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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T200000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095150
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UID:10003773-1776279600-1776283200@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Laskey Art Gallery: SNAP Artists Reception with Poetry Reading
DESCRIPTION:Scarritt Bennett Center\, Nashville’s historic mid-town conference and retreat center\, will host an exhibit of new photographs from the artists of the Society of Nashville Artistic Photographers (SNAP) entitled Poetry of Light.\n\nPlease join us for the opening reception will take place on April 15th beginning at 7 p.m. at the Laskey Art Gallery on the campus of Scarritt Bennett Center.  Doors open at 6 p.m.  The reception will include poetry readings from authors across the region.\n\nAll are welcome to the SNAP artists’ reception – it is a free event\, and you may park for free in Scarritt Bennett Lot A\, just off the Laskey Welcome Center\, which will house the reception.
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/laskey-art-gallery-snap-artists-reception-with-poetry-reading/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Soul Work
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-19-SNAP.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260122T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260122T200000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095150
CREATED:20260108T224804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260108T225404Z
UID:10003761-1769108400-1769112000@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Poet’s Corner Featuring Matthew Brown
DESCRIPTION:Let Us Know You Are Coming\n     \n\n    Download the Flyer\n     \nPoet’s Corner Featuring Matthew Leavitt Brown📅 Thursday\, January 22\, 2026 | 7:00 PM📍 Laskey Art Gallery | Scarritt Bennett Center\, Nashville\, TN🎟 Free Admission | All Are Welcome🌟 Optional Open Mic Sign-Up Available \nStep into the new year with reflection\, resonance\, and poetic community at Poet’s Corner\, Scarritt Bennett Center’s monthly gathering of voices and verse. This January\, we welcome Dr. Matthew Leavitt Brown\, Poet Laureate of Murfreesboro\, TN—an award-winning educator\, writer\, and advocate whose work invites us to listen deeply and reflect collectively. \nMatthew Brown [he/him] is the author of Thou Art That and a leading voice in using poetry as a form of social engagement and storytelling. As Murfreesboro’s Poet Laureate\, he gathers voices across the city to create collaborative poetic projects that honor lived experience and give space to those often unheard. For our time with him on this Poet’s Corner evening\, he will be sharing from his work Stations\, the current exhibit in the Laskey Art Gallery. This collection was written on the remains of a destroyed forest in northeast Nashville and deals with impermanence\, loss\, and belonging. \nBrown is co-founder of several writing groups\, including Writers Corps (supporting veterans and their families)\, The Lavinia Project (for survivors and allies against sexual and domestic violence)\, and Nuestros Voces (focused on Latinx stories and advocacy). His work stretches across galleries\, public spaces\, workshops\, and commemorations—making poetry accessible\, transformative\, and deeply human. \n🌟 Open Mic Sign-Up Optional – Come early to share your own voice☕ Light Refreshments Provided📌 Admission is free\, and all are welcome – Whether you’re a seasoned poet or curious first-timer\, Poet’s Corner is a space to be inspired\, reflect\, and connect.👉 Mark your calendar and join us for this special night of poetry\, witness\, and conversation. \n🏛 About Scarritt Bennett Center\nScarritt Bennett Center is a nonprofit education\, retreat\, and conference center in Nashville\, TN. Our mission is to create space where individuals and groups engage each other to achieve a more just world. We carry this mission forward through four core tenets: transformative education\, spiritual enrichment\, racial justice\, and women’s empowerment. \n\n    Let Us Know You Are Coming
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/poets-corner-featuring-matthew-brown/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Arts & Literature,Soul Work
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026-01-22-Poets-Corner_Matthew-Brown_16x9.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250910
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251127
DTSTAMP:20260429T095150
CREATED:20250827T194232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250827T201502Z
UID:10003665-1757462400-1764201599@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Delicate Couture: The Paper Art of Tamika Spencer | Sept/Nov 2025 Art Gallery Exhibit
