“These workshops, with inspiring art prompts and educational descriptions by the brilliant artist and writer Lorette C. Luzajic, can be used like a secret remedy for letting the creative genie out of her bottle.” Meg Pokrass
"Any workshop with the indomitable Lorette Luzajic is an adventure into imagination and creativity that transcends preconceived boundaries. I will register again and again and again!" Barbara K., New Jersey
"Truly, you are one of the best teachers I've ever had." Karen F.
"Lorette’s workshop on Paul Klee today was everything I had hoped for. And more. We were writing within the first ten minutes. When it comes to marrying graphic art with poetry, art with any form of creative writing, no one presides over the marriage with greater grace.” Lee Stockdale
"The workshop was fantastic, inspiring, and wonderful. You're an epic instructor and mentor, Lorette. Don't want to see it end."
Rebecca W.
**
The events below are through The Ekphrastic Academy as well as other venues.
"Any workshop with the indomitable Lorette Luzajic is an adventure into imagination and creativity that transcends preconceived boundaries. I will register again and again and again!" Barbara K., New Jersey
"Truly, you are one of the best teachers I've ever had." Karen F.
"Lorette’s workshop on Paul Klee today was everything I had hoped for. And more. We were writing within the first ten minutes. When it comes to marrying graphic art with poetry, art with any form of creative writing, no one presides over the marriage with greater grace.” Lee Stockdale
"The workshop was fantastic, inspiring, and wonderful. You're an epic instructor and mentor, Lorette. Don't want to see it end."
Rebecca W.
**
The events below are through The Ekphrastic Academy as well as other venues.
Workshops and Courses Ahead
(Scroll Down, in Order of What Starts Soonest)
Webinar with Women on Writing. Click on image for more info and registration.
An Ekphrastic Scavenger Hunt: an asynchronous art encounter and writing experience
CA$100.00
Start the new year off with an interesting immersion in art with this unique asynchronous workshop. Join us for this unique writing experience where you will follow clues and prompts provided by the The Ekphrastic Academy to discover a variety of intriguing paintings and other works of visual art. You will use books of art you have on hand, online research, or even a gallery or museum visit to search for works that could fulfill the clues given. These will be open ended and open to interpretation, with suggestions curated to inspire an entertaining and thought-provoking search experience with multiple possibilities. From your discoveries, you will choose the work that speaks to you and use a prompt provided or your imagination to write a story or poem inspired by that work.
You can use your scavenger hunt finds to create poetry, flash fiction, or CNF.
The workshop will take place asynchronously on your own schedule, while connecting with others to share your ideas and discoveries, and your drafts, in a private Facebook group.
There will be an optional afterparty on Sunday evening at 6 pm to 7 pm eastern time on zoom, where we will discuss our search, the artworks we discovered, and how our writing was inspired.
The Picasso Problem
CA$40.00
Arguably the most important artist in modern history, Picasso broke all the rules to create a new understanding of the meaning of visual art. Driven, prolific, obsessive, and self-obsessed, his pioneering imagination changed the art world forever. Pablo Picasso is as famous for his misogyny and megalomania as for his art. How should we approach his legacy in this light?
In this session, we will look at the life and legend of Picasso, his work, and his story. We will discuss the muses that fuelled his paintings. And we will use his works to inspire our own poems and stories in some creative writing exercises.
Ekphrasis Anonymous February
CA$40.00
Introducing a new monthly generative writing session with ekphrastic prompts. Each session will include a curated selection of diverse artworks and prompt ideas for brainstorming and generating poetry or fiction. We will look at and discuss each artwork briefly, then spend time writing. We will have a few minutes to talk about our process and the option for a couple of people to share their drafts after each exercise. The curated artworks will be a grab-bag each time, from different artists, eras, styles, and cultures, chosen to inspire your writing and challenge you to new directions.
A zoom session with Women on Writing on Wed. Feb. 11. Click image for more info and registration at WOW.
Pop Goes the World: poetry from pop art
CA$40.00
In the pop age of mass manufacturing, advertising, and factory-made production of everything from fashion to food, pop art rose up to declare that the everyday taste of the masses were of monumental importance. For some artists, this was a celebration of common taste and for others, this was a commentary on commercialism.
Join us for an overview of pop art, its meanings, its luminaries, and its trajectory. We will look at the history of pop art, then write our own poems inspired by some fascinating works of pop art.
A four week course at Women on Writing, starting March 3. Click image for more info, and to register at WOW.
Ekphrasis Anonymous March
CA$40.00
Introducing a new monthly generative writing session with ekphrastic prompts. Each session will include a curated selection of diverse artworks and prompt ideas for brainstorming and generating poetry or fiction. We will look at and discuss each artwork briefly, then spend time writing. We will have a few minutes to talk about our process and the option for a couple of people to share their drafts after each exercise. The curated artworks will be a grab-bag each time, from different artists, eras, styles, and cultures, chosen to inspire your writing and challenge you to new directions.
