“In writing, we see, sometimes with fear and trembling, who we have been, who we really are, and we glimpse now and then who we might become.”
– Pat Schneider, Founder - Amherst Writers & Artistis
Writing Workshops in the AWA Method
Upcoming Workshops
Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary
April 29, May 20, and/or June 24, 2023
9:30am - Noon
$45 per workshop or $120 for all 3
These are each individual workshops. Participants are welcome for one, two, or all three! The registration fee supports the nature programs and preservation of Owl's Hill, a 300-acre nature sanctuary with more than 2,000 species of flora and fauna.
After the workshop, you're welcome to explore the trails.
Learn more and register via the Owl's Hill website
The AWA Method
The AWA Method is based in the following essential affirmations and practices to establish a safe environment where everyone can explore their own writing and listen to others with respect.
AFFIRMATIONS
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Everyone has a strong, unique voice.
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Everyone is born with creative genius.
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Writing as an art form belongs to all people, regardless of economic class or educational level.
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The teaching of craft can be done without damage to a writer's original voice or artistic self-esteem.
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A writer is someone who writes.
PRACTICES
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Everyone’s writing, including the leader’s, is treated with equal respect and value.
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Writing is kept confidential and treated as fiction.
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Writers can refrain from reading their work aloud.
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Responses to just-written work reflect what is strong and successful.
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Responses and exercises support the development of literary craft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend?
Anyone who has a desire to write! All are welcome - all backgrounds,
skill levels, writing interests.
How large is the group and how often do we meet?
Groups are generally 5-10 people, including myself as your facilitator. Frequency
can be one session, or weekly for 4-8 weeks depending on the location / schedule.
What do we do each time we gather?
Our time will become a wonderfully familiar practice - prompt, write, read, respond - all done using the AWA Method. You may let a prompt take you wherever your writing wants to go. Each participant has the option to read, or not. And responses will focus on what was strong, what we remember. As the leader, I take the same risks you do and will write, read and respond along with the group.
Is this a critique group?
No. New work just born on the page deserves respect, care and encouragement.
What if I want feedback on a piece I am writing?
There are plentiful resources in the Nashville area for support with writing critique, editing, and publishing. I recommend visiting Amy Lyles Wilson and The Porch.
How long are the workshops?
One-time workshops can be 2-3 hours long. Longer series can vary from 4-8 weeks, meeting weekly for 2 hours each time.
Sandy is a fantastic force of nature! Warm, welcoming, funny and endlessly creative, she really brings out the best in everyone in her writing group. It is awesome to hear your fresh, sometimes wobbling and tentative young writing responded to by Sandy, who catches and savors the magic in each writer's imagery, rhythm or phrasing, and makes each writer feel--and even believe--that their writing is a gift. ~ Leslie