Creative Journalling with Lizzy - Weekly, Wednesdays

In this special creative journalling course, together we will explore the history and practice of journalling to promote positive mental health and well-being. Inspired by artists, writers and thinkers, we will explore a range of forms – from collage, drawing, mark making, poetry and creative writing. Journalling can provide an outlet for some of the feelings and challenges you might experience both physically and emotionally in pregnancy and parenthood. Lizzy will also hold space for village thinking and discussion around matrescence - the metamorphosis that occurs in m/otherhood, and the current culture we live in. We may laugh or cry, but no matter what will hold each other up.

No experience is needed. All art materials and refreshments are provided, you will just need to bring a journal or you add one to your order.

Babies are very welcome with you. There are some comfy cushions, mats and toys. Older children are welcome too, but the sessions are adult centred and we may discuss sensitive themes.

These sessions are not suitable for anyone with severe mental health conditions.

There is an optional WhatsApp chat for the autumn groups where Lizzy will share extra prompts and support the groups to connect in between sessions.

If you miss a session Lizzy will share prompts with you. Each course is unique and built for the people who are attending.

Too Much: Melodrama Film Screening:

We are also delighted to offer a cinema screening of classic melodrama Brief Encounter (rated PG) at Exeter Phoenix’s Studio 74 as part of a BFI season ‘Too Much’ exploring Maternal melodramas—films that portray motherhood as emotionally complex and morally nuanced. As part of our journalling we will explore how cinema has both celebrated and slated mothers, while shaping our understanding of, and relationship to, maternal identity on film. As part of this parent-friendly screening, Claire Horrocks, mother and Exeter Phoenix’s Film Programmer will introduce the film for us. The space is comfy, set up with children in mind, with mats and toys. Noise is welcome and supported. Everyone is free to be themselves and move around as they need. Arriving ‘late’ or leaving ‘early’ never needs an apology. The lights are on-low so you can enjoy a safe and relaxed show with you baby.

Schedule at the Phoenix:

Weeks 1-4 - Journalling

Week 5 Film Screening - Studio 74

Week 6-7 Journalling

About Lizzy Humber:

Lizzy is an experienced arts facilitator passionate about supporting m/others to explore their identity through the arts. Lizzy loves to create spaces that are supportive, uplifting and accessible for parents. She is the founder of Matrescence Festival UK and Australia, M/Others on the Mic, The Daylight Collective and Daylight Sessions.

About Pippa Day:

Pip is a business coach, teacher and facilitator as well as the founder of Nook – a warm, welcoming community space for new parents. She helps women weave motherhood into their business strategies, creating work that supports rather than competes with family life. With a passion for reflective practices like music and journaling, Pippa encourages mothers to use self-expression as a tool for clarity, confidence, and growth. Through her coaching and community work, she champions calm, profitable businesses that honour both ambition and motherhood.

Venue Access:

Buggy and wheelchair accessible with a mix of level flooring and gentle ramps. Step-free access to the building is available via a ramped entrance on the side of the building. The side entrance is equipped with automatic doors. There is space for blue badge parking at the venue, although this needs to be reserved in advance. More info here.

Cost:

£90 Early Bird / £110 Full Price

If cost is a barrier please get in touch.

The course is supported by Exeter Phoenix and The National Lottery Community Fund, as part of M/Others on the Mic’s Creativity and Parenthood project. M/Others on the Mic is a community organisation and is not for profit.