Wintonbury Poetry Series (Virtual)

For its February reading, Wintonbury Poetry Series is pleased to have Nzima Hutchins and Steven Ostrowski read.

Steven Ostrowski is a widely-published and award-winning poet, fiction writer, painter and songwriter. Recently published are his first novel, The Highway of Spirit and Bone, and a full-length book of poems, Life Field. In addition, he has published six chapbooks and a full-length collaboration of poems with his son, Ben, called Penultimate Human Constellation. His paintings can be found in, or as the cover art for, Lily Poetry Review, Stone Boat, The William and Mary Review, and many other literary art magazines. His website is www.stevenostrowski.org.

Nzima Hutchings is a prominent figure in the literary and cultural scene of Enfield, Connecticut, known for her multifaceted contributions and leadership roles. As the host and curator of NPCS (Nzima's Poetry Cafe Show), she has fostered a platform for artistic expression and community engagement. With a background as a bestselling author and award-winning poet, Nzima brings a wealth of experience and insight to her endeavors. In addition to her literary achievements, Nzima has played key roles in various organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting arts and culture. As the Enfield Poet Laureate from 2023 to 2025, she serves as an ambassador for poetry and creativity in the local community. Her involvement as a board member of the Enfield Culture Arts Commission and as a Cultural Literary Arts Advisor for the Ujima African American Alliance highlights her commitment to supporting diverse voices and cultural initiatives. Nzima is an Amherst Writer Artist (AWA) affiliate and workshop leader and an active member of the National Association for Poetry Therapy (NAPT).  Nzima's visionary leadership extends beyond Enfield, as demonstrated by her role as the founder of Hartford's Literary Integrated Trailblazers (Hartford's L.I.T.) and the annual Hartford Book Festival. These initiatives have had a significant impact on the Greater Hartford area, providing platforms for writers and artists to showcase their work and connect with audiences. As the visionary and owner of Every Kinda Lady LLC, Nzima is dedicated to empowering women through expressive writing, poetry, and journaling. Her work helps women heal, share their stories, and build their literary legacies, embodying her role as an RSS (Whole-person Literary Art Wellness Advocate). She is also an independent teaching artist, facilitating transformative workshops and retreats for organizations such as CT Alliance, Toivo, Chrysalis, and Wheeler Clinic, Mount Holyoke College, Wesleyan University,  When Women Speak in Havana Cuba. Nzima's passion for poetry and literary arts extends to her role as a judge for various events, including PIE Poetry in Enfield and the Yale MLK Poetry Slam. Her involvement as a Board Member of Queen's Narratives in Springfield, Massachusetts, reflects her dedication to empowering women and girls through storytelling and community-building initiatives. Through her virtual writing room, cafe workshops, and other endeavors, Nzima continues to inspire and uplift individuals through the power of words and creativity. Her professional bio encapsulates her diverse talents, experiences, and contributions to the literary and cultural landscape.    Freshwater Literary Award, When Women Spaak's International Literary Award for Artistry Excellence  and Bestselling Author on Amazon for Every kinda Lady and Her Sisters' Pages Anthology series 2020 and 2021
 

   We will have an Open Mic after the featured poet's readings.

   Teens are welcome to read at the Open Mic!

   The Wintonbury Poetry Series and Open Mic are hosted by Sitara Gnanaguru.

   Questions? Call Mara at 860-243-9721 or email her at mwhitman@libraryconnection.info.