Matrescence is the name given to the seismic psychological, physiological and social changes that occur in a person during pregnancy, birth and early motherhood.
Join Lizzy Humber for an intimate morning edition of Matrescence Festival, with Times Bestselling Author Hollie McNish (‘‘Virgin’, Lobster', 'Slug', ‘Nobody Told Me’), and local m/others sharing poetry.
Together with the audience we will hold space to explore matrescence, with creativity and kindness.
Children are very welcome with you and are free. Please tell us how many children will accompany you and their ages at booking.
Tickets are are extremely limited.
#MatrescenceFestival
Hollie McNish
Poet, author and mother based between Glasgow and Cambridge. Hollie was the first poet to record at Abbey Road Studios, London and won the Ted Hughes Award for New Work in Poetry for her poetic parenting memoir – Nobody Told Me - of which The Scotsman stated ‘The World Needs this Book’. She has published six further collections of poetry – Papers, Cherry Pie, Plum, Slug, Lobster and Virgin. She loves writing.
Lizzy Humber
Lizzy Humber is a mother, community artist and producer. She specialises in curating parent-friendly live art and culture events. She is a changemaker and champion of m/other artists continuing to make work professionally on their terms. Lizzy’s is co-founder of Matrescence Festival (UK and Australia); The Daylight Collective SW, a network for artist parents in the South West; Daylight Sessions daytime gigs for parents, M/Others on the Mic performance platform, Creative Journalling for Matrescence. Lizzy previously was co-director of M/Others Who Make an international network. Lizzy’s participatory art projects aim to support mental health, community connection and inclusion in art and culture for parents.
Creative Journalling: Exploring Matrescence
Join Lizzy Humber (Matrescence Festival) and Sophie Blinstrub (Art Teacher. Sophie Doodles) for a social afternoon of collage and colour. Explore the themes of the morning as a community of m/others, sup tea and get creative.
No experience is needed. All materials and refreshments provided but you may like to bring your own journal or buy one from us.
The workshops are adult centred but children are welcome with you.
The workshop is not suitable for anyone with severe mental health conditions.
Further Information:
Option to book just the morning, afternoon or both together - design your day!
This is a parent-accessible and gender inclusive space, that celebrates support and creativity, where children are welcome too. Children are free to play, snack and be themselves. Please supervise children at all times and be respectful of performers/speakers. There is baby changing facilities and a buggy park. Buggies and contents are left at your own risk. There is not space for buggies in the room, please bring a carseat for sleeping babies.
Content warning: this is an adult centred event. Themes include maternal mental health and strong language.
Sound will be kept at safe sound levels for little ears.
Please get in touch with Lizzy if cost is a barrier.
Seating in the morning is unreserved and will be a mixture of seats, cushions and mats. Please let us know any access needs on booking.
The Phoenix cafe bar is open from 10am for morning coffee and great selection of food at lunch.
Returns and Refunds: No Refunds. If you wish to pass your ticket on please email Lizzy to confirm the name change.
About Matrescence Festival:
Matrescence Festival launched in Exeter UK in June 2024, founded through a cross-continent collaboration between producer Lizzy Humber (UK) and musician Claire Tonti (AUS).
This is a Matrescence Festival satellite event born from a need for continued connection, momentum and village thinking.
What’s Next? Join Lizzy for Matrescence Festival Brunch in Barnstaple Library on 12 May, or at Exeter Phoenix for Madonna on the Rocks on 19 May. A full programme of events will be announced in late March.
Claire Tonti and Lizzy Humber (Matrescence Festival 2024, Tempo Media)
