Published: March 07, 2008 02:05 pm            

2nd Biennial Chattanooga Festival of Writers offers inspiration and advice

CHATTANOOGA — Everyone has a story to tell. Sometimes it just takes a little inspiration to spark the creative process that transfers these stories onto paper.

The 2nd Biennial Chattanooga Festival of Writers on March 28 and 29promises to inspire and guide writers of all genres and levels, as well as readers who are simply interested in the craft of writing and a chance to meet award-winning authors.

The event, which is produced by the Arts & Education Council (AEC), will feature a keynote dinner with short story writer Ben Fountain on Friday, March 28, at the Sheraton Read House, and a full day of workshops on Saturday, March 29, on the campus of UT-Chattanooga.

Workshops span topics from memoir writing and nonfiction, to short stories, playwrighting and freelance journalism. For the first time, the AEC is also including a screenwriter in its program.

"The Festival will offer something for everyone," says event chairperson Jane Berz. "We believe that each person has a story waiting to be told, a book waiting to be written. This Festival is designed to inspire attendees to pursue the craft of writing, and provide the tools necessary to hone their skills."

Participating writers include Allen Wier, Katori Hall, Randall Kenan, Lolly Winston, John Sedgwick, William Akers, and freelance journalists Sean Price, Nancy H. Wurst and Nancy Hatch Woodward. Award-winning short story writer Ben Fountain will give the keynote address.

There will be opportunities to purchase books by the guest authors and have them signed.

The AEC created the Chattanooga Festival of Writers in 2006 in response to increasing requests for a literary event in the off-years of its Conference on Southern Literature, which has been held biennially since 1981.

"We call the Conference on Southern Literature a writers' conference for readers, because it's a gathering of world famous writers who are there for the readers, not just to meet with their fellow writers," says Robinson. By the same token, the Festival of Writers is designed as a series of conversations on the craft of writing that can be enjoyed by both writers and non-writers."

Registration deadline is March 21, and is limited to the first 300 people. Prices range from $50 - $175 and meals are included. Call the AEC at 423-267-1218 or visit www.ArtsEdCouncil.org.

About Arts & Education Council

The Arts & Education Council provides opportunities for lifelong learning and participation in the arts for all members of the community.

        

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