Kris Strausbaugh | Writer
About the Class:
This two-part writer’s workshop blends guided reflection, peer critique, and focused writing time to help participants explore poetic form, strengthen their voice, and build confidence in their creative process. From first drafts to final edits, students will engage with both foundational and advanced techniques to grow as poets.
Day 1: Foundations
In the first session, students will begin by grounding their creative work in vivid sensory experiences, drawing inspiration from emotionally resonant places and objects. From there, the class will explore essential elements of poetry through discussion and example before diving into their own writing, using their chosen place or object as a creative launchpad. The session will end with group reflection, emphasizing the value of first drafts and the importance of rewriting as a core part of the writing process.
Day 2: Refinement, Craft, and Experimentation
Day two opens with discussion and workshop on student revisions, then delves into more advanced poetic techniques. After revisiting the place/object prompt with new creative rules, students are challenged to try a different poetic structure than before, encouraging risk-taking and versatility. The session wraps up with more sharing and reflection, followed by closing encouragement to continue writing, observing, and participating in the local poetry community.
About Kris:
A Webb City native, Kris Strausbaugh has devoted the last 25 years to the craft of writing. He studied at Columbia College Chicago and Missouri Southern State University, and you may recognize him from Spiva, where he works as Guest Experience Specialist and manages the Gift Shop on the first floor.
Kris writes poetry and fiction that often explores themes of identity, trauma, spiritual exhaustion, memory, grief, and the lives we build when no one’s watching. His work lingers in the aftermath of relationships, routines, faith, and hope—asking what remains when things slowly fall apart. These are stories about silence and chaos in relationships, and the search for meaning before the lights go out.
Class Information:
Cost: $40
When: Thursdays, November 6 & 13, 2025 | 6:00–8:15 PM
Ages: 18+
Skill Level: All skill levels
Max Capacity: 12 participants, pre-registration required.
Check-In: Please arrive a few minutes early to check in at the 1st-floor welcome desk, then take the elevator to the 3rd floor.
Parking: Visitor parking is available on the west side of the building off Wall Avenue. Additional parking can be found along Wall Avenue, on 8th Street, and in the Liberty parking lot on 7th Street.
Registration:
Members enjoy early registration access from August 15–30! Use the code provided in your Spiva Newsletter or Membership email, or contact us to receive it. Not a member yet? Join today to enjoy early registration and other exclusive perks!