DESCRIPTION:Delicate Couture: The Paper Art of Tamika Spencer \n\nExhibit Dates: September 10 – November 23\, 2025\nReception with the Artist: September 10\, 2025\, 4–7pm\nLocation: Laskey Art Gallery\, Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Ave S\, Nashville\, TN\n\nAbout the Exhibit \nDiscover the transformative power of paper in “Delicate Couture: The Paper Art of Tamika Spencer.” This exhibition showcases Spencer’s extraordinary journey from childhood doll collector to acclaimed paper artist\, photographer\, and designer. Her work brings together sculptural paper wigs\, imaginative doll couture\, and evocative mixed-media pieces—each a testament to creativity\, resilience\, and the healing potential of art. \nFeatured Works \n\nWigged Out: Experience the artist’s celebrated series of paper wigs\, born from a creative challenge and a personal journey of healing.\nMama Dlo: A tribute to Trinidadian folklore\, honoring ancestral memory and the sacred bond between people and nature.\nOut of the Fire: A meditation on renewal and hope\, inspired by the myth of the phoenix.\nPlayfully Twisted: A playful\, cosplay-inspired homage to Harley Quinn\, exploring transformation and self-expression.\nAward-Winning Designs: See “The Rose in a Garden” and other acclaimed pieces that blend paper quilling\, textile art\, and fine craftsmanship.\n\nAbout the Artist \nTamika Spencer is a paper artist\, freelance photographer\, and self-published author based in Virginia. Her innovative work has been featured in leading doll and fashion magazines. Drawing on her background in photography and fashion design\, Spencer crafts intricate\, expressive pieces that invite viewers to find beauty and meaning in unexpected places. \nJoin Us \nMeet Tamika Spencer at the opening reception on September 10\, 4–7pm. The exhibit is open to all and invites visitors of all ages to experience the wonder of paper art and the stories it tells. \nFor more information: \nscarrittbennett.org/events \nAll exhibits in Laskey Gallery are free and open to the public. Some artists list their work for sale and you can purchase at the front desk and pick up after the exhibit has ended. \nGallery Hours: Monday–Sunday\, 9am–9pm\, Subject to change.
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/delicate-couture-the-paper-art-of-tamika-spencer-sept-nov-2025-art-gallery-exhibit/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Arts & Literature,Soul Work
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2025-09-Laskey-Art-Gallery_-16-x-9-in-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250828T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250828T200000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095150
CREATED:20250724T223159Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250801T030755Z
UID:10003613-1756407600-1756411200@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Poet’s Corner Featuring Franchesa Kirkpatrick
DESCRIPTION:Let Us Know You Are Coming\n    \n📅 Thursday\, August 28\, 2025 | 7:00 PM📍 Laskey Art Gallery | Scarritt Bennett Center\, Nashville\, TN🎟 Free Admission | All Are Welcome🌟 Optional Open Mic Sign-Up Available (Click the option to Let Us Know You Are Coming) \nJoin us for an event of poetry with Franchesa Kirkpatrick—poet\, performer\, visual artist\, and founder of Shakespeare’s Muses Write. With a storytelling spirit shaped by her roots in Kentucky and Nashville\, Franchesa’s work has reached audiences from the Frist Art Museum to poetry stages in Paris and castles in the UK. Her presence and creative energy always bring warmth\, wonder\, and a touch of theatrical flair. \n🌟 Open Mic Sign-Up Optional – Let us know you are coming to share your own work with our vibrant community by registering at the link.\n☕ Light Refreshments Provided – Enjoy beverages and conversation before and after the reading.📌 Admission Is Free\, and All Are Welcome – Whether you’re a longtime poetry lover or new to the art form\, Poet’s Corner is a space to be inspired\, reflect\, and connect. \n👉 Mark your calendar and join us for a night of poetry\, presence\, and meaningful conversation with Franchesa Kirkpatrick! \nAbout Scarritt Bennett Center:Scarritt Bennett Center is a nonprofit education\, retreat\, and conference center in Nashville\, TN. Our mission is to create space where individuals and groups engage each other to achieve a more just world. Guided by our four core tenets—transformative education\, spiritual enrichment\, racial justice\, and women’s empowerment—we offer a welcoming environment for dialogue\, learning\, and community growth. \n \n. \n\n    Let Us Know You Are Coming\n    \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/poets-corner-featuring-franchesa-kirkpatrick/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Arts & Literature,Soul Work
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2025-08-28-Poets-Corner-Event-Image-16x9-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250714
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250829
DTSTAMP:20260429T095150
CREATED:20250729T163820Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T200927Z
