Body Horror: The Body as a Worldbuilding Canvas

A sub-genre of horror, body horror repulses and disturbs readers by displaying transgressions of the human form. Traditionally, this has often represented a source of conflict, but increasingly diverse narratives also depict the liberatory potential of such bodily transformations. This workshop will explore body horror as a versatile lens for studying ourselves against the contexts of our societies and surroundings.

Testimonials

Ayida Shonibar's workshop on body horror was so well constructed! As participants, we were handed the tools we needed to understand this subgenre, analyze its use, and implement it in our own writing practice. I loved how we were invited to use the principles of body horror both to process our own painful or frustrating experiences with our bodies and to imagine liberation from the forces that threaten our autonomy and wellbeing. Ayida's innate curiosity and sensitivity set the tone for the workshop. I left energized, full of ideas for my current writing project and for new stories.

- M. C. Benner Dixon, author of The Height of Land and Millions of Suns: On Writing and Life

I attended Ayida Shonibar's Body Horror Workshop and WOW! I took so many notes. The more I learn about the horror genre, the more I appreciate it. Ayida guided us through such great examples to lead to deep understanding of the functions of this sub genre. This was such a fantastic workshop. I learned so much and I have a clearer understanding of how I personally can connect to body horror as a genre. Thank you so much, Ayida for your insights and guidance, and everyone in attendance for sharing.

- Catherine Tavares, speculative fiction author