Writers groups/Writers workshops

Writers’ groups and/or writers workshops are a valuable way of building skills. I’ve participated in more than a few and can say that I gained something every time. I got the chance to see and hear people respond to what I was creating and through that process found a way to make my writing stronger (even when the reaction was initally not as enthusiastic as I’d hoped and sometimes downright soul crushing).  I found myself slowly creeping out of my shell and developing a comfort level with sharing my work that I might not have other wise. The opportunity to be a part of workshops at University of Miami, Middlebury College and elsewhere were great boosts, but so too my involvement in informal groups like ‘writers block’ -w ith then co workers and like minded literary sisters here in Antigua. I’ve had the opportunity as a maturing writer to facilitate a few writing workshops as well (including 2010′s Express Yourself!) and those too are learning experiencs not just for the ones I’m supposedly schooling but for me as well. And while not now formally part of any group, except perhaps the online writers workshop at CLS, it’s an experience even a loner like me can appreciate and recommend. I’ve found it’s often best where the guidelines are clear and the environment, though critical, nurturing. But when starting or finding a group or workshop of your own, you’ll find a culture that’s the best fit for you.  Pictured  is Brenda Lee Browne, who’s led her share of writers workshops here in Antigua.

Circular re Express Yourself!

Starting this September, Joanne C. Hillhouse, author of The Boy from Willow Bend , is inviting you to Express Yourself!

You should check it out if you’re a secondary or tertiary student hoping to boost your writing and comprehension skills for all-round success; a young professional or entrepreneur in need of a literary boost; an older person who’s always wanted to write but never quite knew how to get started; a budding scribe with dreams of literary success; a seasoned writer with a project-in-progress in need of critical input; or someone who just wants to write, just because. Joanne is a practicing writer and journalist, coordinator of the Wadadli Youth Pen Prize and judge of numerous literary competitions, with years of experience, a passion for the literary arts, and a commitment to the development of craft. As such, her programme could be a small investment towards realizing your literary goals.

Spaces are limited. For registration information email her at theboyfromwillowbend@yahoo.com before August 30^th 2010.

Depending on the response, this workshop series will be ongoing; so if you’re interested, still email even if you’ve missed the deadline.

ABILF Youth Writing Workshop

When was this? 2008, I think. The instructor pictured is Brenda Lee Browne, former coordinator of the Independence Literary Arts competition, and facilitator of many youth writing workshops both independently and with the Culture Department making her a beloved mentor to many young writers in Antigua and Barbuda. Here she is with one young scribe at a writing workshop sponsored by the Antigua and Barbuda International Literary Festival.