Richmond Library combines creative writing with visual arts

As part of Culture Days, local artist Care Dyck will help people share their stories with Six Word Micro-Memoirs: A Community Mosaic at Richmond Public Library on Sept. 27 from 1 to 4 p.m. This free drop-in event, which combines writing and visual art, is open to all ages. It will take place on the main floor at the Brighouse (Main) Branch, 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond.

The six word micro-memoirs produced at the library will be combined with stained acrylic tiles to create a visual art installation that will be displayed at the library. “The purpose of this event is to explore the idea of personal narrative, and promote literacy by challenging the community to participate in the act of creative writing,” said artist Care Dyck.

“Everyone has their own unique story, their own way of looking at the world, and this project is a way of making those stories accessible and collaborative. These stories, when viewed together in a tangible way, form an ideological mosaic of the community,” added Dyck. The stories can be written in English or Chinese and will be translated afterwards.

Participants will be taught basic tips on writing six word stories, and then guided to write their own for inclusion in the community mosaic. The six word micro-memoirs will also be made available to the community afterwards through the library’s online Create & Learn space. Care Dyck will be at the Brighouse Branch on Sept. 20 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. with examples of six word memoirs for those who want more information before the event on Sept. 27.

“The library is pleased to offer this unique project and help foster community building amongst Richmond citizens,” said coordinator of learning place services, Lee Anne Smith.