Creative Writing Classes Workshops for Adults
In Toronto and Online
Inspiration, Technique and Community
for anyone who loves to write.
Why Do We Write?
We write to enchant and entertain others. To inhabit worlds and lives vastly different from our own. We write to explore and make sense of our memories, and to share our experience and wisdom with those we love. We write because words – and stories – intrigue us, and because we all need to be heard. We write because it calms, relaxes and excites us, or simply because the act of creating brings us pleasure.
Whatever the reason you write, our creative writing workshops offer all the inspiration, techniques and community you need to be the best writer you can be.
Creative Writing & Critiquing
COMING SOON!
Offered Virtually, on Zoom. $275+HST
This lively salon is a combination of creative writing workshop and critiquing circle, and is intended for writers who either have a manuscript underway, or have already taken at least one previous retreat or workshop. In the first half of each session, we’ll revisit elements of memoir and fiction through prompts and discussions. The remaining portion of each class is given over to critique. Each week, 2-3 writers will be invited to submit an excerpt from a work in progress. Looking at what is working well in someone else’s manuscript is an excellent way to improve your own writing, and as we read each work-in-progress, we’ll examine stylistic features, discuss plot and character, and explore strategies for editing. Enrollment is limited; early registration is advised.
Creative Writing Salon
COMING SOON!
Offered in our West Toronto Studio. $275+HST
Whether you are writing for the first time, or you have a manuscript nearing completion, this 6-week writing course will help you get inspired, stay inspired and master the techniques you need to create your best work. Through weekly writing prompts, we’ll explore plot, character, description, point of view and more. You’ll write in ways familiar to you, and discover new genres and forms, all in a supportive environment where you’ll feel free to share, take risks, learn and grow as a writer. Discover how to mine your life and your imagination for creative ideas, and build a circle of friends and allies to help you see a writing project through to completion. Suited to beginner and experienced writers with an interest in fiction, memoir or poetry.
Instructor: Julie Hartley is the co-director of Centauri Arts and has taught creative writing in her Toronto studio, virtually and at her retreats in Costa Rica for the past 8 years. Her publications include a novel entitled The Finding Place, a collection of poetry called Deboning a Dragon, and a book for teachers on how to bring Shakespeare alive for students. Julie has an MFA in Creative Writing and is a freelance editor, specialising in novels, memoirs and children’s fiction.
Creative Writing Retreats in Costa Rica and Mexico
Gift yourself the time and space to write.
Inspiration. Rejuvenation. Companionship. Joy. Discover all this and more when you leave behind the pressures and routines of daily life and reconnect with your creative self. Choose from a gorgeous eco-lodge in the heart of Costa Rican rainforest, or a tranquil boutique hotel in the vibrant, cultural city of Merida, Mexico. Enjoy daily writing workshops designed to hone your technique and provide an endless supply of ideas
