Autumn kicks off with publication of Isabel's work in three anthologies -'Kinds of Cool: A Collection of Jazz Poetry: Volume II; Morecambe Festival Poetry Anthology and the 'Motorcitysixty Winners' Anthology' promoted by Clevedon Litfest. More details on these will be published shortly. Isabel's latest collection Usonia - An American Peculiar, is out now, priced £10. The London launch of Usonia took place at the Artillery Arms in Bunhill Row, London with many friendly faces in attendance, as well as positive reviews of the book. The book was then launched in Clevedon, with thanks to the Pier Gin Distillery for hosting us. Isabel has also been published for the eleventh time in the American periodical Jerry Jazz Musician with a new piece about Charlie Parker.

The other big news for the autumn however, is the launch of our new spoken word ensemble Hi-Art and Mischief. Bristol is blessed with a cornucopia of spoken word talent, and we have selected the best exponents for a series of events to take us through autumn and into the New Year. Edson 'Doc' Burton, Patrick Chandler, and Jeremy Toombs joined Isabel for 'Take it to the Man' at St. George’s, Bristol.  They were  joined for two more shows in October and November by Melanie Branton.   Hi-Art & Mischief On Safari showcased more of our spoken word exponents in Wedmore, Somerset in late September, featuring Alex Bickley, Tim Munson, Charis Owen, John Rea and Steve Selby. Our hosts in Wedmore have invted us back to do it all again in February 2026. More details about these shows can be found on the poetry page here. 

We are also working with Clevedon Litfest on the launch of a new Poetry Society Stanza group - more details soon. 

Pilote

This is a new initiative to support poets who write in languages other than English, with events and programmes to be launched early in the New Year.

Workshops

Isabel delivered  'Technicolour Poetry' at Clevedon LitFest's 'Celebration of the Book' one day festival. More workshops are planned. Isabel  has also been offering readings in care homes this year.

2026 - It's that time of year when we begin planning our 2026 programme. This will include a new competition, heritage themed events, launch of Pilote, more Safaris and a new multi-disciplinary collaboration. Watch this space, as they say (whoever 'they' are)!