Not all writing workshops are created equal!
Try an AWA Workshop
Ellen uses the Amherst Writers & Artist Method to facilitate her writing workshops. This system is uniquely supportive. Writing is personal and sharing work can feel challenging.
Ellen's workshops are designed to nurture the creative spark. Polishing writing is an essential step in a journey toward publication. Amherst Writers groups are not for polishing final work products, but for generating new material.
Experience the fun and inspiration when you leave your inner critic behind and get out of your own way for awhile.
Amherst Writers & Artists Group Guidelines
- Honor the writer by listening carefully.
- We are invited to respond to the work of our fellow writers with what we like, what stays with us, what moves us, but not to make suggestions of how to make the work stronger or ask questions for clarity.
- Refer to the narrator, character or speaker as the voice of the piece, not "the author" or "you."
- We are free to write what we want; we may accept or reject the exercises offered.
- We treat everything as fiction.
- We stick to the writing, avoiding our own anecdotes or asides.
- Writing is healing, but this is not a therapy group.
- Maintain confidentiality.
The Five Essential AWA Affirmations
- 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 education 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 Workshp Testimonials
