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Arts Commission News

Creative Writing in Retirement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 25, 2006

The All Write! Initiative of the Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC) has taken steps to reconcile the severe literacy needs in Mississippi by placing creative writing instructors in adult literacy classes.  In January 2006, applicants from around the state applied to become literacy facilitators for the All Write! Initiative.  Four writing consultants were hired who have been teaching creative writing in adult literacy programs in community centers, colleges, and at VSA Arts of Mississippi. The instructors facilitated a 10-week residency for adult GED learners and artists with disabilities.  The participants were encouraged to write by focusing on familiar topics, such as childhood memories and important events and people in their lives.  This program will be completed on April 28, 2006. 

A creative writing mini-residency, sponsored by the MAC’s All Write! Program, and hosted by the Hinds Community College, Creative Learning in Retirement program, will be offered free-of-charge for active adult learners ages 50 and older.   Six sessions will be offered May 8-9, 15-16 and 22-23 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the Workforce Development Center on the Raymond campus facilitated by Joanne Prichard-Morris.   Pre-registration is required by May 1, 2006.

Diane Williams, Arts Industry Director and Accessibility Coordinator for the Mississippi Arts Commission stated, “It was our goal to sponsor an additional program involving senior adults, and we are delighted to partner with Hinds Community College to make this goal a reality.”

For more information about the class, contact Melody Field-CLR at Hinds Community College, 601/857-3773 or email mfield@hindscc.edu.  To find out more about the All Write! Initiative, contact Diane Williams, Arts Industry Program Director with the Mississippi Arts Commission at dwilliams@arts.state.ms.us or by calling 601/359-6529.

The Mississippi Arts Commission is a state agency, funded by the Mississippi legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts, The Wallace Foundation and other private sources.  MAC is the official grants making and service agency for the arts in Mississippi. The agency serves as an active supporter and promoter of arts in community life and in arts education.

 

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