Mary Lou Taylor:Artist In Residence

Mary Lou Taylor is a classmate of mine and a wonderful poet. Recently, she was recognized by Montalvo Arts Center when asked to be an artist in residence.

"Artist in residence programs allow visiting artists to stay and work 'for art's sake.' They offer conditions that are conducive to creativity..." (Wikipedia)

Mary Lou Taylor was invited to live in a studio on the inspiring grounds at Montalvo for ten days to do her work. She was fed with both delicious meals and inspiring conversation from other artists with different specialities. It did rain, so her walks outdoors were limited, but she accomplished most of what she set out to do, including finishing her manuscript. The one requirement for the Montalvo Arts Center for her residency was to execute an exit interview, and she comments that "My stay was a five-star experience."

She brought 3 boxes with her, including the book: 100 Essential Modern Poems.

For more information about Mary Lou Taylor, see www.maryloutaylor.wordpress.com

To learn about Montalvo Arts Center, see montalvoarts.org

Anthologies: A Way to Get Public Affirmation

Several weeks ago I wrote about an anthology for which I had offered an entry. While the author usually gets paid with a free copy of the book, it affords some other benefits.

First, you get the satisfaction of seeing something of yours in print. And as Margaret Abruzzi, writer and contributor to the anthology, "Clothes Lines," shares, " We have given readings at local bookstores, and it has been a wonderful experience for me."

Margaret Abruzzi's selection refers to her childhood during World War II. It captures that time through the eyes of a youngster.

In this anthology, works covering the theme of clothing were solicited-hence, the clever title. The editors are Celia H. Miles and Nancy Dillingham. 75 western North Carolina writers are included in this volume. It is the second anthology opportunity offered by these two editors.

To order a copy, see www.catawbapublishing.com