2025 saw the expansion of our core offering, and the formation of a new creative writing group.
The Creative Writing group consists of AIM artists and writers who meet every Friday to explore Arnolfini’s exhibitions and write stories and poems inspired by current exhibitions and artwork.
In our first ten-week term, we explored the art exhibition Everything is Energy by artist Emma Talbot and published a book of poems entitled The Mermaid’s Hair is Water in response. Since then, the group has grown in size and momentum, working on new writing publications, exhibitions, and events.
The group is also set to play an important role in shaping the language used around Arnolfini exhibitions, as part of the Creatives in Residence partnership work. The group will work to ensure accessibility remains central to how work is shared with the public, and will work closely with the Arnolfini team to make sure this is done to the highest standard.
The Mermaids Hair is Water
The Mermaid’s Hair is Water was the groups debut poetry publication, published at the start of 2026. This publication features writings inspired by Everything is Energy, an exhibition by Emma Talbot at Arnolfini. The exhibition acted as a spark for inspiration, with each artist responding in their own voice.
This culminated in a poetry reading in-house at Arnolfini – in the gallery surrounded by the art that inspired them. The writers took the opportunity to perform their poems, read them aloud and share their work with the public.
This collection brings together poems by Jonathan Barr Lindsay, Emily Boden, Aisha Jawo, Dave Pearse, Beth Richards, Betty Sargent and Katy Tovey.
The Everyday
Created alongside our exhibition at Pound Arts Centre, The Everyday brings together stories and poems by AIM artists from the Writing Group, celebrating the beauty, humour and meaning found in ordinary moments, familiar objects and personal memories. The book simply celebrates the beauty and meaning found in everyday life.
Alongside submitting poetry, the writers also illustrated the book, demonstrating their creative skills beyond just writing, and allowed a personal touch to the visuals featured in the book.
This publication features the work of Jonathan Barr Lindsay, David Boston, Aisha Jawo, Dave Pearse, Betty Sargent, and Katy Tovey.
The Everyday has also since made its way onto the shelves at Arnolfini Bookshop, where copies are now available to purchase.
