Your Guide to LIT Sunday at Pickathon 2024!
As we eagerly anticipate the sounds and sights of Pickathon 2024, there’s more than just music to look forward to. This year, Pickathon introduces an exciting Literary Lineup, a unique and enriching dimension to the festival experience. Featuring renowned authors, engaging discussions, and captivating storytelling, this lineup promises to stimulate your mind and soul.
Sunday, August 4th is the day to mark on your calendar for LIT Sunday, where layers of literary brilliance will unfold, adding depth to your Pickathon experience. From thought-provoking spoken word performances and mesmerizing storytelling sessions to insightful author readings and a compelling podcast, this is a day dedicated to the art of words.
“The power of the spoken word is strong at Pickathon for Lit Sunday, August 4! From internationally acclaimed poets to powerful storytellers, to a popular podcast, to author readings, the Lit Sunday Lineup will delight your mind and expand your horizons.”
Sage Van Wing, Executive Editor at OPB, Author Readings Lineup Director
What’s Happening on LIT Sunday?
Spoken Word
Prepare to be moved by the raw and emotional performances of spoken word artists who will leave you inspired and reflective. These poets bring their powerful voices and unique perspectives to the stage, challenging and uplifting the audience.
Storytelling
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of stories told by masterful storytellers. Each narrative is a journey, weaving together personal and universal themes that resonate deeply with listeners.
Author Readings
Engage with renowned authors as they read excerpts from their latest works. This intimate experience allows you to dive into the minds of some of the most creative literary talents today.
Podcast
Tune in live to a special podcast episode featuring thought leaders and creatives discussing the intersection of art, culture, and community. This dynamic conversation will provide fresh insights and inspiration.
Meet the Full 2024 Literary Lineup!
Author Readings
10-12 am in Windmill Neighborhood
Curated by Amanda Bullock, Senior Artistic Director at Literary Arts, and Sage Van Wing, Executive Editor at OPB.
- Charity E. Yoro: Charity E. Yoro’s writing has appeared in the New York Times, The Rumpus, and poets.org. Supported by the Regional Arts & Culture Council, she was born and raised on O‘ahu and currently lives in Portland, Oregon.
- Ferris Jabr: Ferris Jabr, an acclaimed science writer, explores Earth as a living system in his book “Becoming Earth.” His work highlights the interconnectedness of life and the environment and our role in shaping the planet.
- Jae Nichelle: Louisiana-born Jae Nichelle is the author of “God Themselves” and “The Porch (As Sanctuary).” A slam poetry champion, her work has appeared in Best New Poets 2020 and other publications. She focuses on language, linguistics, and mental health.
- Justin Taylor: Justin Taylor’s novel “Reboot” is a satire of Hollywood and online culture, following a washed-up actor reviving a cult TV show. The New York Times praises it for its wit and insight into celebrity culture.
- Lola Milholland: Lola Milholland is a food-business owner and writer. Her debut book, “GROUP LIVING AND OTHER RECIPES,” explores group living and redefines family. She runs Umi Organic in Portland, Oregon, providing nutritious public school lunches.
- Willy Vlautin: Born and raised in Reno, Nevada, Willy Vlautin has published seven novels, including “THE MOTEL LIFE” and “LEAN ON PETE,” both adapted into films. His latest novel, “THE HORSE,” was released in 2024. Vlautin also founded the bands Richmond Fontaine and The Delines and resides in Scappoose, Oregon.
Podcast
12-1pm in Lucky Neighborhood
- Dao Strom: Dao Strom is a poet, musician, writer, and multimedia artist who blends written, sung, and visual art to explore personal and collective histories, author of the award-winning “INSTRUMENT” and its musical companion “TRAVELER’S ODE.”
Spoken Word
10-11 am in Woods Neighborhood
Bringing together renowned poets from across the West Coast.
- Blacque Butterfly: Darlene Solomon-Rogers, aka Blacque Butterfly, is a spoken word artist and activist known for her inspiring ministry and works like “Collide-A-Scope” and “SoulWarrior.”
- Malcolm Hoover: Malcolm Hoover is a poet of over 40 years, addressing hard truths and uplifting through his work.
- Mic Crenshaw: Mic Crenshaw is a social justice poet and Hip Hop artist tackling issues of social justice and human rights.
- Renae Roemmich: Despite being diagnosed dyslexic, Renae Roemmich holds a master’s in data analytics and paddles with her dragon boat team.
- Toni Hill: Toni Hill is an R&B artist and half of Sirens Echo, known for passionate performances with artists like KRS-One and the Roots.
Storytelling
11am-12:30 pm in Woods Neighborhood
Continuing our tradition of filling every space and time at Pickathon, we’re excited to announce our 2024 Storytelling Lineup! Get ready to laugh, cry, and think deeply at Pendarvis Farm. Curated by Patricia Wheeler, this year’s lineup contributes to the experiential atmosphere and wide swath of creativity that defines Pickathon. Our theme, “The Road,” invites tellers to share tales of wandering, adventure, and the unknown.
- Alisha Joy: Alisha Joy, a writer and creator from childhood, grew up in Southwest Virginia surrounded by wonderfully weird humans and adventures, and believes in the power of stories to connect us all.
- Andrew Dickson: Andrew Dickson, a performer, auctioneer, and storyteller based in Portland, has premiered shows at the PICA TBA festival, toured internationally, and has been an on-stage host for The Moth for over a decade.
- David Scott Smith: David Scott Smith is the author of “Hope This Finds You,” a collection of essays from his weekly Monday Moanin’ column, and spends his free time in Michigan writing, storytelling, running, exploring, and searching for the perfect cup of coffee.
- Patricia Wheeler: Patricia Wheeler is a storyteller, writer, and producer from Hell, Michigan, now living in Detroit, helping others share their stories while creating new ones with her family and two pups, Miles Davis Wheeler and Betty Davis Wheeler.
- Sarah Bunger: Sarah Bunger, a former high school English teacher, grew up in a small town outside Dayton, OH, and now works in advertising in Portland, OR, thrilled to be part of Pickathon.
A Perfect Blend
The Literary Lineup at Pickathon 2024 perfectly complements the festival’s vibrant musical performances. Imagine starting your day with a stimulating literary discussion, enjoying a workshop in the afternoon, and then dancing the night away to your favorite bands. It’s this blend of intellectual engagement and musical celebration that makes Pickathon a truly unique experience.
Join Us!
We invite you to dive into the world of literature at Pickathon 2024. With an exceptional lineup of authors and a host of engaging activities, this is an unmissable addition to your festival itinerary.
Prepare to be inspired, entertained, and enlightened. See you at Pickathon 2024! Follow us on Instagram @pickathon for real-time updates!
