Write Around PAM: Amanda Snyder

This has been an especially challenging year, for so many reasons. As we move toward its end, we are reminded of the importance of threshold times—spaces between what has been and what will be—and the power that can come from resting and reflecting in them. Self-portraits seem to carry this same energy, reflecting back to us who we have been, who we are now, who we might be in the future. We invite you to spend some time reflecting and writing on how this year has shaped you, using this self-portrait by Amanda Snyder as inspiration. Before or after you write, learn more about Snyder’s life and work through the exhibition catalogue Amanda Snyder: Portland Modernist by Portland Art Museum’s former curator of Northwest Art, Bonnie Laing-Malcolmson. 

Complete each phrase to create an ‘I am’ poem. Set a timer for 8 minutes, keep your pen moving, and just write whatever comes. 

I am 

I wonder 

I hear 

I see 

I want 

I am 

I pretend 

I feel 

I touch 

I worry 

I understand 

I say 

I dream 

I try  

I hope 

I am

Writing in community is powerful. We are grateful to our longtime partner Write Around Portland for the writing prompts and inspiration. You can revisit past Sunday posts and look for continuing weekly posts through the fall. Please share your work with us! @writearoundpdx @portlandartmuseum #RespectWritingCommunity #WriteAroundPAM