The Academy of Intentional Magic (AIM) announced its launch today, expanding on the nearly twenty-year legacy of the Poetry Barn to create a broader creative commons for artists, writers, teachers, and creatives. The new platform aims to serve practitioners across disciplines through an interconnected ecosystem of programs and resources.
AIM’s offerings span eight key areas: an online community, education programs, mentoring, publishing, a 4,000-volume poetry library, retreats, and outreach partnerships with high schools. This comprehensive approach seeks to support artists at all stages of their creative development. The launch builds on the Poetry Barn’s history of providing MFA-quality poetry workshops online since 2007, which helped establish a model for remote creative education.
The organization’s fall programming begins with “Sky Writing: Write Your Own Horoscope,” a workshop led by somatic astrologer Cory Nakasue. The workshop will be held on September 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 6-8 p.m. ET. In addition, AIM is inviting artists to share works-in-progress in Murmurations for Labor Day, encouraging community engagement and feedback.
For full details, including downloadable images, bios, and more, click here. The launch marks a significant expansion of creative learning opportunities, potentially filling gaps in traditional arts education by offering flexible, community-driven programs. By integrating online and in-person elements, AIM aims to foster sustained creative practice and connection among artists nationwide.
The Academy of Intentional Magic describes itself as a commons for creative practice, celebrating art, imagination, and mystery. Its growth from the Poetry Barn reflects a strategic evolution to meet the diverse needs of contemporary artists. With the rising demand for alternative education and mentorship, AIM’s model could influence how creative communities organize and support one another. The inclusion of a poetry library and high school outreach further underscores its commitment to accessibility and intergenerational learning.
As the creative landscape continues to shift, initiatives like AIM may play a crucial role in sustaining artistic livelihoods and fostering innovation. The launch signals a promising step toward a more inclusive and interconnected creative ecosystem.
