Two new short courses, and information about my masterclasses starting in August. For more detailed information about these classes, and how to register, go to the Masterclasses and Mentoring tab at the top.
Writing, creativity and meditation
A writing course over 2 weekend afternoons
Writing, like any creative practice, depends on vastly
different activities and abilities – the ideas and inspiration to get started
on a project, the imagination and creativity to bring it into being, and the
discipline, energy and persistence to continue and complete. But there are
times when it’s difficult to find the confidence to continue, and the clarity
to see where to go. These are questions every writer struggles with at times. Even
getting to the desk to start writing can be an issue. Write a little every day without hope and fear, Isaak Dinesen said.
In this class over 2 Saturday afternoons we will use meditation exercises and
writing exercises, readings and discussion to improve our understanding of the
writing process and look at how meditation can be an aid to the writer.
Venue Newtown/Enmore area
Dates: Saturdays 8 and 15 June 2-6pm
Cost: $300
As well as being an experienced writer and teacher
of writing, who has taught writing in many different venues, Barbara Brooks has studied meditation in various
disciplines.
Kickstart your writing
or, how to inspire yourself and keep writing
A writing workshop over 2 weekend afternoons
Whether you’re getting started on a new writing project, or
getting going again after a break, you need the inspiration and energy to magic
the ideas into words, to begin with, and then the enthusiasm, patience, and discipline – and
different kind of energy – to follow through. The Australian writer Marjorie Barnard wished for someone to encourage her, to stand behind her and say, Write,
darling, write! In this workshop over two Saturday afternoons we’ll discuss
some ideas about how to inspire yourself
and stimulate creativity, and strategies for keeping going through the
different, and sometimes difficult, stages of working on a book or longer
project. We’ll look at how to work with a draft, and revising and rewriting to
completion. There will be presentations
by me, as well as readings, writing exercises, and discussion. And writing
exercises to help you develop your project. You will send some writing to me and the group
before the second meeting, and get written editorial feedback from me as well
as discussion of your work in a workshop session.
Venue: Newtown/Enmore area
Dates: Saturdays 6 & 20 July 2pm-6pm
Cost: $300
Masterclasses in memoir and nonfiction
You work with me in a small group with a strong focus on your writing. I'll present information on different topics, suggest writing strategies. You get readings, writing exercises, and written feedback from me as well as guided workshop discussion of your writing. My experience of teaching writing has convinced me this is what you need to develop your writing and make progress.
Venue: Enmore
Dates: Saturdays 2-6.15pm starting 10 August
Cost: $750
