Kelowna's Inspired Word Cafe is hosting a holiday-themed open night to celebrate the launch of Okanagan College professor Norah Bowman's new poetry book, on Nov. 28. 

Thewill begin with an open mic, where people are encouraged to dress up in festive outfits and share their writing, poetry, art and feelings about the holiday season. 

Then, graduate student and artist Alana Firedancer will offer a poetry performance. 

The evening will culminate with a book reading and interview with author, professor and artist

Her new book, My Eyes Are Fuses is an artistic retelling of the lives of three women through poetry.

Between stanzas, Bowman explores the life and hardships of Roman Empress Agrippina the Elder, a powerful ruler who was confined by her gender, the work of French artist Niki de Saint Phalle and a look into the contemporary lives of survivors of abusive relationships. 

"This is a totally different style of writing," said Bowman, who is best known in academic communities for her prolific work as a researcher.

"This is experimental and full of imagery."

Bowman hopes that at the launch event, people gain excitement toward art while finding solace in the fact that no person is alone in their struggles. 

"I find comfort in knowing that other people have gone through very hard times," said Bowman.

More information about the book launch open-mic night is available at . Entry is on a sliding scale from $6 to $10 at BNA Brewing, beginning at 6:30 p.m.