Why I Created a Writing Retreat for BIPOC Women Writers: The First Annual Reed, Write, & Create Retreat
In 1981, the patron saint of Black women writers, the great Saint Toni Morrison uttered this famous line as she addressed the Ohio Arts Council: “If there is a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” Well, I felt the same way about writing retreats for BIPOC women writers - the one I wanted to attend didn’t exist - so I created it myself.
The Dream Retreat for BIPOC Women Writers
When I first conceived of this retreat, I knew I wanted to create a sacred space for women of color to come together and write. I wanted to curate an experience where writers could tap into their creative spirit and be inspired by the rich, multicultural history of Spain, specifically Spain’s Black history. For over 20 years, I’ve been obsessed with uncovering the unique stories of Spain’s enslaved and free populations of the 16th -19th centuries, as well as the stories of Black American writers like Langston Hughes and Chester Himes, who produced some of their greatest literary works while in Spain. I wanted to create a writing retreat in a country that has become my second home so I could showcase the parts of Spain that I love, and that inspire me everyday to explore my literary gifts. I wanted to give that gift to my fellow sister scribes.
“Lori is an outstanding writing instructor...She is knowledgeable, encouraging, provides constructive feedback, and nurtures writers to read, write, and create in their unique voice.”
The First Annual Reed, Write & Create Retreat
The capital city of Sevilla will serve as inspiration for our writing retreat.
The Reed, Write, & Create Retreat was curated and created specifically for BIPOPC women writers who are looking for a restorative and rejuvenating writing retreat where creativity and culture play center stage. The retreat will combine cultural excursions to historically rich cities, and to the Andalusian capital of Sevilla. During the six-night and seven day retreat, writers will experience guided creative writing exercises and plenty of free time to read, write and create. Evenings will be reserved for workshopping the work created during the day.
Writers will stay at a spacious, private, country house outside of the city of Sevilla; enjoy traditional, home-cooked Spanish meals, and build beloved community with their fellow sister scribes.
Who is the Ideal Writer for the Reed, Write, & Create Retreat?
Yinka Esi Graves is a famous Black flamenco dancer and artist. At the retreat we will learn about the African origins of flamenco dance and music.
The ideal participant of the Reed, Write, & Create retreat is a BIPOC woman writer who is yearning to run away and write. She wants to be somewhere peaceful and calm where she will have the time and mental space to dedicate to her work in progress - a novel, a memoir, a collection of short stories, and/or creative nonfiction - or to give birth to the story that has been percolating in her mind for a while. This woman writer is hungry for the space and time to write, but also for community, guidance, and feedback on the work itself. She wants to be inspired to start writing, motivated to keep writing, and validated in her pursuits of literary success. And she is open to finding new sources of inspiration in the vibrant culture and history of Spain.
“Lori Tharps is an inspiring and encouraging writing coach. She has a keen ability to zoom in and see the heart of people’s writing projects, sometimes before they can really see it for themselves. Participating in her memoir workshop totally transformed the way I am approaching my book manuscript!””
The Important Details about the Retreat
The first annual Reed, Write, & Create retreat is taking place from October 8 - 14, 2023 in Sevilla, Spain. There are limited spaces available because this is meant to be a retreat for an intimate group of women writers. If you are interested in learning more about the retreat and/or how to register, please visit the Retreat Page on this website, or send me a message using the contact form. Please note, everything except for transportation to and from Sevilla and airport transfers is included in the price of the retreat.
The Takeaways
My wish for all of the women who join me on this special retreat is that the experience will leave you #Lit! I want the retreat itself to be a transformative experience where you connect with your literary muse and build lasting relationships with a group of likeminded women writers. More importantly, I want this retreat to fill your cup with the inspiration and motivation needed to fuel your writing dreams long after you return home.