In March the CSP Visiting Artist Program welcomes Venus De Mars!

March 1 -14 2024

Venus will be joined here by her partner author Lynette Reini-Grandell and together they will be leading a memoir writing workshop in Venus' studio at CSP.

March 3rd, “Get to know your hosts” Opening Presentation

Featuring readings by Lynette Reini-Grandell and Venus de Mars

CSP theater 6pm to 7pm

Open to the public

Lynette will be available to sell and sign her new memoir: "Wild Things: a Punk Rock Love Story"

Venus will read from her work-in-progress memoir. And perhaps perform a song or two.

3 workshop sessions:

With both Venus and Lynette:

Monday March 4th 6pm - 8pm (with a snack break)

Thursday March 7th 6pm – 8pm (with a snack break)

With Venus only:

Monday March 11th 6pm – 8pm (with a snack break)

Please bring a writing implement (pen or pencil) and a notebook. In addition, please bring any electronic items (laptop, tablet etc.) you also wish to compose on.

ALL students are expected to work on their memoir essays on their own time between workshop sessions.

Friday March 15th 6pm to 7pm:

“Student Work Presentation” Closing Reception (All students are encouraged to read their finished memoir essays) held at Venus’s CSP studio

The Closing Reception is open to the public.

Venus will also read from her work-in-progress memoir as part of the reception.

The workshops are free, but registration is required. Email venusdemars2018@gmail.com with subject “CSP Excavating Memory” in the subject line to register. Include your name in the email body.

Many folks in Bisbee know and love Venus, she has performed at Bisbee Pride, and about 10 years ago she was also a visiting artist here at CSP. That visit was so impactful. She ran a workshop for young people which culminated in a beautiful, moving performance.

Venus will be joined here by her partner author Lynette Reini-Grandell and together they will be leading a memoir writing workshop.

Lynette Reini-Grandell is the author of most recently her memoir Wild Things. She has published two books of poetry, Wild Verge and Approaching the Gate, both published by Holy Cow! Press. She teaches English and creative writing at Normandale Community College and the Loft and has received support for her work from the Finlandia Foundation and the Minnesota State Arts Board.