Contributed by Sharon Aubrey
The Alaska Writers’ Guild (AWG) held their annual conference in Anchorage the third week of September. It was an inspiring event that included the local chapters for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and the Alaska Romance Writers of America. United, these groups were able to bring professionals from every aspect of book publishing to Alaskan authors and illustrators, where we obtained constructive craft building sessions at nominal costs.
After attending for two years in a row, I can honestly say there is always something new to learn at these conferences to improve your knowledge and skills. Equally importantly, there are many fellow Alaskans you will be blessed to meet and network together. At this year’s conference, I had the pleasure to reconnect with Andy Rogers, my old physics’ lab partner from Palmer High School, whom it turns out is an accomplished illustrator among many other talents.
In addition to supporting children’s book authors, SCBWI holds two annual illustration contests. The whimsical bear design, which won the spring contest, became the cover for this year’s conference program. The second contest is a Juried Art Show held during the conference. Artists were tasked with developing an illustration around the theme, “Run along now and don’t get into mischief.”. Lucas Elliot won “Best in Show,” and Andy Rogers won the 2018 “People’s Choice Award” for his captivating image of several field mice poised for mischief. Through both the art show and writer’s conference, it was refreshing to view the diversity of talents available from our Alaskan neighbors.
Perhaps you’ve considered writing or illustrating professionally, or maybe even dabbled a little here and there but weren’t really sure what the next step should be in your future. I’d like to encourage you to consider joining one of the local writing guild chapters and attend next year’s conference. Writing groups host local meetings both in Anchorage and Wasilla, where you can meet authors, join critique groups and glean skills and tips for improving your writing process. Not only do local writing and illustrating guilds provide a support network to grow your craft, they also allow you a premier glimpse at the next best seller with an opportunity to know the author behind the work.
Alaska is literally overflowing with talent in every corner of our state. From the creative skills of chainsaw masters at the state fair to unique clothing designers like Alaska Chicks, flavorful microbrewers, astonishing musicians, and gifted writers and illustrators, Alaska has the capacity to redefine what empowers our economy by supporting local entrepreneurs.
Your neighbors are producing quality books in a variety of genres. Coming in 2019, we hope to have an assortment of books and music for you to explore at the state fair in Palmer at the new AK Books & Music booth, but before then, check out options available to you now at local bookstores and various writers’ guilds. Alaskan books also make unique Christmas gifts and help promote literacy.
Alaska Writers Guild: www.alaskawritersguild.com
Alaska Chapter Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators: www.alaska.scbwi.org
Alaska Romance Writers of America: www.akrwa.com
49 Writers: www.49writers.org
