Thursday, June 20, 2019 | 1 - 5 p.m. | $99
Claire Sicherman with special guest Ahava Shira
Exploring the Authentic Voice
What does it mean to be authentic in our writing? How does fear deter us from telling the truth? Why do we censor ourselves? In this class, we will explore embodied writing, go to places that scare us, and examine what we are not letting ourselves say. Using prompts that encourage a connection with the body, gestures, movement and mindful awareness, we will listen for the stories we are holding within. Sharing of our work is invited and always a choice. Special guest Ahava Shira co-authored the book Writing Alone Together and has been writing and teaching for 25 years. Claire and Ahava regularly co-teach writing classes. Please note: Participants should bring a journal and pen to class, as well as wear comfortable clothing.
Friday | June 21, 2019
4:00 – 7:30 PM | Reception, Faculty Reading, and Book Signing | Heiner Foyer and Heiner Theater
A highlight of the conference!
Be sure to join us for a chance to mingle and converse with authors and fellow attendees, and take advantage of the opportunity to get your books signed. And of course, you won’t want to miss the truly riveting and inspiring readings of our incredible faculty! Appetizers and a no-host bar with beer and wine will be provided from 4-5 p.m. Faculty readings will begin at 5 p.m.
Saturday | June 22, 2019
10:15 – 11:15 AM | Concurrent Author Panels
The Body As Muse
Featuring: Claudia Castro Luna, Ely Shipley, Claire Sicherman, and Anastacia-Renee
Moderator: Courtney Putnam | Location: TBD
Washington State Poet Laureate Claudia Castro Luna writes, "One way to think of our bodies is as muse." Poets Ely Shipley and Anastacia-Renee and memoirist Claire Sicherman join Claudia to discuss embodied writing. This session will explore how the body offers a landscape of personal experience, how the breath interacts with the poetic line, and how movement can lead to breakthroughs.
1:30 – 2:30 PM | Breakout Session 4
Breaking the Silence: Writing Family Stories | Claire Sicherman | TBD
So much of writing our families' stories can be found in what we don’t know, in what is not said and not spoken. But what if we start uncovering what is true? In this session, we will use prompts, write together, and then read aloud, if desired. The prompts are designed to touch into those silences and facilitate connection with the body in order to stir stuff up and bring it out.