Writing Circle

Writing Circle meets every 2nd Saturday from 1–3 pm
at Cherry Pit Collective (604 E 31st) in KCMO. Free Event!

What is it?

Writing Circle is a peer group of folks who are interested in writing and developing a community around creative work. It is not a workshop, it is not a critique gang, there are no leaders or rules. All genres and levels are welcome. Whether you have already published five novels or haven’t written since you were a kid, this space is made for you. The group is designed to develop a practice of writing with peer support, we aim to nurture and prioritize our creative spirits.

How it works:

We spend the first bit of time talking about our process and progress, the magic and the mayhem, the struggles and the breakthroughs. Perhaps someone fleshes out some plot or characters. Perhaps someone discusses their desire to get back into a solid practice. There is a supportive and encouraging dynamic of questions and space for developing ideas.

This is followed by a 20 minute free-write, so bring a laptop, pen and paper, or what have you. In fact, not all of our members are writers! Some folks use this time to draw. Feel free to bring whatever projects you like!

Last, we share (or not!) what we have written in the free-write time. If you choose to share, members often respond with impressions, questions and observations. This is not a space for critique, or suggestions of change … unless that is what you are asking for specifically! Everyone is happy to workshop a piece if that’s what you need. Just ask! Otherwise, the responses are supportive, curious, and delightful.

How it all began!

Writing Circle is hosted by me, Nettie Zan. I started this group in fall of 2022, and we met in my home! It moved briefly to Club Nido as part of a two month generative sequence I facilitated called “Press Play.” Now the group is homed more securely in the wonderful art studio space, Cherry Pit Collective. We are definitely planning on a wonderful and generative 2024!

I’ve seen a couple novels and a chapbook come out of the group since we began meeting at Cherry Pit in September of ‘23! We spent that November meeting every week to support NaNoWriMo, to great success. I’m always moved and inspired by being surrounded with so much imagination, vulnerability, and tenacity.

I look forward to seeing you in our little community!

Hazel doesn’t come to writing circle, but she loves books!