UID:10003619-1752451200-1756425599@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:The Art of Sight Stories | July/Aug 2025 Art Gallery Exhibit
DESCRIPTION:Explore the latest exhibit at Scarritt Bennett Center’s Laskey Gallery\nScarritt Bennett Center proudly presents “The Art of Sight Stories\,” a mixed media exhibition. \n\nExhibition Dates: July 14 – August 28\, 2025\nLocation: Laskey Art Gallery\, Scarritt Bennett Center\nClosing Reception: Thursday\, August 28\, 5-7 PM\n\nThis exhibit highlights the talent of local multi-disciplinary artists from around the community. Let us know if you would be interested in participating in a community gallery by visiting our interest page at https://onlinelearning.scarrittbennett.org/laskey-gallery-exhibit-form \nAll exhibits in Laskey Gallery are free and open to the public. Some artists list their work for sale and you can purchase at the front desk and pick up after the exhibit has ended. \nGallery Hours: Monday–Sunday\, 9am–9pm\, Subject to change. \n  \n 
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/the-art-of-sight-stories-2025/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Arts & Literature,Soul Work
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2025-07_08-Laskey-Art-Gallery_The-Art-of-Sight-Stories-16-x-9-in.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250624T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250624T190000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095150
CREATED:20250523T172529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T164541Z
UID:10003339-1750788000-1750791600@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Yoga + Lectio
DESCRIPTION:Yoga + Lectio is inspired by the embodied practice of yoga and the contemplative practice of lectio divina.\n\nTraditionally\, lectio divina refers to the ancient practice of reading sacred texts. In this practice\, the text ushers the reader into a meaningful encounter with the Divine Presence. Through the mindful acts of reading\, meditation\, prayer\, and contemplation\, the reader makes herself available to divine inspiration and actively considers how that inspiration may be applied to her life.\n\nYoga + Lectio draws from this sacred reading practice and pairs it with the grounding and soothing effects of yoga. Together\, we will move through a series of physical postures designed to support our engagement with sacred texts\, ranging from biblical scripture to contemporary poetry\, fiction\, and nonfiction.\n\nThe invitation is to nurture and nourish our personal spiritual practice in the company of a wild and wildly loving and wildly literary devotional community.\n\n_________________\n\nThe Contemplative Series – June 2025.\n\nThe Contemplative Series gives us an opportunity to explore contemplation from the perspective of four precious contemplatives: The Witness\, The Priestess\, The Warrior\, The Poet.\n\nEach week\, one of the contemplatives will inspire our yoga practice and the selection of the sacred text.\n\n\nJune 3: The Witness and the practice of loving regard.\nJune 10: The Priestess and the practice of mindful devotion.\nJune 17: The Warrior and the practice of striking composure.\nJune 24: The Poet and the practice of clear sensing.\n\n\nThe sacred text will be selected and shared with the registrants prior to each session.\n\n\nThis is a free event and please click here to register so we can anticipate class sizes.\n\n\n_________________\n\n\nThe Invitation.\n\nBring your wild and beautiful self.\nBring your yoga mat and anything else that will support your practice (think: journal + pen\, yoga blocks or blanket\, meditation cushion\, socks and/or light sweater for savasana).\nBring your open heart (and let us sing with it).\nBring your dazzle (and let us dance with it).\nJoin us.\n\n_________________\n\nNOTE.\nThis is a NO COST series\, but registration is still required! You may support this fellowship by making donations via Zelle or credit card.\n\n_________________\n\nTayana’s Bio.\nTayana L. Hardin hails from the low skies and rich farmland of central Kentucky. She was raised in a family of farmers and butchers\, church workers and musicians\, pastors and evangelists—all of whom taught her to know and trust the way of the Spirit. That knowing and trust sustained her through a long career in higher education. She recently resigned her post as an Associate Professor to pursue a Master of Divinity at Vanderbilt Divinity School\, where she is focusing on the arts\, contemplation\, and spiritual care. For the past twenty years\, her professional endeavors have been supported by an evolving yoga\, dance\, meditation\, and teaching practice. She is currently pursuing a yoga teacher certification.\n\nWaiver.\nI recognize yoga requires physical exertion that may be strenuous and may cause physical injury. I am fully aware of the risks and hazards involved. I understand that it is my responsibility to consult with a physician regarding my fitness or yoga regimen. I understand that if I am pregnant\, I must take necessary steps to ensure my doctor and/or health care providers agree I can safely practice yoga. I agree to assume full responsibility for my yoga practice. I\, my heirs\, and legal representatives knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly forever release\, waive\, discharge\, and covenant not to sue Tayana Hardin or the Scarritt Bennett Center for any risk\, injuries\, damages\, known or unknown\, or death that may result from my participation in this yoga session.
