2nd Friday ArtWalk

Hear poems and write your own poetry during this month’s 2nd Friday ArtWalk inspired by the Ackland’s current exhibition of Japanese calligraphy, Lotus Moon and Nandina Staff.

Poetry Reading and Open Mic | 6-7 p.m.

Hear local poets perform waka poems — the style of poetry featured in the Ackland’s current exhibition Lotus Moon and Nandina Staff — as well as their other nature-inspired works. Readings will be by members of the North Carolina Haiku Society, including Crystal Simone Smith and Lenard Moore, as well as 2023 Piedmont Laureate Dasan Ahanu.

Inspired by this year’s Arts Everywhere Day theme “YOU Are an Artist!” visitors are encouraged to compose their own waka poem (using its distinctive syllable pattern, 5-7-5-7-7 and natural world inspiration). Read it during the open mic session if you’d like and write your poem down on the traditional vertical strip of paper. All materials provided; no experience necessary.

Track Meet: Art-Inspired Beats by the UNC Beat Lab | 7-9 p.m.

A dynamic live beatmaking showcase hosted by the UNC Beat Lab that brings together local beat makers to create an extraordinary fusion of art and music. Witness the intersection of creativity as talented producers craft mesmerizing beats in real-time, inspired by the artwork on display at the Ackland. Tonight’s Track Meet features beats by Zakari and Kidnxtdoor.

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SATURDAY, April 15
Poetry in the Arboretum

The following day, Saturday, April 15, from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., join us at Carolina’s Coker Arboretum as we hang all the newly-composed waka poems from the branches of the Central Lawn. Poetry writing supplies will also be available at the Arboretum.

Presented in connection with Lotus Moon and Nandina Staff: The Art of Ōtagaki Rengetsu and Nakahara Nantenbō (on view March 31 – June 11, 2023). Part of the 2nd Friday ArtWalk and UNC-Chapel Hill’s Arts Everywhere Day.