Writing from Memory or Imagination (at The Sitting Room) is currently held virtually via Zoom. Each workshop session follows the Amherst Writers & Artists method. AWA defines a writer simply as "someone who writes." The philosophy: Writing is an art form that belongs to all people, regardless of economic class or educational level. See a sample of prompts here.

Sessions for newcomers begin Tuesday, Oct. 6–Nov. 10, 10am–12:30pm PST.

• Cost is $150 for a 6-week series; no drop-ins. 
• All genres and experience levels are welcome!
  

Please scroll down to the INQUIRY FORM below to express your interest. 
A phone interview is required prior to registration to ensure a good fit.

Any current or past participants:
I plan to offer another 6-week series on Wed & Thurs in Oct–Nov 2020.

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:

“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.”

Shut Up & Write!™ weekly writing sessions

It has been my pleasure to host Shut Up & Write! sessions each Tuesday at 9:30 AM since January 2019, first at JavAmore Cafe in Penngrove, CA, then on Zoom. After more than one and a half years volunteering as a local Organizer, I held a final Meetup session Aug. 25, 2020. If you're looking for an hour of writing with other writers, check out the following:

https://www.meetup.com/shutupandwritewinecountry/events/
https://www.meetup.com/shutupandwriteonlineevents/

Anyone can sign up as an Organizer! It’s easy: https://shutupwrite.com/organizers/.