I write and publish poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction and photography in print and online magazines.  Putting work out into the world is an act of power and hope.  My current projects are what I call artists’ storybooks–or books I both write and physically craft, modern fairy tales, and novels that move beyond national borders and constraints. I have lived in China, Turkey, Italy and the US, and those places and relationships infuse my work.  I believe we are all hybrids, mongrels, and possibly semi-magical creatures (you know who you are) living on a planet enduring intense stress wrought by human beings.  It’s a complicated and powerful time to be alive. In my own explorations and collaborations, I look to the visionaries of all kinds who create, listen, collaborate, and help us find a better way. All story writing is world building. When I write, I go down inside the story itself, a torch of hope in front of me.  My task is to stay open to the words as they come.  I’m in love with that journey.

Teaching

For the last 25 years, I’ve taught creative writing to college students in the US, China and Turkey. I’m a professor at Pacific University in Oregon, where I teach writing and literature to talented students earning their liberal arts degree.  Teaching writing to emerging artists is above all else a practice in “do no harm.” I guide them in building effective techniques they can use in realizing their ideas. Each draft they create is a stepping stone to their next discovery. It’s exciting and important work for them and me.  My students publish their writing, win awards, and find great jobs in the arts and editing and publishing.

For more on my teaching and our program’s opportunities for college students wanting an intense education in the arts and humanities, visit my faculty page at Pacific University.

Contact Me:

kathlene.postma@gmail.com