Ekphrasis Anonymous April
CA$40.00
Introducing a new monthly generative writing session with ekphrastic prompts. Each session will include a curated selection of diverse artworks and prompt ideas for brainstorming and generating poetry or fiction. We will look at and discuss each artwork briefly, then spend time writing. We will have a few minutes to talk about our process and the option for a couple of people to share their drafts after each exercise. The curated artworks will be a grab-bag each time, from different artists, eras, styles, and cultures, chosen to inspire your writing and challenge you to new directions.
Four week course starting May 7, with Women on Writing.
Let's gather online and spend time writing poetry and flash fiction together, with creative and inspiring ekphrastic exercises.
The Ekphrastic Review hosts a variety of writing sessions and workshops, with editor Lorette C. Luzajic.
All are welcome- famous writers, first time writers, and everyone in between. Our workshops are supportive, challenging, interactive, and fun. They are about community, creativity, connection, and conversation. Writers can participate as much or as little as they feel comfortable.
If you would like to attend a workshop but can't afford to do so, contact us at [email protected] and we will work out a reduced or waived fee.
Please be patient between signup and receiving a welcome/confirmation note and zoom link. We strive to respond within 24 hours. If you are signing up the day of the event, rest assured, we will be on the lookout and you will get a link before the workshop begins!
If you miss or cancel your workshop date, we will accommodate you in a future session.
**
Lorette C. Luzajic founded The Ekphrastic Review in 2015 and has been the editor ever since. The journal is a rare publication devoted entirely to literature inspired by art. Lorette's mostly ekphrastic flash fiction and poetry has been widely published in hundreds of literary journals in print and online, including Cleaver Magazine, Ghost Parachute, JMWW, Cabinet of Heed, Unbroken Journal, New Flash Fiction Review, Rattle, Indelible, The Citron Review, Trampset, The Miramichi Reader, and more. She was awarded two grants from the Ontario Arts Council to create collections of ekphrastic flash fiction, one which turned into The Neon Rosary: tiny prose poems and The Rope Artist: ekphrastic small fictions; the second project is Disgust, a series of ekphrastic flash stories on the theme of living with illness and pain, recently published by Cyberwit Books. Her flash won first place in a contest at MacQueen's Quinterly. She has been nominated several times each for Best Microfiction, Best Small Fictions, Best of the Net, and the Pushcart Prize, and seven times for Best American Food Writing (for essays on food in art history.) Her stories were selected for Best Small Fictions 2023 and 2024. Some of her work has been translated into Spanish and into Urdu. Lorette has a dusty degree in journalism, but continued with her creative writing as well as visual art. Her award-winning mixed media collage paintings are internationally collected, in 40 countries so far, including Italy, France, Germany, Netherlands, Mexico, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, and Australia. She is most passionate about art history, and has studied independently and in classroom for as long as she can remember. The stories of triumph and tribulation recorded in paint have changed the world, and they change our writing, too.
**
Workshop Testimonials
Lorette’s workshop on Paul Klee today was everything I had hoped for. And more. We were writing within the first ten minutes. When it comes to marrying graphic art with poetry, art with any form of creative writing, no one presides over the marriage with greater grace.
Lee Stockdale
*
This class was a great discovery for me as I don’t know a lot about art history. I was introduced to a number of paintings which worked very well as prompts for stories. Lorette also taught us with very organized lectures and power point presentations about Ekphrastics and the short short. That was the more academic part of the class which is lacking in most workshops. In addition, she critiqued our work so we got that necessary feedback.
Helaina M.
*
Any workshop with the indomitable Lorette Luzajic is an adventure into imagination and creativity that transcends preconceived boundaries. I will register again and again and again!
Barbara K.
*
"I attended my first ekphrastic workshop without knowing what ekphrastic meant. Lorette expertly guides you through each painting, providing a wonderful and detailed history about the art and the artist. These workshops have brought poetry back into my writing and I’ve produced submittable work from each class. I’ve also discovered that writing from images is excellent for writer’s block." August Van Stralen
*
Lorette is one of the most vibrant, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable workshop leaders I’ve encountered, and I’ve worked with about a dozen of the top poets, including Naomi Shihab Nye, Ted Kooser, and Jane Hirshfield. It’s amazing how she keeps the topic fresh: always varied, always full of more prompts and resources to check, and most important of all, always welcoming to everyone who shows up.
Alarie T.
*
Lorette conducted a wonderful class, with a great deal of encouragement and information provided. The visual prompts included were so evocative, and the discussions lively and insightful. I'll be looking to join another of her class offering in the future!
Mary G.
