On the Workshop Experience

Just about any workshop experience is accompanied by a certain amount of nervousness. Palms sweat. Hearts beat a little faster. The truth is that when we present work for scrutiny and judgment we can feel an enormous amount of emotional stress and pressure. Because our workshop teachers and peers will examine our work carefully, we see them as an ideal—and formidable—audience.

At the Glen Workshop, we espouse a vision of art that emphasizes discipline, excellence, and high standards, but we also want developing artists to receive the positive reinforcement they need to continue to grow in their craft. Furthermore, because our workshop takes place in a Christian context, we feel the responsibility to make sure this happens in an atmosphere of love. We, the Glen staff and faculty, understand that you make yourself vulnerable when you come to a workshop, and we want the environment at the Glen to be one of safety, understanding, and respect.

Our faculty have been chosen not only because of their excellence as writers or artists, but also because they are sensitive and effective teachers. They work extremely hard to maintain a positive atmosphere in the classroom and they strive to give everyone—whatever their level of achievement may be—the kind of feedback they need.

Please pray for your teacher, your classmates, and yourself. As we make ourselves vulnerable, prayer will ground us in peace and safety. Pray that we will read and view perceptively; that in discussing each other's work we will be honest, helpful, and tactful; and that we will challenge and inspire each other.

For more information, please write to:
Image, 3307 Third Avenue West, Seattle, WA 98119.
Phone: (206) 281-2988. Or send us an e-mail.