CCE Instructor Profile: Joshua Keller dives into horror, creative writing, comics, and manga

Do you love writing and want to explore your literary voice? This fall, PCA&D is offering a variety of classes taught by Joshua Keller. Intergenerational Studio: Ages 14-Adult – Mystery/Horror Writing and Discussion on Wednesdays starting October 12; Beginning/Intermediate Creative Writing on Wednesdays starting November 2; Comics and Manga Writing and Visual Narrative: Grades 7-10 on Saturdays starting October 8.

Keller, raised in Red Lion, Pa., is an educator, writer, and scholar and is currently living in Lancaster. He is a doctoral candidate and lecturer in Craft Practices in the SUNY Albany English Department. We asked Keller to share a bit more about himself and his various courses this fall.

Can you tell us a little about your interest in writing and classes this fall?

Joshua Keller: I’m excited to teach classes I’m passionate about: the inner workings of horror, graphic novels, and how we craft things out of word and image.

Regarding my teaching here: I’d been away from Central PA for years; I teach CCE classes to reconnect with my home community and give something back.  

What are you most excited about for these classes?

JK: My favorite part of any class is the collaboration. Fun conversations, workshop discussions, and being in awe of how students express their creativity. 

What are some of the most important takeaways that prospective students should know about your classes?

JK: The classes proceed in a “learn by doing” way. Students can expect a safe space in which to experiment with crafts to which they may be brand new or even seasoned practitioners. Brand new to scaring people? Great. Already certain of where your project is headed? Awesome. We’ll help each other from wherever we are. 

The environment is likely to be alive, colorful, and even a little funny. 

What is your creative process and what will be your approach to teaching these courses?

JK: My approach to teaching the courses tends to be like a laboratory or a garage workshop. We’ll figure out what we want to build and how it works. We will then experiment with the ways we can ourselves conceive of and execute aesthetic effects our way, producing horror, comedy, action, or anything in between. 

What do you think the benefit of having an Intergenerational class is?

JK: My past CCE courses have had a range of students. It’s great to see how perspectives on art change and, also, don’t. Our diversity offers new perspectives while reminding us of all we have in common.

What do you do for fun when you’re not teaching/working?

JK: I like to sing songs and eat.