*
This course went well beyond my expectations. Lorette’s tranquil demeanor belies the many new ideas and contexts for old ideas she offers. All her examples empower listeners to think of themselves as potential creators. For both beginners and veterans, she provides a fresh, worldly look at the task of writing prose or poetry inspired by art. Lorette has extensive knowledge and empathy, two sterling qualities for teaching . I expect to be a frequent “Zoomer” of Lorette based on my experience. Yes, I am hooked!
Mary K Lindberg
*
I signed up for my first workshop with Lorette in 2022 through Women in the Visual and Literary Arts. By the end of that session, I was truly Hooked on Ekphrasis. Since then, I’ve joined many of her classes, each time deepening my knowledge of art, writing, and self-discovery. Lorette brings a wealth of insight into both art and artists, creating a welcoming space that encourages everyone to engage in ways that feel most authentic. Her workshops offer multiple approaches to exploring and practicing writing about art—whether in poetry, prose, or something entirely unique. Every experience in her classes has enriched my life and strengthened my creative work.
Kathi C.
*
In 2024, while dealing with a serious medical condition, I've taken a wild ride with Lorette C. Luzajic and ekphrasis. Writing in response to art is helping me heal at the soul level, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Barbara K.
*
Lorette's enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge about art combine to make her one of the most exciting and empowering workshop leaders I have ever had the joy of writing with. And the Hyperbole police would not arrest me for saying that! I was exposed to art I would never have looked twice at, and have learned how to linger and engage with the work and the artist. Her preparation, presentations and written feedback were thoughtful, generous and encouraging. an absolute delight!
Susie Whelehan
*
These workshops, with inspiring art prompts and educational descriptions by the brilliant artist and writer Lorette C. Luzajic, can be used like a secret remedy for letting the creative genie out of her bottle.”
Meg Pokrass
*
I had never done an ekphrastic workshop—in fact, had never heard of it before I met Lorette at a flash fiction conference. I joined a workshop out of curiosity and became an instant convert. The art chosen for the workshop was inspiring and the prompts Lorette gave us generated a lot of discussion and writing. There are so many things to love about these workshops from the joy of walking away with several great stories, or at least story ideas, to the excitement of learning about new artists. But the best part is the community—even as a newbie who had never been to one of these workshops before, I felt wholly welcomed by both Lorette and the other participants.
Finn Burnett
*
If you love learning about art and artists and if you love writing, Lorette's workshops are the perfect place to twine those loves together! Comfortable, educational and inspiring, these two enjoyable hours fly by. And like me, you may linger breathing in the riches of The Ekphrastic Review for your heart and soul.
Fran Turner
*
This is one of the most enriching experiences that I have participated in for many years, as an artist and writer. Lorette's selection of art I have never seen before, her wealth of history on the paintings and prompts presented in an open, warm and encouraging setting provides the perfect formula for creating. These workshops have stimulated my poems and accompanying paintings. I always leave elated and so very glad I attended.
Sonya Gonzalez
*
I have been a follower of The Ekphrastic Review for a couple of years, even sending a poem occasionally. When the workshops came along, I signed up enthusiastically. I was “enthusiastically, ecstatic, ekphrastically” about the work of such detail and variety…I can hardly wait between them to attend the next ones. I have learned so much about artists and their work as well as writing some personally delightful poems. Keep them coming, Lorette.
Jackie Langetieg
*
Lorette’s ekphrastic sessions are well curated, combining a high level of organization with technical smoothness, professionalism, a knowledge of art which she extends to her participants, as well as an encouraging and intimate tone. Her idea of creating an ekphrastic community has succeeded completely, not only with the Review, but also with the writing workshops, And I feel so fortunate to have participated in many of them this fall.
Laurel Benjamin
*
The Ekphrastic Review ekphrastic writing workshops have helped me begin writing, again. The art and prompts are interesting and inspiring, and the writers are fun and supportive. I've taken four workshops and plan on taking more!
Marjorie Robertson
*
I have attended several of Lorette’s workshops and came away from these fast-moving sessions with poems or prose that I continued to revise and enhance. Lorette provides information about the artist that is not only educational but often provides additional inspiration when responding to a prompt.
Lois Villemaire
*
I have attended several workshops offered by The Ekphrastic Review. Each time, the experience has provided a positive and nurturing environment in which I can freely practice the art of ekphrastic writing with other talented writers from various locations and backgrounds. Lorette chooses a wide range of styles of art, and she is an excellent teacher, and offers great feedback. I always look forward to learning from her about the artists’ backgrounds as much as I do the writing process. These workshops really get my creative juices flowing!
Lisa Molina
*
Lorette is a remarkable teacher -- clear and encouraging and so passionate about what she is teaching.
Helen B.
*
Lorette is a powerful writer and generous teacher and I’m so grateful I found her prose poetry course. She introduced me to the form with thoughtful writing prompts, provided extensive background and analysis, and welcomed everyone with a spirit of kindness and inclusion that never wavered. I’m inspired.
