Milwaukee Poet Laureate Hosts Poetry Workshop

Shelly Conley leads mix, mingle and write event at Madison College on April 15th.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:35pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of soft, blurred light and color, conveying the intimate, thoughtful atmosphere of a poetry workshop.The poetry workshop will provide a reflective, creative space for attendees to connect with Milwaukee's Poet Laureate and explore their own poetic voices.Madison Today

Milwaukee's current Poet Laureate, Shelly Conley, is hosting a poetry workshop at Madison College's Truax Campus on Wednesday, April 15th from 1pm to 2:30pm. The event will feature a spoken word performance by Conley, a guided writing session with creative prompts, small group discussions, and an optional open-mic for attendees to share their own poems. The workshop is sponsored by the college's Department of Organizational Impact and Culture as well as Dane Arts.

Why it matters

This poetry workshop provides an opportunity for the local community to engage with Milwaukee's current Poet Laureate, learn about the craft of poetry, and share their own creative writing in a supportive environment. Events like this help promote the arts, foster community connections, and give aspiring poets a platform to develop their skills.

The details

The poetry workshop will take place in the Truax Studio Theater, Room A2031 at Madison College's Truax Campus. Attendees will have the chance to participate in a variety of activities, including a spoken word performance by Poet Laureate Shelly Conley, a guided writing session with reflective and creative prompts, small group discussions, and an optional open-mic for sharing original poems. All necessary writing materials will be provided, and the event is free and open to the public.

  • The poetry workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, 2026 from 1pm to 2:30pm.

The players

Shelly Conley

The current Poet Laureate of Milwaukee, Conley will be leading the poetry workshop and delivering a spoken word performance.

Madison College Department of Organizational Impact and Culture

The department at Madison College that is sponsoring the poetry workshop.

Dane Arts

The local arts organization that is also sponsoring the poetry workshop.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited to share my love of poetry with the Madison community and inspire others to find their creative voice.”

— Shelly Conley, Milwaukee Poet Laureate

What’s next

Attendees can register for the free poetry workshop in advance on the Madison College WolfPack Connect platform.

The takeaway

This poetry workshop provides a unique opportunity for the local community to engage with Milwaukee's current Poet Laureate, learn about the craft of poetry, and share their own creative writing in a supportive environment. Events like this help promote the arts and give aspiring poets a platform to develop their skills.