Essex
Writers' & Artists' Guild (EWAG) is a confederacy of creative
people who write, make music and produce art. The
creative works EWAG's membership produces are varied, unique and interesting.
The ages of the current membership range from 28 to 72 and the work
produced encompasses genre fiction such as mystery, science fiction
and romance to poetry, screenplays, literary works, essays and children's
literature. There are also several talented artists, musicians and dramatic
performers affiliated with the group and their work will be showcased
here as well as in our online literary magazine, Dream Towne.
EWAG's
major commitments are to create lasting works of exceptional quality,
and to promote diversity in expression and an environment that fosters
creativity in all its forms.
We
just had our 14th Anniversary!
The
Essex Writers' & Artists' Guild (EWAG) was the brainchild of writer
Judith Gagnon. Founded in the summer of 1992, Judith sought to create
a haven for writers, artists and other imaginative people to gather
once a week and share their work in the greater Merrimack Valley of
Massachusetts. Meeting each Thursday night, the format was simple: bring
something to read or share, and present it without fear of sharp criticism
or censorship. Most of the membership were refugees from other creative
groups where the critiquing process had turned from a constructive process
into a destructive one, degenerating into personal attacks and effectively
stifling people's ability to work and attain confidence as writers and
artists. Judith thought it was essential for people to feel secure and
welcome in order to find and develop their own voices and visions as
artists.
Over the course of the past decade, EWAG has morphed and grown into
its current incarnation as a supportive and inclusive community. The
overall plan of providing a safe and inspirational haven has worked
wonders and continues to benefit EWAG's members as they expand their
list of creative achievements. Members of EWAG have published novels,
books, won awards, written for Television and Film, and are routinely
featured in magazines, anthologies, newspapers, and in on-line venues.
Several talented visual artists in the group have found work in a variety
of media, including web design, fine art, and illustration. Musicians
are also part of EWAG's membership, and many meetings feature original
songs by members.
Going
into its second decade, EWAG continues to strive for excellence and
to actively welcome new members. While some of its core members have
found new lives far from the familiar green of the Merrimack Valley,
the group holds fast to Judith Gagnon's original vision— that by
providing a supportive, nurturing environment, a writer or artist's
individual talents and creativity can take root and flourish. Trust
and support from peers build an artist's confidence and allow the beauty
within to emerge— and to be shared by everyone. The longevity,
creativity and achievements of this group are a tribute to Judith's
ideas, and proof they work!
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