Sonia Weaver
*
I knew very little of prose poetry until I took this workshop. Four weeks was not enough… I wish we had more weeks to continue learning and experimenting with our prose poetry! The information shared taught us so much. I had no idea about this genre's freedom and diversity of expression in language and form. I write narrative poetry and found joy in experimentation as I revised some of these to prose poetry - the narrative became clearer, and I experienced the freedom from line and rhyme, yet felt how rhythm and rhyme became stronger, with the piece evoking more from me as a writer. I am so glad I took your workshop!
Evelyn J.C.
*
Lorette's class in prose poetry exceeded my high expectations and I look forward to taking another class with her. She is an excellent and organized teacher who set a comfortable atmosphere for sharing, as well as providing very useful handouts and generous feedback on our poems.
Maureen S.
*
Lorette is an outstanding instructor of prose poetry. She takes a personal interest in each student by being inclusive during class and also meeting 1:1 with each. Lorette gives informative instruction as well as examples, exercises, and helpful feedback. I would love to take another course from Lorette in the future.
Leslie C.
*
The Prose Poetry class with Lorette was a joy! Such a terrific blend of writing time, history, skills exercises, and tips on publishing. I highly recommend it!
Andrea R.
*
Having taken several of Lorette’s workshops, and both her courses offered through WOW, I feel qualified to speak of her masterful teaching techniques. She brings every ounce of her own artisanship and passion for art right up to the podium and then exudes not just knowledge but a refreshing sense of wonder, amazement and enthusiasm for the content of her subject matter…She becomes a co-equal adventurer with those of us who follow her guidance. Thank you WOW for bringing Lorette into this community. Again, she is one among a short list of my very favorite (for their excellence) teachers.
Karen FitzGerald
*
It gives me great pleasure to say that Lorette has made this course on Prose Poetry exciting and informative! During the four weeks we met which flew by, she generously offered her online support, gave us tons of course resources, and encouraged while interacting with us, interesting discussions relating to prose poetry. Furthermore, She gave us writing prompt activities and gave us ample time to share our writings from them. I would definitely recommend this class, and take another one with Lorette C. Luzajic!
Sharon O. B.
*
Lorette has a deep knowledge of prose poetry. The resources she provides, and the enthusiasm with which she shares her knowledge, made this one of the best online writing courses I have taken. She is organized, providing a wealth of information and examples of the concepts under discussion. And she is open-hearted: She authentically welcomes writers in her class to be part of the prose-poem-writing community and offers positive and helpful responses to the writing shared with her. As a teacher myself I appreciate her attention to creating such a welcoming and stimulating environment, and to delivering interesting, well-paced content. This four-week course flew by. It was just the right amount of time and depth for the time I had available. I've already recommended it to some writer friends, and I plan to take another course from her when my schedule allows.
Joanne G.
*
Whether you're a novice or an expert, Lorette's "Hooked on Ekphrasis" is for you. It's jam-packed with resources, wisdom, and creativity. The art is well-curated, and the writing prompts are spot on.
Nan W
*
I agree with all my co-participants in this workshop, "Hooked on Ekphrasis", it was wonderful and wonder filled. Bursting with information, examples, exercises and resources, it has given me a mammoth dose of inspiration and enthusiasm.
Thank you so much Lorette. I’m looking forward to more.
Kaz O.
*
Lorette C. Luzajic is an excellent teacher who welcomes participants in her courses, whether they are beginners or experienced ekphrastic poets. Her knowledge and enthusiasm are contagious. She is always generous in sharing her experience, her background in art and artists and writers. I highly recommend her courses and her website…Warning: highly addictive.
Lynne Kemen
*
Whether you’ve ever written an ekphrastic poem or not, a two-hour workshop with Lorette C. Luzajic will inspire you. I especially like how in a few minutes she opens up an artwork—no matter the century of creation or the style—by describing its place in history and sharing intimate and insightful anecdotes about the artist. Each time, I find myself writing from a totally different perspective than I imagined when the artwork first appeared on the screen.
Sandi Stromberg
*
Lorette is generous with her time, knowledge, and encouragement. Not only did I leave the class with a whole whack of poems that I am happy with and that I will revise, she also helped me work through some blocks I was having.
Linda S.
*
Lorette packs in a wealth of information about the practice of ekphrastic writing. This class is a good balance between background information, writing exercises and sharing work with the class participants. Lorette builds camaraderie and community into her classes. She brings so much fun, joy and insight to her teaching. A valuable experience!
Karen Ostrov
*
Lorette’s fantastic collage and mixed media class inspired me to play with materials and techniques in more ways than I would have thought possible in a month. I learned a tremendous amount from Lorette’s lessons, doing my own projects, and seeing and discussing the work of other participants.
Sharon R.
