Negative Space
Mental health narratives in poetry films
Poetry Expo 24
This program presents the best poetry films on the subject of mental health that were shown at the ZEBRA Poetry Film Festival. The poetry clips, animations and experimental films are based on poems by Tanya Davis, Etta Streicher, Ron Koertge, Audrey Lane Cockett, Lani O'Hanlon and Paula Harris.
Poetry Film 'Negative Space' (France, 2015) directed by Ru Kuwahata and Max Porter based on the same titled poem by Ron Koertge.
When he was small, his father taught him how to fold washing carefully and pack a suitcase the right way. It was their way of establishing a connection with one another. Now the father is about to embark on his last great journey – alone, and with no luggage to speak of.
The project is part of the subtheme Mental health narratives in poetry.
Author
Haus für Poesie/ ZEBRA Poetry Film Festival

Since its foundation in 1991, the Haus für Poesie, formerly the Literaturwerkstatt Berlin, has been promoting and supporting all areas of literature, but especially poetry, both as the written word and in conjunction with other art forms and media. Its work has focused exclusively on poetry since 2000. It is the venue where contemporary poetry in all its diversity of forms is showcased and discussed.
The Haus für Poesie brings poets to Germany from all over the world and endeavours to promote German authors abroad. Its production commissions provide incentives for innovation and experiment. The Haus für Poesie opens up dialogue with the audience, promoting access to poetry and understanding of poetry and its forms among the public.