MEET PORTSMOUTH’S WRITERS, POETS & WORDSMITHS
As part of In Our Words our city-wide celebration of literature, language and storytelling and through the Portsmouth Creative Directory, we’re proud to shine a light on the brilliant writers, poets and wordsmiths shaping Portsmouth’s creative voice.
From workshop leaders and performers to academic writers and fairytale authors, this diverse group brings stories to life and helps others find theirs.
Writers Featured in the Portsmouth Creative Directory
The Bookish Mindset
The Bookish Mindset is a passionate literary blogger and published writer, featured in publications such as Southsea Folk and NB magazine. With a love for books and a talent for thoughtful storytelling, Bookish Mindset connects communities through creative content.
Caroline Brennan works with authors, poets, and screenwriters to promote their work across national media, TV, radio, podcasts, and global platforms. Her expertise helps writers amplify their voices and gain meaningful recognition in the wider creative landscape.
Christine Lawrence is a published novelist and short story writer who has led creative projects with the BBC and public libraries. Her work focuses on stories that drive social change, and she brings a wealth of experience to her community-based workshops.
Curious View brings 23 years of academic insight to one-to-one writing coaching and group workshops, supporting research-led writers to reconnect with joy in their work. Whether you’re stuck in a thesis or a creative rut, Curious View helps you love your writing life again.
Downtown Pompey is a dynamic, inclusive performance-based organisation at the heart of Portsmouth. Focused on creativity and community, they champion diverse voices through collaborative projects across the arts.
Freya Perry writes whimsical fairy tales for children and thoughtful narratives for adults, blending her love of storytelling with playful 3D art and performance. Her imaginative world-building captures hearts and sparks curiosity across ages.
Lucy Ashton is a writer and creative with a broad career across community and cultural sectors. From leading Downtown Pompey and managing Gosport’s cultural programmes to her current role at Aspex Portsmouth, Lucy champions collaboration and creative inclusivity in every role she takes on.
Maggie Sawkins is an award-winning poet and founder of Tongues & Grooves Poetry and Music Club. She leads creative writing workshops for diverse groups, including refugee communities and those in prison, using poetry to connect, uplift and transform.
An independent bookshop based in Southsea, with a carefully curated selection and a focus on community engagement, it’s a cultural gem for book lovers of all backgrounds.
Rachel C Birchley is a neurodivergent creative writing PhD candidate whose work spans ecofeminism, urban nature, memoir, and social commentary. She’s passionate about empowering others to find their voices through writing and visual art.
Red Sauce Theatre specialises in heritage commissions and interpretive storytelling, collaborating with museums, schools, and cultural institutions. Their performances make history engaging and accessible through immersive, creative interpretation.
Suzanne Marie Taylor is a freelance theatre artist dedicated to exploring and preserving archaeology, heritage, and history through compelling performance. Her work brings the past to life in innovative, accessible ways for audiences of all ages.
Think Bigger Do Bigger offers vibrant creative workshops such as mindful art and blackout poetry, helping individuals rediscover the joy of self-expression. With an emphasis on process over perfection, these sessions are designed to ignite imagination, build confidence, and inspire creativity in everyone.
Explore their full profiles and connect via the Portsmouth Creative Directory.
Portsmouth’s creative scene is home to fantastic writing groups, collectives and events where new voices are nurtured and ideas take flight. Whether you’re looking to perform, publish or just connect with like-minded people, there’s a space for you.
- Portsmouth Writers’ Hub – A vibrant online community of writers sharing advice, events, and opportunities.
- Portsmouth Authors Collective – The Portsmouth Authors Collective is a group of writers based in and around Portsmouth. Their mission is to showcase the amazing work coming out of this corner of the world.
- Tongues and Grooves – Tongues and Grooves in the Community is a not-for-profit body using poetry to promote motivation, wellbeing and social inclusion.
- Open Ya Mouth (Trash Arts) – Open Mic Nights & Events for the Talented Community of Portsmouth