*
Collage and Mixed Media Course" was a delight to participate in: 4 weeks of 2-hour classes on Zoom with suggested assignments, and detailed instructions and examples of collages to view during class, and that are also sent to you as a PDF to continue your exploration of collage and mixed media. I already knew Lorette was a fabulous artist, as I own 7 of her artworks, but she's an inspirational teacher as well.
Karen George
*
Lorette's Collage and Mixed Media course was so inspiring! Through exploring history, composition, color, and materials, I learned to translate personal creativity into visual storytelling—something I had never attempted on a canvas before. She helped me know what to stock my art room with to get started. Lorette brings a mix of depth, openness, and support that meets every artist where they are. I left the course not only with new skills, but with a spark to keep creating.
Kathi C.
*
Lorette’s course provides a multitude of opportunities to practice the craft of writing in a supportive, non-judgmental setting. In four weeks, my confidence grew and my creativity blossomed.
Allison C.
*
Lorette is a gifted teacher. I feel gratitude that I have found my way to her online classes which draw to them such interesting fellow writers. We receive the same art to view and the same prompt but our responses are as individual as snowflakes.
Karen O.
*
In 2024, while dealing with a serious medical condition, I've taken a wild ride with Lorette C. Luzajic and ekphrasis. Writing in response to art is helping me heal at the soul level, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Barbara K.
*
You are a wonderful teacher, infusing each class with your seemingly endless knowledge of art and art history.
Jackie L.
*
WOW is right! Lorette's ekphrastic flash fiction class provided everything I wanted: context, craft lessons, inspiring prompts, constructive feedback, community, warmth, humor, and fabulous eyeglasses. Wow, Lorette, THANKS!
Tracy R.
*
I signed up for Ekphrastic Flash Fiction not having written a word of flash fiction before. Through Lorette's always, packed full of information and innovative teaching style, I emerged with several pieces I am proud to submit anywhere. The encouragement of class participation through questions and writing exercises, different styles of flash fiction, all the way to submitting and publishing, this course offers everything. She has a way of bringing in each student to view art and how to express it through writing, that reflects a voice all their own. Also, she provides individual feedback on a piece you have written per week, which I found invaluable. This class was a joy, a journey and a triumph for me.
Sara Castaneda
*
This course definitely fulfilled the "Wow" factor already in the first class.
Elissa G.
*
By the end of the first class I was exhausted AND exhilarated and oh so happy to have been there. I'm hooked.
Susie W.
*
Truly, you are one of the best teachers I've ever had!
Karen F.
*
When I register for a Lorette-led workshop, invariably I discover that I’m needing this gifted writing teacher in my life to move off the dime. Lorette’s brilliance is matched by her colourful Zoom presence replete with zany glasses and splashy original murals in the background. Lorette goes the extra miles to present material that is stimulating and thoughtful. She is generous and kind when giving feedback. So helpful as my inner critic stops me from sitting down to write on my own. Her prompts open me up to my inner life that sits patiently waiting for the chance to come out and play. Lorette’s sense of humor and love of the silly moment makes class engaging. Take a chance, get off the fence and sign up for a workshop. You get a lot of bang for your buck with Lorette. You’ll also meet like-minded writers to build community and shared purpose.
Karen O.
*
Having taken several of Lorette’s workshops, and both her courses offered through WOW, I feel qualified to speak of her masterful teaching techniques. She brings every ounce of her own artisanship and passion for art right up to the podium and then exudes not just knowledge but a refreshing sense of wonder, amazement and enthusiasm for the content of her subject matter…She becomes a co-equal adventurer with those of us who follow her guidance. She is one among a short list of my very favorite (for their excellence) teachers.
Karen FitzGerald
*
Tiny Treasures was BIG fun! Lorette shared images of a wide variety of small paintings, sculptures, and other artworks, as well as writing prompts to stimulate my creativity. As always, Lorette's enthusiasm for ekphrasis was inspirational.
Tracy R.
**
Workshop Testimonials
Lorette’s workshop on Paul Klee today was everything I had hoped for. And more. We were writing within the first ten minutes. When it comes to marrying graphic art with poetry, art with any form of creative writing, no one presides over the marriage with greater grace.
Lee Stockdale
*
This class was a great discovery for me as I don’t know a lot about art history. I was introduced to a number of paintings which worked very well as prompts for stories. Lorette also taught us with very organized lectures and power point presentations about Ekphrastics and the short short. That was the more academic part of the class which is lacking in most workshops. In addition, she critiqued our work so we got that necessary feedback.
Helaina M.
*
Any workshop with the indomitable Lorette Luzajic is an adventure into imagination and creativity that transcends preconceived boundaries. I will register again and again and again!
Barbara K.
