We’ll be connecting with local and visiting writers and offering opportunities for you to:
- Read from your previous work or work in progress, or just listen
- Receive specific feedback if requested
- Get some writing in, with or without prompts
- Share your author business card, if you have one
- Contribute to and peruse our book Giveaway table
- Have your writing featured in our social media
Bring a friend and let’s inspire one another!
For more information, email Wr***********@gm***.com
Who We Are
Founded by Louisa County, Virginia, author and poet Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt, Write In Louisa (WIL) is a writers group designed for writers ages 18+ with any level of experience, from any background.
From published authors to those simply interested in exploring different forms of self-expression, all are encouraged to join our open, friendly group to read, and if desired, receive helpful feedback.
We meet in Louisa at the Louisa Arts Center Purcell Gallery (212 Fredericksburg Ave, Louisa, VA 23093) the first Wednesday of the month from 2 to 3:30 PM.
Donation is $5 + associated fees. All donations support Louisa Arts Center, a nonprofit providing opportunities for the community to explore and enjoy the arts.
What to Expect
While each meeting is different, each typically begins with writers signing in. Once the meeting starts, announcements are made. Each writer then briefly introduces themself (2 minutes per writer). Typically, an introduction includes sharing the following: name, where you are from, where you heard about the group, what made you want to come, what you write and what you are currently working on.
A round-robin reading of work follows. (If the group is large, we may break into smaller groups.)
We may offer time to write, with or without prompts once everyone has read.If you are seeking feedback, we ask that you make the request prior to sharing and be specific about what kind of feedback you are seeking. Feedback may be spoken or written.
Since sharing writing can make writers feel vulnerable, any feedback should be constructive and offered in a spirit of helpfulness. To make this easier, WIL will provide suggestions and guidelines for offering and receiving feedback.
Meetings typically close with opportunity for participants to announce other writing-related meetings and activities in the area.
At times, meetings may feature a guest speaker or a member who can offer useful resources or tips.
Anyone interested in volunteering in this capacity is encouraged to reach out at least two weeks in advance. Contact the WIL founder Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt at Wr***********@gm***.com
Gentle Reminders
All successful groups require guidelines. Thank you in advance for your cooperation!
What to Share: Writing and art often push limits and delve into personal and human experiences. WIL welcomes writers of all genres, but to make meetings as comfortable as possible for everyone, we ask that any work shared be “rated” G, PG or PG-13. If a topic is sensitive or language is strong, you may wish to provide a “trigger warning” before reading. (For example, you may wish to say, “This story depicts grief,” or “This poem addresses violence.”)
Sales: Please, no promoting, campaigning, recruiting or selling of any kind during regular WIL meetings. If the group chooses, there may be meetings during which literary marketing is discussed as a special topic. We are also planning events during which book and writing-related sales will be more appropriate.
Legal and Otherwise: We meet in a government building owned by the Town of Louisa. Louisa Arts Center rules and state and federal laws apply to our group. Outside of that, WIL aims to provide a relaxing, safe environment for writers.
Writers (and humans!) come from all walks of life. We each have unique backgrounds, beliefs and world views. Please be kind, courteous and respectful – to one another and yourself! We aim to have fun while helping each other benefit from this opportunity to learn and grow together as writers and artists.
Cost: There is no cost for participation, but we do ask that you make a small donation of $5 to Louisa Arts Center, which has been kind enough to offer us use of their lovely gallery!
For more information, reach out to Wr***********@gm***.com
