Writing from Memory or Imagination 

“Nicole is a wonderful, inspiring, and insightful guide who created a safe place to show up and reclaim my writing practice.” — Rebecca W.

This women's writing workshop, initially held at The Sitting Room, is now on Zoom. Each session uses the Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) method. 

2022 workshops (10am–12 noon PST) begin January 25 or 27
Cost is $200 for each 8-week series.

~ THURSDAY SERIES IS FULL, BUT THERE MAY BE SPACE AVAILABLE TUES.~

Self-identified women & genderqueer/non-binary writers with any level of experience are welcome. See a sample of prompts here. Please scroll down to the INQUIRY FORM below to express your interest. Thank you! 

Amherst Writers & Artists is a non-profit arts organization whose mission is to support the voices of established and emerging writers, to free silenced and marginalized voices, and to promote respect for the artist in all writers. AWA defines a writer simply as "someone who writes." The basic philosophy: Writing as an art form belongs to all people, regardless of economic class or educational level. 

Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) Method

Everyone’s writing, including the group leader’s, is treated equally as fiction, or story, to protect confidentiality. If writers choose to read their work aloud, participants focus on what is strong and memorable in their responses. Timed writing sessions with a variety of prompts and immediate, positive feedback support the development of each writer. Participants find a safe environment in which to experiment, learn craft, and develop each unique voice. 

Learn more about the Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) method as described in Writing Alone & With Others by founder Pat Schneider, Oxford University Press.

Following an intensive 40-hour leadership training I became an AWA Affiliate, certified to lead workshops.

Here’s what participants have to say about the AWA method:

• “Hearing others care about my characters and stories revitalized my writing."
• “The workshops were self-affirming and I gained more confidence in my craft.”
• “The caring responses are so heartfelt: a source of female warmth during a time of isolation.”
• “I appreciate the talent, warmth, and generosity of writers who respond meaningfully to each other’s work.”
• “The workshop filled me with so much joy. AWA is like learning a new language.”
• “Provocative prompts stimulate our writer’s brain. I’ve been branching out more in my writing.”
• “I appreciate everyone’s positive input & willingness to share.”
• “The writing takes on a life of its own.”
• “It is wonderful to hear the artistry flow out of everyone.”
• “It has really opened my eyes to the words on the page.”

Here’s what participants have to say about the workshop facilitation:

“Nicole provides a safe & encouraging environment to learn & grow.”
“I have gotten so much from Nicole’s knowledge of writing & attention to the process.”
“Nicole is a very calm, supportive & skilled facilitator. She is a gem!”
“I really appreciated Nicole's positive yet firm facilitation.”
“She is warm, encouraging, & respectful of each person’s own voice.”
“Thank you for creating such an accepting, rich, fertile space in which to create.”