*
"I attended my first ekphrastic workshop without knowing what ekphrastic meant. Lorette expertly guides you through each painting, providing a wonderful and detailed history about the art and the artist. These workshops have brought poetry back into my writing and I’ve produced submittable work from each class. I’ve also discovered that writing from images is excellent for writer’s block." August Van Stralen
*
Lorette is one of the most vibrant, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable workshop leaders I’ve encountered, and I’ve worked with about a dozen of the top poets, including Naomi Shihab Nye, Ted Kooser, and Jane Hirshfield. It’s amazing how she keeps the topic fresh: always varied, always full of more prompts and resources to check, and most important of all, always welcoming to everyone who shows up.
Alarie T.
*
Lorette conducted a wonderful class, with a great deal of encouragement and information provided. The visual prompts included were so evocative, and the discussions lively and insightful. I'll be looking to join another of her class offering in the future!
Mary G.
*
This course went well beyond my expectations. Lorette’s tranquil demeanor belies the many new ideas and contexts for old ideas she offers. All her examples empower listeners to think of themselves as potential creators. For both beginners and veterans, she provides a fresh, worldly look at the task of writing prose or poetry inspired by art. Lorette has extensive knowledge and empathy, two sterling qualities for teaching . I expect to be a frequent “Zoomer” of Lorette based on my experience. Yes, I am hooked!
Mary K Lindberg
*
I signed up for my first workshop with Lorette in 2022 through Women in the Visual and Literary Arts. By the end of that session, I was truly Hooked on Ekphrasis. Since then, I’ve joined many of her classes, each time deepening my knowledge of art, writing, and self-discovery. Lorette brings a wealth of insight into both art and artists, creating a welcoming space that encourages everyone to engage in ways that feel most authentic. Her workshops offer multiple approaches to exploring and practicing writing about art—whether in poetry, prose, or something entirely unique. Every experience in her classes has enriched my life and strengthened my creative work.
Kathi C.
*
In 2024, while dealing with a serious medical condition, I've taken a wild ride with Lorette C. Luzajic and ekphrasis. Writing in response to art is helping me heal at the soul level, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Barbara K.
*
Lorette's enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge about art combine to make her one of the most exciting and empowering workshop leaders I have ever had the joy of writing with. And the Hyperbole police would not arrest me for saying that! I was exposed to art I would never have looked twice at, and have learned how to linger and engage with the work and the artist. Her preparation, presentations and written feedback were thoughtful, generous and encouraging. an absolute delight!
Susie Whelehan
*
These workshops, with inspiring art prompts and educational descriptions by the brilliant artist and writer Lorette C. Luzajic, can be used like a secret remedy for letting the creative genie out of her bottle.”
Meg Pokrass
*
I had never done an ekphrastic workshop—in fact, had never heard of it before I met Lorette at a flash fiction conference. I joined a workshop out of curiosity and became an instant convert. The art chosen for the workshop was inspiring and the prompts Lorette gave us generated a lot of discussion and writing. There are so many things to love about these workshops from the joy of walking away with several great stories, or at least story ideas, to the excitement of learning about new artists. But the best part is the community—even as a newbie who had never been to one of these workshops before, I felt wholly welcomed by both Lorette and the other participants.
Finn Burnett
*
If you love learning about art and artists and if you love writing, Lorette's workshops are the perfect place to twine those loves together! Comfortable, educational and inspiring, these two enjoyable hours fly by. And like me, you may linger breathing in the riches of The Ekphrastic Review for your heart and soul.
Fran Turner
*
This is one of the most enriching experiences that I have participated in for many years, as an artist and writer. Lorette's selection of art I have never seen before, her wealth of history on the paintings and prompts presented in an open, warm and encouraging setting provides the perfect formula for creating. These workshops have stimulated my poems and accompanying paintings. I always leave elated and so very glad I attended.
Sonya Gonzalez
*
I have been a follower of The Ekphrastic Review for a couple of years, even sending a poem occasionally. When the workshops came along, I signed up enthusiastically. I was “enthusiastically, ecstatic, ekphrastically” about the work of such detail and variety…I can hardly wait between them to attend the next ones. I have learned so much about artists and their work as well as writing some personally delightful poems. Keep them coming, Lorette.
Jackie Langetieg
*
Lorette’s ekphrastic sessions are well curated, combining a high level of organization with technical smoothness, professionalism, a knowledge of art which she extends to her participants, as well as an encouraging and intimate tone. Her idea of creating an ekphrastic community has succeeded completely, not only with the Review, but also with the writing workshops, And I feel so fortunate to have participated in many of them this fall.
Laurel Benjamin
*
The Ekphrastic Review ekphrastic writing workshops have helped me begin writing, again. The art and prompts are interesting and inspiring, and the writers are fun and supportive. I've taken four workshops and plan on taking more!
