Join writer Ben Macpherson for a workshop exploring the queer ‘psychogeography’ of Nottingham. Psychogeography is the study of how places affect people’s emotions and behaviours.
We will look at places in the city with historical LGBTQIA+ connections. We will also look at places with personal significance to you. Finally, we will imagine our perfect places.
In the workshop, you will work towards the first draft of a poem exploring queerness in Nottingham. If you’d like, your finished poems will be published in a zine that will be shared with the wider community.
For people aged 18+, who identify as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community. No previous writing experience is necessary. The workshop is designed to suit people of all writing abilities.
Part of the Building an LGBTQIA+ Friendly Nottingham project.
About the Workshop Leader
Ben Macpherson is a Nottingham based writer and performer who works across poetry, theatre and comedy. His credits include BBC Radio 2, Radio 4 Extra and local stations. His live performances include the Latitude Festival, Edinburgh Fringe and Verve Poetry Festivals. In 2023 he received the Artist Award from the British School at Athens. In 2025 he received a Bravado Award to develop a new piece of poetry theatre looking at Plus Size bodies in queer spaces.
About Building an LGBTQIA+ Friendly Nottingham
This project explores how LGBTQIA+ people experience life in Nottingham. It looks at how the city can better support them. Decisions often rely on data and top-down methods that overlook the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community. By amplifying “untold stories” through art and literature it aims to boost LGBTQIA+ people’s sense of belonging.
The project is supported by the University of Nottingham’s Institute for Policy and Engagement.
