The Ekphrastic Writer

A common definition of ekphrasis is descriptive writing influenced by the visual arts. Beyond the written word, however, responding to art can engender self-reflection, creativity, and help writers to build characters, plot, and setting. This book unites the history and tradition of ekphrasis, its conventions, the writing process, and multi-genre writing prompts. In addition to subjects such as early art engagement, psychology, and the eye-brain-perception relationship, this book discusses artists’ creative processes, tools, and techniques, and offers instruction on how to read art by way of deep-looking.

Instructors considering this book for use in a course may request an examination copy here.

Janée J. Baugher holds degrees from Boston University and Eastern Washington University. She lives in Seattle, Washington. Please visit her website at www.JaneeBaugher.com.

Janée J. Baugher
Format: softcover (6 x 9)
Pages: 240
Bibliographic Info: 33 photos (all in color), bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2020
pISBN: 978-1-4766-7945-7
eISBN: 978-1-4766-3961-1
Imprint: McFarland

Acknowledgments ix
Preface 1
Introduction 3
Ekphrasis: History, Criticism, Conventions 11
Topics in Ekphrasis I 28
Topics in Ekphrasis II 44
Arts: History, Perception, Illusion 69
Art Forms 87
Artist’s Studio 114
Museums 127
Creative Writing 146
Community of Artists and Writers 184
Further Reflections 191
Additional Instructional Applications 200
Technology and Ekphrasis 212
Final Words 216
Bibliography: Works Consulted 217
Index 225

• “Baugher’s approach of linking of visual art with writing is unusual and intriguing. I’m impressed with this collection.”—Peter Elbow, Professor of English Emeritus, University of Massachusettes Amherst

• “A guidebook that comprehensively treats the subject of ekphrasis at the same time it provides an inspiriting and practical guide to those who aspire to practice it.”—WomensVoicesforChange.org