As an experienced storyteller, author and educator I offer workshops on Storytelling and Narrative. Using examples from Irish and Scottish folklore my lessons examine the importance of texture, memory and landscape in creating wonder tales. I also look at the importance of journal keeping, editing and role playing. Building on my work in NUI Galway, my lessons feature conversations, written tasks and games - creativity has to be fun after all! The lessons are applicable to prose and drama writing. As well as workshops I provide one off lectures on subjects that have a direct bearing on culture and creativity, such as history, folklore, diversity, community podcasting, etc.
I also mentor new writers looking for support and advice with their writing.
Since 2016 I have taught a twelve week Storytelling and Creativity module for the BA in Children’s Studies, NUI Galway. I developed this module in collaboration with Dr. Kate Harvey, the programme director for Children Studies at NUI Galway. Due to its success the module was expanded in 2019 to include extra workshops on the theory of storytelling, story making and creativity. A new module for third year students focusing on diversity, creativity and empowerment of teenagers is currently in development. I will be presenting a joint talk on this work at Talking TYA, Galway 2020. In addition to the above I am a regular guest lecturer at NUI Galway’s MA in Writing course. I also design and present bespoke lectures and workshops for International Study Abroad summer students studying in NUI Galway.
As a member of Poetry Ireland’s Writers in Schools scheme, I present workshops and readings for children in schools and libraries across Ireland.
My published work includes: West of Ireland Folk Tales for Children, published 2018 by History Press Ireland; Galway Bay Folk Tales, published 2013 by The History Press Ireland; and Transformation a fantasy novel, published 2012 by Dark Continents Publishing.
OTHER PUBLICATIONS
My short stories, poetry and essays have featured in many publications, including: Books Ireland, Chapman, Criterion, Cyphers, Dark Harvest, The Guardian, The Herald,The Irish Times, New Writing Scotland, Northwords, Orphan Leaf Review, Peace News, Poetry Ireland Review, Poetry Scotland, Ropes, The Shop, textualities.net, West Coast Magazine, West 47
