Reading Objects, Writing Craft

Reading Objects, Writing Craft is a workshop-based course that works with different types of (primarily) descriptive writing. Its overall aim is to introduce new writers to basic aspects of the mechanics of reading and writing, through exercises connected to their disciplinary interests and concerns. Matched genres and specific writing outcomes – such as concept notes as an opportunity to practise skills of persuasive writing and summaries as a chance to demonstrate articulation of logic and causality – are reflected in the framing of the assignments, the nature of the feedback provided for each draft, and the grading rubric, allowing the students to identify at each stage their strengths as well as the aspects they need to work on. The course is conceptualized as a series of exercises addressing four broad areas identified as crucial in the development of writing skills for CEPT students: observing and describing objects and spaces; writing different types of text appropriate for studio work, with a specific readership in mind; professional communication; and practising research that is accurate, honest and ethical.  

The course is structured on the premise that forming a routine that helps the writer get through the difficulties of writing enables them to continue this in a peer group or independently after the completion of the course as well. It acknowledges the fact that no one writes a perfect first draft, and tries to build the habit of making time and (mental) space for multiple drafts allowing a writer to focus on clarity of content but also choices regarding the structuring of content that makes it meaningful for the reader. This holds equally true for academic, professional and creative writing, and the course introduces to a greater or smaller extent genres pertaining to each. 

The course is accompanied by Perspectives, a series of lectures delivered by experts in disciplines not directly related to those in focus at CEPT, intended to provide an entry point into the world of the arts and social sciences. These are lectures that are meant to trigger curiosity, reflection, and allow each individual to identify areas outside of their professional interest that can bring richness to their lives and practices.