+ - including trans women
Places offered to Wythenshawe residents first, then opened out
Wednesday ** January, ** - **pm
The aim is to create a space where women can come as they are, at any given time, exploring and sharing what matters to them and finding support in community.
The first half of the circle is about using creative approaches to 'land' with ourselves, tapping into what we're bringing into the space that day. This might involve writing, movement, making sounds, visualisation and so on, both individually and communally.
After a break, there'll be a gathering in circle 'around the fire'. Each women will have the opportunity to share something they've brought with them or that has grown out of that day's circle. This might be a poem, song, dance or artwork - or they may simply want to speak.
Book through Eventbrite
express yourself - NEW!
Once a month at the Creative Space, Wythenshawe Forum Library
2hrs Free, donations welcome
Open to all 18+ - Places offered to Wythenshawe residents first, then opened out
Wednesday ** January, **-**pm
Theme: Freedom
These sessions give you permission to play. The first half of the session is about using creative approaches - like writing, movement, visualisation and so on - to explore our feelings, thoughts and responses around a particular theme. It's a chance to really reach in - and then bring stuff out!
After a break, there'll be a gathering in circle 'around the fire'. Everyone will have the opportunity to share something they've brought with them or that has grown out of that day's experimenting. This might be a poem, song, dance or artwork - or they may simply want to speak (or roar or laugh or wail).
Book through Eventbrite
IMPORTANT: By the nature of this work, some powerful stuff may come up at times. While Ali is trained/experienced in offering emotional support and holding space, participants are responsible for themselves during the gatherings and taking care of their wellbeing.
For both sessions:
Bring your own refreshments
Also mat, blankets etc. if you think you might like to lie down or sit on the floor
Any donations will go towards activity connected to the Creative Space
about ali
I'm Ali Davenport, Manchester writer and poet. I'm offering these gatherings for free to support the Creative Space at Forum Library and to develop my own creative practice.
I'm looking to develop creative gatherings that are about connection rather than performing.
As a neurodivergent person, I'm also keen to play with neuro-friendly approaches that encourage people to be themselves.
With that in mind, please feel welcome to get in touch if you have any questions or particular needs. I'll try my best to accommodate you. Just bear in mind, I'm on a bit of a learning curve with all this - including my own journey with neurodivergence.
find your tribe;
the people to sit around the fire with,
as you are; nodding at your stories
because they know,
and you, in turn,
honouring their words
with your heart's warmth