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/yoga-lectio/2025-06-24/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Racial Justice Ministries
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Yoga-16x9-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250617T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250617T193000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095151
CREATED:20250523T172529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T164541Z
UID:10003338-1750183200-1750188600@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Yoga + Lectio
DESCRIPTION:Yoga + Lectio is inspired by the embodied practice of yoga and the contemplative practice of lectio divina.\n\nTraditionally\, lectio divina refers to the ancient practice of reading sacred texts. In this practice\, the text ushers the reader into a meaningful encounter with the Divine Presence. Through the mindful acts of reading\, meditation\, prayer\, and contemplation\, the reader makes herself available to divine inspiration and actively considers how that inspiration may be applied to her life.\n\nYoga + Lectio draws from this sacred reading practice and pairs it with the grounding and soothing effects of yoga. Together\, we will move through a series of physical postures designed to support our engagement with sacred texts\, ranging from biblical scripture to contemporary poetry\, fiction\, and nonfiction.\n\nThe invitation is to nurture and nourish our personal spiritual practice in the company of a wild and wildly loving and wildly literary devotional community.\n\n_________________\n\nThe Contemplative Series – June 2025.\n\nThe Contemplative Series gives us an opportunity to explore contemplation from the perspective of four precious contemplatives: The Witness\, The Priestess\, The Warrior\, The Poet.\n\nEach week\, one of the contemplatives will inspire our yoga practice and the selection of the sacred text.\n\n\nJune 3: The Witness and the practice of loving regard.\nJune 10: The Priestess and the practice of mindful devotion.\nJune 17: The Warrior and the practice of striking composure.\nJune 24: The Poet and the practice of clear sensing.\n\n\nThe sacred text will be selected and shared with the registrants prior to each session.\n\n\nThis is a free event and please click here to register so we can anticipate class sizes.\n\n\n_________________\n\n\nThe Invitation.\n\nBring your wild and beautiful self.\nBring your yoga mat and anything else that will support your practice (think: journal + pen\, yoga blocks or blanket\, meditation cushion\, socks and/or light sweater for savasana).\nBring your open heart (and let us sing with it).\nBring your dazzle (and let us dance with it).\nJoin us.\n\n_________________\n\nNOTE.\nThis is a NO COST series\, but registration is still required! You may support this fellowship by making donations via Zelle or credit card.\n\n_________________\n\nTayana’s Bio.\nTayana L. Hardin hails from the low skies and rich farmland of central Kentucky. She was raised in a family of farmers and butchers\, church workers and musicians\, pastors and evangelists—all of whom taught her to know and trust the way of the Spirit. That knowing and trust sustained her through a long career in higher education. She recently resigned her post as an Associate Professor to pursue a Master of Divinity at Vanderbilt Divinity School\, where she is focusing on the arts\, contemplation\, and spiritual care. For the past twenty years\, her professional endeavors have been supported by an evolving yoga\, dance\, meditation\, and teaching practice. She is currently pursuing a yoga teacher certification.\n\nWaiver.\nI recognize yoga requires physical exertion that may be strenuous and may cause physical injury. I am fully aware of the risks and hazards involved. I understand that it is my responsibility to consult with a physician regarding my fitness or yoga regimen. I understand that if I am pregnant\, I must take necessary steps to ensure my doctor and/or health care providers agree I can safely practice yoga. I agree to assume full responsibility for my yoga practice. I\, my heirs\, and legal representatives knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly forever release\, waive\, discharge\, and covenant not to sue Tayana Hardin or the Scarritt Bennett Center for any risk\, injuries\, damages\, known or unknown\, or death that may result from my participation in this yoga session.