Marjorie Robertson
*
I have attended several of Lorette’s workshops and came away from these fast-moving sessions with poems or prose that I continued to revise and enhance. Lorette provides information about the artist that is not only educational but often provides additional inspiration when responding to a prompt.
Lois Villemaire
*
I have attended several workshops offered by The Ekphrastic Review. Each time, the experience has provided a positive and nurturing environment in which I can freely practice the art of ekphrastic writing with other talented writers from various locations and backgrounds. Lorette chooses a wide range of styles of art, and she is an excellent teacher, and offers great feedback. I always look forward to learning from her about the artists’ backgrounds as much as I do the writing process. These workshops really get my creative juices flowing!
Lisa Molina
*
Lorette is a remarkable teacher -- clear and encouraging and so passionate about what she is teaching.
Helen B.
*
Lorette is a powerful writer and generous teacher and I’m so grateful I found her prose poetry course. She introduced me to the form with thoughtful writing prompts, provided extensive background and analysis, and welcomed everyone with a spirit of kindness and inclusion that never wavered. I’m inspired.
Sonia Weaver
*
I knew very little of prose poetry until I took this workshop. Four weeks was not enough… I wish we had more weeks to continue learning and experimenting with our prose poetry! The information shared taught us so much. I had no idea about this genre's freedom and diversity of expression in language and form. I write narrative poetry and found joy in experimentation as I revised some of these to prose poetry - the narrative became clearer, and I experienced the freedom from line and rhyme, yet felt how rhythm and rhyme became stronger, with the piece evoking more from me as a writer. I am so glad I took your workshop!
Evelyn J.C.
*
Lorette's class in prose poetry exceeded my high expectations and I look forward to taking another class with her. She is an excellent and organized teacher who set a comfortable atmosphere for sharing, as well as providing very useful handouts and generous feedback on our poems.
Maureen S.
*
Lorette is an outstanding instructor of prose poetry. She takes a personal interest in each student by being inclusive during class and also meeting 1:1 with each. Lorette gives informative instruction as well as examples, exercises, and helpful feedback. I would love to take another course from Lorette in the future.
Leslie C.
*
The Prose Poetry class with Lorette was a joy! Such a terrific blend of writing time, history, skills exercises, and tips on publishing. I highly recommend it!
Andrea R.
*
Having taken several of Lorette’s workshops, and both her courses offered through WOW, I feel qualified to speak of her masterful teaching techniques. She brings every ounce of her own artisanship and passion for art right up to the podium and then exudes not just knowledge but a refreshing sense of wonder, amazement and enthusiasm for the content of her subject matter…She becomes a co-equal adventurer with those of us who follow her guidance. Thank you WOW for bringing Lorette into this community. Again, she is one among a short list of my very favorite (for their excellence) teachers.
Karen FitzGerald
*
It gives me great pleasure to say that Lorette has made this course on Prose Poetry exciting and informative! During the four weeks we met which flew by, she generously offered her online support, gave us tons of course resources, and encouraged while interacting with us, interesting discussions relating to prose poetry. Furthermore, She gave us writing prompt activities and gave us ample time to share our writings from them. I would definitely recommend this class, and take another one with Lorette C. Luzajic!
Sharon O. B.
*
Lorette has a deep knowledge of prose poetry. The resources she provides, and the enthusiasm with which she shares her knowledge, made this one of the best online writing courses I have taken. She is organized, providing a wealth of information and examples of the concepts under discussion. And she is open-hearted: She authentically welcomes writers in her class to be part of the prose-poem-writing community and offers positive and helpful responses to the writing shared with her. As a teacher myself I appreciate her attention to creating such a welcoming and stimulating environment, and to delivering interesting, well-paced content. This four-week course flew by. It was just the right amount of time and depth for the time I had available. I've already recommended it to some writer friends, and I plan to take another course from her when my schedule allows.
Joanne G.
*
Whether you're a novice or an expert, Lorette's "Hooked on Ekphrasis" is for you. It's jam-packed with resources, wisdom, and creativity. The art is well-curated, and the writing prompts are spot on.
Nan W
*
I agree with all my co-participants in this workshop, "Hooked on Ekphrasis", it was wonderful and wonder filled. Bursting with information, examples, exercises and resources, it has given me a mammoth dose of inspiration and enthusiasm.
Thank you so much Lorette. I’m looking forward to more.
Kaz O.
*
Lorette C. Luzajic is an excellent teacher who welcomes participants in her courses, whether they are beginners or experienced ekphrastic poets. Her knowledge and enthusiasm are contagious. She is always generous in sharing her experience, her background in art and artists and writers. I highly recommend her courses and her website…Warning: highly addictive.
Lynne Kemen
*
Whether you’ve ever written an ekphrastic poem or not, a two-hour workshop with Lorette C. Luzajic will inspire you. I especially like how in a few minutes she opens up an artwork—no matter the century of creation or the style—by describing its place in history and sharing intimate and insightful anecdotes about the artist. Each time, I find myself writing from a totally different perspective than I imagined when the artwork first appeared on the screen.
