Barbara Lorraine Laing
Writer, Instructor, and Teaching & Learning Consultant
A warm welcome to you!
I offer workshops, writing services, and learning experiences that bring together storytelling, creativity, contemplation, and the inner life, alongside research-informed practice. Rooted in care and an appreciation of the natural world, I support people as they grow personally, professionally, and spiritually, both individually and in community.
My name is Barbara Lorraine Laing (PhD, OCT) and I'm a poet and teacher based in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. On this site you will find information about my services and creative work.
A warm welcome to you!
I offer workshops, writing services, and learning experiences that bring together storytelling, creativity, contemplation, and the inner life, alongside research-informed practice. Rooted in care and an appreciation of the natural world, I support people as they grow personally, professionally, and spiritually, individually and in community.
My name is Barbara Lorraine Laing (PhD, OCT) and I'm a poet and teacher based in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. On this site you will find information about my services and creative work.
A warm welcome to you!
I offer workshops, writing services, and learning experiences that bring together storytelling, creativity, contemplation, and the inner life, alongside research-informed practice. Rooted in care and an appreciation of the natural world, I support people as they grow personally, professionally, and spiritually, both individually and in community.
My name is Barbara Lorraine Laing (PhD, OCT) and I'm a poet and teacher based in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. On this site you will find information about my services and creative work.
Poetry in the Meadow @ Scenic Splendor
Poetry in the Meadow @ Scenic Splendor
Come join us for a spring poetry retreat at Scenic Splendor Nature & Recreation Center and enjoy a relaxing opportunity to work on your writing through both guided nature-inspired prompts and independent creation time. You will have the opportunity to develop several new pieces, and enjoy the atmosphere of the meadow and surrounding features including a schoolhouse style building with wood stove, picnic shelter, and walking paths. Bring a lunch or buy local from The Cookery and we'll pick it up and deliver it to you!
Over lunch we'll hear briefly from Dr. Kristin Buckley (agricultural literacy researcher and owner of Scenic Splendor) whose family history on this land goes back five generations. A special opportunity to learn from her experience and knowledge.
Four hours of dedicated writing time in the meadow! Sunday, May 31st, 10am to 3pm. 6 spots, $125 per person. Email barbara@picnicandpencil to reserve your spot.
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Poetry & Presentation Pop-Ups
Do you have a poem-in-progress that you would like some feedback on? Getting ready for an open mic or publication? Preparing for a presentation? Would you like to be heard and see what pops up?
This month I'm offering brief 20-minute virtual consultations where we can talk about a poem or presentation you are working on. You can ask me specific questions about your work, or I'm happy to listen and share what resonates. You may book up to 3 slots (e.g. 1hr per Monday) if you need more time.
Mondays May 11-June 15th PWYC/By donation. Please e-mail to book: barbara@picnicandpencil.com
Poetry @ the Ports
Did you know that the theme of poetry month in Canada this year is Land and Sea? Come join us April 18th from 1-3pm at the Portsmouth Tavern for a poetry-writing workshop inspired by the beauty of the village, lake, and harbour. All experience levels are welcome. Food and beverage may be purchased from the pub menu.
$75 per person
Please email to register: barbara@picnicandpencil.com
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Creative Services and Offerings
Community Arts and Wellness Workshops
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seasonal poetry workshops held at community gardens, historic inns, lakeside locations, farmers' markets
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guided spiritual autobiography & memoir writing
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drama for introverts
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poetry manuscript consultations
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virtual Poetry Pop-Ups!: get feedback on a poems and presentations in a 20-minute session
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one-to-one and small group instruction
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half-day and full day writing retreats
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virtual and in person offerings
Academic Teaching and Workplace Learning
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professional development workshops
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teacher training and educational workshops
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keynote speaking and research talks
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writing teachers' guides, curriculum, and educational materials
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creative business plan writing
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consulting and coaching services
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current and recent academic teaching projects
Creative Writing, Publishing & Performance
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Current projects
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Media links
Check out our Workshops page for offerings such as the Spring Poetry & Presentation Pop-Ups! (20-minute virtual feedback sessions on your poems and presentations in-progress!), and an upcoming poetry retreat for 6 people offered at Scenic Splendor in Inverary, Ontario coming soon!
More Picnic & Pencil offerings on creative topics such as drama for introverts, and how to craft your own spiritual autobiography coming soon. In-person workshops are held in beautiful places in Kingston and Inverary, Ontario, such as retreat centres, community gardens, churches, parks, farmer's markets, warm cafes, and historic inns. Online classes will be offered on Zoom. I'll be posting details about Picnic & Pencil here!
Sample Organizations I Have Worked With:
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Barbara Lorraine Laing
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