POEMS NOT BOMBS

Poetry Studio is a creative sanctuary for children in Odesa, providing a unique space for young voices to emerge and express themselves through poetry amidst the ongoing challenges of war. Launched in the summer of 2023, the project offers children a chance to connect with their creativity, find solace in the written word, and explore the power of poetry as a form of emotional expression. Despite the daily realities of air-raid sirens, bombings, and an uncertain future, the Poetry Studio has grown into a thriving community, offering ongoing poetry competitions, the annual New Odyssey kids' poetry festival, and a growing almanac of poetry written by young voices. The children are not only encouraged to write but also take inspiration from Odesa's iconic locations, such as the local zoo, Odesa film studios, and parks. Through these programmes, Poetry Studio has become a vital tool for healing, resilience, and the preservation of the creative spirit, proving that even in the most difficult times, art can provide hope and light.