Sandi Stromberg
*
Lorette is generous with her time, knowledge, and encouragement. Not only did I leave the class with a whole whack of poems that I am happy with and that I will revise, she also helped me work through some blocks I was having.
Linda S.
*
Lorette packs in a wealth of information about the practice of ekphrastic writing. This class is a good balance between background information, writing exercises and sharing work with the class participants. Lorette builds camaraderie and community into her classes. She brings so much fun, joy and insight to her teaching. A valuable experience!
Karen Ostrov
*
Lorette’s fantastic collage and mixed media class inspired me to play with materials and techniques in more ways than I would have thought possible in a month. I learned a tremendous amount from Lorette’s lessons, doing my own projects, and seeing and discussing the work of other participants.
Sharon R.
*
Collage and Mixed Media Course" was a delight to participate in: 4 weeks of 2-hour classes on Zoom with suggested assignments, and detailed instructions and examples of collages to view during class, and that are also sent to you as a PDF to continue your exploration of collage and mixed media. I already knew Lorette was a fabulous artist, as I own 7 of her artworks, but she's an inspirational teacher as well.
Karen George
*
Lorette's Collage and Mixed Media course was so inspiring! Through exploring history, composition, color, and materials, I learned to translate personal creativity into visual storytelling—something I had never attempted on a canvas before. She helped me know what to stock my art room with to get started. Lorette brings a mix of depth, openness, and support that meets every artist where they are. I left the course not only with new skills, but with a spark to keep creating.
Kathi C.
*
Lorette’s course provides a multitude of opportunities to practice the craft of writing in a supportive, non-judgmental setting. In four weeks, my confidence grew and my creativity blossomed.
Allison C.
*
Lorette is a gifted teacher. I feel gratitude that I have found my way to her online classes which draw to them such interesting fellow writers. We receive the same art to view and the same prompt but our responses are as individual as snowflakes.
Karen O.
*
In 2024, while dealing with a serious medical condition, I've taken a wild ride with Lorette C. Luzajic and ekphrasis. Writing in response to art is helping me heal at the soul level, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Barbara K.
*
You are a wonderful teacher, infusing each class with your seemingly endless knowledge of art and art history.
Jackie L.
*
WOW is right! Lorette's ekphrastic flash fiction class provided everything I wanted: context, craft lessons, inspiring prompts, constructive feedback, community, warmth, humor, and fabulous eyeglasses. Wow, Lorette, THANKS!
Tracy R.
*
I signed up for Ekphrastic Flash Fiction not having written a word of flash fiction before. Through Lorette's always, packed full of information and innovative teaching style, I emerged with several pieces I am proud to submit anywhere. The encouragement of class participation through questions and writing exercises, different styles of flash fiction, all the way to submitting and publishing, this course offers everything. She has a way of bringing in each student to view art and how to express it through writing, that reflects a voice all their own. Also, she provides individual feedback on a piece you have written per week, which I found invaluable. This class was a joy, a journey and a triumph for me.
Sara Castaneda
*
This course definitely fulfilled the "Wow" factor already in the first class.
Elissa G.
*
By the end of the first class I was exhausted AND exhilarated and oh so happy to have been there. I'm hooked.
Susie W.
*
Truly, you are one of the best teachers I've ever had!
Karen F.
*
When I register for a Lorette-led workshop, invariably I discover that I’m needing this gifted writing teacher in my life to move off the dime. Lorette’s brilliance is matched by her colourful Zoom presence replete with zany glasses and splashy original murals in the background. Lorette goes the extra miles to present material that is stimulating and thoughtful. She is generous and kind when giving feedback. So helpful as my inner critic stops me from sitting down to write on my own. Her prompts open me up to my inner life that sits patiently waiting for the chance to come out and play. Lorette’s sense of humor and love of the silly moment makes class engaging. Take a chance, get off the fence and sign up for a workshop. You get a lot of bang for your buck with Lorette. You’ll also meet like-minded writers to build community and shared purpose.
Karen O.
*
Having taken several of Lorette’s workshops, and both her courses offered through WOW, I feel qualified to speak of her masterful teaching techniques. She brings every ounce of her own artisanship and passion for art right up to the podium and then exudes not just knowledge but a refreshing sense of wonder, amazement and enthusiasm for the content of her subject matter…She becomes a co-equal adventurer with those of us who follow her guidance. She is one among a short list of my very favorite (for their excellence) teachers.
Karen FitzGerald
*
Tiny Treasures was BIG fun! Lorette shared images of a wide variety of small paintings, sculptures, and other artworks, as well as writing prompts to stimulate my creativity. As always, Lorette's enthusiasm for ekphrasis was inspirational.
Tracy R.