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/yoga-lectio/2025-06-17/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Racial Justice Ministries
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Yoga-16x9-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250610T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250610T193000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095151
CREATED:20250523T172529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T164541Z
UID:10003337-1749578400-1749583800@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Yoga + Lectio
DESCRIPTION:Yoga + Lectio is inspired by the embodied practice of yoga and the contemplative practice of lectio divina.\n\nTraditionally\, lectio divina refers to the ancient practice of reading sacred texts. In this practice\, the text ushers the reader into a meaningful encounter with the Divine Presence. Through the mindful acts of reading\, meditation\, prayer\, and contemplation\, the reader makes herself available to divine inspiration and actively considers how that inspiration may be applied to her life.\n\nYoga + Lectio draws from this sacred reading practice and pairs it with the grounding and soothing effects of yoga. Together\, we will move through a series of physical postures designed to support our engagement with sacred texts\, ranging from biblical scripture to contemporary poetry\, fiction\, and nonfiction.\n\nThe invitation is to nurture and nourish our personal spiritual practice in the company of a wild and wildly loving and wildly literary devotional community.\n\n_________________\n\nThe Contemplative Series – June 2025.\n\nThe Contemplative Series gives us an opportunity to explore contemplation from the perspective of four precious contemplatives: The Witness\, The Priestess\, The Warrior\, The Poet.\n\nEach week\, one of the contemplatives will inspire our yoga practice and the selection of the sacred text.\n\n\nJune 3: The Witness and the practice of loving regard.\nJune 10: The Priestess and the practice of mindful devotion.\nJune 17: The Warrior and the practice of striking composure.\nJune 24: The Poet and the practice of clear sensing.\n\n\nThe sacred text will be selected and shared with the registrants prior to each session.\n\n\nThis is a free event and please click here to register so we can anticipate class sizes.\n\n\n_________________\n\n\nThe Invitation.\n\nBring your wild and beautiful self.\nBring your yoga mat and anything else that will support your practice (think: journal + pen\, yoga blocks or blanket\, meditation cushion\, socks and/or light sweater for savasana).\nBring your open heart (and let us sing with it).\nBring your dazzle (and let us dance with it).\nJoin us.\n\n_________________\n\nNOTE.\nThis is a NO COST series\, but registration is still required! You may support this fellowship by making donations via Zelle or credit card.\n\n_________________\n\nTayana’s Bio.\nTayana L. Hardin hails from the low skies and rich farmland of central Kentucky. She was raised in a family of farmers and butchers\, church workers and musicians\, pastors and evangelists—all of whom taught her to know and trust the way of the Spirit. That knowing and trust sustained her through a long career in higher education. She recently resigned her post as an Associate Professor to pursue a Master of Divinity at Vanderbilt Divinity School\, where she is focusing on the arts\, contemplation\, and spiritual care. For the past twenty years\, her professional endeavors have been supported by an evolving yoga\, dance\, meditation\, and teaching practice. She is currently pursuing a yoga teacher certification.\n\nWaiver.\nI recognize yoga requires physical exertion that may be strenuous and may cause physical injury. I am fully aware of the risks and hazards involved. I understand that it is my responsibility to consult with a physician regarding my fitness or yoga regimen. I understand that if I am pregnant\, I must take necessary steps to ensure my doctor and/or health care providers agree I can safely practice yoga. I agree to assume full responsibility for my yoga practice. I\, my heirs\, and legal representatives knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly forever release\, waive\, discharge\, and covenant not to sue Tayana Hardin or the Scarritt Bennett Center for any risk\, injuries\, damages\, known or unknown\, or death that may result from my participation in this yoga session.
