College Courses for Adults
Dominican University of California’s Creative Writing MFA program (offers free public writing workshops via zoom)
Napa Valley College-St. Helena
Santa Rosa Junior College English Department
Santa Rosa Junior College Writing Scholarships and Awards
Santa Rosa Junior College Community Education Writing Courses
Sonoma State University Creative Writing Program
Sonoma State University Extended Education Program
Bay Area Writing Courses (non-college)
The Grotto, a San Francisco writing center and community workspace offers narrative arts workshops over several weeks or one day. Located in SOMA.
On-Line Writing Programs and Resources
University of California, Berkeley, Extension, Online Writing Certificates
Stanford University, Continuing Studies, Online Writers Certificates
Oxford University, Continued Education, short online courses
Online College Courses in Writing (database of free courses)
Visual Writers Workshops bring published authors together with writers for synergy and exchange one Sunday a month at 12 p.m. Eastern time, 9 a.m. Pacific time.
Christine Walker’s Self-paced Online Course, YouTube Channel and Read to Write Books blog are devoted to writing fiction and creative process. Details below under Ongoing Workshops.
Sit Down and Write Poetry. Here’s how to do it (six tips) plus a list of additional online resources for writing poetry.
School-Based Programs for Youth
California Poets in Schools
— Phyllis Meshulam, Area Coordinator
Sonoma State University EXCEL Program
Community Non-Credit Workshops
For a list of Sonoma County writers offering workshops and consultations, check the Local Workshop Leaders and Writing Consultants page. Below you’ll find a list of upcoming workshops in chronological order and following that, ongoing (undated) workshops in alphabetical order by the workshop leader’s last name.
NEW, UPCOMING WORKSHOPS AND CLASSES
Upcoming workshops are in chronological order. See below for local ONGOING WORKSHOPS. FOR THE DURATION OF THE STAY-AT-HOME/COVID-19 CRISIS, WORKSHOPS ARE EITHER CANCELED, POSTPONED OR ONLINE. CONTACT FACILITATORS TO INQUIRE.
Look for online workshops highlighted in red under Ongoing Workshops.
_________________
Writers Forum Summertime Writing Program
July 7 through August 8
Each Forum will feature writers reading excerpts from The Write Spot: Musings and Ravings From a Pandemic Year. Then we will write, using prompts from the anthology. In Musings, writers share stories reflecting the uncertainty of finding a new rhythm as we adapted to changing situations. The result is an anthology rich with introspection, humor, and meaningful excursions into family memories. You might find your perfect story while writing with prompts at Writers Forum.
Forum Details: www.TheWriteSpot.us. Click on “Writers Forum.” Free! On the Zoom platform.
Dates and readers:
Wednesday, July 7, 6:30 pm
Brenda Bellinger and Kathy Guthormsen
Saturday, July 17, 2 pm
Deb Fenwick and Susie Moses
Wednesday, July 21, 6 pm
Dave Seter and Karen Handyside Ely
Thursday, July 29, 6 pm
Patricia Morris and Cheryl Moore
Sunday, August 8, 2:00 pm
Julie Wilder-Sherman and Diane Dupuis
_________________
Learn to write strong scenes with Jordan Rosenfeld
Starts: July 9th, Thursdays at 4 p.m. Pacific.
Scene Stealer: You’ve felt the pulse-pounding drama of a good story, caught up in a book that feels so real you might have been inside it. What makes a story come to life? Strong, powerful scenes. Scenes are the building blocks of great fiction and memoir. They bring flat narrative into full-color action, allow you to breathe life into compelling characters through dynamic action, and when added up, they create powerful plots. When you feel connected to the characters and in the midst of action, when you can’t put the book down because you’re gripped by the action, you’re in scenes. But when done carelessly, scenes can drag and take you out of the story.
In this 8-10 week workshop, writers will learn the essential ingredients for scene construction including:
- how to design scenes from beginning to end
- how to bring characters to life through “words and deeds”
- how to evoke effective setting without overkill
- the role of senses and using imagery
- how to use scene types to create energy and tension
- and how to make every scene count toward the plot
This class includes live personalized writing craft instruction, in-class writing exercises, group critique (written and verbal), and writing goals and accountability.
If you want to take class but don’t have time to show up in person, you can take this class asynchronously: You will watch the recorded video lessons, check in weekly by email for accountability/goal setting with Jordan, submit up to 20 pages for critique from Jordan during the session, and receive one 30 minute coaching call/consultation with Jordan.
Cost: Live Zoom class: $199
Asynchronous option: $129
REGISTER HERE: www.eventbrite.com/e/scene-stealer-8-10-week-class-tickets-152921828305
_________________
Writing in the Wild with Patti Trimble
Saturday, July 17, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Point Reyes Park Headquarters (Bear Valley)
We will write, walk, and talk in the meadows and in the enormous historical barn. Note that this workshop is partly in the Red Barn, so there will be minimal walking, and good facilities including tables and chairs!
Do come write with us! It’s good for the soul.
