Writing the City with Diana Budds

Writing the City with Diana Budds

Wednesday, July 15, 6–8 pm
303 Bond Street, Brooklyn

Join journalist and design critic Diana Budds in a summer workshop on reading, and writing, about the city we love.

​Budds will walk us through a curated selection of essays, articles, and writings, and then a group writing workshop will explore the themes of missing stories and voices in our understanding of the city today.

​Attendees will learn how to look more closely at the cityscape, frame distinct perspectives on place and space, and share impactful narratives. The session is grounded in the urban context of Gowanus, a neighborhood that has witnessed tremendous physical and cultural change in recent years, and will include a brief walking tour.

​This workshop will culminate in a zine of collected writings by the group. All ages and levels of writing experience are welcomed and encouraged.

​Event schedule

​6 pm: Doors open, reading session beings
6:30 pm: Group discussion and reflection, led and guided by Diana Budds
7 pm: Personal writing time by the Gowanus Canal
7:45 pm: Regroup at Van Alen; option to share work aloud

This event is presented by the Van Alen Vanguard, a dynamic network of emerging design leaders. Diana Budds is among the inaugural cohort developing public programs and exhibitions that reimagine designers’ roles in civic life and center equity, resilience, and local knowledge.