Inis Creative Writing Group Celebrates First Anniversary

Arts and Entertainment - Books

Wednesday, 02 November 2011 16:15

Written by Denise Lyons

Inis Creative Writing Group celebrates its first anniversary in November with a welcoming call to writers to join the group.

Established by Clare Arts Office twelve months ago, the aim of the group is to support those interested in creative writing in all spheres.  The group is open to poets, novelists, those interested in fiction or factual writing, published or unpublished, young and old.

There are currently a dozen key group members who meet every 2nd Monday in the Rowan Tree Café in Ennis. This beautiful venue lends itself to the creative nature of the group, offering inspired surrounds (and great coffees!)

The group works by providing support to those who have an interest in the area of creative writing and by giving people a forum to share their work in a supportive environment. Each week all those in attendance are invited to read new work which the group then discusses and critiques.

‘The opportunity to have other writers comment on my work, make suggestions and offer to proof read my novel for grammatical and spelling mistakes was invaluable to me’ says Eoin Lemon, a group member who recently published his first novel. ‘Being able to discuss my book with fellow writers from an author’s viewpoint was a huge support as I approached publication’.

The group also has a strong social element, gathering like minded people to discuss issues relevant to their writing. Many members have started writing after long breaks, whilst others have been encouraged by the group dynamic to start writing.

According to Siobhán Mulcahy, County Arts Officer, ‘the success of the group is due to the informal and friendly atmosphere that encourages all who get involved to share their work. Each meeting is chaired by a different group member, so responsibility for the meetings is divided equally amongst the group. The group affords a warm welcome to anyone interested in joining – no one is ever turned away!’

The next meeting of the group will take place in the Rowan Tree, Ennis on Monday, November 7th at 8p.m.  All are welcome to attend.  For further information contact the Arts Office at 065 6899091. Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or join the Inis Creative Writing Group on Facebook.