Talan Tee at the Iowa Young Writers' Studio
Traveling across the globe to attend the Iowa Young Writers' Studio, Talan Tee immersed himself in one of the nation's premier summer creative writing programs for high school students. The experience became an opportunity not only to strengthen his writing but also to reflect more deeply on his identity, background, and purpose as an artist.
As a student in The Color of Poetry, Talan explored new approaches to poetry under the guidance of Writers' Workshop student Maya Arthur. Museum visits, library excursions, workshops, and thoughtful discussions encouraged him to examine his creative voice while learning alongside an exceptionally talented group of young writers from diverse backgrounds.
While the classes enriched his craft, it was the people around him who left the greatest impression. Through conversations, collaboration, and shared creativity, his peers expanded his perspective, challenged his expectations, and inspired him to pursue his work with even greater ambition.
"Some of my most important takeaways from the program arose from fellow student-writers, who continuously raised my standards for myself, changed my beliefs of what is possible, and generously offered their astute insights on the literary world and beyond."
Made possible through an Anthony Quinn Foundation Scholarship, the experience gave Talan access to a creative community that will continue to influence both his writing and his artistic journey for years to come.