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/yoga-lectio/2025-06-10/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Racial Justice Ministries
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Yoga-16x9-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250603T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250603T193000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095151
CREATED:20250523T172529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T164541Z
UID:10003336-1748973600-1748979000@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Yoga + Lectio
DESCRIPTION:Yoga + Lectio is inspired by the embodied practice of yoga and the contemplative practice of lectio divina.\n\nTraditionally\, lectio divina refers to the ancient practice of reading sacred texts. In this practice\, the text ushers the reader into a meaningful encounter with the Divine Presence. Through the mindful acts of reading\, meditation\, prayer\, and contemplation\, the reader makes herself available to divine inspiration and actively considers how that inspiration may be applied to her life.\n\nYoga + Lectio draws from this sacred reading practice and pairs it with the grounding and soothing effects of yoga. Together\, we will move through a series of physical postures designed to support our engagement with sacred texts\, ranging from biblical scripture to contemporary poetry\, fiction\, and nonfiction.\n\nThe invitation is to nurture and nourish our personal spiritual practice in the company of a wild and wildly loving and wildly literary devotional community.\n\n_________________\n\nThe Contemplative Series – June 2025.\n\nThe Contemplative Series gives us an opportunity to explore contemplation from the perspective of four precious contemplatives: The Witness\, The Priestess\, The Warrior\, The Poet.\n\nEach week\, one of the contemplatives will inspire our yoga practice and the selection of the sacred text.\n\n\nJune 3: The Witness and the practice of loving regard.\nJune 10: The Priestess and the practice of mindful devotion.\nJune 17: The Warrior and the practice of striking composure.\nJune 24: The Poet and the practice of clear sensing.\n\n\nThe sacred text will be selected and shared with the registrants prior to each session.\n\n\nThis is a free event and please click here to register so we can anticipate class sizes.\n\n\n_________________\n\n\nThe Invitation.\n\nBring your wild and beautiful self.\nBring your yoga mat and anything else that will support your practice (think: journal + pen\, yoga blocks or blanket\, meditation cushion\, socks and/or light sweater for savasana).\nBring your open heart (and let us sing with it).\nBring your dazzle (and let us dance with it).\nJoin us.\n\n_________________\n\nNOTE.\nThis is a NO COST series\, but registration is still required! You may support this fellowship by making donations via Zelle or credit card.\n\n_________________\n\nTayana’s Bio.\nTayana L. Hardin hails from the low skies and rich farmland of central Kentucky. She was raised in a family of farmers and butchers\, church workers and musicians\, pastors and evangelists—all of whom taught her to know and trust the way of the Spirit. That knowing and trust sustained her through a long career in higher education. She recently resigned her post as an Associate Professor to pursue a Master of Divinity at Vanderbilt Divinity School\, where she is focusing on the arts\, contemplation\, and spiritual care. For the past twenty years\, her professional endeavors have been supported by an evolving yoga\, dance\, meditation\, and teaching practice. She is currently pursuing a yoga teacher certification.\n\nWaiver.\nI recognize yoga requires physical exertion that may be strenuous and may cause physical injury. I am fully aware of the risks and hazards involved. I understand that it is my responsibility to consult with a physician regarding my fitness or yoga regimen. I understand that if I am pregnant\, I must take necessary steps to ensure my doctor and/or health care providers agree I can safely practice yoga. I agree to assume full responsibility for my yoga practice. I\, my heirs\, and legal representatives knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly forever release\, waive\, discharge\, and covenant not to sue Tayana Hardin or the Scarritt Bennett Center for any risk\, injuries\, damages\, known or unknown\, or death that may result from my participation in this yoga session.
