Arts commission launches pen pal writing project

Idaho Writer in Residence Malia Collins and the Idaho Commission on the Arts have launched a non-virtual writing event designed to build community, encourage creativity, provide diversion and, potentially, to relieve some of the emotional weight we are experiencing during this time! Beginning, experienced and professional writers are invited to join Writers in Residences, a pen pal writing project.

Interested writers can sign up by answering a few simple questions online at https://arts.idaho.gov/writers-in-residences/. Registrants will be mailed the name and address of another Idaho writer as well as the first writing prompt from Malia Collins. Pals exchange via the method of communication they agree on. The initial prompt will be followed by three others, which will arrive via USPS at two-week intervals. Pen pals will give each other feedback, exchange ideas, and provide encouragement. No writing experience is necessary; prompts will be appropriate for all ages, and all levels of experience. All Writers in Residences participants will have the option to submit a piece of writing conceived during the project, to be included in a Writers in Residences Zine published by the Arts Commission in fall, 2020.

There is no cost to participate, however, writers must pay for any outgoing postage.

Visit https://arts.idaho.gov/writers-in-residences/ for more information and to sign up.

The Idaho Commission on the Arts is the official state agency for the support and development of the arts in Idaho. The Commission promotes excellence, education in the arts, access to the arts, and community investment in the arts. Its professional staff administers and develops the programs and services of the agency, assists grant applicants, and provides technical assistance.