Click here for more information and to register.
_________________
ONGOING WORKSHOPS
These listings are alphabetical, either by name of organization or last name of facilitator.
_________________
Book Arts: Sonoma County Book Arts Guild
If you make books, alter books, want to learn to make books please join us at the Sebastapol Center for the Arts. The intent is to create a group to share work, teach techniques, take field trips, invite guest artists to teach, and have a show.
15-Adult
Painting/Drawing Studio
Last Saturday of each month, 10 am-12 pm
Fee: $2-$5 donation to cover facility use
Location: Sebastopol Center for the Arts
Contact Dena Bliss 829-1732
_________________
Margaret Caminsky-Shapiro’s Sonoma County Writing Practice
Margaret Caminsky-Shapiro teaches seasonally based eight-week long writing semesters out of her Santa Rosa downtown office. Four different class times are offered each week; Monday at 2.00 p.m. and 6.00 p.m. and Tuesday at 9.15 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. Margaret uses poetry and meditation for inspiration and writers are encouraged to read their work in a supportive atmosphere. The memoir is a valuable form for dropping deeper into the self allowing memories to come forth. This process allows space for self-knowledge to occur. Margaret was born and raised in South Africa and her love of memoir comes from her African storytelling background. For more information or to receive a flyer call (707) 484-7437 or email Margaret at harlmarg@sonic.net. The website for Sonoma County Writing Practice is www.handwritingonline.net. Margaret Caminsky-Shapiro and Sonoma County Writing Practice have published their 2nd Anthology, FOOT NOTES, which showcases the writing of 51 of Margaret’s students. Details on Sonoma County in Print (2014) page. Classes are being held via ZOOM. Contact Margaret for details. harlmarg@sonic.net
_________________
Sher Christian’s Workshops and Intuitive Coaching
Fridays, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm: Weekly online literary open mic via Zoom. Share a short story or poetry. By donation. Email poetrysher@gmail.com for Zoom link. Hosted by Sher and John Christian http://flyingchairproductions.weebly.com
Mini workshops for your group and family: The Power of Poetry and Writing to Connect with Joy, Wisdom, and Healing. Sher Lianne Christian, author of Star Kissed Shadows, Divining Poetry. Email voiceartistry@hughes.net for information. www.lusciouspoetry.typepad.com
Sher Christian offers intuitive coaching for writers, plus proofing, & editing. For books on audio: voiceover, recording, organ/accordion/keyboard tracks. Demos available. Sher Lianne Christian. voiceartistry@hughes.net, Star Kissed Shadows and CD Sweet Tongue available at www.lusciouspoetry.typepad.com
_________________
Creative Writing Classes with Stacey Dennick
Held via Zoom through 2021
Santa Rosa Junior College offers no-fee, noncredit writing courses for older adults as part of its goal to provide lifelong learning.
Improve your writing, get inspired by your new friends, receive useful feedback, and learn about the craft of writing in Stacey Dennick’s fun Creative Writing classes. Open to all levels and all genres.
Available to all adults living in California. Anyone 18 or over may attend.
On-going, register any time.
No fee, no grades, no hassle.
Contact instructor for details: sdennick@santarosa.edu
View the entire schedule: https://older-adults.santarosa.edu/join-class.
_________________
Flash Friday
Fridays, 2:00-3:30 p.m.
Instructor: Deb Carlen
a weekly walk-in, one-hour class with a different topic every week about writing. A quick way to gain in-depth information about the elements of writing, genres, marketing, publishing and more. At Sonoma Community Center, 276 East Napa, Sonoma. Drop-ins, $10; members, $9. Details at: https://sonomacommunitycenter.org/flash-friday/
CANCELLED TILL FURTHER NOTICE.
_________________
Jumpstart Writing Workshops
Updated 9/28/2020
_________________
Susan Hagen’s Writing Circles and Retreats
Our Women’s Writing Community is a safe place for women to write, connect, heal, and grow. Whether you’re seeking tools for self-discovery, support for writing a book, or simply a place to connect with other women on a spiritual path, you’re sure to find something that’s right for you. Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, you’ll benefit from the healing power of telling your stories and having them witnessed by others. There is no judgement here. We honor each voice as equal, and we write and speak from the heart. Beginning, experienced, and exploring writers are always welcome.
Virtual Writing Circles to Connect us During Coronavirus Isolation
Every Saturday morning via Zoom
(See website www.susanhagen.com for fees and more information)
10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Pacific Time
One-Day Writing Workshops for Women
Susan offers monthly writing circles for women on alternating topics.
Visit www.susanhagen.com for ongoing writing practice and upcoming events.
Susan Hagen is an award-winning nonfiction writer, Vision Quest guide, and co-author of Women at Ground Zero: Stories of Courage and Compassion. She is a former news reporter, organizational journalist, firefighter and emergency medical technician. Her writing programs are inspired by the vision quest, a personal journey into the wilderness that clarifies and informs her life and work.