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/yoga-lectio/2025-06-03/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Racial Justice Ministries
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Yoga-16x9-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250522T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250522T200000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095151
CREATED:20250430T205407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T210812Z
UID:10003333-1747940400-1747944000@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Poet’s Corner Featuring Jason Tomlinson and Stuart Redpath
DESCRIPTION:Let Us Know You Are Coming\n    \n📅 Thursday\, May 22\, 2025 | 7:00 PM📍 Laskey Art Gallery\, 2nd Floor | Scarritt Bennett Center\, Nashville\, TN🎟 Free Admission | All Are Welcome🌟 Optional Open Mic Sign-Up Available \nJoin us for an evening of poetic insight\, spiritual reflection\, and creative community at Poet’s Corner\, Scarritt Bennett Center’s signature monthly poetry reading series. This May\, we welcome two gifted poets whose personal journeys and faith shine through their verse\, hosted by one of Nashville’s most creative forces. \nJason Tomlinson has been writing poetry for more than 30 years. A third-culture kid with a global heart\, Jason has called Middle Tennessee home for the past two decades. His poetry reflects themes of identity\, grace\, and gratitude—shaped by his faith\, his family\, and the joy of creative living. \nStuart Redpath is a poet and nonprofit leader originally from the UK\, now based in Tennessee. His first poetry collection\, Not Good With Words (2025)\, offers reflections on family life\, Christian faith\, and the everyday moments that make us human. Stuart writes with honesty and humor\, blending thoughtful insight with gentle wit. \nThe evening will be hosted by Franchesa Kirkpatrick\, a storyteller\, visual artist\, and international poet known for her vibrant performances and deep connection to the creative community. A longtime Nashville artist\, Franchesa’s work has taken her from the stages of the ABC show Nashville to poetry readings in Paris and the UK. She brings passion\, warmth\, and a sense of wonder to every event she leads. \n🌟 Open Mic Sign-Up Optional – Come early if you’d like to share your work with the community.☕ Light Refreshments Provided – Enjoy coffee and connection before and after the reading.📌 Admission is free\, and all are welcome – Whether you’re a longtime poetry lover or new to the art form\, Poet’s Corner is a space to be inspired\, reflect\, and connect. \n👉 Mark your calendar and join us for a night of poetry\, presence\, and meaningful conversation. \n\nAbout Scarritt Bennett Center:Scarritt Bennett Center is a nonprofit education\, retreat\, and conference center in Nashville\, TN. Our mission is to create space where individuals and groups engage each other to achieve a more just world. Guided by our four core tenets—transformative education\, spiritual enrichment\, racial justice\, and women’s empowerment—we offer a welcoming environment for dialogue\, learning\, and community growth. \n\n    Let Us Know You Are Coming\n    \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/poets-corner-featuring-jason-tomlinson-and-stuart-redpath/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Arts & Literature,Soul Work
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2025-05-22-Poets-Corner-Event-Image-16x9-1.png
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250327T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250327T200000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095151
CREATED:20250311T151955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250415T173453Z
UID:10003325-1743102000-1743105600@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Poet’s Corner | Open Mic
