Art galleries are concepts we are all familiar with. They are places where art is exhibited, perhaps sold, or places that host artistic events. When I met author Diane Mierzwik earlier this year and she explained that she owned a writers' gallery, I was intrigued. What is a writers' gallery, I asked myself. I spent some time talking with Diane and learning all about her innovative writers' gallery. Diane has kindly granted me an interview so that I could ask her these questions again:
Me: What is the Writers' Gallery?
Diane: The Writers' Gallery is a community of writers and artists. It is a venue for helping others reach their creative potential through writing groups, workshops, classes and general support among the members and presenters. So far, we have had several members get published and many others complete their manuscripts and are currently looking at publishing options. It is very exciting to be surrounded by others with the same creative goals and to receive support from them.
Me: It sounds like perfect place for writers! What prompted you to create a writers' gallery? And why in Yucaipa?
Diane: Yucaipa is my home town so I have very deep roots there. I created the gallery as a way to give to others what has been given to me on my journey to publication. Plus, it's so fun to hang out with others who are interested in the same things.
Me: And what has been your journey to publication? Can you share a little about your writing career?
Diane: I began pursuing writing seriously thirteen years ago. But I wasn't published until five years ago. That's an eight year apprenticeship. Still, I plugged away because I knew in my heart writing was what brought me joy. My first book published was a middle-grade historical novel set in Redlands, California at the turn of the century, Wishes in The Field (PublishAmerica). Then I had two professional books published soon after, Quick and Easy Ways to Connect with Students and Their Parents: Improving Student Achievement Through Parental Involvement, and Classroom Record Keeping Made Simple: Tips for Time-strapped Teachers (Corwin Press). Most recently I have had a memoir of sorts published by Seaboard Press, Weekly Affirmations for Pre-menopausal Women. In addition, I have had short stories, poems and articles published here and there. I also write a great deal for my profession as a school administrator.
Me: That’s fantastic, congratulations! Now you have a workshop for children coming up in June. Can you share what this workshop will cover? What days and hours will it be held?
Diane: We offer children's creative writing classes twice each month, this month the dates are Thursday, June 11th from 3:30 pm until 5:30 pm and Saturday, June 27th from 10 am until 12 pm. The class is taught by Noelle, a credentialed elementary school teacher and newspaper reporter. Noelle provides participants with writing exercises, allows sharing of writing and teaches techniques and basic writing rules. These classes are a wonderful opportunity for budding writers to hang out with other children with the same interest, to practice, refine and stretch their skills as writers and to receive validation for their creative pursuits.
Me: I think it’s an excellent idea. Many places offer classes for adults who want to write, but often the same opportunity is not there for children. I hope it’s very successful. So, what is your hope and dream for the Writers' Gallery?
Diane: I'd like The Writers' Gallery to be filled with best-selling authors.
Me: <smile> You’re providing them with a great place to make that happen. I wish you and your members the best of luck.
For more info: Visit the Writers' Gallery
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