🎉Announcing Green Room Writing Groups🎉
Does your artistic soul need space to thrive? The AWA Method could be for you.
As I’ve mentioned previously on the Green Room, I am now certified to facilitate AWA-style writing groups. I got this fancy badge, see?
Because of this certification, the time has come for The Green Room to launch some writing groups. So next Friday evening and Saturday morning, we’ll run a couple of 90 minute sessions to give folks who’re interested a chance to see if an AWA-style groups are their jam. If you’re interested, there are still open spots on both days! All you have to do is drop me a line. More on that later! But first…
Is the AWA Method Right For Me?
Has writing, at one point or another, been one of your most treasured creative expressions? Then, probably, yes!
The Amherst Writers & Artists method was developed by Pat Schneider in the 1970s as an antidote to the rigid gatekeeping of MFA programs and major publications. The AWA Method recalls the evocative and free-flowing art styles of the Romantics, but it’s also not some highfalutin’ fanciness! Pat believed writing was for everyone. The AWA philosophy is as follows:
Everyone has a strong, unique voice.
Everyone is born with creative genius.
Writing as an art form belongs to all people, regardless of economic class or educational level.
The teaching of craft can be done without damage to a writer's original voice or artistic self-esteem.
A writer is someone who writes.
AWA is designed to encourage and nurture our natural voices. Each person gets the same prompt and the same time to write, and then we share if we like. Reading is always optional, and all work is treated as fiction.
These groups have been absolutely vital to my sanity and growth as a writer over the last two years. I believe we’re all made with creative aspects, and when we nourish that creativity inside us—especially with a community—we feel more balanced and expressive in other areas of our lives. AWA groups are a space to cultivate our gift for words and thoughtful listening.
I should also mention that we meet on Zoom. There are a few things that are really nice about this: 1) You don’t have to drive anywhere; 2) You can write in your own space and return to regular life afterward; 3) You might write with folks all over the place. One of my small groups once had writers in Oregon, California, North Carolina, Quebec, and East Africa.
If you’re looking for a warm place to share your stories, have your creative soul tended to, or just practice your art, please consider joining us! As a majorly awesome added bonus, you will hear and read incredible fresh writing. Like, you won’t even believe how good!
Our two meeting times are:
Friday, February 11th - 7-8:30 pm PST
Saturday, February 12th - 9-10:30 am PST
If this is calling to you at all, reply to this email or text and I’ll get you signed up.