DESCRIPTION:Registration Not Required\, but highly encouraged. During registration you can express interst in the open mic moment and interest in performing for future poet’s corners. \n\n    Let Us Know You Are Coming\n    \n📅 Thursday\, March 27\, 2025\n🕖 7:00 PM\n📍 Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center | Nashville\, TN\n🎟 Free Event | Free Parking | Refreshments Provided \nJoin us for an unforgettable evening of poetry\, artistry\, and conversation at Poet’s Corner—a gathering where words come alive. \n🌟 Open Mic Sign-up Optional\n📌 Admission is free\, and all are welcome. Whether you’re a longtime poetry lover or new to the art form\, Poet’s Corner is a space to be inspired\, reflect\, and connect. \n👉 Mark your calendar and join us for a night of poetry and conversation. \nAbout Scarritt Bennett Center: Scarritt Bennett Center is a nonprofit education\, retreat\, and conference center with a rich history of empowering individuals for social transformation. Located in Nashville\, TN\, the center provides a welcoming space for dialogue\, learning\, and community engagement. \n\n    Let Us Know You Are Coming\n    \n 
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/poets-corner-march-2025/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Arts & Literature,Soul Work
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/poets-corner-large-webheader.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T200000
DTSTAMP:20260429T095151
CREATED:20250210T231455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250210T231801Z
UID:10003209-1740682800-1740686400@scarrittbennett.org
SUMMARY:Poet’s Corner Featuring Brenda and Julie
DESCRIPTION:Registration Not Required\, but highly encouraged. During registration you can express interst in the open mic moment and interest in performing for future poet’s corners. \n\n    Let Us Know You Are Coming\n    \n📅 Thursday\, February 27\, 2025\n🕖 7:00 PM\n📍 Laskey Art Gallery\, Scarritt Bennett Center | Nashville\, TN\n🎟 Free Event | Free Parking | Refreshments Provided \nJoin us for an unforgettable evening of poetry\, artistry\, and conversation at Poet’s Corner—a gathering where words come alive. \nThis February\, we welcome two distinguished poets whose works illuminate the beauty in the everyday\, explore the passage of time\, and reflect on the resilience of the human spirit. \n🌟 Featured Poets\nBrenda Butka\nA retired physician with a lifelong love for poetry\, Brenda Butka writes with keen observation and depth\, weaving narratives of her patients\, gardens\, and reflections on time and knowledge. Her work has been featured in The Threepenny Review\, Florida Review\, POEM\, Slant\, and anthologized in Annals of Internal Medicine\, where she was awarded Best Poem of the Year in 2017. She has also published three chapbooks\, including Drawing the Resistance. Brenda lives on a farm on the edge of Nashville with her husband\, embracing life’s quiet moments and their unfolding stories. \nJulie Sumner\nA poet\, educator\, and former critical care nurse\, Julie Sumner explores poetry as a path to resilience. Her chapbook Meridian was selected by Jane Hirshfield as the winner of the 2023 con/verge/nces chapbook contest from Wildhouse Publishing. Her work has appeared in Pine Mountain Sand & Gravel\, Delta Poetry Review\, The Intima\, Relief Journal\, The Englewood Review of Books\, and more. With an MFA in poetry from Seattle-Pacific University\, she now teaches creative writing and lives in Nashville with her husband. \n🎤 More Than a Reading\nArrive early to experience a featured art installation in the Laskey Gallery and stay after the readings for a live Q&A recording for our podcast\, The Art Of\, where you’ll have the chance to engage with the poets and gain deeper insights into their work. \n📌 Admission is free\, and all are welcome. Whether you’re a longtime poetry lover or new to the art form\, Poet’s Corner is a space to be inspired\, reflect\, and connect. \n👉 Mark your calendar and join us for a night of poetry and conversation. \nAbout Scarritt Bennett Center: Scarritt Bennett Center is a nonprofit education\, retreat\, and conference center with a rich history of empowering individuals for social transformation. Located in Nashville\, TN\, the center provides a welcoming space for dialogue\, learning\, and community engagement. \n\n    Let Us Know You Are Coming
URL:https://scarrittbennett.org/event/poets-corner-featuring-brenda-and-julie/
LOCATION:Laskey Art Gallery at Scarritt Bennett Center\, 1027 18th Avenue S\, Nashville\, 37212\, United States
CATEGORIES:Arts & Literature,Soul Work
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://scarrittbennett.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-02-27-Poets-Corner-Event-Image-16x9-1-1.png
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