Aberdeen City Libraries are taking part in Scotland’s Year of Stories 2022 this autumn with a free series of creative writing workshops, beginning next week, for adults exploring the wealth of traditional stories and folk tales from the North East.
From Cove to Bennachie and Durris to Burnhaven the North East teems with giants, selkies, faeries and other mysterious creatures. Led by local writer and storyteller Jackie Ross participants will explore these and similar well-known tales.
Across the six weeks, in English, Doric or their home language, participants will explore the creative techniques needed to write contemporary retellings or create new original works inspired by these treasured North East stories.
Participants will also gain the skills needed to present their work as part of a celebration event during Book Week Scotland.
Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s Education Operational Delivery Convener, said “I hope that aspiring writers in the area will be encouraged to take part in the sessions. This will be a chance to explore creative energies together. It's a time to let the literary imagination be fired up and become inspired by local myths and legends.”
Councillor Jessica Mennie, the committee’s Vice convener, said: “This a marvellous opportunity for budding local writers to come along to Aberdeen Central Library over the coming weeks to the free sessions which have a local theme and are sure to be great fun.”
Aberdeen Voices: Creative Writing workshops
Aberdeen Central Library
Mondays, 6 – 7.30pm
12th, 19th 26th September, 3rd, 31st October and 7th November
The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. Previous knowledge of creative writing and library membership is not required but booking is essential.
To book, contact Aberdeen City Libraires on 01224 652500 or email LibraryEvents@Aberdeencity.gov.uk
Marie Christie, Head of Development at VisitScotland said: "We are delighted to be supporting Aberdeen City Libraries through the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund. Events play an important role in our communities as they sustain livelihoods and help to celebrate and promote our unique places, spaces and stories.
“By supporting events taking place within our communities, including the Aberdeen voices Creative Writing workshop, new opportunities with be provided for locals and visitors to come together and find out more about the diverse stories, past and present, that our communities have to share.”
This event has been supported by the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund. This fund is being delivered in partnership between VisitScotland and Museums Galleries Scotland with support from National Lottery Heritage Fund thanks to National Lottery players.