Cascadia Poetics Lab Hosts Series of Events to Celebrate 'Cascadian Zen Vol. I' Anthology

The Cascadia Poetics Lab, a Seattle-based nonprofit dedicated to the art of poetry, is set to illuminate the cultural and ecological tapestry of the Cascadia bioregion through a series of events in British Columbia. These gatherings, centered around the recently published anthology 'Cascadian Zen Vol. I', aim to weave together the threads of Zen practice, poetry, and environmental consciousness. Scheduled for late August 2024, the events promise to offer a unique platform for dialogue and reflection on the region's identity and its inhabitants' connection to the natural world.

The anthology, a collaborative effort published by Watershed Press, brings together the works of esteemed artists and authors from across the Cascadia bioregion. It serves as a testament to the lab's mission of fostering poetic expression as a means to deepen one's relationship with place, self, and the present moment. The upcoming events will feature readings and discussions led by the anthology's editors—Paul Nelson, Adelia MacWilliam, and Jason Wirth—alongside notable poets and thinkers, including Indigenous elder Wedlidi Speck and philosopher Jan Zwicky. This diverse lineup underscores the anthology's commitment to embracing multiple perspectives on the Cascadian experience.

Kicking off in Vancouver at the Mountain Rain Zen Community, the series will then move to the Abbey Studio in Cumberland for a weekend of immersive talks, before concluding on Quadra Island. Each event is designed to engage the community in meaningful conversations about the region's ecological and cultural heritage, highlighting the role of poetry in understanding and preserving these connections. By offering these events free to the public, the Cascadia Poetics Lab underscores its dedication to accessibility and community engagement, ensuring that the transformative power of poetry reaches a broad audience.

The significance of these events extends beyond the literary community. They represent a pioneering approach to environmental awareness, blending spirituality, art, and ecology to inspire sustainable living and a renewed appreciation for the natural world. In a time of ecological uncertainty, the 'Cascadian Zen Vol. I' anthology and its accompanying events offer a beacon of hope and a call to action, inviting individuals to explore their place within the bioregion and the broader tapestry of life.