Join non-fiction writer, novelist and creative writing teacher Sophie Cunningham to explore what it means to write about nature, and how to do it well.
Nature Writing means different things to different people. The best Nature Writing overlaps with philosophy. It is an extension of culture. It emerges over time and demands a capacity for listening and being patient. It demands self- awareness. And that is what makes it even more worth doing.
In this inclusive workshop Sophie asks what is meant by 'Nature Writing’ before moving onto a consideration of:
the importance of close attention, bearing witness and cultivating a talent for observation
finding the narratives, stories and essays that emerge from something as minimal as a short walk.
the ethical dilemmas that come with nature writing.
the importance of embodiment.
research strategies and the power of the ‘I’ as a narrator.
journalling (digital or otherwise) and intention setting.
Suitable for emerging and aspiring writers. This workshop is an 18+ event.
ABOUT SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM
Sophie Cunningham is a non-fiction writer, novelist and teacher of creative writing. She has written eleven books, including Warning: The Story of Cyclone Tracy and City of Trees: Essays on Life,Death and the Need for a Forest. Sophie is a recipient of an Ann Moyal Non-Fiction Fellowship at Varuna and has also received a Dahl Fellowship 2026 from Eucalypt Australia to work on her current project Eucalyptus: A Story in Twenty Trees. She is also collating her second essay collection, Hope Less.
VENUE, PARKING and ACCESS
This is a seated event.
Parking onsite is limited to 11 cars, including 1 fully accessible spot. If you have access needs, please email varuna@varuna.com.auto request a suitable parking spot.
View an on-site map for parking and directions to Varuna and the Varuna Reading Room.
Drivers can drop-off their passengers onsite and then move to the recommended parking area.
Recommended parking is kerbside on Cascade St (not Sherman Av) and walking to Varuna's main entry on Cascade St or alternate entry on Sherman Av.
Varuna's driveway, car park and gardens are uneven and care is recommended when accessing the property at all times.
If you require T-loop, closed captions, Auslan interpreters or accessible parking, please contact Varuna directly on varuna@varuna.com.au or call 02 02 4782 5674 to speak to Erin English.