For the second year in a row, Warren County poet and artist Michael Roy Layne, Ph.D. welcomed like-minded creatives for an intimate Vernal Equinox celebration in downtown Warrenton (March 19th).

Prior to the program, the Legacyworks Studio owner, with the assistance of another local artist, Providence Elyse, constructed his colorful signature landscape art. Guests arrived around 7pm, most with spring-inspired, prepared dishes in tow. They engaged in small talk, and shared their plans for the upcoming season such as gardening or working on artsy projects.

As the evening progressed, attendees were encouraged to create “Fairy Wands,” a make and take craft led by Tammy Tillotson.

Thomas Park, founder of the Warren Artist Market, and who Layne described as a “master poet,” returned as the event host. Along with introducing each poet, Park also shared a few of his own lyrical works. To set the mood, fellow WAM member, Sterling Cheston served as the DJ.

Not all who stepped to the mic that night had a poem to recite. For instance, Dr. Mark Wethington, with a guitar in his grasp, dedicated Hymn of Promise to the people of Ukraine.

The event concluded with Layne inviting the guests to stay a little longer, if possible, to sit by the fire and to help themselves to a campsite fave: roasted marshmallows.

THOUGHTS

The overall vibe was similar to prior poetry-driven events. Much like First Friday Poetry Night, these curated experiences are designated creative safe spaces. A place where a writer, poet, or artist is free to express one’s self in a judgement-free zone.

Whether someone was writing about the anticipation of blooms or comparing Mother Nature to the perils of motherhood, it was all good. No one was there to critique you.

The Vernal Equinox marks the arrival of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere, so this season, start something new. Explore your artistic side. Take up a new hobby.

Or roast marshmallows while waiting for Tinkerbell to show up in your garden.

Either way, it’s your season. Make the most of it.

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