Meet Visual Poetry's Michał Piotrowski

Last year, we launched our 'Meet The Volunteers' feature in our monthly newsletter, celebrating the amazing people at the heart of Catching Lives. Now it's time to meet some of the brilliant facilitators who contribute to our Arts and Activities programmes. Michał Piotrowski has run Visual Poetry workshops with us over the past few years.

Photo credit: Michał Piotrowski

Tell us about the activity you offer at Catching Lives

I run experimental poetry workshops, mostly focusing on collage poetry – a form of art combining cutout words and pictures.

How did you first hear about Catching Lives?

Actually, a friend of mine from Folkestone recommended me to Miriam! That's how I learned about this marvellous organisation.

Visual Poetry with Michał Piotrowski at Catching Lives

Why did you want to get involved with Catching Lives?

Catching Lives is truly special, not only providing services to people in the crisis of homelessness, but actually seeing them as people. I wanted to contribute, as I believe experimental poetry has a similarly democratic approach, creating a safe space where everyone is welcome. Also, I believe that experimental poetry has the potential to improve lives through boosting confidence and facilitating a space for exchanging ideas.

What are some joys you have experienced since starting with Catching Lives?

Facing and dismantling my prejudice was a joyful experience.

What would you say to someone thinking about getting involved at Catching Lives?

Do it! You will get much more than you have given.

Outside of Catching Lives, how do you like to spend your time?

Writing and teaching are some of my favourite activities. I also enjoy reading weird books and watching quirky TV shows. I love walks on the seaside, too!

What is your line of work/previous line of work?

I've been teaching for over 15 years. I also curate festivals, exhibitions, and other events as part of my project artBLAB. I'm also the co-founder and CEO of my own writing school – we are called Experimental Writing School and are launching in November!

What are your passions/ interests?

Writing, curating, and teaching are all my passions. I'm one of those fortunate ones!

Anything else?

Yes! If you want to try experimental writing, follow us on Instagram; we are posting videos that will help you start!

A Note From Catching Lives

Miriam Ellis, Activity Coordinator at Catching Lives, said: "Michał brings a fresh and creative approach to engaging people with poetry. Each class is unique and leads to powerful, moving results.”