Mobile: 707-888-0849
Office: 707-874-9223
PO Box 443, Graton, CA 95444
suzhagen@sonic.net
www.susanhagen.com
_________________
Lawrence Hart Poetry Seminar
The Lawrence Hart Seminar, the region’s longest-running intensive poetry workshop (with roots going back to the 1930s), meets monthly in San Rafael, second Saturdays, 1-4 (no meeting in August). All levels welcome; visitors encouraged (no obligation, but please contact first). $125 for five sessions thereafter. Contact John Hart, staff@lawrencehart.org, 415-507-9230. Next meeting March 10.
_________________
Nancy Long: One-Person Shows
Dream of performing a one-person show of your writing or stories of your life?
Let experienced Bay Area Director and Producer, Nancy Long, edit, shape and produce that dream for you!
Services include:
- Editing of script (which you can read or memorize for stage).
- Four sessions of rehearsals with direction, props and music.
- Actual performance (15-30 minutes in length) set-up with lights, wireless microphones and staging at Aqus Café in Petaluma (or venue of choice).
- Publicity.
Fee: $250.00
Beginner and seasoned writers welcomed!
For more information and bio background:
Nancy Long, Producer of Petaluma Readers Theatre
nsasha@earthlink.net cell: 707-338-2489
_________________
Clara Rosemarda offers on-going six-week writer’s workshops
WRITEMIND™ WORKSHOPS: Writing from the Core as well as Classes on the Enneagram of Personality, Private Coaching and Consultations. Clara can be reached to answer questions about her work or to sign up for classes and consultations at: 707-579-2081 or rosen@sonic.net.
_________________
Jordan Rosenfeld—Free classes, writing groups & editing
Live instruction via zoom, with Powerpoint slides and chat-based Q & A. Totally free to you! You’ll need to be able to access the Zoom app from either your computer or phone. Please test the link about 5 minutes before class officially begins (dates, times, and zoom links below). Once the class starts, Jordan will be unable to help with technical difficulties.
You can access video recordings of there three classes already taught: How to Write with Page Turning Tension, How to Write Killer Scenes, and How to Evoke Emotion in Every Scene at her Facebook Author page under the videos tab.
Email Jordan with questions: jordanwritelife (at) gmail (dot) com
_________________
Online Memoir Class with Suzanne Sherman
Learn the essentials and get a chance to practice them in my info-packed online memoir course. The course gives you structure for getting the writing done, a sense of accountability, and guidance as you create new material. By the end of the course you can have a book planned and a portion of your first draft written.
Week 1: Building the Foundation: Theme, Narrative Arc
Week 2: Convincing Characters
Week 3: Engaging Prose
Week 4: Writing Scenes
Week 5: Dialog
Week 6: Telling the Truth
Contact me to enroll: suzanne@suzannesherman.com, or visit https://suzannesherman.com/e-courses/writing-life-memoir-workshop/
Suzanne Sherman is a published author, book editor, and writing/publishing coach and consultant. She has taught memoir in the Bay Area and online since 1996. www.suzannesherman.com.
_________________
Shut Up & Write!™ Wine Country: FREE writing sessions
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you. No one will see what you’ve written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
Register at Meetup: www.meetup.com/shutupandwritewinecountry/
Updated 9/15/2020.
_________________
Christine Walker’s Online Writing Courses and YouTube Videos
Writing Fiction: 9 Ways to Mastery is a self-paced, online course designed for writers who read, readers who write, and book lovers who want to read like a writer. Produced by author and artist Christine Walker, MFA, MA, the course contains videos and writing activities. It features Christine’s useful framework, Master Craft Juggling, for gaining greater ability and agility with the elements of fiction. The course will help you: (1) Develop masterful skills by learning valuable lessons that authors give readers on the page. (2) Improve your writing practice for success with strategies and tools for setting goals, taking on challenges, and fulfilling your intentions. (3) Find ongoing inspiration for your writing and book projects, while deepening reading enjoyment. For a free trial visit the course site at https://courses.christinewalker.net
Christine Walker’s YouTube Channel features short “Moments of Mastery” videos to inspire and inform your writing practice for greater enjoyment, productivity, and success. All writers start with a blank page every time. No matter the previous success, we all find ourselves again on the way to mastery. The videos, designed for fiction writers, memoirists, and other creative writers, focus not only on the “how” of writing, but also the “why.” Christine has an MFA in Writing and Literature in Fiction, an MA in Creative Arts Interdisciplinary, and is a published author. She posts new videos every Friday. Visit the channel at www.youtube.com/channel/UCXwbDiJWBHm0QOfnEEsZpYg
Read to Write Books blog: Christine Walker Explores Fiction Craft This blog distills “lessons” that masterful authors give us on the page. It supports Christine’s courses and is a useful resource for fiction writers, memoirists, books groups, and all writers who read, readers who write, and book lovers who want to read like a writer. She started the blog to supplement the workshops she taught at Copperfield’s several years ago and will be newly updating the blog to supplement her online course, Writing Fiction: 9 Ways to Mastery. Visit the blog at https://readtowritebooks.com
