Amherst Writers & Artists is a non-profit arts organization.

Our mission is to support the voices of established and emerging writers, to free silenced and marginalized voices, and to promote respect for the artist in all writers through the use of the AWA method, developed by Pat Schneider and described in her book, Writing Alone and With Others.

The AWA method… cracked open my world and spilled it with all of its light and darkness onto paper. It created a safe and supportive haven for my writing to flourish in poetry, in fiction, in memoir.

Annabelle Murray

Our community is made up of AWA-certified leaders and the writers they serve.

Writers in AWA groups live around the world. They share their words in diverse settings: jails, hospitals, senior centers, living rooms, elementary school classrooms, museums and more. Leaders receive intensive training in the AWA method, founded over thirty years ago by Pat Schneider. Workshop leaders facilitate their writing groups and retreats according to the principles of the AWA method.

Amherst Writers & Artists is an organization that has offered me a way into writing, into my voice. Its philosophy and belief that every person has a story to tell no matter their station has proven out before my eyes… When I return to these workshops, it does feel like coming home.

Rachelle Parker

Ready to find the AWA writing community near you?

Each blue dot on the map below represents an AWA affiliated writing workshop leader. Click on them to explore what different leaders offer or visit our detailed directory to search for a writing workshop leader near you.

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The AWA method has enabled me to put into words some of my most painful, loving, experiences within the safety of a trusting group of caring individuals.

Suzanne Schmidt