Between Seasons: two creative writing gatherings for new mothers and babies

Between Seasons is two creative journalling gatherings in Islington for new mothers and their babies. Facilitated by Lydia Ashman, they will support mums to slow down, connect with others and reflect on their experience of parenthood.

We'll use motherhood-related texts as gentle prompts for journalling and discussion. These might include excerpts from essays, memoirs, novels or short poems.

The gatherings will take place at Cubitt Artists in Angel on Friday 17 September and Friday 2 October, 10:30-12:00, with doors open from 10:15. Refreshments, reading material and pen and paper provided (though feel free to bring your own).

Join as you are on the day. This is a relaxed, baby-friendly space where you're welcome to feed, change nappies, soothe unsettled babies or move around if you need. No writing experience necessary and no pressure to share.

“It was refreshing to skip the small talk.”
“That was so nourishing.”

FAQs

What age babies can join?
Up to 12 months or pre-walking.

What will happen during the gathering?
You can arrive from 10:15, and we’ll start at 10:30. Each gathering will include a check in, one or two short creative prompts connected to transitioning to motherhood, optional journalling time, and facilitated discussion. You can engage at whatever level feels comfortable.

Do I need writing experience or to be ‘creative’?
No, everyone is welcome.

Will I need to share what I write?
There’ll be no expectation to read aloud or share personal writing.

Do I need to join both gatherings?
Yes please. The two gatherings build on one another, giving us time to get to know each other and return to the themes we've begun exploring.

How many people will be there?
There are spaces for eight mums and babies.

About me
I'm a writer and facilitator interested in using writing and text to help us connect with ourselves and each other. I became a mother in 2025, and the experience profoundly reshaped my sense of self. Spending time with other local parents became an important source of support, while reading and discussing motherhood-related texts helped me to make sense of this transition.

During my maternity leave, I hosted two informal creative writing gatherings for local mums and babies to create the kind of space I was craving: somewhere to slow down, reflect and connect beyond small talk.

I’ve facilitated seasonal and reflective creative gatherings focused on nurturing connection through writing, poetry and nature. With artist Ania Bas, I co-run The Walking Reading Group which facilitates intimate, dynamic knowledge exchange through discussing texts whilst walking together.

My seasonal newsletter, Something I learnt, explores the wheel of the year as an anchor and a lens for slowing down and paying attention. I share a thoughtful piece every six(ish) weeks.

Between Seasons is generously supported by Islington Giving's Make it Happen fund